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Hainan Travel Guide 2024

Located in China's southernmost point, Hainan Province is China's only tropical island with a coastline of 1,944 kilometers around and 68 bays in total. There is mild weather, coconut palms, golden beaches, lively nightlife as well as top-level hotels which all create a relaxing VACATION atmosphere and attract people from all corners of China and the world, especially those from cold areas. Yes, a holiday-friendly environment is the biggest lodestone for travelers, but most travelers will find that Hainan is more than that when they come. In Hainan, there are rainforests, cultural parks, various watersports, dense valleys, old buildings, colorful minorities, grand festivals etc. worthy of your exploration as well.

Traveling Hainan can be convenient and enjoyable. Hainan Travel Guide is here to help you focus on regional destinations, top attractions, activities, weather, transportation, accommodation, etc. before you go.

Why Visit Hainan Province?

• Vacation Atmosphere - Hainan Island is absolutely a place for a worry-free vacation, especially winter vacation. Just lying on the soft beach in the warm sunshine, breathing the fresh air and listening to the waves are enough to completely relax your body and mind. Everybody here enjoys a laid-back life.
• Coastal Scenery - Every kind of coastal scenery you can ask for in Hainan, like blue sky, coconut palm trees, clean seawater, powdery sands, breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the sea, etc. The great landscape for sightseeing can be appreciated easily in Hainan, and we suggest you visit Sanya for the best scenic view.
• Rainforest Mystery - In this tropical island, there is no shortage of rainforests where you can enjoy lush vegetation, flying waterfalls, and many rare animals, such as Wuzhishan Scenic Area, Jianfeng Peak, Bawang Peak, Limushan Forest, Park, Yanoda Rainforest Area, etc.
• Seafood - Few people visit Hainan without a feast of seafood, unless they have an allergy. There are different big or small restaurants offering the fresh seafood for visitors. Besides seafood, many local cuisines and snacks also deserve your taste, such as Wenchang Chicken, Jiaji Duck, Dongshan Mutton, etc.
• Southeast Asian Feeling - In the ancient times, many Hainanese went to Southeast Asia to make a life and brough back Southeast Asian culture which was infused in their food, architecture and daily lives. Visiting Qikou Old Street (Haikou), Wennan Old Street (Wenchang), Fujiazhai (Wanning), etc., you can feel a typical feature of Southeast Asia.
• Minorities - There are over 30 minority groups living in Hainan now, such as Li people, Miao People, Hui People, etc. The best places to explore Hainan's minority groups include Hainan Nationality Museum, Baizha Village, Binglang Valley, etc.
• 30-Day Free Visa Policy - Hainan Province launched a visa-free entry policy for citizens of certain 59 countries, and travelers who meet related requirements can enjoy a 30 days visa-free access to the cities in Hainan Province, including Sanya, Haikou, Wenchang, Lingshui, etc. Learn more>

Top Destinations in Hainan

In Hainan, there are many destinations to go to, and Sanya must be the premier one. It is located at the same latitude of 18° N with the Island of Hawaii and gets the title of East Hawaii. As one of the best winter resorts in China, it is equipped with lots of luxurious hotels. Haikou , the capital situated on the northern coast of Hainan, is a good place to enjoy the coastal scenery as well as explore the history and culture of Hainan. Besides, Wenchang is preferred by some travelers as well because of its peaceful environment and featured old buildings. In Wanning , you can visit some less-crowded bays, like Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay. Visiting Lingshui allows you to explore the cultures and daily life of Li People and Miao People. Want to savor the Chinese legends and mysterious rainforest, Wuzhishan is a nice choice.

Popular Attractions in Hainan

There are numerous scenic spots in Hainan, such as beautiful bays, golden or which beaches, dense forests, entertaining parks, informative museums, ancient streets, religious temples and so forth. Generally, many popular attractions gather in Sanya and Haikou. But you won't fail to find many interesting sites to visit in other destinations. Here we list the best attractions for your reference.

Tianya Haijiao (Sanya)

Located at the west end of Sanya Bay, Tianya Haijiao is one of the premier sights of Sanya. Lots of travelers, especially couples, visit here to get love blessing...

It is the place where the famous statue of Nanhai Guanyin stands. Besides, there are Buddhist temples, gates, halls...

Stretching a length of about 7.5 kilometers and owning a high-quality beach with soft sand, Yalong Bays is honored as the best bay in China.

Wuzhizhou Island is praised as the Lovers' Island because it has a heart-like shape. Many couples spend their honeymoon here.

Dadonghai Bay is the closest beach to Sanya downtown and you can get there quite easily. There are also many upscale hotels near the bay.

Huoshankou National is a natural geological museum. From the vantage point, you can overlook downtown and Qiongzhou Strait.

Hainan Museum is a comprehensive museum with over 25,000 pieces of cultural relics. In the museum, you can take a probe into Hainan's history and culture.

Yanoda, located about 35 km away from Sanya City, is a tropical rainforest honored as a natural oxygen bar. There are many beautiful fauna and flora.

Top Activities in Hainan

Except for "holiday world", many travelers also refer to Hainan as Paradise for Outdoor Activities. There are numerous activities that can be experienced in Hainan, such as watersports, gold, cycling, hiking etc. Moreover, you can join in some other activities which make your trip more enjoyable, including shopping, eating, festivals, live-action performances and so on.

With sub-tropical climate, warm sunshine and coastal scenery, Sanya is a great place for golf. There are several international standard golf courses available.

If you are a cycling enthusiast, nothing is more exciting than cycling around the whole island in Hainan. You can also plan a cycling route according to your own strength and tour time.

Hainan has a variety of landforms, and the mountain areas provide a great choice for climbing. Recommended places include Limu Mountain Yingge Peak, Jingfeng Peak, Wuzhi Mountain, etc.

Hiking is also a wonderful way to stretch your legs. You can hike in the gorgeous river valleys, florid rainforests, or local villages, where the scenery is different from the seaside.

Seafood is a big highlight of Hainan and it is just a piece of cake to find some seafood to taste in the restaurants. Apart from seafood, there are some other must-try dishes in Hainan.

No matter which season you travel to Hainan, you may encounter a big festival, including Lantern Festival (Haikou), Water Playing Festival (Baoting), Double Third Festival, Song Contest Festival (Danzhou), etc.

Performance

Many performances are designed to show the rich culture of Hainan. If you are interested in various spectacular shows, Sanya is the right destination. Don't miss the Sanya Legend Show.

Hainan Climate & Best Time to Visit Hainan

Hainan Island is located in the northern edge of the tropics and has a tropical monsoon climate. It has long warm period and no cold period. The annual average temperature is 22 ~ 27°C. The lowest temperature in January is still 17 ~ 24°C. It has abundant rainfall, with annual precipitation between 1000 mm and 2600 mm, with an average annual precipitation of 1639 mm. There are obvious rainy seasons and no-rainy seasons. The rainy season is from May to October every year, and the total precipitation is about 1500 mm, accounting for 70 to 90% of the total annual precipitation. The rainy season is from November to April of next year, accounting for only 10 to 30% of the annual precipitation.

Generally speaking, it is available to visit Hainan all the year around, but October to next May is the best time. The summer is not hot, but heavy rain and typhoons may occur. Many travelers go to Hainan to enjoy a warm winter holiday.

Hainan Transportation

No high speed train directly runs to Hainan from other domestic cities, and the normal trains take a very long time currently. Therefore, taking a flight is the most recommended way to reach Hainan. Sanya and Haikou are the best places to start a Hainan tour, and more travelers prefer getting to Sanya first.

How to Get to Sanya: Sanya Phoenix International Airport can be reached easily by domestic flights from many big cities, such as Beijing (4.5h), Shanghai (3.5h), Xian (3h), Guangzhou (2h), Chengdu (2.5 h), Chongqing (2.5h), Nanjing (3h), Kunming (2h), Wuhan (2.5h), etc. It is also available to take an international flight to Sanya from London, Singapore, Seoul, Jakarta, Moscow, Novosibirsk, etc. Learn more>

How to Get to Haikou: Haikou is the provincial capital city equipped with convenient domestic airlines and several international flights as well. You can take a flight to Haikou Meilan International Airport from Beijing (4h), Shanghai (3.5h), Xian (3h), Guangzhou (1.5h), Chengdu (2.5h), Chongqing (2.5h), Nanjing (3h), Hangzhou (3h), etc. There are international flights from Seoul, Singapore, Osaka, Kuala, Lumpur… Generally, the flight from the same city to Haikou is a bit cheaper than to Sanya.

Hainan Roundabout Railway: For travelers transferring within Hainan Island, taking a high speed train is a convenient way. It connects Haikou, Wenchang, Waning, Lingshui, Sanya, etc. together and is honored as one of the most beautiful railways in Hainan. Taking a Hainan roundabout high speed train, it is available to travel between Haikou and Sanya within 1.5 hours.

2024 Speical Theme Tours for Yunnan Travel

Other winter destinations in china.

Without any doubts, Hainan is one of the best destinations to enjoy a winter trip. But winter in China can really be varied and colorful. If you like warm sunshine, you can visit Yunnan (Kunming, Dali, Lijiang…), Southeastern Fujian (Xiamen and Tulou), Great Bay Area (Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Macau), Guangxi (Guilin, Yangshuo, Beihai…) besides Hainan. If you are more interested in breathtaking ice and snow landscapes, don't hesitate to go to Heilongjiang (Harbin, China Snow Town, Jingpo Lake...) and Sichuan (Jiuzhaigou, Mount Emei, Xiling Snow Town…), Jilin (Changbai Mountain, Jilin, Chagan Lake…). Check all the Top 10 Winter Destinations in China .

Other Popular Destinations in China

China is vast and diverse. You can choose your favorite destinations among more than 70 tourist destination and regions, like Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Chengdu, etc. Following are 4 popular destinations you may get interested in. Check all destinations in China

Chinese Name: 海南

Chinese Pinyin: hǎi nán

English IPA: /hai næn/

Capital: Haikou

Ethnic Minorities: Li, Miao, Hui, Tibetan, Yi, Zhuang...

Language: Mandarin, Hainan Dialect & Other Ethnic Languages

Time Zone: (UTC+8)

Plan your Hainan Tour

To be honest, Hainan is seldom traveled in a fixed route, because there are a thousand ways to travel Hainan in a thousand people’s plans. Some travelers may spend one week or even one month just staying on one beach and enjoying the sunlight, some energetic travelers may dive in different beaches, some travelers may take a short glimpse of the top attractions, and some travelers may step into the primitive forests or old villages to seek a distinctive experience. Sanya is the most popular destination which takes 4 ~ 7 days to travel usually. We suggest you spend 1 ~ 2 days going to some hot landmarks, like Nanshan Temple, Wuzhizhou Island, Tianya Haijiao, etc. Then, you can spend 2 or more days visiting at least one bay to fully immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere and taking part in some watersports if you have an interest. For primitive nature lovers, just go to Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park or Yanoda Rainforest Park (in Baoting), which needs 0.5~1 day. Want to escape the crowds or explore Hainan culture? Haikou awaits your discovery. A classic Haikou tour takes about 2 days. The top highlights include informative Hainan Museum, old buildings in Qilou Old Street, Huoshankou National Geopark, Mission Hills Huayi Brothers Feng Xiaogang Movie, Baisha Park, etc., as well as a beautiful beach.

Top Hainan Tours

Haikou / Bo'ao / Waning / Lingshui / Sanya

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5 Days in Hainan: Itinerary with Top 15 Things to Do

Top Things to Do in Hainan?

Are you going on a  trip to  China  and planning to  visit the Hainan region?

Excellent idea!

This large island in southern China is  the perfect region to spend a few relaxing days  by the sea at the end of a  China itinerary .

In order to help you prepare for your trip, I have prepared  a guide of the 15 best things to do and see in Hainan , with all the must-see places of interest. And as a bonus, I’ll give you my selection of the best accommodations  for a great stay!

So what to do in Hainan? 

Table of Contents

Visit Hainan: the 15 must-sees

Located in the south-east of the island, by the sea,  Sanya  (三亚) is undoubtedly the most touristic city in Hainan. Crossed by the Sanya River, the city is modern, with a few buildings of improbable architecture.

Here are the things to do and see in the city of Sanya:

• The Bay of Sanya , its huge sandy beach and its seaside promenade. To be redone at night!
• See the lover’s bridge  : a bridge in the shape of a dragon’s back that crosses the Sanya River. It is nicely lit at night.
• Take a night cruise,  which will allow you to observe the lights of the city from another angle.
• See Phoenix Island , 3 buildings on which a light show takes place every evening.
• Go to Luhuitou Park , a hill that overlooks the city and offers a nice view of Phoenix Island and the surrounding area (entrance: 45 yuan)

Sanya  is also the perfect place for  shopping!  Most of the  small local clothing stores  can be found on Hongqi Street (  google map link  ). There are also  a few shopping malls in town , including a large underground for much of the length of  Jiefang Road.

2. Nanshan Temple

Located about 40 km from Sanya,  Nanshan Temple  (南山寺) was one of my favorites in Hainan.

Just a quick note before we start: unlike other temples you can visit in China,  the site is recent  and is 100% tourist-oriented, so don’t expect to visit a place steeped in history.

If the place is worth it, it is above all for  the giant 108 m high Guan Yin statue  built on the sea. It is already impressive in the photo, but in real life, it is really something!

What is cool  is that it is possible to visit the interior: its base houses a temple and you can climb to the first floor. This will give you the chance to really appreciate his size, since you’ll be up to his toes.

In addition to this statue, you will have the opportunity to visit in Nanshan:

• Nanshan Temple
• Take a walk on the beach  to observe the statue of Guan Yin from another angle (it is the haunt of wedding photographers!)
• Tianzhu Shrine:  the pavilion of Buddha and its  Stūpa
• The Golden  and Jade Statue of Guanyin, located in a separate temple, ticket to buy in addition (little interest)
• The “Longevity Valley” , a short walk in the forest to reach a pavilion.
• The park  and its few ponds, statues, pavilions etc.

How to get to Nanshan Temple?

From Sanya you can get to Nanshan:

• By Taxi of course  (about 150 yuan)
• By bus:  Buses 16, 25 or 55 go to Nanshan Temple

Practical information

• Visiting time:  it takes about 4 hours to visit the entire site, it’s quite large. Especially if like me, you do everything on foot, without taking the little tourist train.
• Entrance fee:  150 yuan
• Opening hours:  8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

3. Tianya Haijiao

Tianya Haijiao  (天涯海角) is the other must-see site (for the Chinese at least!) to visit near Sanya. It is famous for  the large rocks  with rounded shapes that  sit enthroned on the beach  and which  recall the Seychelles in some ways , with the Chinese symbols painted in addition.

The visit can be grouped with that of the  Nanshan temple  on a day. If you go to visit the temple of Nanshan in the early morning, you will have time to stop at  Tianya Haijiao  on the way back, it is on the way to the bus.

• Entrance fee:  75 yuan

Travel Tips Visit Tianya Haijiao  that if the weather is really good and you have nothing else to do, the  place must have been beautiful before it was invaded by mass tourism . Unfortunately, today the setting is no longer very natural and  there are really a lot of people.

4. Dadong Sea

Dadong Sea  (Dadong Hai, 大东海) is  the closest seaside resort to Sanya.

On the menu,  a huge sandy beach  with lots of restaurants, the possibility of  doing nautical activities , and lots of tourists. In addition to the Chinese, a lot of Russians spend their holidays in Dadong sea.

5. Yalong Bay

Yalong Bay  (亚龙湾) is the most exclusive place in Hainan Province.  It is here that the most expensive luxury hotels  are located , some of which are among the  best hotels in the world . Endless  swimming pools , huge and superbly maintained  parks ,  direct access to the beach  and of course deckchairs and parasols included.

A real little  paradise for lovers of sunbathing  and  quiet holidays  in an upscale setting.

The best hotel to stay in Yalong Bay for me is the  Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay resort.   For what? Well quite simply because it is a little out of the way compared to the others, in  a more natural and super calm setting . This is the best hotel in the area. (See even Hainan province).

