Hi, I’m Michael Zhang. Luhuitou Park is a free hilltop park close to central Sanya, known for panoramic sea-and-city views, sunset scenery, and the local love legend behind the city’s “Deer City” nickname. Allow 2–3 hours: walk uphill if you want to stop at the viewpoints along the way, or take the paid sightseeing shuttle if you are traveling with young children or older adults. Arriving in late afternoon lets you see the daytime coastline, sunset, and city lights in one visit.

Summary

About Luhuitou Park

Also known as the Luhuitou Scenic Area, the park consists of five mountain peaks, with the highest reaching 181 meters above sea level. Surrounded by the sea on three sides and connected to downtown Sanya on the fourth, it offers breathtaking views of the city, sunrise, and sunset. This site has earned the title of a National 4A Tourist Attraction in China. Luhuitou is not only the historical and cultural heart of Sanya but also the origin of the city’s nickname, “Deer City.” The park’s legendary tale, The Legend of the Deer Turning Its Head, is one of China’s three great ethnic love stories — standing alongside Yunnan’s Ashima and Guangxi’s Liu Sanjie.

  • Address: Luling Road, Jiyang District, Sanya (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: 08:00 – 22:30 (Last entry at 22:00)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 2–3 hours
  • Best Season to Visit: All year round
  • Ticket Prices: Free entry; round-trip sightseeing shuttle costs 28 CNY per person
Luhuitou Park deer-and-girl statue, Sanya, Hainan

Is Luhuitou Park worth visiting?

Free Entry and Perfect for Sunset Views

Luhuitou Park is open to the public with no entrance fee, making it a relaxing and budget-friendly attraction for casual strolls or family outings. The shady hilltop paths provide comfort even during the warmer hours, while the park’s elevated position offers an ideal vantage point for watching the sunset over the South China Sea. As the evening light reflects off the waves, the entire coastline glows like a moving painting — a paradise for photographers and sunset lovers alike.

A Unique Love Legend and Cultural Heritage

According to ancient legend, a young Li ethnic hunter chased a deer from the Wuzhi Mountains in central Hainan all the way to the southern shore. Cornered by the cliffs and the sea, the deer turned its tearful eyes toward the hunter. Moved by compassion, he lowered his bow and chose to spare the creature’s life. Suddenly, the deer transformed into a beautiful woman — a celestial being sent to test his heart. The two fell in love, married, and began a simple life of farming and weaving on this very land. This touching story symbolizes humanity’s transition from wilderness to civilization. Because of this tale, Sanya came to be known as “Deer City.”

Luhuitou Park Ticket Guide

Luhuitou Park does not charge an entrance fee. Visitors can purchase sightseeing shuttle tickets, though it’s not mandatory. The distance from the foot to the summit takes about 30–40 minutes on foot, allowing travelers to enjoy scenic views along the way. However, for families with seniors or young children, the shuttle is recommended for convenience.

Luhuitou Park Map

Luhuitou Scenic Area illustrated map and facilities guide

Top Things to Do in Luhuitou Park

Deer Sculpture Square

Deer Sculpture Square is the heart of Luhuitou Park and the most iconic photo spot visitors should not miss. At its center stands a magnificent stone sculpture of a deer turning its head — a lifelike piece that tells the timeless love legend behind the park’s name. Whether under the bright daylight or in the warm glow of dusk, the statue seems to quietly guard the sea and city of Sanya. It’s a favorite among photography enthusiasts and a symbolic place for couples to express their love.

Close-up of the Luhuitou deer statue at the hilltop plaza

“Love” Cliff Carving

Around Deer Sculpture Square lies a fascinating attraction — the “Love” Cliff Carving. The massive rock is engraved with the Chinese character for “love” in various calligraphic styles, symbolizing eternal affection. The surrounding area features romantic elements such as heart-shaped sculptures and couple trails, making it a perfect backdrop for couples’ photos. With the sea breeze brushing your face and the sound of waves nearby, even the air feels infused with romance.

