
Sanya's Yazhou Central Fishing Port, the largest and most extensive fishing port in southern China, is a multifunctional hub integrating production, supply, processing, trading, storage, shelter from the elements, and leisure tourism. For seafood, most guides mention the First Market, Sanya Bay, Chunyuan Seafood City, and the Hongsha Pier Fishing Raft. However, for Sanya locals, the most important place to buy seafood is the Aquatic Products Wharf at Sanya Harbor. The seafood at the wharf is hauled from the sea in the morning, and the pier is lined with fishing boats. Starting around 5 or 6 a.m. each day, the fishing boats return, bringing a dazzling array of catches to shore. This is the only place where you can enjoy the freshest seafood firsthand.
Tropical maritime monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
free
All day
Yazhou Central Fishing Port is one of the largest and most active fishing ports in Hainan, with a long history of serving as a key site for the island’s fishing industry. It plays a crucial role in local commerce, supporting both traditional and modern fishing practices, and is an important cultural and economic hub for the region.
Yazhou Central Fishing Port is located in the southern part of Hainan Island, near the city of Sanya. It can be accessed by taxi or private car. Public transportation options like buses are available, though taxis are the most convenient choice for tourists.
The port operates throughout the day, with the busiest times being in the morning when the fishing boats return. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the port at its liveliest.
There is no entrance fee to visit the port itself, but if you plan to take a boat tour or visit specific areas within the port, there may be fees. Tickets for boat tours can be purchased at the port or online through local tour providers.
For boat tours, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a day or two in advance is generally sufficient.
Visiting the Yazhou Central Fishing Port can take about 1 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore the port, watch the fishermen, and take in the local scenery. For those interested in boat tours, you should allocate 3 to 4 hours total.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some tours offering English-speaking guides. It’s recommended to book in advance if you require an English-speaking guide.
Start by exploring the fish market, then walk around the harbor to see the fishing boats. If you're interested in further exploration, take a boat tour or visit nearby coastal areas for a relaxing end to the trip.
Night visits are not typically offered at the port, but visiting in the evening can provide beautiful sunset views. Special tours such as nighttime boat tours may be available depending on the tour operator.
The port can get crowded in the morning when the fishing boats return, so visiting in the late afternoon or early evening can be a more peaceful experience.
The port has basic facilities including toilets and small food stalls. For more options, there are restaurants and shops located nearby in Yazhou or Sanya.
The port is accessible for most visitors, including families with children and elderly individuals. However, some areas may have uneven ground, so it’s recommended to take caution, especially for those with mobility issues.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted in some smaller shops or stalls.
There are some vegetarian options available at the nearby restaurants, but the focus is mostly on seafood. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in larger cities like Sanya.
There are small souvenir shops around the port selling seafood-related items, local crafts, and souvenirs such as keychains and trinkets.