6. Wuzhizhu Island

Wuzhizhu  Island  (蜈支洲岛) is  ultra popular with Chinese tourists , with thousands landing on the island every day to  enjoy the dozens of activities  on offer. You will understand, you really should not expect a desert island, it is rather  the Disneyland of water activities!

You can do  more than fifteen activities  there , ranging from  parasailing  to  diving ,  snorkeling ,  towed buoy  or  a short jetski session . As you can imagine, the day can quickly become quite expensive.

On the other hand, if you want to try everything, you can  get a day pass  that will allow you to  do all the activities  for just under 1500 yuan (about 200 euros). I find that to be quite reasonable, considering the price of each of these activities.

The departure of the ferry  to go to the island of Wuzhizhu is at the entrance of Houhai (  Google Map link  ).

If you want  to go to Wuzhizhu Island  during your trip to Hainan, I recommend you to  stay at Houhai Village . The best hotel in the village (the most recent and modern) is  the “Happy Together” guesthouse . Plus, it’s really quiet.  To book it, click here .

7. Haitang Bay

Like Yalong Bay,  Haitang Bay  is a huge sandy beach bordered by luxury hotels. Since it’s a bit further from Sanya, it’s a bit cheaper, and there are a bit fewer people.

You will find  5-star hotels  with rooms  around 100 euros per night  or even less. At this price, it’s  perfect to end your  trip to China  on a slightly more relaxed note!

I especially recommend the hotel “The Mangrove” , for me the most beautiful of the surroundings.  Reservations are made by clicking here.

8. Nanwan Monkey Island

Nanwan Monkey Island  (南湾猴岛) is a park where, as its name suggests, you will be able to  see monkeys in semi-freedom.

I tell you right away, it’s not really worth it for the park itself. It’s really small and the monkeys are not treated very well.

During your visit,  you can attend 2 shows:

• An acrobatic show  with the monkeys riding their bikes and doing some tricks
• A little comedy scene

By attending the 2 shows,  the visit will take you about 1 hour.

But what is most worth it in history is taking  the small cable car that crosses the sea . From up there, you will have a very nice view of  a floating fishing village.

Whether you go or return, you will have the choice between  taking the cable car or the ferry , it’s up to you.

On the way there are sometimes more than 2 hours in line at the cable car , and generally far fewer people at the ferry. It may therefore be worth  taking the boat one way and the cable car on the way back.

9. Xincun and the Floating Village

Xincun is the small town located just in front of Nanwan Monkey island. This is where the ticket office is located as well as the departure of the cable car.

Even if you are not going to Nanwan, I advise you to go for  a walk to the Xincun market which is located on the port. It’s not touristic at all, you will really discover the way of life of the locals. As well as certainly some bizarre species of fish and shellfish :D.

It will also be an opportunity to  taste some delicious fruits . I especially advise you to taste  Mangosteen  (Shan Zhu 山竹), my favorite fruit. It  really tastes like candy.

In addition to the market, Xincun is also home to  the floating fishing village  that you see from the cable car to Nanwan Monkey Island.

10.Mont Wuzhi

For a change from the sea, you can take a walk around  Mount Wuzhi  (Wuzhi Shan – 五指山)  , the highest point on Hainan Island  (1840m). Its name means “the five-fingered mountain”.

What to do near Mount Wuzhi?

• Hiking  of course!
• Du rafting  dans le Grand Canyon de Wuzhi Shan
• You get an idea of ​​the peaceful life of the inhabitants of the center of the island , very different from what you have seen on the coast.

To  get to Mount Wuzhi , the easiest way is to  take the bus from Sanya to the town of Wuzhi Shan . Count 2h-2h30 of journey.

11. Dongshan Mountain

Dongshan Mountain  ( “Dongshan Mountain” in English – 东山) is located  near the city of Wanning . Nicknamed “Hainan’s Number 1 Mountain”, it is one of the island’s few historic sites.

Throughout the visit,  you will be able to see:

• Large rocks with Chinese inscriptions  related to the history and legend of the place
• Ancient small temples  dating back to the Tang Dynasty, including the Chaoyin Temple.
• A source famous  for its legend and some statues
• Enjoy the view  once you reach the summit lookout!

The visit is done on foot , it is not very big. You can also  opt for the chairlift to climb to the top (184m, it’s actually more of a hill than a mountain), but that greatly shortens the visit.

• Entrance fee:  60 yuan
• Visiting time:  about 1h30

12. Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark

The  “Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark”  (雷琼海口火山群世界地质公园in Chinese), which we will simply call the  haikou volcanic park  in this guide, is the major tourist site in northern Hainan.

Located 15 km from downtown Haikou, this park is best known for  its main caldera called Ma’anling . It is more than  220 m high and 90 m deep.  You have to  climb quite a few steps  to get there, you have been warned!

There are also more than 40 ancient volcanic craters in the park dating from the  Quaternary period .

Haikou  (海口) is the capital of the Hainan region. Located at the northern end of the island, the city is  much less touristy than Sanya . This will give you the opportunity to experience local life.

Here are the  things to do and see in Haikou:

• Take a walk in Qilou Old Street , the most beautiful view of the city with its mix of European and Asian colonial architecture. It’s the perfect place to do some shopping or eat in one of the many restaurants.
• Visit Hai Rui’s tomb , a small garden with pavilions and sculptures
• Aller à Wugong  Temple
• Stroll along the beach of Xixiu Beach , the city beach
• Enjoy the large beach of Holiday Beach , Haikou’s most famous beach. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can do water sports here.

Some other  places to see around Haikou:

• Take a boat trip to  Dongzhai Port Nature Reserve
• Go to  Dongjiao Coconut Plantation , near Wenchang City
• Visit the  Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden , the first zoo dedicated to tropical animals in China.

14. Drink Fresh Coconut Juice

I can’t tell you about the things to do in Hainan without mentioning  the coconuts  : they are everywhere!

If you like it, you will have plenty of time to  drink fresh coconut juice  from coconuts all over the island.

15. Discover the Gastronomy of Hainan

If you are traveling to Hainan province, you might as well take the opportunity to taste some local dishes! As Hainan is an island, you can imagine, it is paradise for fish and seafood lovers.

In addition to this, here are the 4 most typical local dishes:

Wenchang Chicken

“Wenchang Chicken” originated in  Wenchang , a city in northeast Hainan.

This dish, made with  free-range chicken,  is special because of its cooking method. Traditionally,  the whole chicken is cooked in almost boiling water , which allows the meat to be really very tender. It is then cut into pieces and you can dip it in  a sauce made with local spices.

It is  the most famous dish of the region . It has also  spread throughout Southeast Asia  with the migration of peasants from Hainan at the beginning of the 20th century. You will therefore find it under different names, sometimes simply  “  Hainan Chicken Rice” in  Malaysia ,  Singapore  or  Thailand .

“Hele Crab”  is , as its name suggests, made with crab from the  village of Hele , in the  Wanning region . The particularity of the place is to be located at the mouth of the river,  the crabs are therefore raised in a mixture of fresh and salt water.

The crab is then  steamed  and seasoned with  ginger, garlic and vinegar.

“Jiaji Duck” is made with a special breed of duck raised in  Jiaji Village , which is now part of  Qionghai City . It is located by the  Wanquan River.

As it is a different breed, and also  because of its diet  (mainly based on rice, and other cereals, or even coconut!),  the taste is quite different from the duck that we are used to. to eat.

Traditionally, it is  served with a sauce of vinegar, ginger and sesame oil.

Dongshan Lamb (Eastern goat)

“Dongshan Mutton”  is another  dish originating from the city of Wanning , which could definitely earn the title of food capital of Hainan.

When eating it, the first thing you’ll notice  is that it doesn’t have that characteristic mutton taste , and that’s normal,  it’s actually goat meat!  It’s super tender and really delicious.

Dongshan  Lamb  exists in several versions: stewed  ,  roasted  or  even  braised with coconut milk.

How to get to Hainan?

Do you want to go to Hainan?  You have 3 choices:

The easiest way to go to Hainan  is of course to go there by plane . There are 2 airports on the island, in Sanya and Haikou.

If you are close to the Qiongzhou Strait, you can take the ferry that connects  Hai’an Port  to  Haikou.

There are also  other ferry lines , from the city of  Beihai  for example.

Not many people know, but  it is also possible to get to Hainan directly by train.

And yes, and the most surprising thing is that  your train will take the ferry to arrive on the island.

How to get around in Hainan?

To get around Hainan, nothing could be simpler: there  are 2 high-speed train lines  that allow you to go around the island very quickly.

• The Eastern Line , which runs from Sanya to Haikou via the East Coast
• the West line , which makes the same route through the West.

The majority of  Hainan’s tourist attractions  are in  the southeast area of ​​the island , around Sanya.

For  short trips , you can  take the bus or taxi.

When to go to Hainan?

In  Hainan Province , the temperature is mild throughout the year. Even  in winter , it is not uncommon to have days when the thermometer reads  over 20 degrees.

• The best time to visit Hainan  is from  November to the end of April . It is also  high tourist season , with a peak in the months of January and February.
• In summer, it is the season of rains and typhoons:  it is very hot and extremely humid. It’s the low tourist season, there are fewer people,  the hotels are much cheaper.

Ideally, try to  visit Hainan in November , it really is the best month to enjoy the island. There are not too many people yet and the weather is nice.

Accommodation in Hainan

Now that you know what to do and visit in Sanya, here is  where to stay in Sanya to be close to the activities. 

• Wyndham Sanya Bay: Located just 200 metres from the seaside, Wyndham Sanya Bay offers various facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, a gym and a constant temperature swimming pool. Free WiFi and free parking space are accessible. Sanya Railway Station lays approximately 30 minutes’ drive away. It takes about 12 minutes by car to Phoenix International Airport. Luhuitou Park can be reached in around 45 minutes’ car journey.
• 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya : Located in Haitang Bay, 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and bar. 300 metres from Haitang Bay Beach and 39 km from Luhuitou Park, the property provides a shared lounge and a garden. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests. Atlantis water park and Wuzhizhou Island are nearby.
• Sanya Backpacker International Youth Hostel : If you prefer the international experience and want to meet people, this is a very good hostel. The staff was really welcoming, super-pleasant and I met a lot of great people there. If you are looking for a hostel near the beach, with local and foreign restaurants nearby, as well as transport, this is the right hostel.

5 Days Hainan Itinerary

Here is our recommended itinerary for a 5 day Hainan trip:

Day 1: Haikou Qilou Old Street, Hainan University South Gate Night Market

Day 2: Haikou–Wenchang Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark, Wenchang chicken

Day 3: Wenchang–Sanya Gaolong Bay, Stone Park, Fengguoshan Waterfall (in Diaoluo Mountain National Park)

Day 4-5: Sanya Yalong Bay International Rose Valley, Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone

Are you going to China? Read also

• Discover all of our articles on China  : all articles on Italy are listed here.
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• Top 10 things to do in Kunming
• Top 11 things to do in Lijiang
• China Crime Rate – Safety Travel Guide
• Top 23 Things to Do in Taiwan
• Top 25 Things to Do in Taipei and Our Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 Days in China
• 2 Weeks in China: Ultimate 14-15-16 Day Itinerary

Steve Batides

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Hainan Travel Guide: Top 20 Things to Do on Hainan Island, China

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Dive into the heart of Hainan Island, a lush paradise nestled in the South China Sea. This enchanting island is more than just China’s smallest province. It’s a vibrant blend of breathtaking natural beauty, deep-rooted cultural heritage, and rejuvenating retreats. Hainan isn’t merely a destination; it’s a vibrant storybook, alive with tales of ancient folklore, culinary adventures, and serene landscapes. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or in search of tranquility, Hainan has a treasure trove of experiences waiting for you. Let’s explore what makes Hainan Island a must-visit gem for those who seek to uncover the splendor and diversity of China.

Nature’s Masterpiece

Tropical Bliss Unleashed : Hainan Island, with its pristine beaches and emerald mountains, serves as a sanctuary for those who yearn for nature’s touch. From the soft sands of Yalong Bay to the mystic trails of Yanoda Rainforest, the island offers a canvas of natural wonders. It’s a place where adventure and serenity walk hand in hand, offering moments of bliss and exhilaration.

Cultural Riches

A Melody of Traditions : The island’s soul is woven with the vibrant threads of Li and Miao cultures, offering a glimpse into its diverse ethnic tapestry. Discover the ancient art of Li textile weaving, the spirited Miao dances, and the architectural marvels of traditional villages. Hainan’s cultural landscape is a mosaic of stories, traditions, and celebrations that invite you to delve deeper into its ancestral roots.

Gastronomic Journey

Feast of Flavors : Prepare your palate for a culinary odyssey through Hainan, where each dish tells a story of the island’s bountiful resources and culinary ingenuity. From the iconic Hainanese chicken rice to the fresh seafood spreads of Sanya, the island’s cuisine is a celebration of taste and tradition. Embark on a spice-laden voyage through bustling markets and quaint eateries, where the essence of Hainan comes alive in every bite.

Wellness Haven

Sanctuary of Serenity : Hainan Island is a haven for those seeking wellness and rejuvenation. Luxuriate in the natural hot springs scattered across the island, embrace the holistic practices of traditional Chinese medicine, and unwind in the tranquility of lush spa resorts. It’s a place where wellness is woven into the fabric of daily life, offering a retreat for body, mind, and soul.

Island Nightlife

When Stars Align : As the sun dips below the horizon, Hainan transforms into a vibrant spectacle of lights and laughter. Explore the night markets of Haikou, indulge in beachside barbecues in Sanya, or sip on tropical cocktails at chic bars. The island’s nightlife is a lively blend of local charm and cosmopolitan flair, perfect for those looking to dance the night away.

So, pack your spirit of adventure (and maybe some sunscreen), and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty that is Hainan Island.

Hainan Island Travel Guide: A Brief History Of Hainan, China

Welcome to the storybook of Hainan. An island where every grain of sand, every rustle of the palm leaves, and every stone on the mountain trails whispers tales of the past. Let’s embark on a time-travel adventure to uncover the layers of history that make Hainan the mesmerizing island it is today.

Ancient Beginnings

Cradle of Cultures : Long before Hainan became a tropical getaway, it was home to the Li people, among the earliest inhabitants of China, whose traditions and crafts have woven the island’s cultural fabric for millennia. Archeological finds reveal a rich prehistoric life, pointing to Hainan as a bustling center of early civilization, connected yet distinct from the mainland.

Maritime Gateway

Seafarers’ Haven : Fast forward to the days of the Maritime Silk Road, and you’ll find Hainan playing a pivotal role as a navigational landmark and refuge for sea merchants and explorers. Its strategic position made it a melting pot of cultures, where goods and ideas exchanged hands, shaping the island’s diverse identity.

Dynastic Era

Dynasties’ Influence : Throughout China’s dynastic changes, Hainan experienced shifts in governance, purpose, and culture. It served variously as a place of exile for disgraced officials, a defensive frontier against pirates, and a trading post. Each dynasty left its imprint, contributing to the architectural, agricultural, and cultural tapestry of Hainan.

Modern Transformation

Path to Prosperity : The 20th century heralded significant changes for Hainan, from turbulent wars to remarkable recovery and growth. The establishment of Hainan as a separate province in 1988 marked a new beginning, ushering in an era of development that transformed it into a vibrant economic zone and international tourism destination.

Cultural Renaissance

A Cultural Melting Pot : Amidst its modernization, Hainan remains deeply connected to its roots. The island celebrates its cultural diversity, honoring the traditions of the Li and Miao peoples alongside the customs brought by settlers and traders throughout history. This blend of cultures is a testament to Hainan’s history of openness, resilience, and adaptability.

Hainan’s history is a fascinating saga of survival, transformation, and blossoming. It’s a place where the echoes of the past live in harmony with the rhythms of the present, inviting you to explore, learn, and be part of its ongoing story. As you wander through Hainan, from its ancient villages to its bustling cities, remember that you’re walking through chapters of a history book written by nature, adventurers, and the enduring spirit of its people. Hainan isn’t just an island; it’s a living museum, a guardian of stories waiting to be told and retold.

