Written by Natalia |
Hainan province is an island province located at the southernmost end of China. It is known as the āOriental Hawaiiā. Hainan Island is also in the golden altitude for vacation as Hawaii. Thanks to the unique tropical marine climate, it enjoys a long summer and has no winter. A 1900-km-long coastal line stretches along the island, where numerous bays with clear water and white sand are scattered. Its scenery is not inferior to Hawaii at all. All tourists can enjoy their time at the beach resorts. Especially in Sanya, a world’s top vacation can be experienced. Besides the beaches, you can also learn about the past in Haikou, explore the tropical rainforest park, and feel the charm of ethnic minorities, like the Li nationality.
Another highlight of Hainan Island is its duty-free shopping. As the only duty-free shopping area for outlying islands in China, both Sanya and Haikou have large duty-free shopping malls, where sell a large number of international brands.
With the implement of new polices, domestic goods are also sold in the malls and more categories of goods are included. More importantly, tourists from 85 countries can enjoy a visa-free policy. This guide will introduce the top things to do in HainanĀ and variousĀ Hainan toursĀ forĀ differentĀ travelers.
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- Why Visit Hainan Island, China
- Top Destinations and Unforgettable Experiences in Hainan
- Top Things to Do in Sanya
- Things to Do in Haikou, Hainan
- Outdoor & Adventure Activities in Hainan
- Cultural Immersion: Exploring Hainanās Heritage
- Take A Bite of Hainan
- Exploring Lesser-Known Islands
- Essential Planning Tips for Your Hainan Island Vacation
- Plan Your Hainan Tour with China Xian Tour
Why Visit Hainan Island, China
- Superior natural environment: with sunny beaches, blue water, rainforest and rare plants and animals, Hainan Island itself is an ideal resort for vacation.
- Duty-free shopping: as a highly open free trade port, Hainan implements a visa-free policy for 85 countries and offers abundant varieties of duty-free goods with an affordable price.
- Abundant travel experiences:Besides the traditional seaside vacations, tourists can also experience yacht sailing, golf, rainforest adventures, ethnic cultures, etc.
- Convenient international transportation network: Till now, over 70 international and regional air routes have been opened in Hainan.
Top Destinations and Unforgettable Experiences in Hainan
Sanya: Sun, Sand, and Luxury
Sanya, as the hottest destination in Hainan, will meet the expectations of tourists. Sanya Phoenix International Airport is the travel hub for tourists. If you travel there by flight, there is a chance to overlook the giant Guanyin Statue in Nanshan Temple from the sky when the flight approaches the landing point.
After arrival, you can also head there directly to feel the Buddhist culture. What are other activities or things to do in Sanya on Hainan Island? Enjoy your leisure time in the luxury resorts or rainforest in Yalong Bay. Or have a visit to Wuzhizhou Island, the famous place for scuba diving and snorkeling. Both scenic spots are known for the crystal blue water and white sands on the sunny beaches.
Related reading: How to Plan a Trip to Sanya
Haikou: The Cultural Capital
With profound history and culture, Haikou offers a quite different experience from Sanya. The Qilou Old Street is the best place to experience the bustling atmosphere of this century-old commercial port. The Southern Asia-style arcade building complex here is a witness to the city history. You can visit the Tomb of Hai Rui to learn about the story of this famous minister of the Qing Dynasty. In Hainan Museum, the history of the province, the culture of ethnic minorities and intangible cultural heritages are displayed. Another specialĀ thing to do in Haikou, Hainan, is to explore the volcanic geology at Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark, which boasts the remains of a ten-thousand-year-old volcano. All are kid-friendly activities in Haikou.
Beyond the Cities: Hainanās Hidden Gems
Though the tourist cities are charming, the hidden corners are the soul of Hainan Island. In Baoting, the Binglanggu (Betelnut Valley) is the core area to experience Hainan Li and Miao ethnic villages. Yanoda Rainforest provides several hiking trails for tourists to explore the mysterious Hainan rainforest.
Danzhou is known for its ancient salt fields. Here, you can witness the ancient “sun-drying salt-making” process, which is a living cultural heritage with a history of over 1,200 years. If you are fond of a serene atmosphere, plan a day trip to Dongyu Island. The things to do on the island include the hot spring bath, cycling, etc.
