Contents
Sanya | Introduction
Sanya, located at the southernmost tip of Hainan Island, is the only tropical seaside city in China. It is considered a dream vacation destination for domestic tourists, offering not only ideal climate conditions but also abundant natural scenery. With summer-like weather year-round and an average annual temperature of around 25°C, the sunny skies and sea breezes often evoke comparisons to Hawaii, earning Sanya the exotic nickname of the "Hawaii of the East."
However, Sanya's history paints a different picture. As early as the Qin dynasty, Hainan Island was a place of exile for officials and scholars who were banished far from the heart of Chinese civilization to this remote and desolate land. But history marches forward, and with the rise of modern tourism, this once barren land has quietly transformed into a renowned coastal vacation city, known both at home and abroad. Today, Sanya's waters are crystal clear, its beaches white and fine, attracting thousands of tourists seeking peace and freedom under the sun and by the sea. Whether it's the luxurious resorts or the wide array of seafood delicacies, Sanya's coastline offers the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.
Sanya is suitable for travel year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is at its most pleasant and comfortable.
Sanya | 2-Day Itinerary
For a short two-day, one-night trip, Sanya's scenery and pace are enough to briefly pull you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature and the sea.
On the first day, start at Haitang Bay, where the accommodation itself becomes a scenic spot. Standing on the hotel balcony in Haitang Bay, you'll enjoy a vast view where the sea meets the sky, evoking a sense of peace far removed from the mundane world. The soft morning light and gentle sea breeze remind you that the primary goal of a vacation is to relax, and this place provides the perfect atmosphere to do just that.
After a short rest, head to one of Sanya's iconic landmarks—Tianya Haijiao. Surrounded by the sea, this scenic spot offers a romantic sense of being at the "edge of the sky and the corner of the sea." In the afternoon, visit another of Sanya’s mythical spots—Luhuitou Park. The park is steeped in a romantic legend about a young hunter and a magical deer. From the mountaintop, you can overlook the entire city of Sanya and its winding coastline, watching the sun set slowly into the sea.
On the second day, it’s recommended to spend more time in Haitang Bay. Whether you listen to the sound of the waves or quietly read on the balcony, Haitang Bay doesn't require a packed itinerary; the true journey is found in the peace and joy within your heart.
Sanya | Accommodation
Haitang Bay is Sanya’s newest and most luxurious resort area, with numerous top-tier international hotel chains and resorts. The beaches here are wide and less crowded, offering the perfect distance for those who prefer a quieter vacation. In addition, Haitang Bay is home to China’s largest duty-free shopping center, Sanya International Duty-Free City, making it convenient for anyone with a passion for shopping.
Looking for a stay in Sanya?
Accommodation | Intercontinental Resort & Spa, Haitang Bay
This time in Sanya, we stayed at the Haitang BayIntercontinental Resort & Spa, Haitang BayThe luxury of the resort is impressive. First of all, the rooms are extremely well designed and the entire resort itself feels like it's nestled in the middle of the attraction, not only does it have a private sandy coastline, but it also has a stunning panoramic view of Haitang Bay from the rooms due to its location. In fact, Begonia Bay is a major attraction in its own right, and staying at a hotel here undoubtedly provides the opportunity to enjoy the best ocean views, which is why I think it's particularly noteworthy.
I booked a single room with two beds, featuring large floor-to-ceiling windows and electric curtains. While I didn’t notice it at night, in the morning, I was truly struck by the beauty of the magnificent sea view outside. The room was spacious enough to comfortably accommodate a family of four without feeling cramped. There was also a large workspace, perfect for those who need to work during their stay. What made me feel the ultimate sense of luxury, however, was the bathroom. The bathroom featured double sinks, a large space, and separate toilet and shower areas, all with a premium finish. Walking out onto the balcony in the morning, I was delighted to find not only ample space but also an outdoor bathtub with a direct view of the endless sea, creating an immediate sense of relaxation.