Hainan Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit in China

Referred to by locals as the “Hawaii of China”, Hainan has a much more compelling claim to its nickname than other islands in the region that attempt to use this metaphor, such as Jeju Island, which claims to be the “Hawaii of Korea”.  Unlike the latter mismatched comparison, Hainan is an island that lies at a latitude that is actually in the tropics, making a welcome relief from bone-chilling weather much further north if you’re visiting China outside of the warmer months of the year.

As such, the key attractions here are the beaches, which are getting increasingly crowded as the expanding wealth of the Chinese middle class makes it easier for them to escape cold temperatures in much the same fashion that Westerners have been doing for many decades. It wasn’t always perceived as a desirable place by mainlanders though, as the place was known by many for centuries to be where miserable failures in government were banished to live out the rest of their days in exile.

In a tropical paradise.

Amazing logic, I know!

All jokes aside though, aside from a few cultural attractions, this generally isn’t the place to bone up on culture. When you’re surrounded by swaying palms, lukewarm seas and juicy tropical fruit, I’m sure you can let those plans slip for a week or so while you forget about the crushing masses of people back on the mainland … not everything about travel has to be so serious, after all.

More Attractions

If you feel the need to get in touch with the soul of this place before you indulge your need for hedonism on the silky sands of China’s southernmost island , then first head to Wugong Temple , which can be found in the provincial capital of Haikou.  This temple was erected in honour of five officials that were banned from the mainland for having the nerve to criticize the rule of the Tang dynasty. Statues immortalizing these five brave souls can be found in the lush courtyard, along with tributes to the Chinese poet Su Dongpo.

Before departing Haikou, get a quick overview of the history of habitation on this island at the Hainan Provincial Museum .  Recently opened, the exhibits cover antiquities gathered from around the island that date back many centuries (the porcelain pieces are spectacular), and the modern development on the island over the past two decades.

Before the imperial government began using this island to send critics and failed officials to forced exile here on Hainan, its original inhabitants had been living here in peace for many generations prior.  Gusong Village is a traditional Hainanese village, which unlike other tourist trap ethnic villages that are found closer to the beach resorts, is decidedly non-commercial in its bent.

Brightly coloured houses will delight the avid photographer, culture hunters will shriek in delight as they will be able to observe traditional ways of life without being hounded by touts, and more active travelers will appreciate the option to hike up Tonggu Mountain with local guides.

Other Cultural Attractions: Trip to Hainan, China

Visitors looking to explore the rich forests of the interior will have the opportunity to do so at Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone .  Paths have been cleared, limited Chinese gardens have been constructed, and information panels have been put in place to educate guests, but apart from that, the environment has largely been left intact, much to the relief of those concerned about the level of disruption of developments like these.

If you are looking to take a more hands-on approach to help save the environment, contact Sea Turtles 911 upon your arrival in Hainan.  Sea Turtles 911 is a non-profit organization that aims to aid the sea turtles that lay their eggs upon the beaches of this island, so that their populations might increase from the dismally low levels that they are stuck in this modern day and age.

Finally, it’s time to hit the beach !  Many ESL teachers and long-term backpackers in China eagerly await their time on the sands of Sanya Beach , Hainan’s best known resort area, or at less crowded shores near Wenchang.  The winds during the Northern Hemisphere summer push the South China Sea towards the southern coast at this time, also making this place a great location to pick up surfing . Tourism operators in Sanya offer lessons, making it a great way to end off your time in China .

Top 20 Things To Do on Hainan, China For Visitors

Here are the top 20 things to do on Hainan:

1. Soak Up the Sun at Yalong Bay

Yalong Bay is touted as the best beach in Hainan, boasting crystal clear waters and soft white sands. It’s the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in water sports. Luxury resorts line the beach, offering world-class amenities and dining. The bay’s coral reef is ideal for snorkeling and exploring marine life.

2. Explore the Nanshan Temple

Nanshan Temple, part of the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, is a sprawling Buddhist complex known for its grand statues and serene gardens. The 108-meter tall Guanyin statue, one of the tallest in the world, stands majestically offshore on a man-made island. Visitors can learn about Buddhist culture, enjoy vegetarian cuisine, and experience the tranquility of the temple grounds. The temple offers a peaceful retreat with breathtaking ocean views.

3. Visit the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden

This wildlife park and botanical garden is home to over 200 species of animals and thousands of plant species. Guests can take a safari tour to see animals roaming freely in large enclosures. The botanical garden showcases exotic plants and flowers, creating a beautiful landscape for visitors to explore. It’s an educational and fun outing for the whole family, emphasizing conservation and environmental awareness.

4. Take a Scenic Drive along the East Line High-Speed Railway

The East Line High-Speed Railway offers a scenic journey along Hainan’s coastline, connecting major cities and tourist spots. Passengers can enjoy stunning views of the tropical landscape, beaches, and rural areas from the comfort of their seats. It’s an efficient way to explore the island and reach destinations like Sanya, Boao, and Wanning. The train journey itself is an adventure, offering a glimpse into Hainan’s diverse beauty.

5. Relax in the Hot Springs of Qixianling National Forest Park

Qixianling National Forest Park is famous for its natural hot springs, nestled within a lush rainforest setting. Visitors can unwind in various hot spring pools, each with different minerals and health benefits. The park also offers hiking trails leading to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. It’s a perfect combination of relaxation and outdoor activity, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.

6. Discover the Culture at Betelnut Valley (Binglanggu)

Betelnut Valley is a cultural theme park that offers insight into the lives of Hainan’s Li and Miao ethnic minorities. Visitors can watch traditional dance performances, explore authentic villages, and learn about local crafts like weaving and batik. The park is set in a picturesque valley, enhancing the cultural experience with its natural beauty. It’s an educational and immersive way to understand the island’s indigenous cultures.

7. Adventure in Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

Yanoda is a rainforest park offering a range of outdoor adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to waterfall exploration. The park is divided into different zones, each highlighting an aspect of the tropical landscape and culture. Visitors can walk along suspended bridges, enjoy the views from lookout points, and even participate in traditional tea ceremonies. It’s a great destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

8. Wander Through the Ancient Town of Puqian

Puqian Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical site that offers a glimpse into Hainan’s past. The town features traditional architecture, ancient temples, and cultural museums. Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone streets, sample local street food, and shop for handmade crafts. It’s a peaceful break from the island’s beach scene, offering cultural and historical insights.

9. Enjoy Water Sports at Wuzhizhou Island

Wuzhizhou Island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering clear waters and a wide range of activities, including diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, and parasailing. The island is also known for its beautiful coral reefs and marine life, making it a popular destination for underwater exploration. Visitors can relax on the beach or dine at seaside restaurants. It’s an ideal spot for adventure and relaxation, with facilities to suit all interests.

10. Explore the Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark

This geopark showcases Hainan’s volcanic landscape, featuring craters, lava tunnels, and unique rock formations. Educational tours provide insights into the volcanic activity that shaped the island. The park’s scenery is dramatic and unique, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and photography. It’s a must-visit for geology enthusiasts and those interested in the natural history of Hainan.

11. Visit the Boao Forum for Asia Permanent Site

Boao is not only a picturesque town but also the permanent site of the Boao Forum for Asia, an important conference center for international dialogue. Visitors can explore the forum’s facilities, enjoy the tranquil waterways, and learn about the forum’s role in promoting economic integration in Asia. The town itself offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a unique blend of natural beauty and global significance.

12. Unwind at Sanya Bay

Sanya Bay is known for its long, palm-lined beach, offering stunning sunsets and a relaxed vibe. It’s less crowded than other beaches in Sanya, making it a great place for a peaceful beach day. The bay area is dotted with resorts, seafood restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach, swimming, and water sports.

13. Experience the Li and Miao Ethnic Villages

These ethnic villages offer an authentic look at the traditional lifestyles of the Li and Miao peoples. Visitors can witness cultural performances, traditional crafts, and everyday life in the villages. The experience is both educational and respectful, emphasizing the preservation of these cultures. It’s a chance to engage with Hainan’s diverse ethnic heritage in a meaningful way.

14. Stroll Through Luhuitou Park

Luhuitou Park, located on a hill overlooking Sanya, offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. The park is named after a local legend of love and features a romantic atmosphere with sculptures and pavilions. It’s a popular spot for couples and families to enjoy the scenery and the story behind the park. The park also offers trails and lookout points for visitors to explore.

15. Shop at Haikou’s Dongmen Market

Dongmen Market is a bustling marketplace in Haikou, known for its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies. Visitors can experience the vibrant local shopping culture, taste street food, and find unique souvenirs. The market is a lively place to explore day or night, offering an authentic glimpse into Hainan’s culinary traditions. It’s an essential visit for foodies and those interested in local life.

16. Relax at Dadonghai Beach

Dadonghai Beach is a popular destination for its clear waters, white sands, and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a range of water sports, beachside bars, and restaurants. The beach is easily accessible from Sanya and is surrounded by lush hills, adding to its scenic beauty. It’s a great spot for families and young travelers looking for fun in the sun.

17. Learn at the Hainan Provincial Museum

The Hainan Provincial Museum in Haikou offers exhibitions on the island’s history, culture, and natural environment. Visitors can learn about Hainan’s ethnic groups, traditional crafts, and the island’s development. The museum also features art exhibitions and interactive displays. It’s an informative and engaging way to deepen your understanding of Hainan.

18. Enjoy the Beauty of Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden

Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden is a lush oasis showcasing the diversity of Hainan’s tropical flora. The garden features rare plants, themed gardens, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can learn about tropical agriculture, medicinal plants, and conservation efforts. It’s a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those interested in botany.

19. Visit Mission Hills Haikou

Mission Hills Haikou is a world-class golf resort offering multiple championship courses designed by leading golfers. Apart from golf, the resort offers luxury accommodations, spa services, and dining options. It’s also home to a volcanic mineral springs and spa complex, providing a unique wellness experience. Even non-golfers can enjoy the resort’s leisure and relaxation facilities.

20. Discover the End of the Earth (Tianya Haijiao)

Tianya Haijiao, meaning “The End of the Earth,” is a scenic spot known for its dramatic rock formations and inscriptions. It’s a place of natural beauty and romantic legend, attracting couples and photographers. The site offers stunning views of the sea and a chance to reflect on the vastness of the ocean. It’s a must-visit for its cultural significance and picturesque setting.

What To Eat and Drink on Hainan Island, China

Let’s dive into the flavors of Hainan and discover what makes the island’s cuisine a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Seafood Sensations

1. Hele Crab : Caught locally, these crabs are steamed to perfection, allowing their natural sweetness to shine.

2. Seafood Hot Pot : A communal favorite, featuring a variety of local seafood simmered in a flavorful broth.

Signature Dishes

3. Hainanese Chicken Rice : The island’s claim to fame, this dish features poached chicken with seasoned rice, served with chili sauce and ginger paste.

4. Wenchang Chicken : Named after its city of origin in Hainan, this chicken is celebrated for its tender meat and aromatic flavors.

5. Dongshan Mutton : Slow-cooked to tender perfection, often enjoyed in a hot pot or as part of a festive meal.

Local Favorites

6. Qiongshan Tofu Pudding : Soft, silky tofu served either sweet or savory, showcasing the versatility of soybeans.

7. Jiaji Duck : A type of preserved duck, seasoned and air-dried, known for its rich taste and crispy skin.

8. Bamboo Rice : Glutinous rice and other ingredients cooked inside a bamboo tube, infusing the rice with a distinctive aroma.

Tropical Fruits and Drinks

9. Coconut Water : Sipped straight from the coconut, it’s the ultimate thirst-quencher in Hainan’s tropical heat.

10. Tropical Fruit Smoothies : A blend of local fruits like mango, pineapple, and dragon fruit, offering a refreshing and healthy treat.

Street Food and Snacks

11. Hainanese Paomo : A comforting bowl of rice soaked in meat broth, often garnished with pickles and meat slices.

12. Lao Li’s Stuffed Meatballs : A street food gem, featuring meatballs stuffed with various fillings, from shrimp to mushrooms.

Sweet Treats

13. Sweet Potato Glutinous Rice Balls : A dessert made from sweet potatoes and glutinous rice flour, often served in a sweet soup.

14. Coconut Cake : A light, fluffy cake made with coconut milk, offering a sweet end to any meal.

15. Hainan Coffee : Robust and aromatic, reflecting Hainan’s burgeoning coffee culture, often enjoyed alongside local snacks.

Tours For Visitors To Hainan Island

Here’s a thorough list of tours that promise to make your visit to Hainan Island unforgettable.

1. Hainan Historical and Cultural Tour

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Hainan with a guided tour through ancient villages, historical sites, and cultural museums. Learn about the island’s indigenous Li and Miao peoples, their traditions, and crafts. Highlights include the Li & Miao Cultural Heritage Park and the historic Qilou Old Street in Haikou.

2. Sanya Beach and Nature Exploration

Sanya, known as the “Hawaii of China,” offers breathtaking beaches and tropical landscapes. This tour takes you to Yalong Bay and Tianya Haijiao, where you can soak in the sun, sand, and sea. The itinerary often includes a visit to the Nanshan Temple, offering serene ocean views and a glimpse into spiritual life on the island.

3. Rainforest Adventure in Yanoda or Jianfeng

Embark on an adventure through Hainan’s rainforests, such as Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone or Jianfengling National Forest Park. These tours offer trekking through lush greenery, zip-lining, and the chance to discover unique flora and fauna. It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

4. Hainan Tea Plantation and Factory Tour

Explore Hainan’s tea culture with a visit to local tea plantations. Learn about the process of tea making, from picking to processing, and enjoy tastings of various teas. These tours not only offer insight into tea cultivation but also provide picturesque views of the island’s countryside.

5. Haikou Culinary Experience

Dive into Hainan’s culinary scene with a food tour in Haikou, sampling local delicacies like Hainanese chicken rice, Wenchang chicken, and tropical fruits. Visit bustling markets, street food stalls, and traditional eateries. This tour is a feast for the senses and a deep dive into the island’s gastronomic heritage.

6. Volcanic Hainan Exploration

Discover the geological wonders of Hainan by visiting the Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark. Learn about the island’s volcanic history, explore ancient lava tunnels, and enjoy panoramic views from volcanic craters. It’s a fascinating journey for those interested in geology and natural landscapes.

7. Wellness and Hot Springs Retreat

Unwind with a tour focused on relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Hainan’s many hot springs resorts. Experience therapeutic hot spring baths, spa treatments, and wellness activities set in tranquil and scenic locations. These tours are perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

8. Hainan Island Cycling Adventure

Experience the beauty of Hainan at a slower pace with a cycling tour around the island. Routes often include coastal roads with stunning sea views, rural areas with lush landscapes, and stops at local attractions. It’s an eco-friendly way to explore the island’s diverse environments.

9. Ethnic Villages and Handicrafts Tour

Gain insight into the island’s ethnic diversity with a tour to Li and Miao villages. Witness traditional handicrafts, such as weaving and embroidery, and learn about the communities’ lifestyles and customs. These tours offer a unique opportunity to support local crafts and culture.

10. Golfing in Hainan

Hainan is a golfer’s paradise, home to world-class golf courses set against spectacular backdrops. Tours can include rounds at top-rated courses, professional coaching, and luxury accommodations. It’s a perfect blend of sport and leisure in a stunning tropical setting.

Hainan Island Accommodations Guide: Hotels, Guesthouses and Hostels

Here’s a travel guide to some of the best places to stay on Hainan Island, ensuring a comfortable and memorable visit.

Luxury Resorts

1. Atlantis Sanya : An ocean-themed luxury resort offering a unique experience with its own water park, aquarium, and exquisite dining options. Perfect for families and couples alike.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Yalong Bay : Nestled on the pristine Yalong Bay, this resort combines tropical beauty with unmatched luxury, featuring private villas, a spa, and several gourmet restaurants.

3. Mission Hills Resort Haikou : Located near the volcanic landscapes of northern Hainan, this expansive resort is a golfer’s paradise, with world-class courses and a spa for relaxation.

Mid-Range Hotels

4. Hainan Airlines Mingguang Hotel : Situated in Haikou, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations, excellent service, and easy access to the city’s attractions.

