Female Graduate Student Travel Day: Sanya 4-Day 3-Night Guide
by MarkusJacobsen
Jan 3, 2025
🌟 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
















