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Sanya Holidays
Sunny Sanya is a modern city situated in China’s southernmost province Hainan and is the only tropical tourist destination in the country, offering something unique from your usual China getaway. It’s considered as the Chinese version of Hawaii, separated from the country’s mainland with beautiful beaches and bays offering crystal clear waters, plus colourful coral reefs, lush forests, sleepy villages, and luxurious beach front resorts.
Sanya is also home to charming colonial streets, traditional tea houses, plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment options, golf courses, and temples, offering a curious blend of city appeal and tropical allure. Sanya is also an adventurer’s paradise with excellent water sports and wilderness attractions situated in the rainforests and mountains that surround the city. Brightsun Travel offers cheap holidays to Sanya, taking you to the centre of this coastal paradise.
Map of Sanya
Atlantis Sanya
North Haitang Bei Road, Sanya, China, 572013
Bed and Breakfast
6 Nights
From £3149 per person
View Offer
Local Information & Travel Tips
Transportation
Getting around Sanya is straightforward, with several transportation options available. The Sanya Phoenix International Airport connects the city to many international and domestic destinations. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, but it's advisable to have your destination written in Chinese to avoid language barriers. Public buses offer an affordable way to navigate the city, with routes covering major attractions and beaches. For more flexibility, consider renting a car or a scooter, but be aware of local driving customs and regulations.
Visa Requirements
To travel to China, British citizens need a valid passport and a short-term travel visa. For up-to-date travel advice and health recommendations visit the government’s travel advice for China.
Safety Tips
Sanya is generally a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it's always important to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded places like markets and tourist hotspots. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables. Be cautious of scams, especially those involving overly friendly locals offering unsolicited tours or services. Swimming at the beaches is usually safe, but always heed local warnings and avoid swimming in rough conditions.
Local Culture, Traditions, and Customs
Sanya is known for its diverse cultural heritage, with influences from the indigenous Li and Miao ethnic groups. When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can be helpful and is often appreciated by locals. Haggling is common in markets, but always remain polite and reasonable. Tipping is not a standard practice in China, but it's welcomed in high-end hotels and restaurants.
Things to Do and See in Sanya
Best Beaches
Yalong Bay is famous for its clear waters and soft sand, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Dadonghai Beach offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of bars and restaurants nearby. Wuzhizhou Island features serene beaches and excellent diving opportunities.
Must-Visit Attractions
The Nanshan Temple, with its towering Guanyin statue, is a must-see for cultural enthusiasts. Nature lovers will enjoy the Yanoda Rainforest, which offers hiking trails through lush tropical scenery.
Places to See
Tianya Haijiao, often referred to as "the end of the earth," is a romantic spot with stunning sea views. Luhuitou Park provides panoramic views of the city and coastline, especially beautiful at sunset. The Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark offers unique volcanic landscapes and geological insights.
Local Cuisine & Dining
Try Wenchang chicken, a local favourite. Seafood lovers can visit the bustling seafood markets to select fresh catches cooked on the spot. Beachfront restaurants also offer a mix of local and international cuisine.
Shopping & Souvenirs
Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex offers luxury brands and a wide range of products. Jiefang Road Pedestrian Street is perfect for local crafts and souvenirs, along with delicious street food options.
Local Festivals, Holidays & Events
The Hainan International Tourism Island Carnival features vibrant parades and performances. The Sanya International Music Festival attracts top DJs and music fans. Traditional celebrations like Chinese New Year and the Dragon Boat Festival are also widely celebrated.
Nightlife & Entertainment
You’ll find lively bars and clubs along Dadonghai Beach, as well as more relaxed rooftop bars with ocean views. Sanya Romance Park offers cultural night shows and performances.
Family-Friendly Activities
Families can enjoy the Atlantis Sanya Aquaventure Waterpark, Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park with its canopy walkways, and Monkey Island, where you can see monkeys in their natural habitat.
Unique Experiences
Try a traditional Hainan hot spring bath for relaxation. Visit local fishing villages to experience traditional coastal life and fresh seafood. Adventurers can dive or snorkel around Wuzhizhou Island or take boat trips to explore nearby islets.
Nearby Attractions
Explore Wuzhishan Mountain for challenging hikes and stunning views. Haikou Volcano Park offers insights into the island’s volcanic history. Nanwan Monkey Island is a nature reserve with plenty of natural beauty to enjoy.
Weather in Sanya
Sanya, located on the southern tip of China's Hainan Island, boasts a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination with warm weather.
Hottest Months
The hottest months in Sanya are from June to August, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C. This period is also the wettest, as the summer months coincide with the monsoon season. Expect frequent but short-lived heavy showers, which can be a refreshing break from the heat. Despite the rain, these months are popular among beachgoers and sunseekers.
Coldest Months
In contrast, the coldest months in Sanya are from December to February. However, "cold" is relative in this tropical paradise, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C. This period offers mild and pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the intense heat of summer.
Best Time to Visit Sanya
The best time to visit Sanya is generally from November to April. During these months, the weather is comfortably warm and relatively dry, making it perfect for enjoying the beaches, exploring local attractions, and engaging in water sports. This peak season attracts many tourists, so booking accommodations and activities in advance is recommended.
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