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Samut Sakhon in Sanya is known for its seafood, local markets, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the vibrant fishing ports, enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries, visit nearby temples, and take part in water activities like swimming and snorkeling. The bay area is also great for relaxing walks and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Longzai Bay, also known as Baifu Bay, Sun Bay, Moon Bay, and Coral Bay, is located southwest of the Yalong Bay National Tourist Resort in Sanya City, at the southernmost tip of Hainan Island. Its name, "Big Dragon Soaring in the Sky, Yalong Lying on the Ground," derives from its name. The waters are crystal clear, with optimal lateral visibility reaching 18-30 meters, making it an ideal diving area for recreational divers and underwater photographers.
This area is arguably Sanya's undeveloped virgin land, comparable to the fairyland of Penglai. Surrounded by mountains on three sides and facing the sea on one side, Longzai Bay boasts one of the most perfectly preserved coral reefs in Yalong Bay. International environmental experts have hailed it as one of "one of the few remaining soft coral reserves in China, the only one in the world," and one of the largest in the world. The underwater corals are diverse and vibrantly colored, and the marine fish are abundant. You might even spot schools of silvery-gray fish about a foot long, a truly spectacular sight. Scuba diving here is truly exhilarating.
Tropical maritime climate;
Suitable for all seasons, summer is suitable for diving, but pay attention to sun protection
It is recommended to spend half a day
free
All day
Samut Sakhon is historically a fishing hub and coastal area with a rich tradition of seafood processing. It holds significance as a center for local trade and seafood, particularly known for its shrimp farms and fish markets. The region is a gateway to understanding the cultural and economic life of Sanya's coastal communities.
Samut Sakhon is located in the coastal area of Sanya, Hainan. The best way to reach this area is by taxi or private car. Public transport may be less frequent in this specific area, so taking a taxi or renting a car is recommended.
Samut Sakhon is open year-round, and the best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Morning and early afternoon are the best times to explore, particularly for outdoor activities like market visits or walking along the coastline.
There is no entrance fee for visiting Samut Sakhon as it is a local area, but certain activities such as boat rides or water sports may require fees. Tickets for activities can be purchased on-site.
Booking in advance is not necessary for general visits, but it is advisable to book water activities or guided tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (holidays and weekends).
A visit to Samut Sakhon can take 3-4 hours to explore the markets, enjoy seafood, and visit nearby attractions. For a more relaxed experience, you may want to spend a half-day enjoying the coastal areas.
The must-see highlights include the local fish markets, the scenic coastal areas, and nearby temples. A visit to the fishing ports and nearby shrimp farms is also highly recommended to experience local life.
Guided tours are available, particularly for those interested in the fishing industry or cultural experiences. Tours are typically available in Mandarin and English. It's best to arrange for a guide in advance.
The best photography spots are the fishing ports, the coastline with its fishing boats, and the nearby temples. Early morning light or sunset provides beautiful opportunities for photos, particularly of the local markets or the bay area.
Start by visiting the local fish markets to experience the area's fishing culture, then take a walk along the coastline or the bay. If you’re interested, visit a local temple or fishing port for a deeper look into the area’s economy and traditions.
Night visits are possible, especially to explore the vibrant local food scene. However, there are no light shows or special tours in the area. The evenings are best spent enjoying seafood at local restaurants by the coast.
The area can get crowded during weekends and holidays, especially around the markets. The least crowded times are during weekday mornings, particularly on weekdays that are not public holidays.
Facilities include basic rest areas, public toilets, and small food stalls around the fish markets. You can find seafood restaurants nearby that serve fresh catches of the day, as well as small shops selling local goods and souvenirs.
Samut Sakhon is generally accessible, though some areas may have uneven paths, especially near the markets and coastal areas. Elderly and disabled visitors may need assistance in certain areas, but the main tourist areas are accessible for most people.
Cash is commonly accepted, particularly in local markets and small food stalls. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely accepted in the area, especially in restaurants and shops.
There are several seafood restaurants around Samut Sakhon offering fresh catches of the day. For a wider variety, you can visit the Sanya city center where you’ll find international dining options and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some local restaurants, and you can also find halal food options in Sanya city center, particularly near the local Muslim community.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels near Samut Sakhon, with many beachfront resorts and hotels in Sanya city center offering more luxurious options. It's easy to find accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets.
Nearby attractions include Yalong Bay, Tianya Haijiao, and Nanshan Temple. All are easily accessible from Samut Sakhon and can be combined into a day trip exploring both cultural and natural highlights of the region.
There are small souvenir shops near Samut Sakhon selling local crafts, seashell jewelry, and Hainan-themed trinkets. Seafood-related souvenirs such as dried fish and shrimp paste are also popular.
After visiting Samut Sakhon, the best transportation options are taxis or private cars. Public buses may not be the most convenient for reaching further attractions, but they are available for travel around Sanya.