5. Sanya Marriott Yalong Bay Resort & Spa : With stunning views of Yalong Bay, this resort offers a range of activities, beautiful pools, and dining options, all at a value price point.

Budget-Friendly Options

6. Banling Hot Spring Villa Hotel : Located in Baoting, this hotel provides affordable access to Hainan’s famous hot springs, set amidst lush tropical gardens.

7. Haikou Banana Hostel : A favorite among backpackers, offering clean, affordable dorms and private rooms, with a friendly, social atmosphere.

Boutique and Unique Stays

8. Secret Garden Guesthouse : A charming guesthouse in Haikou, offering personalized service, beautifully decorated rooms, and a serene garden where guests can relax.

9. Lingshui Perfume Bay Guesthouse : Nestled in a quiet bay, this guesthouse provides a peaceful retreat with stunning sea views, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Eco-friendly and Sustainable

10. Naked Stables Hainan Qingshui Bay : Focused on sustainable luxury, this eco-resort offers beautiful accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, providing a tranquil and environmentally friendly getaway.

Hostels for Backpackers

11. Sanya Backpackers Hostel : A well-established hostel known for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and close proximity to Sanya’s beaches.

12. Lost International Youth Hostel Luhuitou : Located in Sanya, this hostel offers a laid-back vibe, with easy access to Luhuitou Park and local beaches, making it perfect for young travelers.

Day Trips From Hainan Island

Here’s a curated list of destinations and experiences to consider.

1. Guangzhou

A high-speed train can whisk you to Guangzhou, the bustling capital of Guangdong Province, known for its Cantonese culture and colonial architecture. Explore the Chen Clan Ancestral Hall for a dose of history, or wander through the Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street for shopping and street food. The city’s modern skyline, viewed from the Canton Tower, offers a striking contrast to its traditional roots. Guangzhou’s vibrant food scene, especially its dim sum, is not to be missed.

2. Hong Kong

Though not a typical day trip due to its distance, Hong Kong is accessible by flight for those looking to extend their journey. This global metropolis offers a dizzying array of activities, from shopping at its bustling markets and high-end malls to taking in the panoramic views from Victoria Peak. Explore the cultural side of Hong Kong in its museums and temples, or take a ferry ride for a different perspective of the city. The blend of Eastern and Western cultures makes Hong Kong a fascinating stop after Hainan.

A short flight from Hainan, Macau is a world-renowned destination for entertainment and history. Known as the “Las Vegas of Asia,” it boasts grandiose casinos and live shows, but there’s more to Macau than just gambling. The Historic Centre of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, displays a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese architecture. Enjoy Macanese cuisine, a delicious fusion of Chinese and Portuguese flavors, as a culinary highlight.

Accessible by flight, Guilin is celebrated for its enchanting karst landscapes and the serene Li River. A cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo offers breathtaking views of limestone peaks rising from the riverbanks. Explore the Reed Flute Cave or hike up to Elephant Trunk Hill for stunning natural beauty. Guilin’s calm and its proximity to rural life present a tranquil contrast to Hainan’s beach scene.

For those willing to travel a bit further by air, Beijing offers an immersive dive into China’s imperial past and dynamic present. The Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace are just a few of the historical treasures awaiting exploration. Beijing’s hutongs offer a glimpse into the city’s living history, while modern districts like Sanlitun showcase its contemporary pulse. The culinary scene here, especially Peking duck, is an experience in itself.

6. Shanghai

Another flight away, Shanghai juxtaposes futuristic skyscrapers like the Shanghai Tower with historic sites such as the Bund and Yu Garden. Stroll along the Huangpu River for iconic views, dive into the city’s burgeoning art scene, or shop till you drop in its fashionable districts. Shanghai’s fast-paced lifestyle and cosmopolitan vibe offer a sharp contrast to Hainan’s laid-back atmosphere.

Known as the gateway to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Chengdu offers a unique blend of natural wonders and Sichuanese culture, accessible by air. Beyond pandas, explore the Jinli Ancient Street for a taste of traditional life or visit the Sichuan Opera for an evening of entertainment. The city is also the best place to challenge your taste buds with authentic Sichuan cuisine, famous for its spice and depth of flavor.

8. Zhangjiajie

For those intrigued by breathtaking natural formations, a flight to Zhangjiajie unveils the majestic landscapes that inspired the floating mountains in “Avatar.” Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a marvel of towering sandstone pillars shrouded in mist, offering unparalleled hiking and photography opportunities. The Tianmen Mountain and its glass skywalk provide thrilling vistas. Zhangjiajie’s natural wonders provide a rugged counterpoint to Hainan’s tropical scenery.

Xiamen, a short flight away, is known for its pleasant climate, colonial architecture, and the nearby UNESCO-listed Gulangyu Island. The island’s car-free environment, historic buildings, and beautiful beaches offer a peaceful retreat. Xiamen itself is renowned for its seafood cuisine, vibrant arts scene, and the ancient Nanputuo Temple. The city’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a compelling visit after Hainan.

10. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

While international, Ha Long Bay is accessible for those looking to venture beyond China’s borders, offering a seamless transition from Hainan’s tropical beauty to the iconic seascapes of Vietnam. The bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. Cruising on a junk boat, exploring caves, and visiting floating villages provide a serene experience. The natural wonder and cultural richness of Ha Long Bay offer a memorable extension to your Hainan adventure.

Hainan Island Transportation Guide

Here’s a detailed travel guide to getting around Hainan Island, ensuring smooth travels across this tropical paradise.

Meilan International Airport (Haikou) and Phoenix International Airport (Sanya) are Hainan’s main gateways, connecting the island to domestic and international destinations. Internal flights between Haikou and Sanya offer a quick option for traversing the island’s length.

High-Speed Rail

Hainan’s high-speed rail loops around the island, linking major cities like Haikou and Sanya, with stops at key tourist destinations. It’s a scenic and efficient way to explore, offering stunning views of the coastline and interior landscapes.

Public Buses : Hainan boasts an extensive network of public buses, connecting Haikou, Sanya, and other regions. They’re an affordable option for reaching beaches, towns, and attractions.

Intercity Buses : For longer distances, intercity buses run between major cities and towns, providing a cost-effective solution for travelers.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

Taxis are readily available in Haikou, Sanya, and other tourist areas, offering a convenient way to reach specific destinations. Ride-hailing apps like Didi provide an alternative, with options for different vehicle types and sizes.

Car and Scooter Rentals

Renting a car or electric scooter gives you the freedom to explore Hainan at your own pace. Rental agencies are found at airports, hotels, and through travel agencies. Remember, an international driving permit is required for foreign drivers.

For shorter distances or leisurely exploration, bicycles are a great way to enjoy Hainan’s scenic beauty. Many hotels offer bike rentals, and dedicated cycling paths in tourist areas make for safe and enjoyable rides.

To explore Hainan’s surrounding islands or for trips to the mainland, ferries operate from several ports including Haikou and Sanya. They accommodate passengers, vehicles, and cargo, offering a unique way to experience the region’s maritime environment.

Guided Tours

For those who prefer organized travel, guided tours are available for various attractions across Hainan. These tours often include transportation, making them a hassle-free option for exploring specific sites or engaging in activities like hiking, snorkeling, and cultural visits.

Tips for Travelers

• Plan Ahead : Especially during peak travel seasons, it’s wise to book tickets for trains, planes, and ferries in advance to secure your travel plans.
• Local Sim Card : Having a local sim card can make using ride-hailing apps and navigating with GPS much easier.
• Carry Cash : While digital payments are widely accepted, having cash on hand is useful for smaller vendors and in more remote areas.
• Safety First : Always prioritize safety, especially when renting scooters or bicycles, and ensure you have the necessary protective gear and insurance.

Where To Visit After Your Trip To Hainan Island?

Here’s a curated list of destinations to consider after your Hainan adventure, each offering unique experiences that capture the essence of China’s vast and varied beauty.

Famous for its surreal limestone karst landscapes, Guilin is a haven for nature lovers and photographers. Cruise down the Li River to Yangshuo, where the river meanders through towering karsts, creating a breathtaking panorama. Explore the Reed Flute Cave to witness stunning natural rock formations. Guilin’s cuisine, highlighted by its lip-smacking Guilin rice noodles, offers another layer of local flavor to discover.

China’s capital city, Beijing, is a bustling metropolis that balances modernity with rich historical heritage. Walk the ancient stones of the Great Wall, explore the sprawling Forbidden City, and stroll through the tranquil Summer Palace. Savor Peking duck in its city of origin, and wander through the narrow hutongs to catch a glimpse of old Beijing life. Beijing is a city where every corner tells a story, making it a must-visit for history buffs.

3. Shanghai

As China’s largest city, Shanghai dazzles visitors with its futuristic skyline, bustling markets, and rich colonial history. Stroll along the Bund to admire the city’s iconic waterfront, contrasted by the modern skyscrapers of Pudong. Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Nanjing Road for shopping and street food. Don’t miss the tranquil beauty of Yu Garden, an oasis of calm in the heart of the city.

Home to the Terracotta Army, Xi’an offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s ancient past. Beyond the Terracotta Warriors, explore the ancient city walls and the bustling Muslim Quarter. Xi’an’s history as the starting point of the Silk Road has influenced its unique culinary scene, where Middle Eastern and Chinese flavors merge. The city serves as a living museum, where every site has a story to tell.

Known as the home of the giant panda, Chengdu offers a blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and a laid-back lifestyle. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these beloved creatures up close. Dive into the spicy world of Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and infamous Sichuan pepper. Explore the traditional tea houses and vibrant art scene that define Chengdu’s cultural charm.

6. Hangzhou

Famed for its scenic West Lake, Hangzhou is a city of natural beauty and cultural depth. Take a leisurely boat ride on West Lake, explore ancient temples, and stroll through lush tea plantations. Hangzhou’s culinary scene, highlighted by dishes like Dongpo pork, reflects the region’s rich flavors. The city’s traditional silk and tea products make for perfect souvenirs.

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Lijiang charms visitors with its well-preserved ancient town and stunning natural surroundings. The city’s cobbled streets, canals, and traditional Naxi architecture offer a step back in time. Venture to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for hiking and breathtaking views. Lijiang’s vibrant nightlife and cultural performances provide a glimpse into the local Naxi culture.

Known as the “Venice of the East,” Suzhou is celebrated for its elegant classical gardens, ancient canals, and silk production. Wander through the tranquil Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Master of Nets Garden, UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Take a boat ride along the ancient Grand Canal to appreciate the city’s waterways and traditional architecture. Suzhou’s silk factories offer insights into the intricate process of silk-making.

For a profound change of pace and scenery, venture to Tibet, where spirituality and natural beauty converge. Explore the Potala Palace in Lhasa, engage with Tibetan Buddhism at monasteries, and witness the vastness of the Tibetan Plateau. The journey to Mount Everest Base Camp from the Tibetan side offers awe-inspiring views of the world’s highest peak. Tibet’s unique culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes make it an unforgettable destination.

10. Yunnan Province

Explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of Yunnan, from the terraced rice fields of Yuanyang to the gorges of Tiger Leaping Gorge. Experience the cultural mosaic of Yunnan’s ethnic minorities, each with its own traditions, festivals, and cuisine. The ancient town of Dali and the vibrant city of Kunming offer gateways to Yunnan’s rich history and natural beauty. Yunnan’s mild climate and stunning biodiversity make it a year-round destination for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Hainan Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

So, there you have it—our Hainan travel guide is complete Whether you came seeking solace on its sun-kissed beaches, adventure in its lush landscapes, or a dive into its rich cultural tapestry, Hainan leaves an indelible mark on your heart. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey and muse over what makes Hainan a must-visit spot on your travel map.

Beach Bliss and Beyond

A Tropical Paradise : Hainan’s beaches are the stuff of dreams, but remember, there’s more to this island than just its stunning shores. From the exhilarating heights of the Yanoda Rainforest to the serene hot springs nestled in its volcanic terrain, Hainan invites you to explore every facet of its diverse natural beauty.

A Culinary Voyage

Flavors to Savor : The island’s cuisine—a delectable blend of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties—promises a culinary adventure at every meal. From street-side stalls in Haikou to beachfront eateries in Sanya, each bite is a journey through Hainan’s soul.

Cultural Treasures

Rich Heritage : The tapestry of Hainan’s culture, woven with threads of Li and Miao traditions, offers a glimpse into the island’s past and present. Engaging with its people, participating in traditional festivals, and exploring historical sites enrich your understanding of this unique corner of the world.

Sustainable Journeys

Eco-conscious Exploration : As you traverse this tropical paradise, consider the footprint you leave behind. Hainan’s push towards sustainability and environmental conservation is evident, urging visitors to partake in responsible tourism to preserve its pristine beauty for generations to come.

So, pack your curiosity, embrace the island spirit, and dive into the Hainan experience.

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Wow, the picture are awesome. And from your post it sound like a great place to get away from the cold weather. Okay, I want to pack my bags and head out! This looks too fun! Thanks for the post!

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

Top 15 Attractions In Hainan Island, China

Published: September 4, 2019

Modified: July 26, 2021

by Larissa Cherry

Photo by Wang Sui Shi on Pixabay

Not far from Sanya Bay lies Nanshan temple. The temple is surrounded by a  very large park filled with Tang Dynasty architecture, Buddhist statues and images and halls to kneel and pray in. This temple covers a huge area, so make sure you have comfortable walking shoes.  

The main attraction is the Guanyin statue.   Guanyin is the Goddess of Mercy in Chinese Buddhism. The 3.8-meter high statue is covered in 100 kg of gold and silver and decorated with South African diamonds. It is located 40 km from Sanya City and can be reached by bus.

Admission prices vary depending on the season. During the summer, between May and September, the price is 108 Yuans, and from October to April, it is 129 Yuans. Children under 1.2m can enter the temple for free. Nanshan Temple o pens every day from 8 am to 5.30 pm.    

Dadonghai Beach, Sanya

Photo by Daniel García on Flickr

Since Hainan is known by some as China’s Hawaii, it’s only appropriate that one spends time at the beach. Dadonghai Beach is arguably the most famous beach in Hainan. It is particularly beautiful with its long fine white sand coastline. It is near the Sanya City Centre just 3 km away which makes it very convenient.

Enjoy a day here as you listen to the waves crashing into the bay. Water sports are available for those interested. If you are a swimmer, the water is reportedly the clearest in the morning. Also, the long boardwalk makes for a great evening stroll along the beach. In addition, you can d rink a can of beer or have dinner at one of the many bars or restaurants along the beach. In conclusion, this public beach is one of the most popular spots in Sanya. 

Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark, Haikou

Definitely a unique destination, the Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark is referred to as a natural geological museum. This park covers a total of 118 square km of land. It includes two major volcanoes and many other protected volcanoes distributed throughout the Geopark.

A highlight of the park is the chance to climb to the top of the crater, and then inside where you will find a little tropical rainforest. Besides the craters, there are other unique landscapes created by flowing lava many years ago. The villages in the Geopark will give you a glimpse of the culture of the volcanic village life. Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark  is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. Tickets cost 65 Yuans for regular admission.  

Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, Sanya

Gorgeous lush green valleys, waterfalls, towering banyans, sugar palms, orchids and more fascinating nature is waiting to be explored at the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone. The two main valleys in this tourism zone are the Dream Valley and Rainforest Valley.

There are many waterfalls in Dream Valley. Admire the water pouring down the cliffs, or take a hike with your friends along a path over the water and against the pouring waterfall. The Rainforest Valley on Hainan is a lush green escape. Indulge in oxygen, discover flowers, plants and more breathtaking landscapes.

The Yanoda Rainforest is located in Baoting County in Sanya, Hainan Province, about 35 km and 50km away from downtown Sanya and the airport, respectively.   Bus lines from four locations downtown will bring you to the park. The admission fee, including the shuttle, is 168 Yuans from October to April and 150 Yuans from May to September. Children below 1.2m can enter for free. For a thorough experience, stay overnight in the zone’s hotel or bring your own tent and camping essentials.  