Suggested tour
Top Things to Do in Sanya
1. Relax on Hainanās Best Beaches: Yalong Bay & Dadonghai
Relaxing on the beach is definitely one of the top things to do in Hainan Island.Ā And Sanya boasts the best beaches in Hainan, which are Yalong Bay and Dadonghai. Yalong Bay is known as āthe first Bay in the worldā. Many high-end hotels gather here, making it a luxury holiday resort. Compared with other beaches, the water is clearer and more blue, and the sand is more white, softer and finer. Dadonghai is close to the downtown area, so the life atmosphere is stronger. And it is well-developed, lively and convenient. More entertainment projects are offered here.
Beaches |
Highlights |
Yalong Bay |
Best water and sand quality, high-end resorts, quiet environment, luxury experience |
Dadonghai |
Well-developed, bustling atmosphere, convenient transportation, abundant projects |
Haitang Bay |
National seashore, the worldās largest single duty-free store, high-end and modern |
Sanya Bay |
Best places for sunset, plenty of green spaces andĀ parks |
Qingshui Bay |
A singing beach, fine sand, reef landscapes |
2. Visit the Iconic Nanshan Temple and the 108-meter Guanyin Statue
Nanshan Cultural Tourism Area is a must-visit attraction during your Sanya tour.Ā Here, the worldās highest Guanyin Statue stands in the middle of the sea with a height of 108 meters, which is regarded as āthe Treasure of the Hainan Islandā. The statue is composed of three sides and each side symbolizes wisdom, benevolence and peace, respectively. Nanshan Temple is a Buddhist temple. Its style imitates the Tang-style and the buildings are constructed against the mountain, offering a sense of solemnity and dignity.
Suggested tour
3. Adventure at Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park
Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park is an adventure destination that combines thrill and natural beauty. The must-try is the glass bridge. It is 450 meters high and 400 meters long. Walking on the bridge, you can overlook the hundred-meter-deep valley and the entire Yalong Bay. The excitement of walking in the air will be unforgettable. There are also famous Hainan rainforest hiking trails, allowing tourists to observe the various plants and animals closely.
4. Experience Water Sports at Wuzhizhou Island and West Island
The water sports rank top among the things to do in Hainan. Wuzhizhou Island and West Island are the two hottest islands for the experience. Wuzhizhou Island is reputed as the āChina’s Maldivesā. It specializes in high-end experience and offers abundant projects. The most famous ones include deep diving, paragliding, jet skiing, helicopter sightseeing, etc. Tourists can also take a sightseeing bus for an island hopping.
While West Island offers a primitive charm of a fishing village. A dedicated diving area is set for tourists. Beach combing and fishing village exploration are more popular here. Its overall cost is more affordable.
Suggested tour
5. Duty-Free Shopping in Sanya
In Sanya, Haitang Bay Duty Free Mall is the final destination for shopping for every traveler. It is undoubtedly a paradise for shopaholics. Most famous international brands have opened their stores here, such as Gucci, Prada, Lancome, etc. The goods range from makeup, skincare products, perfumes to watches, handbags, sunglasses, wine. All can be purchased at a low price because of its duty-free policy.
Things to Do in Haikou, Hainan
6. Enjoy Your Time at Historic Streets & Old Town
In Haikou, Qilou Old Street and Fucheng Traditional Street are the two main historical and cultural areas. Qilou Old Street represents the Overseas Chinese culture. The arcade architectural complex is the most direct embodiment. Here, the exotic charm and local life are integrated perfectly. Fucheng Traditional Street represents the root of Haikou and has a more profound cultural heritage. Feel it charm in the Qiongtai Academy and ancient lanes.
7. Try Many Kid-Friendly Activities in Haikou
For family visitors, there are a lot of tourism resources suitable for them. In the Volcanic Cluster Geopark, children can participate in geological science popularization interactions and watch tropical plants. In the beach parks, play with sand, pick up the seashells, or try recreation facilities for the children. To learn about the cityās culture and history, Hainan Museum is the best place to visit.
