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Sanya

Things to Do in Sanya in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated April, 2025) | Trip.com

About Sanya

Recommended trip: 3–5 day(s)

23°C

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Sanya Local Travel Guide 2025

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Sanya Brief Guide

Sanya is one of China's famous tourist cities. You can indulge to your heart's content in the beautiful coastal landscape and abundant water sports activities. You can also visit the beaches and enjoy Sanya's beautiful natural environment. You can also pay your respects to the Nanshan Guanyin, a 108-meter-tall bodhisattva, make obeisance and pray for good fortune, listen to the legend of Luhuitou (The Deer Looking Back), or go to Tianya Haijiao (The End of Earth) and make a vow to love and be loved until the end of time. This place also has fresh affordable seafood and tropical fruits. It is a delicious way to spend the afternoon, and you can eat as much as you want. At Yalong Bay and Haitang Bay, there are great collections of many star-rated luxury resorts and hotels. It is one of the most highly-coveted seaside resort locations.

Sanya Must-try Local Experiences

1. Explore the Coastline of Sanya Sanya offers stunning beaches like Yalong Bay and Dadonghai, perfect for relaxing, water sports, and scenic walks. Each beach provides unique views and activities. 2. Discover the Ends of the Earth Visit Tianya Haijiao, known for its unique rock formations and panoramic ocean views. Explore the park and admire the inscribed stones. 3. Journey to Wuzhizhou Island Wuzhizhou Island is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving. 4. Experience Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone Visit Nanshan Temple and the towering Statue of Guanyin. Explore the temple complex and enjoy the serene atmosphere and ocean views. 5. Stroll Through Luhuitou Scenic Area Luhuitou Scenic Area offers panoramic views of Sanya and the South China Sea. The park is famous for its romantic legend and the iconic statue of a deer turning its head. 6. Witness Li and Miao Minority Cultures Visit local villages to experience the unique traditions and customs of the Li and Miao minority groups. Enjoy traditional performances and learn about their handicrafts. 7. Experience Sanya's Night Markets Explore Sanya's night markets, where you can find local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Indulge in Hainanese street food and local delicacies. 8. Attend the Sanya International Music Festival Held annually, the Sanya International Music Festival features performances by renowned artists and DJs, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a mix of music genres. 9. Savor Hainanese Cuisine Indulge in Hainanese cuisine with specialties like Wenchang Chicken, Jiaji Duck, and fresh seafood. Don't miss the tropical fruits like mangoes and pineapples. 10. Visit Sanya's Seafood Markets Explore bustling seafood markets where you can select fresh seafood and have it cooked on the spot, showcasing local flavors. 11. Explore the First Market Discover the First Market, Sanya's oldest and largest market, offering fresh produce, seafood, spices, and local handicrafts. It's a great place for unique souvenirs. 12. Capture the Beauty of Tianya Haijiao Tianya Haijiao, also known as 'The End of the Earth,' offers stunning coastal views and unique rock formations, perfect for memorable photos.

Sanya Must-see Attractions

Sanya is a diverse and picturesque destination in China, offering attractions ranging from the aquatic adventures of Wuzhizhou Island and Atlantis Sanya, to the natural beauty and cultural experiences of Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park, West Island, and the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone.

Sanya Food Guide

Sanya's cuisine is dominated by seafood, including lobsters, prawns, and mango snails cooked in various ways, as well as distinctive local Hainan flavors such as coconut chicken, Wenchang chicken, and coconut rice, offering a rich taste and unique dining experience.

Sanya Transportation

Sanya's transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with Sanya Phoenix International Airport and Sanya Railway Station being the primary gateways for intercity travel. Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX) is a significant air hub located approximately 15 km northwest of the city center. It is the second busiest airport in Hainan province and has a runway that can accommodate large aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A340. To reach the city from the airport, travelers can take a taxi or use the airport shuttle bus service, which is a convenient option. Sanya Railway Station, situated on the northern outskirts of the city, is a key terminal for the Hainan Eastern Ring High-Speed Railway and the Hainan Western Ring Railway. It connects Sanya with various cities across China, including Beijing and Haikou. To get to the city from Sanya Railway Station, passengers can take public buses such as No. 4, 5, 35, or a taxi. The station is also connected to downtown Sanya by the Sanya Tram.

Sanya Where to Stay

Sanya is a tropical paradise that offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from luxurious five-star resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Each area in Sanya has its own unique charm and caters to different types of travelers, ensuring an unforgettable stay for everyone.

Sanya Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Sanya is from October to April. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, which is ideal for beach activities and exploring the city. This is also the high season in Sanya, as tourists from the colder northern regions flock to the city for its warm sunshine and comfortable temperatures. However, it is advisable to avoid the peak travel times during Chinese New Year and the National Day Holiday, as these periods see a significant increase in travel costs and crowds.

Sanya Travel Tips

1. Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Sanya is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Li and Miao people. When visiting ethnic villages, make sure to respect local customs by refraining from taking photos or touching religious items to avoid causing any misunderstandings. 2. Be Cautious About Beach Safety: While Sanya's beaches are beautiful, it's important to stay cautious when swimming or surfing. Always follow lifeguard instructions and stay away from dangerous areas. When taking beach photos, be aware of tide changes to avoid getting trapped on rocks or the shoreline during high tide. Your safety is the priority. 3. Don't Neglect Sunscreen and Heat Protection: The sun in Sanya is intense, and the UV index is high. Be sure to take sunscreen, a sun hat, and plenty of water when heading out. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun to prevent sunburn or heatstroke. 4. Drone Usage Must Comply with Regulations: When using a drone for photography, it's important to understand local laws in advance. Some scenic spots, like Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park, prohibit drone flights. Be sure to comply with the rules to avoid fines for violations. 5. Be Cautious with Seafood Purchases: Sanya has many seafood markets, and it's recommended to choose reputable restaurants or markets. Check prices beforehand to avoid being overcharged, which can ruin the mood for your trip. 6. Pay Attention to Hotel Check-In Times: Most hotels in Sanya have a 15:00 check-in and 12:00 check-out policy, though times may vary by hotel. It's a good idea to confirm with the hotel via phone or booking platform before your trip to avoid delays in your schedule.

Sanya Useful Guide

Sanya, known as the "Hawaii of China," is a linguistic tapestry where Mandarin serves as the official language, reflecting its historical ties to the Qin dynasty and beyond. Tourists can navigate language barriers with translation apps and local interpreters, especially as English may not be widely spoken outside major tourist spots. The city's multilingualism, including Hainanese and English by the Sanya Tourism Board team, caters to its diverse visitors.