Introducing Hainan
Sunny Hainan, a holiday paradise
Hainan, abbreviated as "Qiong," is a provincial-level administrative region of the People's Republic of China, with Haikou as its capital. Located at the southernmost tip of China, Hainan Province borders Guangdong Province to the north across the Qiongzhou Strait, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and Vietnam to the west across the Beibu Gulf, Taiwan Province to the east across the South China Sea, and the Philippines, Brunei, and Malaysia to the southeast and south.
Hainan Island, a dazzling pearl in the South China Sea and China's second-largest island after Taiwan, boasts the smallest land area and largest ocean area in China. Located at China's southernmost tip, Hainan boasts a wealth of tourism resources. As China's only tropical coastal destination, it boasts an unparalleled natural environment, rich in unique characteristics. Hainan boasts 81 peaks exceeding 1,000 meters in elevation, each stretching out in a unique, majestic landscape. Hainan's tax rebate policy for offshore islands has made it another popular destination for tourism. Sanya, a prime destination for Hainan tourism, offers not only the romance of azure seas and skies but also the delights of tropical rainforests, making it a truly romantic holiday paradise.
Climate and best time to travel
tropical monsoon climate
November to April
Most Popular FAQs for Hainan
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Hainan is China's southernmost province, historically a remote frontier and trading hub. It has strategic importance, tropical biodiversity, and a rich cultural mix including Li and Miao minority traditions. Today, it’s a popular resort and tourism destination.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in southern China, off the mainland in the South China Sea.
- Accessible by air: Haikou Meilan International Airport or Sanya Phoenix International Airport.
- High-speed trains connect Haikou and Sanya.
- Local travel by taxis, buses, or rental cars; walking is feasible in beach towns.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Beaches, parks, and tourist attractions: generally 7:00–18:00.
- Best time: October to April for dry, comfortable weather; avoid typhoon season (June–September).
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Yanoda Rainforest: ~160 RMB.
- Nanshan Temple: ~150 RMB.
- Beaches: mostly free; some private resorts charge entry.
- Tickets available online, via apps, or at entrances.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
For popular attractions and peak season, book 3–7 days in advance; off-season allows walk-in entry.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
3–5 days to cover main beaches, temples, and rainforest areas; a week for a more relaxed, comprehensive visit.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Yalong Bay, Dadonghai, and Tianya Haijiao beaches.
- Nanshan Temple and Guanyin statue.
- Yanoda Rainforest and Wuzhishan mountains.
- Haikou old town and volcano parks.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours and audio guides are available in Chinese and English; some international resorts offer multi-language services.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Sunrise at Yalong Bay and Tianya Haijiao.
- Panoramic views from Wuzhishan peaks.
- Guanyin statue at Nanshan Temple.
- Yanoda Rainforest trails and waterfalls.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start in Sanya for beaches and water activities.
- Visit Nanshan Temple and Guanyin statue.
- Explore rainforest parks and Wuzhishan mountains.
- Finish in Haikou for culture, markets, and volcano parks.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Some beach resorts offer night activities, light shows, and cultural performances; most natural parks close by evening.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
Peak season: December–January and Chinese holidays; weekdays and May–June are less crowded.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Most tourist areas have toilets, food stalls, restaurants, rest areas, souvenir shops, and water facilities.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Many beaches and resort areas are accessible; mountainous and rainforest trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted; cash is optional.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Seafood restaurants along Sanya and Haikou coastlines.
- Cafés and bars in resort areas.
- Street food stalls offering tropical fruits and local snacks.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are widely available; halal options are limited but present in some hotels and city areas.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Luxury resorts along Yalong Bay and Dadonghai.
- Mid-range hotels in Sanya and Haikou city centers.
- Budget guesthouses and hostels across Hainan island.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Tianya Haijiao scenic area.
- Wuzhizhou Island for diving.
- Volcano National Geological Park in Haikou.
- Local minority villages for cultural tours.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Tropical fruits, coconut products, shell crafts, tea, and local handicrafts.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- High-speed trains between Haikou and Sanya.
- Domestic flights to major Chinese cities.
- Bus, taxi, or rental cars for intercity travel within Hainan.
