As a seasoned Chinese traveler who has spent many years exploring destinations across the world, I’m Michael Zhang. I’ve always enjoyed uncovering the geography, culture, and history behind every place I visit, then sharing those deeper insights with travelers who appreciate meaningful journeys. This time, I’m exploring Sanya Bay in Hainan—a coastline full of island charm—and offering a professional traveler’s perspective on how to experience it well. Whether this is your first time in Hainan or you want to understand this shoreline beyond the usual impressions, this guide will help you see Sanya Bay more clearly and discover the moments that truly matter.

Summary

Sanya Bay Overview

Sanya Bay stretches for 22 kilometers and forms a coastal landscape belt shaped by the Coconut Dream Corridor. It remains open year-round with no admission fee. The bay is divided into three functional sections: a leisure and sightseeing zone near the downtown area, a central section with public swimming beaches and water-activity spots, and a western area where resorts cluster along Haipo Beach. Because the eastern section sits close to the port, its water quality can be less ideal, while the western Haipo area features soft sand and cleaner water, making it the main zone for beach activities. Known for its long and fine shoreline, Sanya Bay offers experiences such as joining local fishermen during net-pulling and enjoying views of the Dongxi Turtle Islands and the vibrant ocean sunset.

Hotels along Sanya Bay are mostly budget-friendly. Some facilities are older, yet the locations are extremely convenient, sitting close to Sanya Phoenix Airport and major downtown attractions. The water quality is average, making this area suitable for travelers catching flights, students, or anyone with modest accommodation needs. Nearby attractions include the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, Tianya Haijiao, Daxiao Dongtian, and the Coconut Dream Corridor.

  • Address: Tianya District, Sanya City (Apple Maps/Amap)
  • Opening hour: 24 hours
  • Recommended visit duration: 1–2 days
  • Best seasons: All year
  • Ticket Prices: Free
Sanya Bay seascape at sunset

Why You Should Visit Sanya Bay

Natural Scenery and Leisure Experiences

Sanya Bay offers 35.7 kilometers of coastline that includes Tianya Haijiao Scenic Area, Luhuitou Scenic Area, and West Island Marine Tourism Zone, all rated as national AAAA attractions. The bay is suitable for sailing, yachting, and a variety of water sports. With a full range of hotel types available, travelers of every style can find a stay that suits their needs.

Convenient Location

Sanya Bay sits right next to the city center, making transportation extremely convenient. It is very close to Sanya Phoenix Airport and offers complete tourism and public-transport facilities, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, independent travelers, and business visitors.

Top Things to Do in Sanya Bay

Main Attractions

Coconut Dream Corridor

The Coconut Dream Corridor is the most iconic coastal walkway connecting the shoreline of Sanya Bay. Stretching for about 20 kilometers, it is known for rows of coconut trees swaying in the sea breeze. If you walk here at sunset, you’ll see the water glowing under golden light while pedestrians, cyclists, and joggers create a vivid coastal scene. For photography lovers, this is one of the best spots to capture the sunset over Sanya Bay and the city skyline. For first-time visitors, the Coconut Dream Corridor is also the perfect place to experience the relaxed pace that defines Sanya’s lifestyle.

Sanya Bay Coconut Dream Corridor beach view

Tianya Haijiao

As one of China’s most symbolic coastal attractions, Tianya Haijiao carries poetic associations with romance, distance, and longing. The two giant rocks etched with the words “Tianya” and “Haijiao” became famous for their natural formations and historical references. Ancient scholars once described this area as the “edge of the world,” and today it remains a must-visit landmark for travelers taking photos by the sea. The coastline is wide, the ocean breeze can be strong, and the contrast between the rocks and the blue water feels striking. Visiting early helps you avoid crowds, while arriving at sunset offers dramatic views that reveal why Tianya Haijiao became a symbolic image of Sanya.

