Sanya: Living Guide
The Hawaii of China, with miles of coastline, a tropical climate and lots of modern resorts guaranteeing a fun filled living experience. The beaches are a great place to unwind, catch some sunrays and take a cool dip in the sea. Buzzing nightlife within the city center backed with gorgeous views and flavourful drinks. The Chinese culture is still ever-present with ancient temples and parks for an informative trip.
The Basics
The most southern city on Hainan Island, with a population of 625,000. The nearest cities being Qionghai 152km, Haikou 216km, Zhanjiang 341km.
An island with lots of beaches means the weather is perfect all year round! It ranges between 18° and 31°, make sure to pack your sun cream. Due to the warm weather rainfall is common with around 65 inches per year, especially during summer. Typhoons occasionally hit the area, so listen out to the news.
Transport is convenient and efficient from all parts of the city. The city buses go to every county costing 1-5 yuan per trip. Taxis are also always available. Sanya Railway station accommodates all long-distance trips to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and many other big cities, taking between 15-35 hours, along with having Sanya International Airport. There is no metro currently developed, but there is the Hainan railway, taking you to Haikou for 100-115 yuan.
City Highlights
Yalong Bay
The longest beach in Sanya with 20km of coastline split into three sections. You can experience amazing sightseeing views while visiting top-class resorts. There’s also a popular section called ‘Coconut Corridor’ in Sanya Bay where you can leisurely stroll between coconut trees for 10km. During the evening you can sit and watch the tranquil sea accompanied by boats horns and musical performances nearby. Open 24/7 with no ticket fee. Take bus 25,26,32 or 57 for around 15 yuan to Coast stop.
M2 Club
A classy nightclub along Sanya’s Times Coast Bar Street. Be ready to look the part in a stunning dress or dapper suit to fit in with the crowd. A lot of young party goers gather here to dance to some House and EDM music. Drinks are of the highest quality but that comes with a high price!
Nanshan Temple
The biggest Buddhist preaching site within China based at the foot of Nanshan Mountain. Spreading across 40,000 square metres, filled with replicas of Tang dynasty architecture. Sacred Buddhist statues cover the temple as well as the national treasure of Golden Jade Guanyin Statue, embedded with gold and silver, making it eye-catching for the visitors. The vegetarian food is famous and a must try including some wild fungus, konjak and bean produce. Take bus 16,25,55 or 57 to Nanshan station. Entrance fees for children are free under 1.2m while adults differ between 100 and 130 yuan. Open from 8am to 5pm.
Nanwan Monkey Island
You’ll need to take the train to Lingshui, a taxi to the entrance, and then a boat or cable car to reach Monkey Island, said to hold over 1000 macaque monkeys! It’s a great day trip in the Sanya area!
Sunset Bar
A 2 for 1 happy hour between 5pm and 7pm makes this bar a great place to start your evening! The terrace feature helps you to gaze at the alluring sunset and even poses for some good Instagram photos. A known favourite is the signature Ginger Lycheetini for 90 yuan or classic smoothies for 60 yuan.
Surrounding Areas
Qionghai
A lovely city on Hainan island, with similarly tropical weather and an abundance of beaches, bars and sociable locals. Boao Jade Belt Beach is 8.5km long and its where Hainan’s three rivers all flow into the South Chinese sea and many people come to relax and sunbathe. Go on a sight-seeing adventure by Wanquanhe Drifting, where you can cross the waters on a makeshift boat while being informed about local Chinese history.
Haikou
A city brimming with cultural opportunities and all the seafood you could eat! Visit Mei She Village to view the popular volcanic stone pieces, wander the quiet alleys or see the five-storey gun tower in the town centre. Go to the Square Out Space Café for a chilled environment with some music performances, local snacks and the best tea in a 20km span.
Zhanjiang
Tranquillity is the essence of this beautiful city with plenty of greenery at the Huguangyan Scenic Area. An enormous park surrounding a crater lake, at the peak of the park you can look down at the dazzling water, great for a picnic! The beaches at Zhanjiang seaside park are equally as peaceful, as you can stroll along the shore picking up pretty flowers and admire the overhanging coconut trees.
We hope this helps you decide if Sanya is for you!