Mission Hills Huayi Brothers Feng Movie Town, Haikou

Photo by Anna Frodesiak on Wikimedia Commons

Consisting of three zones, this large movie town is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Each zone features the architectural styles of the time they feature. Some of them are exact replicas of old photographs or movies.  

The first zone features replicas of old Nanyang style streets. You’ll get to pose as if you are walking the streets in old Shanghai, with colonial houses in the background. The second zone is the 1942 streets where you’ll get a glimpse at what life was like during that time. Here you can watch a comedy show at the theatre and enjoy the film museum. Finally, the last zone is the Youth zone which will give you a feel of what it would have been like in a communist army barrack. You can also rent c ostumes are for picture taking. Other highlights include a typhoon and earthquake simulator.  

The combo ticket for all three zones is 198 Yuans. You can also purchase tickets for just one zone if you like. The Movie Town

opens on weekdays from 10 am to 10 pm and on weekends from 8 am to 10 pm.   There is a free shuttle bus from various locations in Haikou city and you can ask your hotel for details. 

Nanwan Monkey Island, Lingshui County

Photo by Lucius Kwok on Wikimedia Commons

This state-protected nature reserve is located on the south coast of Hainan, near Sanya. It is home to more than 2500 macaque monkeys who are raised and trained here since 1965.  

You can either watch the monkey keepers feed them or bring your own nuts and offer them yourselves. Make sure you make time to watch a comedy show put on by the monkeys.  

Just getting to this island is in itself a beautiful trip. You can take a 10-minute cable car ride, which will give you a beautiful view of the ocean. Alternatively, take a boat, then transfer to a shuttle bus.   The island is open to visitors every day from 8 am to 5.20 pm. The cost including the boat or cable car round-trip is 160 Yuans. 

Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden, Lingshui County

Photo by Jiang Shang Qing Feng on Wikimedia Commons

This comprehensive tropical garden is well-organized and well maintained. With over 1,200 species of plants, there is much to see and admire in Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden. There are labs that show how chocolate and coffee are produced from their beans. You’ll also get to taste these chocolates and coffee for a price.  

Indulge in the gorgeous surroundings, with its lakes and lush greenery. You can even enjoy all this while riding a bike as bike rentals are available. Additionally, t here is a hotel in the Tropical Botanical Garden, as well as a cafe and restaurant. T he garden is open from 7.30 am to 6 pm daily and general admission is 60 Yuans. It is about an hour and a half drive from Sanya and t he best way to reach there would be to hire a driver or take a taxi. 

The Hainan Museum, Haikou

The Hainan Museum in Haikou is sometimes known as the Hainan Provincial Museum (not to be confused with the Haikou Museum). There are four main permanent exhibits in this museum. These are the Exhibition of Collected Cultural Relics, the Exhibition of History of Hainan, the Exhibition of Minority Nationalities and the Exhibition of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Hainan.  

Many signs and descriptions are translated into English. Pleasantly arranged and curated halls make for a beautifully organised museum.   Learn about everything from shipwrecks to religion in Hainan. Admission to t he museum is free of charge and it opens on Tuesdays to Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm.  

Hainan Center for the Performing Arts, Haikou

This very large performing arts centre is the only professional public cultural facility in Hainan. It consists of a theatre and an auxiliary room. The entire area is about 25,000 square meters and the grounds, which covers almost 50,000 square meters of land, consists of a garden, a music fountain and specialized lighting.  

Outdoor concerts are often held using the main entrance like a stage. The address for this performing arts centre is the same as the Hainan Museum, but it is located on the other side of the park. Make sure to c heck for the timing of the performance of your choice before your visit.

Boundary Island, Lingshui County

Boundary Island is a tropical island off the coast of Hainan in Lingshui County. If you’re looking for a little isolation, this could be a good retreat. An hour drive and a ten-minute boat ride away from bustling Sanya, Boundary Island hosts a few villas, hotels and restaurants. Enjoy the cliffs and the blue sea from a peak or dive in and swim with the tropical fish. You can also a dmire the stars at night as you listen to the sound of crashing waves.  

The island has two galleries that are worth a visit. One gallery, Salvaged Porcelain Gallery, displays porcelain salvaged from sunken ships and the other is the Coral Gallery, which houses a collection of corals. The marine aquarium, Dolphin Bay is home to many animals including whale sharks, sea turtles and, of course, dolphins. The island also offer plenty of water activities for you to take part in.  

A free shuttle bus runs daily from Sanya Century Palace Hotel and it’s best to call ahead to reserve seats.   Admission fee including the ferry ticket from May to September is 132 Yuans and from October to April is 127 Yuans.   Children below 1.2m are allowed on the island for free.   The first ferry departs to the island at 8 am and the last ferry departs the island at 6 pm. 

Sanya Romance Park, Sanya

Photo by James Wheeler on Flickr

Sanya Romance Park is an enjoyable place for everyone. This park is built with both Li and Miao style architecture. The main attraction of the park is the performances. One of them, tells the story of the history of Sanya with trapeze artists, acrobats and dancers performing amidst special water effects. There are also daily performances of traditional music and dance and there are other performances as well.  

In addition, throughout the park, there are authentic food stalls, souvenir shops, street performances, a small zoo, some small temples and more. The park opens daily from 11 am to 9.30 pm. Admission price is 280 Yuans per person.

Luhuitou Park, Sanya

Photo by Allan Watt on Flickr

For panoramic views of both the Sanya landscape and Phoenix Island, head to Luhuitou Park. It is an ideal spot to take pictures or just to relax and enjoy the view with an especially stunning sunset that completes the picture.  

A little further than the bus stop is a statue that the park is named after. The statue is a deer looking back and is based on a local legend. Also worth mentioning is the Observation Station for Halley’s Comet, among other attractions in the park.  

Luhuitou Park is open daily from 7.30 am to 9 pm. The ticket fees are 35 Yuans for the park’s entrance and 15 Yuans for the round trip on the tourist bus. Take the bus to Luhuitou Peninsula and then to Luhuitou Peninsula Scenic Area, which will take you up the hill. 

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park, Sanya

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park is a great place for those who love to explore. Here you can enjoy sights, sounds and smells that are unique only to a tropical forest. Teeming with wildlife, from tropical plants to insects and reptiles, this park is indeed a paradise.  

There are plenty of options for exploration. Visitors can cross rope or glass bridges, climb up to peaks or see incredible views from platforms.  

The park is about 15-20 minutes away from downtown Sanya. From the entrance, yellow buses wind up the road to the highest point of the park. It is open daily from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm.    Ticket price is 140 Yuans during the low season and is 158 Yuans during the high season.  

WuZhiZhou Coral Island, Sanya

Photo by Lovelanlan on Wikimedia Commons

For very white, very fine and very soft sand, WuZhiZhou Coral Island is your destination. In addition to its beautiful sands, the water is also very clear and is perfect for diving. Naturally, a destination like this can also get very crowded which is why entrance fees are not cheap. It’s still worth it for its gorgeous sceneries.

Located south of Sanya, the 50-minute boat round trip costs 144 Yuans from May to September and costs 136 Yuans from October to Apri. Children under 1.2m can enter the boat for free. O pening hours are from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. For those who want to stay on the island, there is one hotel.

Qilou Old Street, Haikou

Compared by some with the old streets in Malaysia and Indonesia, this unique old street is lined with beautiful buildings that are characterised by a mix of European and Asian architectural styles.   The interesting history coupled with the cute restaurants and vendors makes this street worth a visit.  

The first of these “European-Asian” buildings in Haikou was built in 1894 at Sipailou Street.   The street is short, so take your time and treat yourself at a traditional dessert shop. You can also v isit the little shops or step into the local museum and learn about the history of Haikou City.   The street is open at all times, though shops and restaurants open at different times.   It can be reached by taking a public bus to Zhonglou station. 

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Travel to Hainan Island – The Complete Guide

Travel to Hainan – Index

How to get to hainan, when to go to hainan, hainan’s city and population, tourism on hainan, the volcano complex geopark, mount wuzhi, the mountain of the seven spirits, bo’ao and the bfa, the monkey island of nanwan, the food of hainan, the laoba cha.

I’ll start off this article with a song from Namewee: 不到海南岛不知道身体不好 bu dao Hainan dao bu zhidao shenti bu hao “if you don’t go to Hainan Island, you don’t know how bad off you are”. Hainan Island 海南 (literally “to the south of the sea”) is the largest tropical island in China, not to mention one of its most visited tourist destinations, especially in summer.

The name Hainan is also abbreviated as 琼 qiong (you’ll find these characters on the license plates of cars on Hainan) which, for its part, is an abbreviation of 琼瑶 qiong yao “ pure jade ”.

Hainan is considered a Chinese province, in the southernmost part of China; it was the final province conquered by the army of the Communist Party not too long ago in 1950.

In the past, Hainan was an area isolated from the rest of the Chinese empire, mainly used for sending into exile characters like Su Dongpo and Hai Rui.

As a tourist island, there are two airports on Hainan: at Haikou and Sanya . From Europe there are various direct routes, but most times you’ll need to have a stopover, which will also affect the costs. From China, Hainan is easily reachable via: planes, trains and ferries . It depends where you decide to leave from!

Generally, every period has its pros and cons. Between April and October, hotels will definitely cost less (can’t say what the discount will be); in this time period, it’s rainier than in other months.

The period between November and March is better for biking (it shouldn’t rain too much and it’s the coolest time of the year).

From November to January, you can have a beautiful surf experience. Sadly, Hainan can be struck by typhoons… but these usually only happen in the period between June and the first half of November.

The province’s capital is Haikou 海口, followed in importance by Sanya 三亚 (what aspiring Sinologist studying in China has never been to Sanya to walk its famous waterfront or to stay in one of the most luxurious resorts in the whole country?), Wenchang 文昌, Qionghai 琼海, Wanning 万宁, and so on.

On Hainan there are two ethnic groups: the Miao 苗 and the Li 黎 (the latter have left behind a heritage of technical loom working that is highly prized in Asia).

This is one of the reasons why the languages of Hainan include a dozen dialects, some of which are also widely used in Guangdong; that notwithstanding, everyone can speak Chinese, and now, even English.

Besides the cities, other places that should absolutely be visited are Shimei Bay and the bay of the Sun and Moon: in these bays you can also surf the best waves in all of China and among the best in all of Asia; moreover, you can also take part in a half or full day excursion on bicycle.

In recent years, Hainan is a prime destination not only for tourists but for actual full streams of money: there’s a growing proliferation of resorts and luxury buildings in general.

If in the 80’s Hainan’s economy mainly consisted of agriculture and fishing, it was also chosen as a ZES (special economic zone), thanks to the farsightedness of certain exponents of the Chinese government and a series of sensible choices. Hainan soon became an international tourist destination, especially for honeymooners.

As with the destinations of the 90’s there was a tourism boom, with the arrival of another ten million tourists annually (which continues to grow!); large and famous chains also arrived on the island, such as the Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Starwood, Mandarin Oriental, which allow for stays all year long in splendid 5 star hotels .

Recently “ethnic minority villages” have also been created, where you can have an experiential tourist experience, reproducing traditional Chinese activity.

Hainan is most famous for having become a new destination for international golf in just a few years, with lots of well-appointed golf courses; moreover, due to the whirlwind omnipresence of globalization, tourist offerings have diversified and now it’s possible to participate in modern activities such as diving, surfing or yoga.

For a greater international window, media events have been organized on Hainan: the selection of Miss World (2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2010, 2015), Mister World (2007) and Elite Model Look (2008), all events have been held at the aforementioned seaside locality of Sanya.

Moreover, to facilitate tourism even more, since 2018 the Chinese government has allowed access to Hainan without a visa for the first 30 days (for at least 59 nationalities!).

Since 1998 the capital of Hainan, Haikou 海口 is the most populous city on the island with about two million inhabitants. Haikou, which literally means “mouth/source of the sea”, has always been a place where maritime businesses hold a noticeable importance, even if lately there’s been a building boom.

Even if this city is lacking in tourist sites, there are quite a few who decide to spend a few days relaxing in complete tranquility; a strong point of this city (and anyone who has been to China can appreciate the importance of this point) is the excellent air quality, second only to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet; for this reason, many Chinese (and not) are inclined to stay in Haikou just to ride their bikes and breathe some clean air.

In any case, in Haikou you can visit the Hainan Museum , where you can find many exhibition halls dedicated to ethnic minorities and/or the resistance of the inhabitants against the Japanese.

In Haikou you’ll also find Wugong Ci 五公祠 “ Temple in Memory of the Five Functionaries ”: a temple going back to the Ming Dynasty where its surrounding gardens are dedicated to five functionaries exiled to the island a long time ago (two of the five are the poet Su Dongpo and the functionary Hai Rui).

A place I recommend that you visit, especially if you’re a nature and history lover, is the Haikou volcano complex geopark (in Chinese it would be 海口火山群世界地质公园 haikou huoshan qun shijie dizhi gongyuan ): a park that covers more than 110 square kilometers of countryside where you’ll find dozens of now inactive volcanoes, tunnels carved out of the lava and even a village abandoned for centuries, built out of lava rock ( the huoshan cun 火山村 “the volcanic village).

In the park there are more than 40 volcanoes of the Quaternary, the most recent period of the earth’s geological history, characterized by important climatic modifications and alternate phases of the expansion and retraction of glaciers that our planet has experienced.

The geopark, as was already said, is made up of an ecological community of thousand year old volcanoes and a landscape formed over ten thousand years of volcanic eruptions, now covered by plants and fruit trees. On the road you’ll still find volcanic stones from ten thousand years ago. Going up towards the volcano’s crater 222 meters above sea level, you can see the whole city of Haikou.

Mount Wuzhi ( wuzhi shan 五指山 lett. “the mountain of five fingers”), with a height of 1867 meters, is found in the middle of Hainan and is one of its most famous tourist symbols: it was in fact classified as a Class A tourist attraction.

Its name (five fingers) derives from its five peaks and the beliefs that surround them: it is said that the five peaks represent the five divinities of the Li ethic group. In the past, Mount Wuzhi was used as a strategic base for Hainan’s red army.

The famous ballet 红色娘子军 hongse niangzi jun “the red woman soldier” had Mount Wuzhi as its setting! Around Mount Wuzhi there’s a reserve where two rivers originate: the Wanquan and Changhua. In this reserve you’ll also find a beautiful forest that contains various typical Chinese varieties.

The mountain of the Seven Spirits (in Chinese qi xian liang 七仙岭), also known as Qizhiling, is called that because of its seven jagged peaks (a very lovely landscape!), and is another of Hainan’s best tourist attractions, about 39 km southeast of Mount Wuzhi.

The highest peak goes up to 1100 meters above sea level and the average annual temperature goes between 27 degrees Celsius and a low of 18 degrees.

There are many legends about this mountain, but what most attracts tourists, besides the possibility of excellent climbing, are the hot springs that are found within the surrounding tropical forest.

Bo’Ao 博鳌 is a town on the east coast of Hainan, famous as the site of the Boao Forum For Asia ( BFA ), an annual meeting of the most important functionaries, economists and important people from all of Asia.

This annual meeting is so important that various high ranking government officials have presented and even launched works with opening speeches: in 2019, Li Keqiang and in 2018, Xi Jiping. Topics at the BFA are focused on the economy, integration, cooperation, society, and in particular, the environment.

In the past this forum has also addressed the entrance of China into the World Organization of Commerce, as well as the economic crisis of Southeast Asia in the 90’s.

The geopolitical strategy of “ the Pacific ascension of China ” was an extremely important discussion for the forum of 2004. Besides the annual meeting, the BFA also sponsors other forums and meetings regarding matters of principal Asian issues.

In any case, Bo’Ao is peaceful coastal town that offers comforts and relaxation thanks to its countless restaurants and luxury hotels.

If you want to visit it, you can take a trip to the residence of the Cai family: this is a beautiful and lavish ancient residence built around 1934 by the Cai brothers, two magnates from the rubber industry.

Sanya 三亚 is a top shelf vacation destination! Some call it the Hawaii of China… you decide! Sanya is the southernmost city in China and has 650 thousand inhabitants, excluding tourists. Thanks to its tropical climate, white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, Sanya has become one of the most famous tourist destinations in all of Asia.

