Sanya Bay (Sanya Wan)
Sanya, Hainan, 572000
The most convenient beach to Sanya is coconut palm-lined Sanya Bay. It's one of three major beaches on Hainan Island, and it enjoys superb views across the water to the Western, Eastern, and Phoenix islands. It’s not as heavily commercialized as Yalong and Haitang bays and is thus a quieter option for enjoying a day of sun, sea, and sand.
The basics
This beach to the west of Sanya’s city center is the area's longest stretch of coastline at 14 miles (20 kilometers). A paved road, the Coconut Dream Corridor, runs alongside the beach and is a popular place for a sunset stroll. Calm waters make it a top swimming beach, though the waters can become crowded for water sports. Some walking tours of Sanya include a stroll here, though you'll likely want to return on your own.
Things to know before you go
- If you’re in the market for budget-friendly restaurants and accommodations on the island, Sanya Bay is a great option.
- Bring plenty of sunscreen, as there’s very little shade on the beach.
- Pack a beach towel, bathing suit, and change of clothes for a day at Sanya Bay.
How to get there
Several public buses stop near Sanya Bay at Guoguang Binhai Huayuan Station and Sanya Dujiacun Station.
When to get there
The beach at Sanya Bay is always open. In the day, come to soak up some sun or go for a swim. Then return in the evening to order local seafood from the beachside restaurants and watch as local dance groups practice their routines in the sand. Avoid visiting on summer weekends or Chinese national holidays, when the crowds can get overwhelming.
Best Beaches in Hainan
Hainan Island is known locally as the Hawaii of China, and you’ll see why when you gaze upon its stunning beaches. Sanya Bay is one of the most accessible beaches on the island, while crescent-shaped Yalong Bay offers excellent water visibility for snorkeling. The highly developed Haitang Bay is home to some of the island’s most luxurious resorts, as well as a large duty-free shopping area. Houhai Bay remains popular with locals, and Ri Yue Bay has the best breaks for all levels of surfers.
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