Live Your Best Lives
Xiaodonghai is a scenic coastal area in Sanya, ideal for enjoying the beach, water sports, and relaxing by the sea. Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, and taking boat tours. The beach is also perfect for a sunset walk, and there are many seafood restaurants nearby for a delicious meal by the shore.
Xiaodonghai is a small bay southwest of Dadonghai. Like most beaches in Sanya, it boasts coconut groves, clean sand, and clear waters. Lesser-known than Dadonghai and Yalong Bay, Xiaodonghai maintains a more tranquil environment. A coral reef reserve, Xiaodonghai boasts a vibrant coral reef community and tropical fish. However, Xiaodonghai's beaches are rocky and the sand is coarser than Dadonghai, making many areas unsuitable for swimming. While snorkeling is possible, visitors primarily come here to enjoy the tranquility.
Compared to Dadonghai, Xiaodonghai is more like a quiet farm girl at the foot of Luhuitou Mountain. The dark coral-covered mudflats, the rocky headlands, and the graceful egrets all enjoy the natural tranquility of Xiaodonghai. Its high-quality waters, beaches, and expansive coral reef platforms make it a prime spot for diving in Sanya. If Sanya's waters are a world-renowned diving destination, then Xiaodonghai is the ultimate destination.
Tropical maritime monsoon climate;
All seasons are suitable, and the golden season is from November to May of the following year, when it is not too hot.
Recommended 1-day tour
free
All day
Xiaodonghai is a well-known beach area in Sanya, famous for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. It has become a popular destination for tourists seeking both beach leisure and water sports. The region is an important part of Sanya’s tourism development, contributing to its reputation as a tropical paradise.
Xiaodonghai is located on the southern coast of Sanya, just a short drive from Sanya city center. Visitors can easily reach it by taxi or local buses. Sanya does not have a metro system, so taxi and buses are the most convenient transport options.
The beach and surrounding areas are open throughout the day. The best time to visit Xiaodonghai is from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm. Early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal to avoid the midday heat.
There is no entrance fee to access Xiaodonghai beach. Visitors may need to pay for certain activities like water sports, boat tours, or renting beach chairs. These can be arranged on-site directly with service providers.
Booking tickets in advance is not required for the beach area itself. However, for water activities or special tours, it's recommended to book a day or two in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A visit to Xiaodonghai can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on how long you wish to spend at the beach or engaging in water activities. A typical visit is around 2-4 hours.
The main highlight of Xiaodonghai is the beach itself, with its beautiful white sand and clear water. Visitors can also enjoy local seafood restaurants and shops lining the shore. Water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing are also popular here.
Guided tours may be available for water activities, such as boat tours or snorkeling trips. However, there are no audio guides for the beach area itself. Tours may be available in Chinese and English, depending on the provider.
The best photography spots are along the beach, especially during sunrise and sunset. The clear water, palm trees, and tranquil surroundings make for great scenic photos. The view from the nearby hotels also offers beautiful vistas of the coastline.
Start your visit with a walk along the beach to enjoy the views. Afterward, you can relax at one of the beachfront restaurants for a meal, or enjoy some water activities like snorkeling or jet skiing. Finish your visit with a sunset walk along the shore.
While Xiaodonghai is mainly a daytime destination, some beachfront restaurants and bars offer evening entertainment, such as live music. There are no dedicated light shows, but the sunset views make it a great spot for a peaceful evening by the water.
Xiaodonghai can get crowded during peak tourist seasons (especially holidays and weekends). The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays.
Facilities around Xiaodonghai include public toilets, restaurants, shops, and cafes. Some beach resorts offer additional amenities like rest areas, lounge chairs, and showers. Water and snacks are easily available at local vendors and restaurants.
Xiaodonghai is generally accessible for elderly and children, with flat walkways along the beach. However, some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users due to the sand and crowds. Many resorts and restaurants provide easy access for disabled visitors.
Mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted at Xiaodonghai's shops and restaurants. Cash may be needed in smaller, local shops, but most major vendors accept mobile payments or credit cards.
There are several seafood restaurants and cafes along the beach, offering a variety of fresh dishes. Popular options include beachfront seafood restaurants, tropical fruit stalls, and cafes serving international cuisine.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at several restaurants in the area, including vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes. Some restaurants also offer halal options for Muslim visitors, especially seafood-based dishes.
Nearby accommodations include a range of resorts and hotels, such as Sanya Marriott Resort, InterContinental Sanya, and smaller boutique hotels. Many offer beachfront views and convenient access to the beach and local attractions.
Nearby attractions include Sanya Bay, Tianya Haijiao, and Nanshan Temple. These sites can easily be combined with a visit to Xiaodonghai for a day trip, especially if you enjoy exploring the natural beauty of Sanya.
There are several souvenir shops near Xiaodonghai selling tropical fruits, coconut products, local handicrafts, and jewelry. Popular souvenirs include shells, handcrafted items, and Hainanese tea.
After visiting Xiaodonghai, taxis, ride-sharing services like Didi, and local buses are the best options for continuing your journey. Many visitors use taxis to reach other nearby beaches or attractions in Sanya.