Sanya Bay Tianya Haijiao coastal rock

Nanshan Temple

Nanshan Temple sits with Nanshan Mountain behind it and the South China Sea in front, making it one of Sanya’s most important cultural and religious landmarks. The temple is part of the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, which features grand traditional architecture and the renowned 108-meter Guanyin statue rising above the sea. This massive offshore statue symbolizes compassion and protection, drawing visitors from across China and beyond who come to pray and find peace. As you walk through the temple grounds, the sound of bells, the scent of incense, and the ocean breeze create a distinct sense of calm. For travelers interested in Hainan’s spiritual heritage and Asian Buddhist art, this destination is essential.

  • Ticket Price: Entrance 129 CNY, shuttle bus 30 CNY; shuttle ticket required.
  • Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts
Sanya Bay Nanshan Temple Guanyin statue

Daxiao Dongtian

Daxiao Dongtian, often called the “oldest scenic site in Sanya,” dates back to the Southern Song Dynasty. This coastal area is known for its unique rock formations, expansive sea views, and ancient inscriptions carved into stone. While walking along the wooden paths, you’ll see waves crashing against the rocks, rugged cliffs, and centuries-old writings left by scholars, creating a landscape that blends nature with history. For travelers who appreciate cultural depth paired with natural scenery, this site offers a particularly meaningful experience.

  • Ticket Price: Free, reservation required.
  • Ticket Reservation + Electric Cart Ticket Purchase: Trip.com Discounts
Sanya Bay Daxiaodongtian scenic gate

West Island

West Island is one of the best offshore destinations near Sanya for water activities and resort-style recreation. The seawater is clear, the coral remains well preserved, and the activity choices are extensive. Diving, snorkeling, jet-skiing, sailing, and fishing are all popular options. If you prefer a slower pace, you can walk through the island’s fishing village to experience local coastal life. Compared with the more commercialized Wuzhizhou Island, West Island feels more relaxed and authentic, making it ideal for travelers seeking a quieter and more natural ocean setting.

Sanya Bay Xidao island beach with turtles

If you want to experience all the major highlights of Sanya Bay, you’ll need two days, and most travelers place this part of their trip either at the very beginning or at the end. On the first day, I recommend visiting the Coconut Dream Corridor, Tianya Haijiao, Sanya Bay Beach, and Luhuitou Park. On the second day, spend most of your time on West Island, as the island offers plenty of activities and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

  • tips：
    • You can also visit the Coconut Dream Corridor after 16:00 for ideal lighting that makes photos look amazing.
    • When hiring beachfront photographers, always check sample photos first and negotiate (the normal rate is about 5 CNY per photo).
    • On West Island, negotiate electric scooter rentals down to around 15 CNY per hour.
    • At seafood processing restaurants, confirm the prices carefully and weigh everything on the spot.
    • Coconut chicken hot pot is a must-try.

There are plenty of great food options around Sanya Bay, and most of them are concentrated near Tianya Town and the Coconut Dream Corridor.

Xinmajia Danzhou Mifen Shop

Sanya Bay local snack shop food stall
  • Reason to Recommend: This spot serves classic Hainan-style noodles, and the dry-mixed version is especially flavorful. They also offer traditional Hainan pastries.
  • Address: Intersection of Yangxin Road and Sanya Li Avenue, 80 meters north, Tianya District, Sanya City (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 07:00–19:00
  • Average Price: 19 CNY

Diadiade Coconut Chicken (Coconut Dream Corridor Branch)

Sanya Bay coconut chicken restaurant dishes
  • Reason to Recommend: Their signature coconut chicken is naturally sweet and refreshing. The wild-fruit sour broth is rich and flavorful, and the chicken oil rice and salt-baked chicken make the meal even better.
  • Address: Shop B308, Building B, Lanse Coast Commercial Area, Sanya Bay Road, Tianya District, Sanya City (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 11:00–22:00
  • Average Price: 80 CNY

Taiqiong Zaopo Cu · Hainan Traditional Hot Pot (Golden Coast Branch)

Sanya Bay Hainan traditional hotpot dishes
  • Reason to Recommend: This fermented sour broth hot pot has a tangy, spicy flavor with a hint of rice aroma. Ending the meal with a serving of mango rice noodle rolls is perfect after such a rich dish.
  • Address: J01, Building C, Golden Coast Apartment, No.160 Sanya Bay Road, Tianya District, Sanya City (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday 11:00–22:00
  • Average Price: 100 CNY

Sanya offers an extensive range of hotels, mainly concentrated in four major bays: Yalong Bay, Sanya Bay, Dadonghai, and Haitang Bay. Overall, the closer you stay to Sanya Bay, the better the value for money. Sanya Bay is a lively urban area filled with restaurants and attractions, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. For a more detailed guide, see “Best Hotels in Sanya”.