Despite that, Sanya is facing some challenges as it continues to expand at a pace that is quick but unsustainable: a lack of infrastructure to sustain tourism, difficulty in getting there due to flights and airport capacity, noise pollution and traffic.

The natural reserves (which I recommend that you visit) of Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park and Sanya Coral Reef National Nature Reserve are located near Yalong Bay, where a luxury resort has been built: the Yalong Bay National Tourism Holiday.

At Sanya, besides being able to party 24 hours a day, you can attend numerous events that are held with a certain regularity, such as fashion shows and concerts for example.

In recent years, different species of dolphin, including the Chinese white dolphin which is facing extinction, appear from time to time along Sanya’s coasts. Sanya, actually, is divided into three distinct areas: Sanya Bay, Dadonghai Bay and Yalong Bay.

The monkey island of Nanwan (in Chinese, nanwan hou dao ziran baohu qu 南湾猴岛自然保护区) has been a natural reserve for monkeys covering an area of 1000 hectares since 1965.

The island, also reachable from Sanya, is a monkey paradise thanks to its weather and inviting environment rich with vegetation (in particular, fruit trees).

There are almost 2000 monkeys on the island, divided into about 30 groups; 4 of these groups have been trained to entertain visitors (something I would never endorse!).

Anyway, in view of the convenience of getting there, Nanwan Island is a place I’d recommend that you visit.

Another typical place I’d recommend, especially if you want to eat excellent fresh seafood, is the famous Banqiao Lu fish market ( Banqiao lui haixian shichang 板桥路海鲜市场) in Haikou, where you can taste hearty seafood meals among all the fuss, laughter and toasts to the Chinese that we all love and hate.

Staying on the theme of food, in my opinion, you should head over to the gastronomic street of Haikou Qilou 海口骑楼: a street filled with kiosks and counters that sell typical street food of Hainan, like eastern mountain mutton ( dongshan yang 东山羊), Hele steamed crab ( Hele xie 和乐蟹), Qionghai roasted duck ( jiaji ya 加积鸭) and Wenchang chicken ( wenchang ji 文昌鸡), with rice and peanuts.

Hainan’s cuisine is known for being lighter and less spicy compared with the rest of China. It goes without saying that its island location means that seafood dominates.

They eat a lot of crabs, shrimp and all types of fish taken from local waters. On the side you can eat rice or opt for noodles.

The laoba cha 老爸茶 are typical taverns found on the island of Hainan where they serve different varieties of tea, steamed sandwiches and other Chinese snacks typical of the island. These three Chinese characters are very interesting: laoba 老爸 refers to old people, while cha 茶 means tea.

The laoba cha , were traditionally simple wooden tea houses (usually poor), where old people of the area would come to drink a friendly cup of tea and tell stories with their friends. Long ago, women had a very low status, so they had no time to spend at tea houses that were therefore “reserved” for men.

Usually, the laoba cha are found underneath coconut trees (which are famous in Hainan), filling the streets they face with the smell of tea; some of these tea houses are now elegantly and finely decorated, but the best remain traditional, poor, wooden, without decoration and with an old fan attached to the ceiling to vent the air during the hottest and most humid seasons: a unique trait that is slowly disappearing with globalization, even in China.

To close, you should know that the Chinese on Hainan have an unusual custom: they add milk and sugar to their tea, English-style!

About The Author

Armando Turturici

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  • 1 Understand
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  Hainan (海南; Hái-nâm in Hainanese, Hǎinán in Mandarin) is an island province of China , famous for its tropical beaches. It has a thriving tourist industry and is being heavily promoted as "China's Hawaii".

  Understand [ edit ]

  Hainan is China's southernmost province, south of Guangdong province and across the Gulf of Tonkin from Vietnam . "Hainan" literally means "South of the Ocean".

  The first known inhabitants of Hainan were a Tai–Kadai ethnic group known as the Hlai or Li (黎族). Large scale Han Chinese settlement of Hainan did not occur until the Song Dynasty (960−1279), and continued up until the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). The Li people were eventually pushed into the highlands by Han settlers and today, the island has a Han majority, mostly concentrated in the coastal plains, while the Li people remain the largest non-Han ethnic group, mostly concentrated in the southern highlands.

  For much of its history, Hainan was considered a backwater and used as a place of exile for failed officials. It was administered by the Qing Dynasty and Republic of China as a prefecture of Guangdong Province. It became a separate province in 1988, making it China's smallest province, and the only island province administered by the PRC. The entire island has been declared a Special Economic Zone .

  The climate is subtropical to tropical. In January and February, it gets thick fog, especially in coastal areas and the northern part of the island.

  While the Hainanese diaspora is not as large as that of Fujian and Guangdong , they nevertheless form a significant minority among the overseas Chinese in Southeast Asia . Like the aforementioned two provinces, Hainan has benefitted substantially from overseas Chinese investment.

  The island has been popular with Russian tourists for decades and now gets many tourists from the other cold parts of Europe as well. Hainan is undergoing heavy tourist-oriented development with various international hotel chains establishing resorts, especially in the Sanya area. These days, many wealthy Chinese from the northern provinces own second homes in Hainan, where they move to in the winter to escape the bitter cold that characterises much of northern China. These also means that hotel and real estate prices in the Sanya area are among the most expensive in the world.

  Hainan also administers the disputed Paracel Islands in the South China Sea, which though controlled by China are also claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan.

  Talk [ edit ]

  The main local language is Hainanese , which belongs to the Min family of Chinese dialects, but is not mutually intelligible with any of the others. Even other Chinese consider it difficult to learn as it employs many unusual consonants which have no equivalent in any other Chinese "dialects" or Western languages, and has an odd tone structure. Nevertheless, learn a little of the language if you can, as locals are very proud of their language, and even knowing a few basic greetings will get you acquainted with the locals much more easily. Hainanese also has dialectal variations between different parts of the island, and it is not uncommon for Hainanese from different parts of the island to converse in Mandarin instead, though the Wenchang dialect is considered to be the prestige dialect, and is generally used in news reports and understood throughout the island.

  As anywhere in China, Mandarin is the lingua franca; nearly everyone can speak it with the exception of some of the elderly. Due to the proximity with Guangdong, some locals understand Cantonese as well. Hainan is also home to migrants from other parts of China, particularly in the winter months, who speak Mandarin but not Hainanese.

  Hainan also has significant numbers of speakers both of other Chinese dialects — the Danzhou region has its own local dialect and there are Hakka speakers on the island — and of unrelated languages. The Li people, who are the original inhabitants and largest non-Han minority on the island, speak a language that is distantly related to Thai and Lao. There is also a Miao community on Hainan, who speak a language distantly related to Vietnamese and Khmer. Nevertheless, most younger people from these groups speak Mandarin as well.

  As elsewhere in China, English is not widespread but some people speak it quite well. Staff at the main hotels and beach resorts will usually have a functional command of English. Hainan is a traditional destination for Russians escaping their winters, so many shop keepers and restaurant staff know some Russian, and much signage is in (bad!) Russian. However, trying to engage anyone in a conversation more often than not will prove fruitless.

  Regions [ edit ]

  
  • The hilly center of the island is home to various ethnic minorities, with many involved in the tourist industry.
  • Much of the coast has beaches.

  Cities [ edit ]

  • 20.020157 110.330273 1 Haikou (海口) – in the north; the capital and largest city
  • 19.752 110.016 3 Chengmai (澄迈) – in the north, to the west of Haikou, famous for its large number of centenarians
  • 19.801667 109.712778 4 Lingao (临高) – in the northwest, best known for Cape Lingao (Lingaojiao) - the main landing site for Communist forces during the Hainan Campaign of the Chinese Civil War.
  • 18.63794 109.70237 5 Baoting (保亭) – toward the south, in the hills
  • 19.16171 110.582322 6 Bo'ao (博鳌) – on the east coast, known for the Bo'ao Forum for Asia
  • 18.508022 110.034461 7 Lingshui (陵水) – on the east coast, location of the Hainan incident (an American spy plane forced down)
  • 18.250773 109.50965 8 Sanya (三亚) – in the south, main tourist destination
  • 19.548827 110.797238 9 Wenchang (文昌) – on the north-east coast, the cradle of Hainanese culture, also hosting a spacecraft launch center for newer rockets
  • 18.777005 109.512874 10 Wuzhishan (五指山) – in the central highlands
  • 19.523018 109.576982 11 Danzhou (儋州) – in the northwest, with a distinct local dialect
  • 19.243056 110.464167 12 Qionghai (琼海) – on the east coast, known for Jiaji duck, and the all-female company of the Chinese Red Army who fought to defeat the Nationalists during the Chinese Civil War
  • 18.795345 110.38859 13 Wanning (万宁) – on the east coast, a popular destination for surfers
  • 19.097264 108.648378 14 Dongfang (东方) – on the west coast
  • 19.226944 109.463056 16 Baisha (白沙) – in the central highlands, center of Hainan's tea industry

  Other destinations [ edit ]

  • Xiangshui or Perfume Bay - new resort area near Lingshui
  • Jianfeng Ridge National Forest Park - located in Ledong County, said to contain the largest tropical rainforest in China

  Get in [ edit ]

  Hainan has a special visa waiver scheme, and citizens of 59 countries can enter visa free for 30 days if arriving in and leaving the province directly on an international flight (including flights to/from Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan). You need to have registered with a Hainanese travel agency at least 48 hours before arriving. See this website for details. Connecting to Hainan via a domestic flight from another mainland Chinese airport will require you to obtain a regular Chinese visa in advance.

  Hainan's main airport is located at Haikou ( HAK  IATA ), the main hub of Hainan Airlines , which serves domestic flights to many major Chinese cities, as well as some international flights to other Asian cities. The airport at Sanya ( SYX  IATA ) also serves domestic several international flights to other Asian cities, as well as intercontinental flights to Russia . There is a third, smaller airport at Qionghai ( BAR  IATA ), though it only serves a small number of domestic flights and no international ones.

  Trains run daily from Guangzhou, Beijing and Shanghai. The trains are loaded onto ferries to cross the sea with passengers remaining in the train cars. The trains stop at both Haikou and Sanya, as well as Dongfang, a smaller station between Haikou and Sanya.

  There are no roads connecting Hainan and the mainland, though there are vehicular ferries doing so. If you catch a bus to Hainan, your bus will be loaded onto one of the ferries.

  Get around [ edit ]

  Haikou at the North end and Sanya at the South end are connected by three highways — East coast, West coast and through the hilly center. Unlike other expressways in Mainland China, there are no direct expressway tolls, as they are included in fuel cost. More-or-less any significant place on the island is on, or at least close to, one of these highways. As anywhere in China, there are buses to almost anywhere.

  Three railways connect Haikou and Sanya. One is the old western ring railway, and the other two are the new high-speed western and eastern ring railways. High-speed trains run between Haikou and Sanya at up to 250 km/h, takes one hour and a half between the two cities.

  As the smallest province in China with relatively flat landscape, Hainan is an ideal destination for long journey cycling trip. On the East Coast it has a 300km long national road (G223) connecting Haikou, Wenchang, Qionghai, Lingshui and Sanya. The route, which is packed with most famous beach resorts and tourist attractions, is the easiest ride and most popular among amateur cyclists. The Middle route crossing Wuzhishan (Five-Finger Hill) takes some more toil to go. While it is possible to ride along the West coast, this area is the least developed and more preparation may be needed.

  See [ edit ]

  • Sea Turtles 911 . The only non-profit organization promoting sea turtle conservation in China, Sea Turtles 911's primary facility is a floating sea turtle hospital in Lingshui near Nanwan Monkey Island, as well as programs in Sanya and Haikou. While on Hainan Island visitors are welcome to volunteer with the sea turtles and the organization's educational programs.  
  • 18.397652 109.661387 1 Bin Lang Gu ( 梹榔谷 ), 224 National Rd, Baoting Lizumiaozuzizhixian, Hainan, China . A cultural village for the Li people (黎族), the largest non-Han ethnic minority of Hainan, and the original inhabitants of the island before large-scale Han settlement during the Song Dynasty.  
  • Sanya Beach - China's best-known beach area
  • South Mountain, or Nanshan Tourism Area 南山 - a large Shaolin Buddhist temple complex along the southernmost point of the island. Many backpackers consider this as a tourist trap: the temple was built in 1988 and entrance fees are high.
  • Gusong Village in Wenchang - an ancient, unique, beautiful, non-commercial traditional Hainanese village
  • South Bay Monkey Island (also known as Nanwan Monkey Islet) , Lingshui South Bay . Lingshui South Bay Monkey Island (also known as Nanwan Monkey Islet). Be wary of the monkeys that steal bags.  
  • Volcano Park and lava rock villages , about 15 km south of Haikou city, next to Shishan Town . The Volcano Park has an entrance fee of about ¥60. Lava rock villages are generally free, but if visiting Rongtang Protected Village pay the local elders ¥5.  

  Do [ edit ]

  The main visitor activities involve beaches and bars. The Sanya area is particularly well-provided with both, but there are some everywhere.

  Eat [ edit ]

  Hainanese cuisine is similar to that of neighbouring Guangdong , albeit with a number of tropical touches reflecting its climate. The relatively heavy use of coconuts is particularly notable.

  
  • Try betel nuts , which can make you high, though they're bad for your health. Particularly popular among the indigenous Li people.
  • Coconut Rice Cakes (薏粑, yi bua in Hainanese) are a speciality snack of the northeastern coast of Hainan, from Haikou all the way down to Qionghai .

  Drink [ edit ]

  The Singapore-based firm Asia Pacific Breweries [dead link] have a brewery on Hainan and their brands of beer, Tiger and Anchor, are common all over the island. As in anywhere else in China, a range of both Chinese and imported beers are widely available as well. Hainan also has a number of locally-brewed pineapple-based beers, odd but worth a try.

  Unlike in northern China, heavy drinking is not part of traditional Hainanese culture. Beer drinking is common, however, and alcohol is widely available. Sanya is home to large communities of northern Chinese escaping the cold in their home provinces during the winter months, and baijiu is widely available to cater to that demographic.

  The island is covered with coconut trees, so drinking fresh coconut water is a must. Coffee is also popular among the locals in Hainan due to the influence of returning overseas Hainanese from Southeast Asia, and the Xinglong area in Wanning is Hainan's main coffee-growing region. Milk tea is also a local speciality that similarly traces its roots to the returning overseas Hainanese from Southeast Asia. A distinctive local tradition in Hainan is milk tea or coffee with side dishes such as steamed buns, which is known as 老爸茶 ( lǎobàchá ), and typically eaten for breakfast or afternoon tea.

  Stay safe [ edit ]

  Be very careful with water sports on Hainan. Government regulation of activities such as parasailing, diving, and boating on Hainan is lax, so staff often provide little or no training to customers, and the equipment can be shoddy. Without adequate safety precautions, these activities can be dangerous, and even fatal.

  As Hainan is a major tourism destination, scams targeting tourists are relatively common, particularly in Sanya and Bo'ao . Be on your guard, as sometimes, even the operators of official tourist attractions are in cahoots with the scammers. Also be on your guard at eateries, as some of them have been known to charge unsuspecting tourists exorbitant prices; make sure you ask for a price list beforehand, and ensure that seafood is weighed in your presence.

  Go next [ edit ]

  Zhanjiang is the nearest mainland city. For some routes through the region, see Hong Kong to Kunming overland .

  There are regular boats from Haikou to Xuwen and Beihai on the Chinese mainland.

  There are also flights to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore .

  
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  • China Travel in China

  Hainan Island: China’s Tropical Paradise

  • May 29, 2023
  • China , Travel in China

  Hainan Island, located off the southern coast of China, is a true gem in the nation’s landscape. Known as “China’s Hawaii,” this tropical paradise is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. With a unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and luxurious resorts, Hainan Island has emerged as a premier tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. In this article, we will delve into the allure of Hainan Island, exploring its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the myriad of activities it offers to travelers.

  Breathtaking Natural Beauty

  Hainan Island’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring. The island boasts over 1,500 kilometers (932 miles) of coastline adorned with palm-fringed, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Sanya, the island’s most famous coastal city, is home to iconic beaches such as Yalong Bay, Dadonghai, and Haitang Bay, offering visitors the perfect setting to relax, swim, and indulge in water sports activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.

