
The Sanya Coral Reef National Nature Reserve, established in September 1990 with the approval of the State Council, is a national marine nature reserve located in the coastal waters south of Sanya City, Hainan Province, and surrounding islands. The reserve primarily protects reef-building corals, non-reef-building corals, coral reefs, and their ecosystems and biodiversity. Reef-building corals are built by coral polyps, which are tropical marine coelenterates.
The clear waters of the Sanya Coral Reef Reserve allow for exceptional coral growth. Coral has very specific environmental requirements, making it difficult to cultivate species like red and gold corals. Therefore, visitors must be careful not to damage or pollute the corals. Corals provide food and shelter for small fish and shrimp on the seabed, maintaining a balanced ecosystem and allowing for the beautiful underwater world to be seen.
tropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours
All day
The Coral Reef Nature Reserve in Haitang Bay, Sanya, is home to some of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in Hainan. The reserve has been established to protect the coral reefs and marine life, which are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and supporting local marine biodiversity.
The Coral Reef Nature Reserve is located in Haitang Bay, Sanya, Hainan. The best way to reach it is by taxi or private car. Public transport options are limited in the area, so a taxi is the most convenient option from the city center.
The reserve is typically open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for water activities.
Ticket prices vary, with typical costs around 100-300 CNY depending on the season and the type of activities (e.g., diving or snorkeling tours). Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through the reserve's official website or travel platforms.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for tours and diving experiences, as they can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Booking a week in advance is advisable.
A visit to the Coral Reef Nature Reserve usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, including time for water activities and a guided tour of the reserve.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, providing insights into the coral reef ecosystem and marine conservation efforts. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages.
Start with a guided walking tour to learn about the reserve, then enjoy snorkeling or a boat tour to explore the reefs. End the day with some relaxation on the beach.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Coral Reef Nature Reserve. However, some resorts in the area may offer evening entertainment or sunset tours.
The reserve can get busy during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are usually on weekdays, especially during the off-season (May to October).
The reserve has basic facilities, including restrooms, drinking water stations, and shaded rest areas. There are also small shops selling snacks and souvenirs nearby.
The reserve is somewhat accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with walking paths and rest areas. However, certain areas like the water activities may not be fully accessible.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted. It is not necessary to carry cash.
Yes, many of the restaurants nearby offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options, particularly at the beachside eateries and resorts.
Yes, souvenir shops are available at the reserve and nearby resorts. Common souvenirs include coral-themed jewelry, local handicrafts, and Hainanese tea.