Mangrove Tree Resort World Sanya Bay (Buddha Tower)

Mangrove Tree Resort World Sanya Bay (Buddha Tower)
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 250 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.1
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, kids’ playground, family rooms

Centrally located in the city with convenient access to dining and shopping. The resort features lush tropical gardens and Southeast Asian–inspired landscapes, creating a relaxing and exotic vibe.

Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, each with a large balcony and great views. Clean and quiet with good soundproofing, the hotel also offers many on-site facilities for leisure.

Ocean Sonic Resort Sanya

Ocean Sonic Resort Sanya
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 449 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms, 6-person and 8-person suites

Perfectly located in the center of Coconut Dream Corridor, just steps from the beach and sea. Only about a 15-minute drive from the airport, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby — ideal for both vacations and family trips.

Facilities are complete, rooms are spacious and clean, and breakfast is plentiful. A great choice for family stays.

Crowne Plaza Resort Sanya Bay

Crowne Plaza Resort Sanya Bay
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 479 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms

Just a short walk to the beach, with convenient access to the airport, West Island, and Nanshan Temple. It’s a popular option for family trips.

Ocean-view rooms feature wide, open views of the sunset and Coconut Dream Corridor. The rooms are equipped with thoughtful details like dehumidifiers and children’s amenities.

Wyndham Sanya Bay

Wyndham Sanya Bay
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 515 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms, 6-person suites

Ideally located near the beach within walking distance, surrounded by shops and restaurants. Very convenient for travelers.

Facilities are comprehensive and well-maintained. Rooms are bright, spacious, and comfortable, featuring soft bedding and clean, modern bathrooms with separate wet and dry areas. The hotel also offers many family-friendly activities, making it an excellent choice for parents with children.

Four Points by Sheraton Hainan Sanya

Four Points by Sheraton Hainan Sanya
  • Location: Sanya Bay
  • Price per night: from 531 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.1
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms

Excellent location, just a short walk to the beach. Surrounded by complete amenities and easy transportation options.

Though the facilities are a bit dated, they’re well-maintained, and the overall quality of stay remains very comfortable.

How to Get from Sanya Downtown to Sanya Bay

There are many bus routes from the city center to Sanya Bay, but taking a taxi is more convenient. Buses in Sanya often take a long time to arrive, and the weather can be very hot.

Bus

You can take bus No.108 or No.157 from the downtown area and get off at the “Emergency Rescue Base” stop. From there, walk about five minutes to reach Sanya Bay. The fare is 2 CNY, and the trip takes around 40 minutes.

Taxi/Ride-Hailing

A taxi ride from downtown to Sanya Bay is quick. The fare is about 19 CNY, and the trip takes around 20 minutes.

How to Get from Sanya Phoenix Airport to Sanya Bay

Sanya Phoenix Airport is very close to Sanya Bay. A taxi takes less than 20 minutes, and fares in Sanya are affordable, so taking a taxi is recommended.

Bus

You can take bus No.108 or No.127 from Sanya Phoenix Airport and get off at the “Emergency Rescue Base” stop. Then walk about five minutes to reach Sanya Bay. The fare is 3 CNY, and the ride takes about 35 minutes.

Taxi/Ride-Hailing

A taxi ride from Sanya Phoenix Airport to Sanya Bay is convenient. The fare is about 20 CNY, and the trip takes around 20 minutes.

FAQ

Where can I store my luggage?

Most scenic spots have luggage lockers near their visitor centers, but the fees are relatively high—usually around 25 CNY per 12 hours. A better option is to ask nearby small shops, which often offer luggage storage for a much lower price, typically 5–10 CNY per day.

Essential Sanya Travel Resources