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Sanya

China · Coast · CNY · 18.252800, 109.511900
Family friendly 7.7/10 · Rank 252 of 2 709
Best season: October-April

Best for

Suitable for beach lovers, diving, families, and those seeking a tropical holiday

Best season

October-April

Daily budget
$68.00 (≈ 5 707 ₽ · ≈ 490 CNY)
For 7 days
$476.00 (≈ 39 946 ₽ · ≈ 3 427 CNY)
Sanya is China's main resort city on the southern coast of Hainan Island, often called the "Chinese Hawaii". White-sand beaches, turquoise water, and a tropical climate attract tourists here all year round. It is home to some of the country's best hotels and resorts.
Summer
36.0°C
Winter
18.0°C
Sea
29.8°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Friendly, hospitable, with tropical lifestyle

Pros and cons

Pros

  • China's best beaches
  • Direct flights from Moscow
  • Crystal clear water
  • Warm climate year-round
  • Visa-free entry for Russians up to 30 days
  • Excellent seafood

Cons

  • High humidity in summer
  • Rainy season from May to October
  • Many tourists in high season
  • High prices in high season
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
30.2°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
36.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
22.6°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
26.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
18.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
28.7°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
29.8°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Yalong Bay
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Beaches of Sanya
Top beaches in the area
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Marine danger is minimal. Sanya beaches are considered safe for swimming, swimming on guarded beaches recommended

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins found on rocky bottom areas, especially near coral reefs
  • Water shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs present in bays, especially near islands
  • Do not step on corals

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish may appear in warmer months, especially late summer
  • Check with locals about jellyfish

Sharks — details

  • Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) — returning to the coastal waters of Wuzhizhou Island, not aggressive to humans
  • Over 20 shark species recorded off Sanya, most of them not dangerous to humans
Attractions

Yalong Bay Beach

One of China's best beaches with white sand and crystal clear water

Nanshan

Buddhist temple complex with 108-meter Guanyin statue

Wuzhizhou Island

Scenic island with beaches and diving opportunities

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park

Park with panoramic bay views and tropical forests

Dadonghai

Scenic bay with beach and nightlife

Best areas

Yalong Bay

Prestigious area with hotels and main beach

Dadonghai

Area with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife

Sanya Bay

Area with hotels and restaurants, close to airport

Must-try food

Fresh Seafood

Fresh seafood including shrimp, crab, and fish

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Rice with chicken, Hainan specialty

Coconut Jelly

Coconut milk dessert, popular in Sanya

Mango Salad

Mango salad with shrimp, popular snack

Hainanese Soup

Thick seafood soup, traditional dish

Where to go next

Wuzhizhou Island

Scenic island with beaches, 30 minutes by boat

Nanshan

Buddhist temple complex, 40 minutes away

Tropical Paradise Forest Park

Park with panoramic bay views, 20 minutes away

Haikou

Capital of Hainan, 2 hours by train

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
medium
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Санья Фэнхуан (SYX).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required (up to 30 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
October-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 108 CNY
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 288 CNY
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 576 CNY
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$160.00
≈ 13 427 ₽ · ≈ 1 152 CNY
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 864 CNY
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 360 CNY
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 58 CNY
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 130 CNY
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 25 CNY
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 14 CNY
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 4 CNY
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 72 CNY
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 50 CNY
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 29 CNY
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 50 CNY
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 144 CNY
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 4 CNY
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 29 CNY
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 288 CNY
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 22 CNY
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 58 CNY
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 252 CNY
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 576 CNY
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Sanya Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 288 CNY
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 72 CNY
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 108 CNY
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Frequently asked questions
Sanya: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is October-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Sanya: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +36.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Sanya: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +18.0°C, during the day — up to +26.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Sanya: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +29.8°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Sanya: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Sanya: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, crystal water. The most popular beaches: Yalong Bay. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Sanya: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Sanya: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish. Marine danger is minimal. Sanya beaches are considered safe for swimming, swimming on guarded beaches recommended. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Sanya: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $68.00 (≈ 5 707 ₽ · ≈ 490 CNY) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Sanya: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $15.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $40.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $160.00 per night, an apartment — $50.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Sanya: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $8.00, dinner at a restaurant — $18.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Sanya: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $4.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Sanya: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Yalong Bay Beach — One of China's best beaches with white sand and crystal clear water; Nanshan — Buddhist temple complex with 108-meter Guanyin statue; Wuzhizhou Island — Scenic island with beaches and diving opportunities; Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park — Park with panoramic bay views and tropical forests; Dadonghai — Scenic bay with beach and nightlife. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Sanya: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Fresh Seafood — Fresh seafood including shrimp, crab, and fish; Hainanese Chicken Rice — Rice with chicken, Hainan specialty; Coconut Jelly — Coconut milk dessert, popular in Sanya; Mango Salad — Mango salad with shrimp, popular snack; Hainanese Soup — Thick seafood soup, traditional dish. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Sanya: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Yalong Bay — Prestigious area with hotels and main beach; Dadonghai — Area with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife; Sanya Bay — Area with hotels and restaurants, close to airport. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Sanya: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (up to 30 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Sanya: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Санья Фэнхуан (code SYX). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Sanya: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — CNY. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $68.00 (≈ 5 707 ₽ · ≈ 490 CNY). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Sanya: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Sanya: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Sanya: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Wuzhizhou Island — Scenic island with beaches, 30 minutes by boat; Nanshan — Buddhist temple complex, 40 minutes away; Tropical Paradise Forest Park — Park with panoramic bay views, 20 minutes away; Haikou — Capital of Hainan, 2 hours by train. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.7/10
Overall rank: 252 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 152