As the morning sun reflected off the sea at Haitang Bay, the spectacular view was absolutely breathtaking. The hotel’s private beach was vast and peaceful, with very few visitors, making it a perfect secluded vacation spot. The only downside was that, due to local regulations, swimming in the sea is prohibited, but simply listening to the waves and enjoying the lush surroundings was more than enough to bring tranquility.
Breakfast was another highlight of the hotel, offering a wide variety of buffet options, including both Chinese and Western dishes. I particularly recommend trying the local Sanya specialty, Hou'an noodles.
Recommended Accommodation: Compare prices for InterContinental Sky Resort?
Sanya | Attractions
Tianya Haijiao
Tianya Haijiao is the most iconic scenic spot in Sanya, its name evoking the poetic image of "the edge of the sky, the corner of the sea" and long regarded as a symbol of love. The name comes from two giant rocks in the park, inscribed with the characters "Tianya" (sky’s end) and "Haijiao" (sea’s corner). The first stone, "Tianya Rock," was inscribed by Cheng Zhe during the Yongzheng era of the Qing dynasty, while the second, "Haijiao Rock," was carved by Wang Yi during the Republican period. These two rocks stand side by side, becoming the landmark of this scenic area. From this southwestern tip of Hainan Island, it truly feels like the ends of the earth.
The entrance to the park is grand and spacious. Once inside, you’re greeted by the open expanse of blue sky and sea. The large square is clean and orderly, bustling with tourists, as this is Sanya’s most famous tourist destination.
On the left side, there is a statue garden dedicated to historical figures with connections to Hainan, such as Huang Daopo from the Yuan dynasty, who learned weaving techniques on Hainan and later brought them back to her hometown, advancing China's textile industry. These statues not only pay tribute to history but also provide visitors with an opportunity to learn more about Hainan's cultural heritage.
Tianya Haijiao has always been imbued with romantic imagery, making it a popular spot for wedding photography.
Strolling along the coastal path, facing the vast sea with the wind in your face, it's hard not to ponder the ancient love stories and legends associated with this place. The beach is embraced by clear waters, blue skies, and coconut groves, forming one of China's rare tropical coastlines, which naturally attracts many visitors from the mainland.
As you continue walking, you will encounter several uniquely shaped rocks, many of which have been given romantic names. For example, the "Sun and Moon Rock" resembles a heart and is said to symbolize the love between a Li youth and a Han girl who turned into mandarin ducks. Guanyin is said to have transformed them into these two stones. The characters "Sun" and "Moon" are carved into the rocks, symbolizing love.
Nearby is a precariously balanced boulder known as the "Immortal Stack," which seems to defy gravity but remains standing, as though crafted by nature’s genius. Another rock, called "Magnolia Bud," is split into several petals due to weathering, resembling a magnolia flower about to bloom, evoking awe at the artistic power of nature.
Further ahead, you'll come across the inscription "Hai Pan Nantian" (The Sea Defines the Southern Sky), carved during the Kangxi period. This phrase originates from the ancient Confucian classic Shangshu and symbolizes the southern boundary, representing the edge of heaven and earth. Standing before this stone, you can feel the blending of nature and cultural history, as if you are standing at the world's edge, gazing upon the currents of history.
These stones each have their own charm, but the most famous of all is the "Southern Sky Column." This seven-meter-high rock is inscribed with calligraphy by county magistrate Fan Yunti from the late Qing dynasty. Its upright stance exudes a sense of resilience and strength, standing tall like its name suggests. Across from it grows a tenacious tree, sprouting from the crevice beneath the rock. Known as "Tianya Tree," this tree has endured storms, rooting itself in the stone, symbolizing how life finds its way even in the harshest conditions. This symbol of defiance against fate has made the tree a spiritual icon for visitors.
As you continue to climb, you'll reach the highest point of the park—"Overlook to Tianya." This observation platform offers panoramic views where the sea and sky merge, giving you a profound sense of the vastness of the universe. This is the best spot to appreciate the Tianya Haijiao scenic area, especially at sunset, when the sun bathes the sea in warm hues, making it a sight to remember.
