While cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and xi’an have long been popular among international travelers, Sanya is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about destinations in China.

Located on the southern coast of Hainan Island, Sanya is famous for its tropical beaches, warm winter weather, and relaxed island atmosphere. In early 2026, the city saw a dramatic surge in international visitors, making it one of the fastest-growing travel destinations in China.

In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Sanya, must-try local food, and suggested 2–3 day Sanya itineraries to help you plan your trip.

Why Sanya Is Becoming a Top International Travel Destination

Sanya’s growing popularity is no coincidence. The city combines tropical scenery, modern tourism infrastructure, and easier international access.

In January 2026, international arrivals reportedly increased by over 500% compared with the previous year, showing strong global interest in this coastal city.

Here are some of the main reasons travelers are choosing this city.

Easy International Access

The main gateway to the city is Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX).

By the end of 2025, the airport had expanded to 41 international routes connecting more than 30 overseas destinations across Asia and Europe. New direct flights from cities such as Seoul and Ho Chi Minh City make traveling to Sanya much more convenient.

Transportation inside the city is also easy:

From the airport

• Taxi to downtown: about 30 minutes, around 80 RMB
• Local bus: around 2 RMB

Getting around Sanya

• Ride-hailing apps like Didi are widely used
• Navigation apps such as Amap are helpful for travelers
• Electric scooters and mopeds can be rented near beaches for exploring the coastline

For visitors who prefer driving, car rental services are available at the airport with English booking options.

Accommodation for Every Budget

Another reason Sanya attracts international travelers is its wide range of accommodation options.

From budget guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts, the city offers something for every type of traveler.

Luxury Resorts – Yalong Bay & Sanya Bay

These areas host many international hotel brands such as Marriott and MGM. Many resorts feature private beaches, large swimming pools, and international dining options.

Boutique Hotels – Dadonghai

Dadonghai is popular with international visitors thanks to its lively beach area. Boutique hotels and guesthouses typically cost around 300 RMB per night and are often within walking distance of the beach.

Surf & Backpacker Scene – Houhai Village

Houhai has become a trendy area among younger travelers. The village is known for surfing, beach bars, and a relaxed social atmosphere.

Warm Winter Weather

One of the biggest reasons people visit here is the climate.

During winter months, temperatures typically range between 25°C and 28°C (77–82°F), making it a perfect escape for travelers coming from colder regions.

Combined with visa-friendly policies and growing international flights, Sanya is increasingly seen as China’s tropical winter destination.

Top 5 Things to Do in Sanya

If you are planning a trip, these are some of the most popular attractions.

Wuzhizhou Island

Often called the “Maldives of China,” Wuzhizhou Island is one of the most famous places to visit in Sanya.

Highlights

• Crystal-clear water
• Coral reefs
• Excellent snorkeling and diving

Visitors can try scuba diving, ride jet skis, or take a scenic golf-cart tour around the island.

Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone

This cultural site is best known for the 108-meter Nanshan Guanyin statue, one of the tallest Buddhist statues in the world.

The park combines Buddhist culture, ocean views, and peaceful gardens.

Travelers can also enjoy vegetarian temple cuisine, which is surprisingly popular among visitors.

Coconut Dream Corridor

The Coconut Dream Corridor is a 20-kilometer coastal road lined with palm trees and beaches.

It is one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset.

Many travelers rent bicycles or simply walk along the coast while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Best of all, this attraction is completely free.

West Island (Xidao)

West Island offers a quieter alternative to some of Sanya’s busier tourist areas.

The island still has a traditional fishing community, giving visitors a glimpse into local island life.

Popular experiences include:

• Visiting the Shell Museum
• Exploring small fishing villages
• Enjoying fresh seafood near the harbor

Tianya Haijiao (Ends of the Earth)

Tianya Haijiao is one of the most famous landmarks in Hainan.

The site features giant coastal rocks engraved with Chinese characters meaning “the edge of the sky and the end of the sea.”

It has long been considered a romantic destination and is a popular place for couples visiting Sanya.

Must-Try Local Food in Sanya

Food is an important part of the Sanya travel experience. Here are five dishes visitors should try.

Coconut Chicken Hotpot

A famous Hainan dish where fresh coconut water is used as the soup base. The broth is light, slightly sweet, and very fragrant.

Hainan Rice Noodles

A popular local breakfast dish topped with peanuts, pickled vegetables, bamboo shoots, and savory sauce.

Qingbu Liang

A refreshing tropical dessert made with coconut milk, fruits, beans, jelly, and shaved ice.

Hele Crab

One of Hainan’s famous seafood specialties. The crab is usually steamed to highlight its natural sweetness.

Baoluo Noodles

Thick rice noodles served in a rich broth or dry style with savory toppings.

Suggested 2–3 Day Sanya Itinerary

If you’re visiting for the first time, here are two easy itinerary options.

2-Day Sanya Itinerary (Relaxed Trip)

Day 1

• Walk along Coconut Dream Corridor
• Visit Tianya Haijiao
• Dinner: Coconut Chicken Hotpot

Day 2

• Full-day trip to Wuzhizhou Island
• Try snorkeling or water sports
• Evening seafood dinner in the city

3-Day Sanya Itinerary (More Exploration)

Day 1

• Visit Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone
• See the Nanshan Guanyin statue
• Sunset at Sanya Bay

Day 2

• Explore West Island
• Visit fishing villages and seafood markets

Day 3

• Water sports at Wuzhizhou Island
• Afternoon shopping at Sanya duty-free malls
• Dinner with local noodles and barbecue

Best Time to Visit Sanya

The best time to visit Sanya is from November to March.

During this period the weather is warm and comfortable, typically between 20°C and 28°C, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor sightseeing.

This is also when many international travelers visit the city to escape colder climates.

Final Thoughts

With its tropical climate, scenic coastline, and improving international connections, Sanya is quickly becoming one of China’s most exciting travel destinations.

Whether you’re interested in beach relaxation, water sports, or local food, this island city offers a unique travel experience that feels very different from most other places in China.

If you’re planning a winter trip in Asia, Sanya might be the perfect place to add to your itinerary. If you’re interested in discovering more places experiencing a surge in international visitors, check out our guide to China’s Top Rising Destinations for 2026.