Best Tianya Haijiao Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

As someone who has traveled through more than fifty countries, I’ve learned that every journey carries its own story—one shaped by the history, culture, and spirit of a place. I’m Michael Zhang, a traveler who thrives on uncovering destinations through deeper cultural and geographical perspectives. My goal has always been to help readers see beyond the surface. In this guide, I’ll take you to one of my favorite coastal landmarks in Hainan—Tianya Haijiao. This stretch of shoreline is more than a scenic meeting point of sea and sky. It represents centuries of Chinese cultural symbolism, romantic imagery, and timeless legends. Through my eyes as a long-time traveler, you’ll get a clear sense of what makes Tianya Haijiao special before you even step onto its sands.

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Tianya Haijiao Introduction

Tianya Haijiao, also known as the Tianya Haijiao Scenic Area, covers 16.50 square kilometers, including 10.4 square kilometers of land and 6 square kilometers of ocean. The site centers around the cultural themes of Tianya Haijiao—literally “the edge of the sky and the corner of the sea”—as well as long-standing romantic symbolism. It was named after two iconic stones carved with the characters “Tianya” and “Haijiao,” along with an inscription by the renowned Chinese scholar Guo Moruo. Recognized as one of Hainan’s most representative national scenic attractions, the area showcases striking coastal formations shaped by massive beach rocks, the Xia Ma Ling ridge, Tianya Bay, and the surrounding sea. Key sights include the Tianya Stone, Haijiao Stone, and the famed Nantian Yizhu. The site holds China’s prestigious AAAAA rating.

• Address: Sanya, Tianya District, Tianya Town, at the foot of Maling Mountain (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening hour:
  • March to October: 8:00–19:00
  • November to February: 8:00–18:30
• Recommended visit duration: 3 to 4 hours
• Best seasons: All year
• Ticket Prices: Free entry. Registration required on-site by scanning a QR code.

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Tianya Haijiao Map

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Why You Should Visit Tianya Haijiao

Natural Landscapes and Cultural Heritage

• Tianya Stone and Haijiao Stone: These two massive rocks form the symbolic heart of the scenic area. Their inscriptions—“Tianya” and “Haijiao”—represent the cultural idea of reaching the farthest ends of the world.
• Cliffside Stone Carvings: The earliest carving, “Haipan Nantian” from 1714, reflects early Qing-era surveying activities and carries both artistic and historical value.
• Coastal Tropics: Palm trees, beaches, and reef platforms blend together to create the signature scenery of southern Hainan.

Free Entry and a Convenient Visitor Experience

• Free Admission: Visitors can explore the area’s cultural, ecological, and leisure highlights without an entrance fee.
• Flexible Ways to Explore: Options include electric shuttle carts and walking paths that take travelers through tropical forest sections and coastal trails, which makes the area friendly for families with kids or seniors.

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Top Things to Do in Tianya Haijiao

Main Highlights

Tianya Stone

As one of the signature landmarks of Tianya Haijiao, the Tianya Stone immediately draws attention with its bold inscription of the characters “Tianya.” Its presence beside the open shoreline creates a powerful contrast. When you stand before it, the horizon seems to stretch endlessly, echoing the poetic idea of “even at the edge of the world, hearts remain connected.” This spot is a must-visit photo point and the central symbol of Tianya Haijiao’s cultural identity.

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Sun and Moon Stones

The Sun and Moon Stones form a pair of uniquely shaped coastal rocks. Their silhouettes resemble the sun and moon leaning toward each other, which inspired their name. The stones stand side by side, representing harmony and companionship, and many couples view them as a symbol of lasting connection. Waves lap gently at their base, while the interplay of sunlight and sea breeze adds poetic charm to this corner of the scenic area.

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Nantian Yizhu

Among the most striking sights in Tianya Haijiao, the towering Nantian Yizhu rises from the rocky shoreline with a strong, upright form. Often described as a “pillar connecting heaven and earth,” it also appears on the back of the two-yuan banknote. Many travelers hold the bill up for a fun comparison photo. Waves crash around the base while the stone stands firm, creating a sense of endurance and strength. Photographers love capturing its dramatic profile.

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Haipan Nantian Stone

The inscription “Haipan Nantian” carved onto this giant rock carries an ancient meaning tied to justice and the natural order between heaven and earth. Its placement facing the open sea enhances the sense of grandeur, blending nature with cultural symbolism. Standing here invites you to reflect on the respect ancient Chinese travelers held for the ocean, adding depth to the cultural experience of Tianya Haijiao.

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Tianya Haijiao Post Office

The Tianya Haijiao Post Office is the perfect place to send “blessings from the edge of the world.” Whether it’s a postcard between lovers, a traveler’s handwritten memory, or souvenirs stamped with Tianya Haijiao’s exclusive postmark, everything here adds emotion and meaning to the trip. Many visitors also write letters to their future selves, creating a small but memorable travel ritual.

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Tianya Haijiao Ticket Guide

Tianya Haijiao offers free admission, but visitors must register through the official WeChat account (“天涯海角游览区”) by scanning a QR code. You can do this either before you arrive or once you reach the entrance, though it’s easier to complete the registration while you’re on the way. Families traveling with kids or seniors can buy tickets for the sightseeing shuttle. The walking distance isn’t long—about 30 minutes one way—so most adults prefer to walk.

• Sightseeing shuttle: 25 CNY per person; children under 1.2 meters ride free
• Shuttle tickets: Trip.com Discounts, Klook Deals

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Recommended Tianya Haijiao Route

A clockwise route works best: Love Square → Tianya Story Gift Shop → Wedding Plaza → Tianya Stone → Haijiao Stone → Bali Sunset Viewing Platform → Nantian Yizhu. The full route takes about 3–4 hours. In the late afternoon, you can capture the golden light shining through the rocks from the viewing platform.

• Tips
  • Sunscreen is essential. The UV in Sanya is intense, so consider a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
  • Wear comfortable sandals and shorts. The beach and reef areas can get wet, so avoid long dresses.
  • Be cautious of “free photo offers.” Near Tianya Stone, some people hand out photos but charge 20 CNY per print.
  • After 4 p.m., the lighting becomes softer, but note that entry stops at 5:30 p.m., so plan ahead.

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Recommended Food Near Tianya Haijiao

Tianya Haijiao has plenty of restaurants and drink shops inside the scenic area, including a McDonald’s. Prices are similar to those outside the park, making it convenient for a quick meal. Since the attraction closes early, travelers who want a fuller dining experience can visit Tianya Town nearby, where there are many more restaurant options.

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Recommended Hotels Near Tianya Haijiao

It’s best to stay in Sanya Bay. The area is known for budget-friendly hotels, and although some facilities are older, the location is extremely convenient. It’s close to Sanya Phoenix Airport and many city attractions. The seawater quality is average, but the area is ideal for travelers catching flights, students, or those who don’t prioritize hotel luxury. Nearby sights include the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, Tianya Haijiao, and Daxiaodongtian.

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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.

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How to Get to Tianya Haijiao From Downtown Sanya

If there’s a direct bus nearby, you can take it. If not, a taxi is the most convenient choice. Taxi fares in Sanya are reasonable, and the weather often makes air-conditioned transportation a welcome relief.

Bus

From downtown Sanya, take Bus 125 to Tianya Haishang Bus Terminal. Walk for five minutes to reach Tianya Haijiao. The ride takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs 5 CNY.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

A taxi or ride-hailing car from downtown Sanya to Tianya Haijiao costs around 35 CNY and takes about 40 minutes.

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FAQ