Suggested tour
Outdoor & Adventure Activities in Hainan
8. Discover Hainanās Best Surf: at Riyue Bay & Beyond
For surfing lovers or tourists who are interested in surfing, list it as one of theĀ top things to do in Hainan Island. The Riyue Bay in Wanning is a world-class surfing place. The waves here are long and powerful with frequent undulations, so it will be challenging to go surfing here, but intermediate and advanced surfers are suitable.
For beginners, the Houhai Village in Sanya is more friendly. It is a pocket-shaped small bay, where the waves are gentle and regular. A one-stop service from equipment rental to professional teaching is offered by the surfing clubs on the main street.
- Best Seasons: October – April
- Tips:
- Beginners are strongly recommended to take a trial class. The professional coach will teach you the correct postures and protect your safety.
- To protect the marine ecology, it is better to use the physical sunscreen mud that is harmless to the coral reefs.
9. Try Rainforest Hiking
Rainforest hiking is a very special experience in Hainan. You will leave the familiar coastal line and delve into a completely different and lively green world. During the hiking, the unique plants come into sight one by one, which you may have never seen before. You may also encounter cascade waterfalls, the coolness of the water will make you feel peaceful. After reaching the summit, the magnificent sea of clouds and forests will amaze you. Families, nature lovers, photographers and hikers will enjoy their time here.
Recommended rainforest hiking trails:
- Yanoda Rainforest: four mature hiking routes are designed inside the park, and routes C and D are classic choices with several waterfalls along the way. Usually, 3 – 6 hours are needed based on different route options.
- Jianfengling National Forest Park:the best place for sunrise and cloud sea. Usually, hikers need to climb from the parking lot halfway up the mountain to the peak. The road is somewhat challenging and a total journey takes about 3 – 4 hours.
10. Dive into the sea at Atlantis Sanya
Visiting Atlantis during your Hainan TravelĀ is also a canāt-miss. This resort is a one-stop holiday resort themed by ocean. In the Waterworld, a variety of entertainment facilities, like several stop slides, ultra-fast drift river and a wave pool, are designed. Tourists of all ages can enjoy the water to the fullest here.
You can also explore the mysterious underwater world in the aquarium. The 30 exhibition pools gather over 280 species and over 86,000 marine creatures. There are also some performances and interaction activities waiting for you. Besides, 1,314 guest rooms with a full sea view, over 20 restaurants and a shopping avenue are equipped for the convenience of tourists.
11. Play Golf in Sanya & Haikou
Sanya and Haikou boast quite different styles in golf courses. In Sanya, the courses are usually connected to the luxury hotels, seas and beaches, forming a more romantic atmosphere. It is designed to combine the aesthetic and enjoyment of game.
While the courses in Haikou are famous for the unique landform and greater challenge. The Mission Hills Golf Club is the worldās largest volcanic rock golf course cluster. You will feel like playing golf on the moon surface here. Other courses are set beside the sea, lake or coconut forests, etc. So the experience will be more diverse in Haikou.
12. Cycle Around Hainan Island
If you want to feel the natural scenery and cultural charm of Hainan Island, cycling can be the best choice. During the tour, you can control the pace as you like. A total of three classic routes are available. Each route has its own style, choose the most suitable one according to your own strength, interest and time.
Route |
Core Features and Experiences |
Route |
Distance |
Time Needed |
Best For |
East Route |
Hottest and perfectly developed, excellent road conditions, sufficient supplies, best scenery |
Haikou ā Wenchang ā Qionghai ā Wanning ā Sanya |
About 420 km |
5 ā 6 days |
Beginners |
West Route |
More primitive natural scenery and simple folk customs, tranquil experience. |
Sanya ā Wuzhishan ā Qiongzhong ā Haikou |
About 450 km |
4 ā 5 days |
Cyclists seekingĀ tranquility and enjoyingĀ exploration |
Middle Route |
Challenging, pass Ā hills and tropical rainforests, experience ethnic customs of Li and Miao nationalities |
Sanya -Dongfang ā Danzhou ā Haikou |
About 280 km |
3 ā 4 days |
Experienced cyclists |
Cultural Immersion: Exploring Hainanās Heritage
13. Experience Ethnic Customs in Binglanggu Li and Miao Cultural Heritage Park
If you are interested in characteristic cultural experiences, Binglanggu is hailed as a “living fossil” of Hainan’s ethnic cultures. Here, both Li and Miao ethnic villages of Hainan gather here. The core of the park is the Intangible Cultural Heritage Village. Several museums themed by traditional Li textile techniques are opened to the public.
