Shimei Bay: The Ultimate Family Getaway! Surfing + Crafts + Parties

First time visiting Shimei Bay? Torn between The Westin and Le Méridien? We chose The Westin for our first stay. Opened in 2016, The Westin boasts modern amenities and breathtaking sea views. Its 23-meter-high lobby opens directly to the azure coast, while spacious rooms start at 65㎡. The kids' club offers all-day supervision!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Top Family Activities:
1. **"Westin Explorer" Full-Day Camp**: Arts & crafts, language games, and outdoor adventures keep kids engaged from morning till night—they won’t want to leave!
2. **Seaside Young Artists**: Professional instructors guide kids in painting island-themed canvases (seasonal during art festivals)—take home a unique souvenir!
3. **Beginner Surfing**: The hotel’s beach has its own surf club! Safe lessons for newbies make it a blast for the whole family.
4. **Kids’ Pool Party**: Dreamy water features + bubble battles = the ultimate summer cool-down.

🚗 Must-Visit Nearby:
- **Jiajing Island Snorkeling🌟**: Crystal-clear waters with 10m visibility reveal stunning coral reefs. A 15-minute speedboat ride from the hotel (group tours ~¥300+/person).
- **Shimei Bay Coastal Drive**: Cruise or rent a sand bike, then stop at the viewing pavilion for drone-worthy shots of the crescent-shaped bay.
- **Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden (17km)**: Explore cocoa groves + DIY coffee—fun and educational for kids.
- **Sunset Bar at Shenzhou Peninsula (10km)**: Sip cocktails under fiery skies for peak vacation vibes.

🆚 **The Westin vs. Le Méridien**:
🏨 **The Westin**: Opened in 2016, newer facilities, packed with family activities (Explorer Camp + surf club), modern vibe, jaw-dropping lobby views, and top dining at Ting Bar (for ambiance) plus Huaiyang cuisine. Ideal for young families.
🏖️ **Le Méridien**: Opened in 2008 (renovated 2018), Southeast Asian resort style, iconic infinity pool + Horizon Seaview Restaurant (hard to book), features a kids’ center + heated pool, and new Glamping options. Perfect for Instagrammers.
> **Verdict**: Pick The Westin for kids, Le Méridien for aesthetics. Their beaches connect—visit both!

💡 **Tips**:
✔️ **Beat the heat**: April–October is scorching—pack sunscreen + swimwear!
✔️ **Transport**: Fly to Haikou and drive 2hrs, or take a train to Wanning Station + 30min taxi.