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🌟 West Island Complete Travel Guide | Must-Visit Spots + Water Activities + Food & Accommodation 🌊

West Island (Ximao Zhou Island) is a hidden gem among Sanya's offshore islands, with crystal-clear waters and fewer crowds than Wuzhizhou Island! This guide covers must-see attractions, water activities, and transportation/accommodation to help you explore West Island effortlessly~


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📍 Must-Visit Attractions

1️⃣ Niuwang Ridge 🐂

• The island's highest point, offering panoramic views of glass-like seas + rocky shores

• Instagrammable ocean walkway and lovebird nest photo spots

• Tip: Best visited after 4 PM for softer lighting

2️⃣ Century-Old Coral Houses 🏠

• Traditional Hainan dwellings built with coral stones

• Experience local fishing village culture, perfect for cultural photography

3️⃣ Beach Bathing Area 🏖️

• Pristine white sand with exceptional water visibility

• Free swimming zone (bring your snorkeling gear)

4️⃣ Fishing Village Pier ⛵

• Romantic sunset views of returning fishing boats

• Buy fresh seafood at the pier market (processing available)


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🤿 Recommended Water Activities

✔️ Snorkeling/Diving: Stunning coral reefs (¥150-380)

✔️ Jet Ski: Thrilling! Best at sunset (¥180/10 mins)

✔️ Parasailing: Breathtaking island views (¥320/ride)

✔️ Glass-Bottom Boat: Ideal for non-swimmers (¥80/person)

💡 Money-Saving Tips:

▪️ Book combo tickets online in advance (~¥400 for 3 out of 5 activities)

▪️ Greater bargaining power during off-season (May-Sept)


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🚢 Transportation Guide

• To Island: Take a 15-min ferry from Xiaoqi Port

◦ Ticket: ¥98 at counter (¥85 online round-trip)

◦ Schedule: 8:00-17:30 (last return at 18:00)

• On Island:

◦ Walk/rent e-bikes (¥50/day)

◦ Sightseeing bus ¥35/person (goes to Niuwang Ridge)


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🍤 Must-Try Foods

1️⃣ Viral Beachside Shrimp Cakes

• Try "Internet-Famous Shrimp Cake Shop": fresh-fried shrimp & cuttlefish cakes (¥8/each)

2️⃣ Nanhai Yushu Zaocu Hotpot

• Tangy-spicy broth pairs perfectly with seafood (~¥100/person)

3️⃣ Coconut Grove Grandma's Coconut Chicken

• Free-range Wenchang chicken in sweet broth (~¥80/person)

4️⃣ Pier Seafood Market

• Handpick mantis shrimp/crab/grouper, processing fee ¥15/jin


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🏡 Accommodation Suggestions

1️⃣ Fishing Village Homestays (¥200-400/night)

• Pros: Great value, authentic fishing village experience

• Recommendation: Leisure Time Seaview Homestay (with balcony)

2️⃣ Coral Hotel (¥600+/night)

• Pros: Private beach, includes breakfast + transfers

• Ideal for: Families/couples


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💰 Budget Estimate (Day Trip)

Expense Items
Round-trip ferry ¥85
E-bike rental ¥50
Water activity (1 item) ¥150-300
Dining ¥80-150
Total ¥365-585


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📌 Important Notes

⚠️ SUNSCREEN! SUNSCREEN! SUNSCREEN! (Extreme UV on island)

⚠️ Buy ferry tickets 1 day ahead (may sell out in peak season)

⚠️ Watch your step on Niuwang Ridge rocks

⚠️ Confirm seafood processing prices beforehand


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West Island is 3-5℃ cooler than downtown Sanya, with 10m+ water visibility - perfect for snorkeling, photography, or just relaxing! West Island is seriously amazing! I'm definitely coming back~

Post by LEVI NEAL | Jul 27, 2025

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