  Inland, Hainan’s landscape is characterized by dense rainforests, majestic mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Exploring the park’s lush trails, visitors can encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna, including exotic plants, rare animals, and colorful bird species. The soaring peaks of Wuzhi Mountain and Jianfengling Forest Park provide stunning panoramic views of the island’s picturesque scenery.

  

  Cultural Heritage and Historical Landmarks

  Hainan Island has a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. The Li and Miao ethnic minority groups, native to the island, contribute significantly to its cultural fabric. Visitors can immerse themselves in the unique traditions, music, and dances of these ethnic communities, gaining insights into their fascinating way of life.

  Hainan is also home to several historical landmarks that reflect its rich past. The ancient city of Yazhou, with its well-preserved architecture and narrow streets, offers a glimpse into Hainan’s history. The Temple of Five Lords in Haikou, the island’s capital, stands as a testament to the region’s historical significance and serves as a revered site for locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the Boao Forum for Asia, an international conference center located in Hainan, hosts important diplomatic events and serves as a platform for global dialogue.

  Exquisite Resorts and Culinary Delights

  Hainan Island is renowned for its world-class resorts that offer luxurious accommodations, exquisite spas, and championship golf courses. Many of these resorts are nestled along the coastline, providing stunning ocean views and easy access to the island’s pristine beaches. Whether it’s a relaxing beachfront retreat or an adventurous getaway, Hainan’s resorts cater to a range of preferences and budgets.

  The island’s culinary scene is a delight for food enthusiasts. Hainanese cuisine, with its fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and aromatic spices, tantalizes the taste buds. Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering delicacies such as Wenchang chicken, Jiaji duck, and Hainanese coconut rice. The vibrant night markets offer a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can savor local street food and explore a myriad of flavors.

  

  Sports, Wellness, and Entertainment

  Hainan Island is emerging as a sports and wellness hub, hosting international events and attracting athletes from around the world. The island’s mild climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as golf, tennis, and water sports. The annual Hainan International Tourism and Sports Carnival draw participants and spectators alike, showcasing the island’s sporting prowess.

  For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Hainan’s wellness retreats and spas offer an array of treatments and therapies inspired by traditional Chinese medicine and modern holistic practices. Visitors can indulge in wellness programs, yoga retreats, and spa therapies that focus on restoring balance and harmony.

  Hainan Island captivates visitors with its idyllic beaches, lush landscapes, rich culture, and luxurious resorts. Whether one seeks adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Hainan offers a plethora of experiences that cater to diverse interests. As China’s tropical paradise, Hainan Island stands as a testament to the country’s natural beauty and its commitment to providing unforgettable experiences for travelers from around the world.

  
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  Top 10 Things to Do in Sanya

  Situated in the south end of Hainan Island, Sanya is an international tourist city boasting tropical scenery and coastal landscape. In this attraction-studded city, we have summarized top 10 things to do in Sanya for tourists who are spoilt for choice.

  Wuzhizhou Island

  

  Seafood Feast at Sanya First Market

  

  Tianya Haijiao

  

  Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone

  

  Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone

  

  Boundary Island

  Luhuitou peninsula, dadonghai beach.

  
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  4-Day Hainan Itinerary Under S$650 — A Short Island Getaway to the Hawaii of China

  

  A short getaway from Singapore that isn’t Batam , Bali or Malaysia ? — yes.

  

  Just a 3.5-hour direct flight from Singapore lies Hainan Island .

  Dubbed the “Hawaii of China”, Hainan is famed for its tropical climate, beach resorts, and mountainous landscapes. And if that sounds like the perfect getaway for you, check out our four-day itinerary covering things to do, see and eat in Hainan!

  Hainan Itinerary Budget Breakdown

  

  Since we only had a short time in Hainan, we spent two days exploring Haikou, before taking the high-speed rail (1.5 hours) to Sanya and spending another two days there.

  3N Accommodation:  S$75 Transport: S$164 (excl. flights) Activities: S$231 Food & Misc: S$161.40 TOTAL: S$631.40

  ( detailed breakdown for one pax here )* * Flights are excluded as prices fluctuate.

  Day 1: Haikou’s Iconic Attractions |  Day 2: Unique Instagrammable Spots | Day 3: Sanya’s Interesting Parks  |  Day 4: Day Trip to Wuzhizhou Island  | Where to Stay in Hainan |  Travel Essentials and Tips

  Day 1: Haikou’s Iconic Attractions

  Leiqiong global geopark (雷琼海口火山群世界地质公园).

  

  For a place known for its beaches, I never thought I’d be climbing a volcano in Hainan’s capital city Haikou 🌋 But Leiqiong Global Geopark is China’s first volcano-themed national geo-park , with more than 40 volcanoes! So of course we had to take a look.

  

  We took around an hour roundtrip covering three different viewpoints. At the top, we circled around the peak and soaked in the panoramic views of the surrounding greenery. Then, we explored the middle layer where we had a bird’s eye view of the crater and from there, it was a 5-minute walk down to the pit where we found a small cave.

  

  The views were great, but what I loved most about the hike was that there were many rest areas with benches along the way 😅 So even for a non-hiker like me, it was still pretty manageable!

  *Pro-tip: Start the hike early when the park opens at 8AM to avoid the crowds.

  Entrance fee: 45RMB/adult (~S$8, non-peak season from May to Sep), 54RMB/adult (~S$10, peak season from Oct to Apr) Opening hours: 8AM – 6PM How to get there: 23min taxi ride from Mishu Hotel (Haikou East Railway Station) ( Baidu Maps )

  Movie Town (观澜湖华谊冯小刚电影公社)

  

  Next on our Hainan itinerary is the famous Movie Town ! Stepping into the area felt as if I’d been transported to the Republic of China (1912–1949) era with historical buildings and cobblestone streets.

  So it was really hard to believe that the entire place is a recreated movie set inspired by the films of Chinese director Feng Xiaogang , such as Back To 1942 and Youth .

  

  There are various zones featuring different cities and time periods in China within Movie Town, but our favourite was Nanyang Street (南洋风情街) because of the many photo-ops here. Like this iconic white building at the entrance which, fun fact, is also featured in episode one of K-drama Devilish Joy !

  Featuring a mix of traditional Chinese and European buildings, you can even dress the part — I rented a costume for only 50RMB (up till 6PM) and had fun taking photos with the unique landscape as a backdrop.

  

  One of the main highlights at Nanyang Street is a live performance called Tales of Nanyang: The Prelude . Unfortunately, it wasn’t showing when we went on a Monday :’) So do check the schedule before going!

  Entrance fee: 218RMB/adult (~S$41, incl. entry to all zones), 188RMB/adult (~S$35, after 6PM) Opening hours: 10AM – 10PM Show times: 4PM – 5:20PM, 7:30PM – 8:50PM (2 shows per day, Tue – Sun) How to get there: 16min taxi ride from Leiqiong Global Geopark ( Baidu Maps )

  *Pro-tip: Come on weekdays to avoid the crowds, except for Mondays when there will be no live performances.

  Haida South Gate Night Market (海大南门夜市)

  

  Haida South Gate Night Market stretches along two streets and has shops selling everything from food to fashion, and even mobile accessories!

  Unlike the usual night markets where you’d have to squeeze between the crowds and stalls, there was plenty of space to roam about here! Plus, the shops are even segregated into food stalls on the left and non-food (clothes/bags/mobile accessories) stalls on the right — making it easier to navigate, BLESS ✨

  

  For dinner, we had assorted skewers (19RMB), Hainan noodles (13RMB), Changsha stinky tofu (10RMB for 5pcs) and grilled oysters (20RMB for 10pcs). Most of the food was flavourful, except for the noodles which didn’t really have a distinct taste. But the broth was thick and gooey, and it reminded me of the gravy in Lor Mee (braised pork noodles).

  

  Find someone who looks at you the same way I look at food 😂

  Our top pick though, was the local Qingbuliang dessert. For 15RMB, we got a bowl filled with coconut milk and all sorts of ingredients like watermelon, mochi ball, peanuts, pudding, quail egg — topped with three large scoops of ice cream (Coconut, Matcha and Mango). We finished it in less than 5 minutes, enough said.

  Opening hours: 6PM – 12:30AM How to get there: 36min taxi ride from Movie Town ( Baidu Maps )

  Day 2: Unique Instagrammable Spots

  Changying universal 100 wonderland (长影环球100奇幻乐园).

  

  Changying Universal 100 Wonderland isn’t like the usual theme parks — for one, it’s practically empty, and around half of the rides were closed when we went on the weekend 😂

  There isn’t an official reason why it’s so deserted, but we guessed since it opened in 2019 right before the pandemic hit, it still hasn’t recovered. Plus, we spotted areas that were undergoing maintenance too.

  

  Getting past our initial shock, I actually loved the idea of having the park all to ourselves. Instead of spending hours queuing for rides, we could slowly stroll around the park taking photos of attractions like European-style towers and a giant treasure ship.

  That said, we still managed to have some fun on rides that were operating, like the water flume ride and a 4D theatre simulating a journey on the high seas!

  Entrance fee: 58RMB/adult (~S$11, entry) or 99RMB/adult (~S$19, incl. 6 rides) Opening hours: 11AM – 6PM (Wed – Sun), closed on Mon and Tue How to get there: 31min taxi ride from Mishu Hotel (Haikou East Railway Station) ( Baidu Maps )

  Wormhole Library (云洞图书馆) and Mountain in the Sky (天空之山)

  

  No, we didn’t travel all the way to Hainan to read books. Located along the Haikou Bay coastline, the Wormhole Library is actually popular for its curved walls and cave-like holes that make for great IG-worthy photos!

  

  What it should’ve looked like. Photo credit: Sou Fujimoto Architects

  Next, we headed to the nearby Mountain in the Sky to catch the sunset (as recommended by social media). Like the library, it has its own unique architecture too, with a circular shape consisting of silver slopes that people can climb onto.

  But when we got there, the sudden rain ruined our plans. Forget sunset, we couldn’t even climb the attraction as it was closed to prevent people from slipping and falling 😭

  *Pro-tip: Check the weather forecast before going.

  Wormhole Library Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 11PM (Tue – Sun), closed on Mon How to get there: 33min taxi ride from Changying Universal 100 Wonderland ( Baidu Maps )

  Mountain in the Sky Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24hrs How to get there: 15min taxi ride from Wormhole Library ( Baidu Maps )

  Qilou Old Street (骑楼老街)

  

  As its name suggests, Qilou Old Street is lined with Qilou buildings or arcade houses — which are two or three-storey buildings with a protruding structure. With a blend of traditional and modern European designs, it reminded us of the buildings we saw in Movie Town (but a little more run-down) 😅

  

  There are over 200 Qilou buildings along the street, housing souvenir shops and restaurants so we had plenty of dinner options. We eventually settled on Xiangye Wenchang Coconut Chicken Restaurant (香椰文昌椰子鸡水巷口店) to try the local signature Coconut Water hotpot (118RMB for half chicken).

  I’ve never had hotpot with coconut water as a soup base before but after cooking the chicken in it, it had a sweet and refreshing taste!

  Opening hours: 24hrs How to get there: 13min taxi ride from Mountain in the Sky ( Baidu Maps )

  Day 3: Sanya’s Interesting Parks

  Yalong bay tropical paradise forest park (亚龙湾热带天堂森林公园).

  

  Honestly, I felt like I clocked in more steps here than Leiqiong Global Geopark . No kidding.

  Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park is huge — it covers an area of 1,506 hectares and can take around 2 hours just to hike to the top. As someone who dislikes any form of physical activity, I opted for the sightseeing bus instead. But even then, I still had to climb a couple of stairs to reach the attractions :’)

  *Pro-tip: Get the package pass at 268RMB/adult (~S$50) which includes the park entry ticket, bus ride and attractions like Dragon Rope Bridge, Glass-bottomed Platform and more.

  

  Fun fact: While visiting the Dragon Rope Bridge, I learnt that one of my favourite Chinese dramas, Go Go Squid! , was filmed here! It was where Han Shangyan ( Li Xian ) and Tong Nian ( Yang Zi ) went on one of their dates 🥰

  The bridge is 168m-long and connects two mountains, giving us a panoramic view of the lush rainforest. Even though I’m afraid of heights, I was surprisingly comfortable walking along the bridge. It can get a little shaky at times but luckily there are ropes and handrails to hold on to.

  

  Another iconic attraction at the park is the Glass-bottomed Platform, which spans 400m long. It was a pretty cool way to see the world beneath our feet, literally! Plus, there were loads of IG spots here too, like this 👆

  Entrance fee: 90RMB/adult (~S$17, non-peak season from May to Sep), 108RMB/adult (~S$20, peak season from Oct to Apr) Cost of bus ride: 50RMB/adult (~S$9) Opening hours: 7:30AM – 5:30PM How to get there: 15min taxi ride from Sanya Houyunhai Hotel (Yalong Bay Branch) ( Baidu Maps )

  Dragon Rope Bridge Cost: 20RMB/adult (~S$4) Opening hours: 8:30AM – 5:30PM

  Glass-bottomed Platform Cost: 98RMB/adult (~S$18) Opening hours: 9AM – 5:30PM

  Chunyuan Seafood Square (春园海鲜广场)

  

  According to Google, Chunyuan Seafood Square is another must-visit landmark in Sanya. But after arriving there for lunch, I had my doubts 👀 It looked deserted and more than half of the stalls were closed.

  Later, we found out that it wasn’t like your usual marketplace — we had to choose our seafood (fresh from the tank) and then pick a stall or chef to cook it. We could even request how we’d like it cooked!

  

  There were only two of us so we grabbed some clams, a grouper fish and Hele crab (a speciality of Hainan). Our “personal chef” steamed the crab and we found it really sweet and juicy. In total, it cost us 213RMB for the ingredients and 80RMB for the cooking fee (~S$55 for two pax), which is quite affordable compared to Singapore!

  *Pro-tip: Arrive after 6PM when more stalls are open and you can choose your own chef. Some of them specialise in different types of cooking and cuisines too so you can ask around.

  Opening hours: 10AM – 12AM (Varies for individual stalls) How to get there: 31min taxi ride from Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park ( Baidu Maps )

  Sanya Romance Park (三亚千古情景区)

  

  Sanya Romance Park is the epitome of expectations vs reality. From the name, we assumed it was a park with attractions related to romance but what we found was a mish-mash of things — floating flower decor, hobbit houses, and a street performance which escalated into a disco party??

  

  Weird, I know but that’s not all. The main highlight here is the Sanya Romance Show which (a recurring theme here) wasn’t all about romance, but it did take our hearts.

  

  There was dancing, acrobatics, fighting, floating mermaids and even a jet ski on stage 😮 And while the whole experience was shocking (in a really good way), it was worth it. I won’t say more because you’d have to experience it for yourself 😉

  Entrance fee: From 300RMB/adult (~S$56, depending on seat sections) Show timings: 2PM, 5PM, and 8PM How to get there: 13min taxi ride from Chunyuan Seafood Square ( Baidu Maps )

  Day 4: Day Trip to Wuzhizhou Island

  Surfing at houhai village (后海村).

  

  Before hopping on a ferry from Houhai Village to Wuzhizhou Island , we decided to explore the village first.

  So we started our day off riding the waves — after all, Sanya is known as a beach destination with white sandy beaches and blue waters 🏄‍♀️

  

  There are many surfing shops scattered across the village but we chose Xing Feng Surfing Shop (星峰冲浪俱乐部) cause it’s near the beach. It was only my second time surfing and I wasn’t too confident but our coach was really patient and guided me along the way. After a few attempts, I could stand up perfectly on the board!

  Even after our time was up, he still let us play on our own and we stayed in the water with our boards for an extra hour (at no cost) 😎

  Cost: 229RMB/adult (~S$43) for 2hrs (incl. Gopro footage) Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM How to get there: 41min taxi ride from Sanya Houyunhai (Hotel Yalong Bay Branch) to SevenNineClub ( Baidu Maps ). From there, walk straight down the small alley to the beach and you’ll see Xing Feng Surfing Shop on the right.

