Sanya Travel Guide: Practical Tips for Saving Money and Hassle-Free Travel

Sanya is a tourist destination full of sunshine and beaches, but it's easy to fall into tourist traps if you don't plan ahead. To avoid unpleasant travel experiences, here's a super detailed guide to help you plan your trip better. I. Transportation and Travel Unlicensed Taxis • Around the airport and scenic spots: Unlicensed taxis are common in Sanya, especially around the airport and scenic spot entrances. These drivers often approach tourists, claiming to offer discounted fares, but actually charge exorbitant prices. • Suggestion: Upon arrival at the airport, go directly to the taxi stand or use a reputable ride-hailing app (such as Didi). If you choose a taxi, make sure the meter is running and don't believe the driver's "fixed price." Transportation to Scenic Spots • Public transportation: Sanya has extensive public transportation coverage. You can use buses or tourist shuttle lines to reach major attractions. • Car rental: If you have plenty of time, renting a car is recommended for flexible travel arrangements. II. Accommodation and Dining Accommodation Choices • Avoid areas around scenic spots: Hotels and guesthouses near scenic spots are often overpriced and may engage in price gouging. Consider staying in areas not too far from the attractions but relatively quieter, such as near Sanya Bay. • Book in advance: During peak season, book your hotel or guesthouse in advance to avoid last-minute price hikes. Dining Tips • Avoid street solicitations: Don't trust restaurant recommendations from people soliciting on the street, especially those claiming "cheap prices" for seafood restaurants. We've encountered cases where two people ordered 3 seafood dishes and 1 vegetable dish, ending up with a bill of over CNY 1,300. • Choose restaurants with clearly marked prices: Opt for reputable restaurants or food stalls, and check the menu before ordering to avoid being overcharged. • Recommended restaurants: • Uncle Coconut Grove's Century-Old Fermented Vinegar: An officially certified brand restaurant by the Sanya Commerce Bureau, offering fresh ingredients, good service, and great value. • Qiong Die Xiang Cao Ya Hainan Food Stall: A restaurant with distinct Hainan characteristics. Their signature Aromatic Herb Duck is tender and flavorful, paired with a secret sauce, perfect with both drinks and rice. III. Shopping and Spending Pricing • High prices in scenic spots: Prices within scenic areas are generally high. It's recommended to purchase daily necessities like slippers and sunscreen online beforehand. • Night market shopping: Prices at night markets vary greatly. Compare prices at different stalls and don't hesitate to bargain. Consumer Traps • Cheap jet skis: Jet skis offered at low prices by the beach may seem like a good deal, but the actual charges are often very high. They usually charge per lap, and the final price can easily reach thousands of yuan. • Freelance photographers: At scenic spots like Coconut Dream Corridor, be wary of "freelance photographers" offering to take photos. The quality of their photos is usually average, but the prices are high. IV. Choosing Attractions West Island vs. Wuzhizhou Island • West Island: Suitable for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy photography and exploring tidal flats. It retains the original ecological fishing village charm, perfect for leisurely strolls. • Wuzhizhou Island: Offers clearer waters and is ideal for water activities like snorkeling and jet skiing. V. Recommended Local Delicacies Sanya boasts a rich variety of local delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes: • Qingbuliang: A refreshing and cooling dessert, a signature of Sanya. • Shrimp cakes: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with a rich flavor. • Pandan cold shrimp: Sweet and delicious, worth a try. • Sticky rice with jackfruit: Sweet, soft, and glutinous, a delightful treat. • Fried skewers: A wide variety of options, a popular night market snack. VI. Important Reminders 1. Plan ahead: Research attractions, restaurants, and transportation information in advance to avoid being overcharged. 2. Stay safe: Be mindful of safety when playing by the sea and avoid participating in high-risk water activities. 3. Sun protection and mosquito repellent: Sanya has strong UV rays, so remember to use sunscreen and mosquito repellent. 4. Avoid scams: Don't readily trust recommendations from strangers. Choose reputable businesses and services. 🎉Summary Sanya is a charming tourist destination, but to avoid being ripped off, it's crucial to plan ahead and choose reputable services and businesses. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip better and enjoy a pleasant journey!