At the end of the park, you'll find the iconic "Tianya" and "Haijiao" rocks. Upon reaching this point, it feels as if you have walked to the edge of the world. The two rocks stand quietly side by side by the sea, watching over the passing travelers. This is the final stop of the Tianya Haijiao tour, and the journey concludes here. If you're not keen on walking back, you can take the park's electric cart back to the entrance, ending your trip on a relaxing note.
Before leaving, be sure to visit the park's Imperial Edict Museum, which houses many ancient imperial edicts, adding a layer of historical culture to the natural beauty of the area.
Luhuitou Park
Luhuitou Park is located in the southwestern part of Sanya and sits atop a hill surrounded by the sea on three sides. The park is based on a love story from the Li ethnic group and offers a panoramic view of the entire city of Sanya. Visitors can also catch sight of Phoenix Island, with its daytime and nighttime views each offering unique beauty. Luhuitou not only boasts rich natural scenery but also, with its romantic story and love-themed attractions, has become a popular destination for couples and newlyweds.
For transportation, Luhuitou Park is accessible by bus, or if you’re short on time, you can take a taxi. Ticket prices have fluctuated over time, with daytime admission being cheaper and less crowded, making it a quieter time to visit.
After entering the park, you’ll need to walk a section of mountain road before officially reaching Luhuitou Park. This road can be traveled on foot, or you can opt for a paid ride on the park’s shuttle. The shuttle departs from across the Fu Lu Shou statue, and after getting off, you’ll still need to walk the remaining portion of the climb. Along the way, the scenic paths are lined with sculptures and sea views, making the journey visually rewarding.
Once you reach the drop-off point, a panoramic view of Sanya unfolds before your eyes. The nighttime views here are particularly stunning, but the daytime scenery is equally captivating, especially on clear days when the city’s skyline is vividly outlined, with Phoenix Island adding a picturesque touch to the blue sky and sea.
The theme of Luhuitou Park centers around the Li people’s love story. The tale tells of a young Li hunter who chased a sika deer across 99 mountains and 99 rivers until he finally reached the shores of the South China Sea. When the deer turned back, it transformed into a beautiful girl, and the two fell in love and settled there. The entrance is inscribed with the phrase, "Love at First Sight, Luhuitou."
The central sculpture of this legend is the focal point of the park—the Luhuitou Statue, which is also the origin of the park’s name. This statue stands on the mountaintop and is the tallest sculpture in Hainan, symbolizing the intertwining of love and destiny, and it has also given Sanya the nickname "Deer City."
Every corner of Luhuitou Park revolves around the theme of love. Visitors can send postcards from the park’s "Love Post Office" as a memento of their trip. These small design touches make the visit feel warm and romantic. You’ll also find a statue of the god of matchmaking, Yue Lao, which is often surrounded by crowds, representing couples making vows of love.
Continuing upward, you'll pass the "Mountain Covenant" monument, located inside a pavilion, further emphasizing the deep connection with love pledges.
With the park’s location surrounded by the sea on three sides, every viewing platform offers a fantastic view. The best of these is the Seaview Pavilion at the mountaintop. Standing here, you can take in the full beauty of Sanya city, the coastline, and Phoenix Island. The view is especially breathtaking at sunset, with the scenery filling you with a sense of peace and awe.
The park also features many sculptures themed around love, with the most iconic being the "Love" sculpture, which directly highlights the park’s central theme. Continuing further up the stairs, you’ll come across a stone inscribed with the phrase "Unyielding as the Sea," symbolizing the steadfastness of love, a sentiment that adds to the park's romantic atmosphere.
As your visit comes to a close, you can choose to walk back down or take the shuttle to the base. Near the exit is an exhibition hall showcasing Li culture, displaying artifacts related to the history and lifestyle of the Li people. This cultural experience rounds off the journey, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s history alongside its natural beauty. The Li people are Hainan’s main ethnic minority, and every year they hold grand celebrations, which are as important to them as the Spring Festival is to northern China. Ending your trip with this cultural exhibit provides a balanced conclusion, blending nature and human history.
Sanya | Cuisine
Hou’an Noodles
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $
Hou’an noodles, a local specialty of Hainan, offer a simple yet rich flavor. In the city center of Sanya, I stumbled upon a small shop called "Happiness Hou’an Noodles." A bowl of Hou’an noodles cost only six yuan, cheaper than the drink next to it, evoking a sense of nostalgia with its low price.