  Lunch at Hainanese Wenchang Chicken Drunken Goose Restaurant (海南文昌鸡醉鹅)

  

  We found this gem while walking along the streets after our surf lesson. Our order: Wenchang Chicken (88RMB), Assorted Mushrooms (48RMB), Sweet and Sour Prawn (98RMB) and Butter Chicken Rice (28RMB)

  Compared to the Wenchang Chicken boiled in a coconut hot pot, this dish was fried, glazed in black sauce and tasted saltier (which I preferred). Our meal in total cost ~S$49 for two pax, which wasn’t really cheap but the portions were quite generous! So it’ll be more worth it if you’re sharing with a large group of friends.

  Opening hours: 8AM – 8PM How to get there: 2min walk from SevenNineClub ( Baidu Maps )

  Wuzhizhou Island (蜈支洲岛)

  

  After filling our tummies and a 20-minute ferry ride, we arrived at Wuzhizhou Island, where I finally realised why Hainan is called the Hawaii of China. The water was crystal clear and you could see long stretches of sandy beaches!

  

  Lover Bridge at Wuzhizhou Island!

  Some attractions here include Lover Bridge, Heart of the Sea, Sunrise Peak, and Lover Valley. We suggest hopping on the sightseeing tour bus to explore the island cause the attractions are pretty far from each other.

  *Note: A Chinese ID and phone number are required to purchase the bus tickets online. So we asked the staff stationed there, who kindly helped us to fill in the info and buy it online.

  Other than sightseeing, there are water activities too like parasailing, jetskiing and even strapping on a water jet suit. That is if you’re willing to splurge 😅

  Cost of sightseeing bus: 138RMB/adult (~S$26) Cost of ferry ride: 136RMB/adult roundtrip (~S$25) Ferry schedule (to island): Every 20mins from 8:30AM – 4PM Last ferry (from island): 6:30PM in Summer (May – Sep), 5:30PM in Winter (Oct – Apr) How to get there: 4min walk from Hainanese Wenchang Chicken Drunken Goose Restaurant to Wuzhizhou Island Harbour ( Baidu Maps )

  Sunset at Luhuitou Park (鹿回头风景区)

  

  Our last day in Hainan ended with a beautiful sunset at Luhuitou Park , amidst the view of Sanya City and the South Sea.

  Luhuitou directly translates to “Deer Looking Back” and there’s actually an old folktale behind it. A hunter was on a hill chasing after a deer, which then looked back at him before turning into a woman.

  

  They fell in love and the hill was named Luhuitou in memory of their love. There’s even a stone statue of the deer at the park!

  *Pro-tip: Take the sightseeing tour bus instead of hiking up the hill to save time (and potential leg pain) .

  Entrance fee: 28RMB/adult (~S$5, incl. entry and bus ride) Opening hours: 8AM – 10:30PM How to get there: 48min taxi ride from Wuzhizhou Island Harbour ( Baidu Maps )

  Where to Stay in Hainan

  Day 1-2: mishu hotel haikou east railway station (秘墅酒店海口高铁东站店).

  

  In Haikou, we stayed at Mishu Hotel because it was only a 3-minute walk to the Haikou East Railway Station. Making it convenient for us to travel to Sanya via train for the latter half of our Hainan itinerary! Our room was quite spacious and the minimalistic design gave it a sleek look 💯 Not to mention, we had a big screen projector instead of the usual TV.

  Cost: From ~S$40/night for 2 pax How to get there: 3min walk from Haikou East Railway Station ( Baidu Maps )

  Day 3-4: Sanya Houyunhai Hotel Yalong Bay Branch (三亚博后云海酒店亚龙湾店)

  

  Our Sanya accommodation was Sanya Houyunhai Hotel , a 20-minute taxi ride from Yalong Bay Railway Station. It wasn’t as spacious as our room in Haikou but it did have a public pool we could slide in 😉 The reception was also 24/7 so we could ask the desk for help whenever we needed it.

  Cost: From ~S$35/night for 2 pax How to get there: 20min taxi ride from Yalong Bay Railway Station ( Baidu Maps )

  Tips for Travelling to Hainan Island

  

  After having been to Hainan Island, we can definitely say it’s more than just beautiful beaches! There are other interesting attractions here from scenic hikes to “abandoned” theme parks and even epic performances. I mean you don’t see floating mermaids every day 😂

  But before you hop on a plane to Hainan, check out our travel essentials and tips for your itinerary planning!

  Trip Essentials

  

  Insurance: Essential plan via Klook — covers Covid-19 medical expenses, incl. overseas hospitalisation.

  Connectivity: e-SIM online incl. VPN, to access apps like Facebook and Instagram (currently unavailable in China)! Meilan International Airport doesn’t sell SIM cards so do purchase one before you go.

  *Note: Double-check that your e-SIM comes with a call option, as you’ll need a local phone number to receive a verification code via SMS during payment on some apps.

  Health Declaration Form: Fill up this form before departure to receive a QR code to scan during immigration upon arrival.

  Transport: There are public buses and trains but we used DiDi (China’s version of Grab) to save time! Rides are pretty affordable too — it costs around S$2-3 for a 15-20 minute ride.

  *Pro-tip: Enter the destination’s name in Chinese as it’s more accurate! You can just copy and paste the text from our article 😉

  

  1) Compare prices online for cheaper rates: Use platforms like Skyscanner for flights and Trip.com for accommodation. 2) Download important apps: Wechat / Alipay (Payment), DiDi (Transport), Baidu Maps (Directions), Xiaohongshu (China’s version of Instagram; for finding hidden gems like Wormhole Library ). 3) Use multi-currency cards for online transactions: Link your multi-currency cards beforehand on Wechat Pay or Alipay for better exchange rates during payment. 4) Google Translate is your best friend:  Use it to communicate with locals as most of them don’t understand English. 5) Cash is NOT king but good to have:  China is pretty advanced so most shops usually accept card payment via Wechat Pay or Alipay! However, it’s still good to have some cash just in case your online transactions don’t go through.

  Read also: Mobile Payment in China: Step-by-step Guide to Using Alipay and WeChat Pay without a Chinese Bank Account

  What else should we add to our Hainan itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

  Like what you see? Follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube  and  Telegram  for more travel updates!

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  Hainan Museum

  This modern colossus of a building should be your first stop when you arrive in Hainan. The displays on ethnic minorities, as well as Hainan’s 20th-century history, which included fierce resistance against the Japanese and later Nationalists, are particularly informative (and in English too!). The museum is about 2km southeast of Haikou Park, along the river. Passport required.

  68 Guoxing Dadao. 国兴大道68号

  Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

  

  Mei She Village

  12.05 MILES

  Photogenic Mei She was built out of the rough grey volcanic stone so prevalent in this part of Hainan. Wander the quiet back alleys and gawp at the castle…

  

  Haikou Old Town

  The pedestrianised streets around Zhongshan Lu are a looking glass into Haikou’s French colonial past, with cobblestone blocks of porticoed row houses –…

  

  Haikou Volcanic Cluster Geopark

  10.27 MILES

  While this geopark encompasses about 108 sq km of rural countryside, the main attraction here is a corny tourist park surrounding a (genuinely cool)…

  

  Five Officials Memorial Temple

  Hainan wasn't always a desirable holiday destination. In earlier times it was considered a remote part of the Chinese empire and used as a place of…

  Nearby Hainan attractions

  1 . Five Officials Memorial Temple

  2 . Haikou Old Town

  3 . Haikou Volcanic Cluster Geopark

  4 . Mei She Village

  • Hainan Overview

  Chinese Name : 海南省 English IPA : Hainan Province Location : Southernmost of China Population (city) : 9257600 Language : Hainanese Zip code : 570000-572900 Tel code : 0898 Time zone : UTC+8

  Hainan province, “Qiong” for short, is a provincial administrative region of the People’s Republic of China, with the provincial capital Haikou , located in south China.   Hainan island, with a total area of 33,900 square kilometers and a sea area of about 2 million square kilometers, is a shining pearl on the south China sea and the second largest island in China after Taiwan. It is the province with the smallest land area and the largest ocean area in China.  Hainan province, located in the southernmost part of China, is rich in tourism resources. As the only tropical coastal resource in China, Hainan province has an incomparable natural environment, which makes it extremely distinctive. There are  81 peaks over 1000 meters above sea level in the Hainan island , rolling ups and downs, imposing and magnificent. The implementation  Hainan outlying islands tax rebate policy formed another hot spot of Hainan tourism, and Sanya is the essence of Hainan tourism. In Sanya, in addition to the romance of blue sea and sky, there is also tropical rain forest, it is a very romantic holiday paradise.

  Highlights: 

  • Tourist Resort:  Today, Hainan has become a famous tourist destination, with Haikou and Sanya as two endpoints. Hainan’s tourism itinerary is basically divided into three routes, one is the coastal travel scenery route on the east coast, one is the Li and Miao ethnic minority scenery route in the middle line, and another is the primitive jungle scenery route on the west coast. Among them, Sanya is the essence of the trip to Hainan.
  • Tourist Attractions:  Hainan has   Wuzhizhou island , which is known as “China’s No.1 Diving Base”, beautiful Yalong bay , Tianya and Haijiao , Sanya bay , Dadonghai sea , Luhuitou park , Nanshan tourist zone , holiday beach , temple of five lords, Five Finger mountain and other unforgettable tourist attractions. 
  • Ethnic Culture:  Hainan is home to 36 ethnic minorities, including the Li ,  Miao ,  Hui  and Zhuang . Many simple and honest customs and living habits are still remained by the ethnic minorities, making the social landscape of Hainan island colorful.

  Hot Destinations in Hainan

  Other destinations in hainan.

  • Lingshui County
  • Anding County
  • Chengmai County
  • Dongfang city
  • Ding’an County
  • Tunchang County
  • Lingao County
  • Baisha County
  • Changjiang County
  • Ledong County
  • Qiongzhong County
  • Hainan Attractions

  Today, Hainan has become a famous tourist destination, with Haikou and Sanya as two endpoints. Tourist attractions in Hainan include Wuzhizhou island, which is known as “China’s No.1 Diving Base”, beautiful Yalong bay, Tianya and Haijiao, Sanya bay, Dadonghai sea, Luhuitou park, Nanshan tourist zone, holiday beach, temple of five lords, Haikou arcaded street, Five Finger mountain and other unforgettable attractions. Besides, Seafood in the First Market is cheap and fine, hundreds of fresh and delicious seafood at your choice. The beautiful natural [...]

  More Hainan Attractions >>

  • Hainan Tours

  Haikou and Sanya are two top tourist destinations in Hainan, and Sanya is the essence of Hainan tour. Therefore, our trip to Hainan is mainly based on Sanya. Hainan's tourism itinerary is basically divided into three routes, one is the coastal travel scenery route on the east coast, one is the Li and Miao ethnic minority scenery route in the middle line, and another is the primitive jungle scenery route on the west coast. In Hainan, you can not only enjoy the beautiful seaside landscape [...]

  • More City Tours Including Hainan >>
  • More China Provinces Tours Including Hainan >>
  • More Multi-City Tours Including Hainan >>
  • All Tours Including Hainan >>

  Climate & When to Go

  The climate and weather in Hainan is good for taking a holiday. Hainan province is located in the northern edge of the tropics, with long summer and without winter, humid all year round, belonging to a mixed climate of tropical ocean and tropical monsoon. Features of Hainan Climate Hainan island is located in the northern edge of tropics and enjoys a tropical monsoon climate. It has long been the reputation of "natural big greenhouse". Hainan has long summer and without winter, with an annual average temperature [...]

  More Hainan Climate & When to Go >>

  Transportation

  As famous holiday resorts in China, the transportation in Hainan is convenient. You can get to Hainan by air, train, long-distance bus or ship. How to Get to Hainan The aviation industry in Hainan province is developing rapidly, with Haikou Meilan Airport in the north and Sanya Phoenix Airport in the south. The eastern and western expressways have been completed and opened to traffic. It only takes 4 hours to go from Haikou to Sanya along the eastern expressway. And [...]

  More Hainan Transportation >>

  Festivals and Activities

  In the long history of Chinese civilization, Hainan island has a long history and unique culture. The migration of population, the integration of ethnic groups and the integration of languages make it a unique multi-culture. Today, there are many festivals and celebrations in Hainan, still remained and celebrated.  Main Festivals and Activities in Hainan Festivals/Activities Celebration Date Place of Celebration Fucheng Flower Exchange府城换花节 the 15th day of the first lunar month Haikou City Lady Xian Culture Festival冼夫人文化节/Junpo Festival军坡节 the 9th day to the 19th day of the second lunar month Haikou City San [...]

  More Hainan Festivals and Activities >>

  Travel Tips

  To have a better travel experience in Hainan Province, here are some useful Hainan travel tips which may be helpful for your Hainan tour.  Useful Numbers Fire: 119 Police: 110 Ambulance: 120 Area Code: 0898 Zip Code: 570000-572900 Traffic Accident: 122 Weather Forecast: 12121 Road Traffic Accident: 112 Hainan Tourism Complaint: 0898-65358451 Hainan Tourism Bureau: 0898-65200620 Hainan Province Price Complaint: 12358 Best Time to Visit Hainan's east coast enjoys a mixed climate of tropical ocean and tropical monsoon. The best time to travel Hainan is from November to March of the following year, when it is cold and windy elsewhere, but Hainan is still in a sunny, [...]

  More Hainan Travel Tips >>

  Useful Maps

  Hainan Province is located at the southernmost tip of China, bordering Qiongzhou Strait in the north, facing Vietnam across the Beibu gulf in the west, facing to Taiwan across the South China Sea in the east, and neighboring Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia in the southeast and south. The outline of the island is shaped like an oval snow pear, with a long axis from northeast to southwest. The jurisdiction of Hainan Province includes Hainan Island and the reefs and sea area of [...]

  More Hainan Useful Maps >>

  • Hainan Accommodation

  As the only tropical coastal resource in China, Hainan province has an incomparable natural environment, which makes it extremely distinctive. Also because of this, Hainan has become a famous tourist destination, in particular, Sanya of Hainan is popular among tourists from home and abroad. Therefore, Hainan accommodation condition is not bad, and tourists to Hainan don't need to worry about accommodation.  Recommended Hotels in Hainan The Best Hainan Hotels Rated on TripAdvisor Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Wenchang(文昌温德姆至尊豪廷大酒店) Address: No.1, Yintan Road, Wencheng Town, Wenchang City文昌市文城镇银滩路1号 Tel: 0898-63599999 Shangri-La Hotel Haikou(海口香格里拉大酒店) [...]

  More Hainan Accommodation >>

  Other Hot Destinations in China

  • Changbai Mountains
  • Fanjingshan
  • Fujian Tulou
  • Mount Everest
  • Mount Huashan
  • Mount Kailash
  • Mount Siguniang
  • Mount Wudang
  • Mount Wutai
  • Namtso Lake
  • Qiandao Lake
  • Shennongjia
  • Tiger Leaping Gorge
  • Xizhou Ancient Town
  

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  Hainan Travel Guide

  Things to do.

  • Hainan Shopping
  • Hainan Culture
  • Hainan Festivals and Events
  • Hainan Entertainment and Nightlife

  Travel Information

  • Hainan Travel Tips
  • Hainan Climate
  • Hainan Transportation
  • Hainan Maps
  • Hainan Photos
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  • Hainan Education
  • Hainan Administrative Divisions
  

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  Bring copies of your passport.

  Don't assume you're restricted to the main hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, our tours can start from any city.

  Register with your embassy

  For your safety, please register with the Embassy.

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  Exchange some local currency for your trip

  

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  Start planning your tailor-made holiday to China by contacting one of our specialists. Once enquired, you’ll get a response within 0.5~23.5 hours.

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  Address: Hongxing Building, Lujia Road, Xishan Area, Kunming, Yunnan, China Wechat: 908400838 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/YunnanExploration https://www.facebook.com/TransAsiaDiscovery Tel/Wechat/WhatsApp: +86-18088243690 Email: [email protected]