Stepping into the Ganshi Li Village, you will have a chance to encounter the scene of the local granny weaving brocade. The traditional houses here are also characteristic, which look like a boat. In Yulin Miao Village, experience the welcome wine ceremony and watch the thrilling acrobatic performance of climbing a mountain of swords or plunging into a sea of flames. It is a completely different cultural experience from Li nationality.
Recommended tour
14. Marvel at The Ancient Salt Fields in Danzhou
The Yangpu Ancient Salt FieldsĀ is an off-the-beaten-path historical site.Ā It is one of the earliest and best-preserved primitive sun-drying salt-making ancient salt fields in China. With a history of over 1,200 years, it can be dated back to the Song Dynasty. Now, it has been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. On the mudflats are densely scattered volcanic rock salt troughs, whose number is over 1,000. What a spectacular scene! At the sunset time, the fields will glimmer with a rose golden color. This is the best time for photography. At the entrance, various snacks made of the salt are sold, such as salt-baked eggs. You can have a try.
15. Stroll around Haikou Qilou Old Street: A Walk Through History
Qilou Old Street is a city landmarkĀ in Haikou. Here standsĀ Chinaās largest and best-preserved Southern Asia-style arcade building complex. Wander along the streets to observe the details of the elegant and delicate sculptures and Western-style decorations. The most special is the design of arcade. The ground floor forms a continuous corridor and protectsĀ the pedestrians from sunlight and rain. If you are hungry, delve into the Shuixiangkou alley to look for the time-honored restaurants and taste the local Fatherās Tea and cold dessert soup.
16. Join Local Cultural Festivals and Events
Hainan Island also boasts diverse cultural and festival activities. The grandest festival should be theĀ March Fair of Li and Miao ethnic minorities on March 3rd. During the celebration, you will appreciate the singing and dancing performances, enjoy the long table banquet and watch the traditional competitions. Their enthusiasm will also inspire you. In Chinese New Year, Nanshan Temple will hold a temple fair. Just immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere to watch the lantern shows and folk performances. Besides, there are also Flower Exchange Festival in Lantern Festival in Haikou, International Beer Festival in December in Sanya, Coconut Festival in March or April in many cities, etc.
17. Sample Hainan Coffee Culture at Shimei Bay
Another top recommended thing to do in HainanĀ for foreign tourists is to sample the local coffee. Hainan Coffee is famous for its unique charcoal-baked rich aroma and profound overseas Chinese culture. Xinglong Coffee and Fushan Coffee are the two main kinds. Xinglong Coffee is originated from Xinglong Huaqiao Farm in Wanning City and its flavor is rich and intense with a unique aroma of charcoal and spices. Fushan Coffee is produced in Fushan Town, Chengmai County, which tastes smooth and balanced with an aroma of peanuts and chocolate.
It is highly recommended to head to the Shimei Bay for a coffee experience when you are in Wanning. In the M1 Coffee Fantasy Workshop, you can not only taste various kinds of coffee, but also experience the whole process from raw beans to coffee.
Suggested tour
Take A Bite of Hainan
18. Taste Hainanese Chicken Rice & Wenchang Chicken
In Hainan, chicken is the most common food material. And Hainanese Chicken Rice is a representative food and its soul is that the rice is more yummy than the chicken. Because the rice is cooked with chicken fat and chicken soup, the essence of the chicken is absorbed by the rice. Wenchang Chicken is characterized by the thin skin, crispy bones, and tender and smooth meat. The most authentic cooking method is boiling and paired with a unique local sauce. Its purpose is to maintain its original flavor.