The essence of Hou’an noodles lies in its broth. The soup is slowly simmered with pork bones, pork intestines, and pork heart, with the addition of small shrimp. The broth is both savory and rich, with every sip infused with the mellow aroma of pork bones and the freshness of the sea. The taste is subtle yet layered, a flavor built through time and experience. Hainan’s lifestyle is like this bowl of noodle soup—unpretentious but relying on the quality of the ingredients and perfect timing.
Zheng Abo Qingbuliang
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $
After lunch, I walked a few steps to find the adjacent "Zheng Abo Qingbuliang." Qingbuliang is a traditional Hainanese dessert with a distinct Southeast Asian flavor. A bowl of cold coconut milk ice instantly dispelled the tropical afternoon heat. The flavor was sweet but not overpowering, with the ice smooth as snow and perfectly complemented by the richness of the coconut milk, making it feel like finding a long-lost refreshing corner during the scorching summer.
Tropical Fruit Ice at Tianya Haijiao Scenic Area
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $$
In the Tianya Haijiao scenic area, you’ll find snack stands that allow tourists to enjoy a bite to eat while taking in the views. Sanya is famous for its tropical fruits, and at one of these stalls, I ordered a mixed dragon fruit, kiwi, and apple ice. The ice was tangy and refreshing, with a rich fruity aroma, providing an instant cooling effect in the afternoon heat. Later, I also ordered a coconut water to quench my thirst, and the natural sweetness of the coconut perfectly balanced the tropical heat, making the whole trip even more enjoyable.
Julong Restaurant
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $$
No trip to Sanya would be complete without indulging in seafood, especially in Haitang Bay. During this trip, I visited Julong Restaurant multiple times. The restaurant stands out for not only its affordable prices but also its shuttle service.
The set meals are reasonably priced, and the three-person seafood feast was brimming with sincerity. Prawns, clams, stir-fried crab, fish, oysters—each dish seemed to distill the essence of the ocean into every bite, with the natural flavors shining through without any pretentiousness. Perhaps the biggest surprise was the four-angled beans, a local Sanya vegetable. Its crisp texture seemed to capture the essence of the land—natural, unadorned, and full of vitality. Complementing it was a plate of seafood fried rice that absorbed all the ocean’s flavors, simple yet satisfying. Paired with a cold beer, the entire meal was robust and fulfilling.
Wenchang Chicken
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $
Wenchang chicken is another Sanya specialty, and naturally, I couldn’t miss it during this trip. After seeing recommendations online, I headed to a small, unnamed Wenchang chicken shop near the market. The shop was tucked away in an alley, not easy to find, but it's often these hidden gems that offer the most authentic flavors.
The taste of Wenchang chicken is similar to Hainan chicken but slightly milder. The meat is tender and smooth, served with a special dipping sauce that preserves the chicken’s natural flavor without overpowering it with excessive seasoning. This simple yet authentic flavor reflects the purity and sincerity of Sanya's food culture.
Grandma’s Seafood Restaurant
- Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Price: $$$$$
Another place I tried was Grandma’s Seafood Restaurant, a well-known establishment that attracts many tourists. Naturally, the high prices come with the fame. Compared to Julong Restaurant, the flavors at Grandma’s are noticeably stronger, following the typical Sichuan-style seafood route. For those who enjoy spicy, intense flavors, this place will definitely satisfy, though it may be a bit too strong for some palates.
Aside from the seafood, another must-try dish here is coconut rice. This dish involves steaming glutinous rice with coconut meat, allowing the rice to fully absorb the coconut’s sweetness. Upon tasting it, you’ll experience the perfect blend of coconut fragrance and the soft, chewy texture of the rice. This combination offers a refreshing counterpoint to the intense seafood flavors, adding a touch of local flavor to the meal. Coconut rice isn’t just a dessert; it’s more like a soothing echo in the midst of a rich seafood feast, balancing the dining experience with a hint of tropical freshness.
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