19. Enjoy Fresh Seafood Feasts at the Sanya First Market
Tasting seafood is definitely listed as the top thing to do in Hainan IslandĀ by most travelers. Where can you taste it? Sanya First MarketĀ is recommended. Different from traditional seafood restaurants, it allows you to choose the seafood by yourself. Over 100 stalls sell abundant types of seafood that are still alive. After purchasing, you can take it to the processing shop and specify the cooking method for each dish. The entire process is decided completely based on your own preferences. Just remember to confirm the price of seafood and processing.
Other Recommended Hainan foods
Foods |
Features |
Hainan Rice Noodles |
Thin rice noodles mixed with peanuts, bean sprouts, pickled cabbage and secret marinade, tastes salty, fresh and slightly sweet |
Vegetarian Pot |
Over ten kinds of vegetablesĀ are carefully stewedĀ together with abundant flavor. |
Coconut Chicken Hot Pot
Ā |
Use the fresh coconut water as the soup base and add Wenchang Chicken after boiling. Drink soup first, eat meat then and boil the vegetables finally. |
Vinasse Vinegar Hot Pot |
The soup base is the vinegar produced by fermenting the vinasse, so the hot pot tastes sour and spicy with an aroma of wine. Best for boiling seafood. |
Cold Dessert Soup |
With coconut milk or sugar water as the base, add several kinds of ingredients, like red beans, coix seed, taro, fruits, etc. It is cool and sweet. |
Exploring Lesser-Known Islands
20. Unveil Dongyu Island: The Permanent Site of the Boao Forum
Dongyu Island is famous for the landmark, the Permanent Site of the Boao Forum. In the forum theme park, you can see many memorial sculptures and feel a strong atmosphere of international cultural exchange. Its charm is more than this. The Jade Belt Beach is a naturally formed, long and narrow sand bank. On one side, it is the surging South China Sea; on the other side, it is the calm Wanquan River. The contrast is very striking. You can also play golf in Asiaās top golf course, Boao Golf Country Club, or savor a glass of wine in the bar called The Story of the Sea.
21. Discover Islands and Floating Villages around Lingshui
Lingshui County presents a more primitive and vibrant aspect of the island. The Fenjiezhou Island also boasts clear water and is suitable for scuba diving. The Ocean Theater on the island offers you a chance to have a close contact with maritime animals.
Another highlight in Lingshui is the Danjia Fishing Village. It is actually a village floating on the river. The local people have lived on boats and made a living by fishing for generations. You can take a boat to travel through the village. The destination of the boat is Nanwan Monkey Island, a paradise to watch the monkeys eating, playing and sleeping closely.
Essential Planning Tips for Your Hainan Island Vacation
How to Get to
Flight is the main way. Usually, Haikou and Sanya are the main gateways. Another choice is the ferry. You need to arrive at Xuwen County, Zhanjiang City in Guangdong Province first, and then take the ferry to Haikou.
Best Time to Go
Hainan is warm all year round, but the best time to visit is from November to April. The climate is dry and pleasant and the sunshine is abundant. It is the best time to avoid coldness and enjoy outdoor activities.
Where to Stay in Hainan
Sanya is the first choice for high-end vacations, where has more luxury hotels. Haikou is suitable for cultural lovers and is always the starting point for an island hopping tour. Wanning and Lingshui are the favorites of young tourists and surfing enthusiasts. More exquisitely designed homestays and surfing clubs can be found.
How Many Days to Stay?
Usually, 3 – 4 days are needed for a single region, such as Sanya or Haikou + Wenchang. The classic eastern loop tour with Haikou, Wanning and Sanya requires about 5 – 7 days. This is also the choice for most first-timers. An in-depth tour to cover the entire island will need over 8 – 10 days.
Related reading: The Complete Hainan Visa-Free Travel Guide
Plan Your Hainan Tour with China Xian Tour
In Hainan, the circular island railway can transport you between the cities easily, but the attractions inside the city are basically far from the downtown area. To ensure a seamless connection between the scenic spots, China Xian TourĀ can assign a driver for you. Besides, we can also tailor a trip for you to include the cities and attractions you prefer reasonably. Of course, the hotels, tickets and guide are all covered. You will enjoy a worry-free tour with us. Just contact us now.