Cliffside red character Love carving along the trail in Luhuitou Park

Beiting Viewing Pavilion

Beiting Viewing Pavilion is the highest point of Luhuitou Park and is also known as the “Love at First Sight” observation deck. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Sanya. Directly ahead stands Phoenix Island, whose five sail-shaped towers rise elegantly from the sea like a floating city. To the left, you’ll see the shimmering coastline of Sanya Bay’s Coconut Dream Corridor, while to the right lie Xiaodonghai Bay and lush mountain ranges. Whether you visit by day to admire the clear sea view or at night to see the city lights, this spot offers one of the best views in Sanya.

View from North Pavilion deck over Sanya River and marina

Deer Interaction Area

Near the mountaintop viewing platform, visitors can often spot gentle and adorable deer. These friendly animals are the park’s “little stars,” and tourists can take close-up photos with them. The deer are most active after 4 p.m., playfully approaching guests with curiosity. This encounter delights both children and adults, bringing a sense of warmth and joy. When taking photos, speak softly and treat them kindly — a gentle approach makes the experience even more magical.

Resting deer in the Deer Park enclosure at Luhuitou

The park follows a linear route, so there’s no need to worry about missing attractions.

  • Tips
    • Best Time to Visit: 17:00 – 19:30
    • Weather: Go on a clear afternoon to enjoy daytime views and catch the sunset.
    • Highlights: The same visit lets you witness the sunset, twilight colors, and the city’s night lights.
    • Scenery: Enjoy clear sea views by day, romantic sunsets by evening, and glittering city lights after dark.
    • Wildlife: Wild macaques often appear in the park, adding fun to your visit (though you should stay cautious).

There are many dining options inside the park, with average prices ranging from 80–100 CNY per person. A must-visit is the mountaintop restaurant with spectacular sea views.

GOODVIEW Sunset Restaurant

Sunset dining at GOODVIEW restaurant overlooking Sanya Bay
  • Why Visit: This café sits halfway up the hill, facing the sea and backed by the mountain. It offers a stunning double-sea view. As the sun sets, the sky turns shades of orange and red, the sea sparkles like liquid gold, and the entire scene feels healing and unforgettable.
  • Address: No.3 Branch, Luhuitou Scenic Area, Jiyang District, Sanya (Apple Maps / Amap)
  • Opening Hours: Monday–Sunday 09:00–20:00
  • Average Price: 80 CNY

It’s best to stay in Dadonghai, an area known for its convenient location, great amenities, and a wide range of budget and business hotels. The seawater quality here is better than Sanya Bay, though slightly below that of Yalong Bay and Haitang Bay. This area also offers easy access to popular attractions such as Sanya Romance Park, Luhuitou Park, Xiaodonghai, and Phoenix Ridge.

Harman Hotel Sanya

Harman Hotel Sanya
  • Location: Dadonghai
  • Price per night: from 498 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms

The hotel is close to Dadonghai Beach, which can be reached on foot, while Pineapple Shopping Center is located directly downstairs, concentrating a wide range of restaurants, shops, and everyday shopping options in one place. Dadonghai Bus Station is about a five-minute walk from the hotel, making it relatively convenient to travel to central Sanya and the duty-free shopping complex. On the sixth floor, the hotel has an oceanfront lawn, shaded pavilions, and landscaped areas with sea views. The outdoor infinity pool directly overlooks the ocean and is suitable for photography, family swimming, and relaxing in the evening.

The hotel lobby is spacious with a high ceiling, using wave sculptures and cloud-shaped lighting to create a modern island resort atmosphere. Ocean-view rooms have balconies overlooking the beach, sea, and distant mountains, while the rooms include a large bathtub, makeup mirror, and balcony furniture. The guest rooms are generally clean, and the bedding is soft. The hotel has children’s water-play facilities, an art room, and an outdoor play area, making it suitable for families. Its main advantages are the convenient location, ocean views, and relatively good value for money.

JW Marriott Hotel Sanya Dadonghai Bay

JW Marriott Hotel Sanya Dadonghai Bay
  • Location: Dadonghai
  • Price per night: from 709 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.3
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms

The hotel is located along the Dadonghai coast, with convenient taxi access to the major attractions in central Sanya. The resort grounds are close to the shoreline and rocky areas, making them suitable for walks, ocean views, and exploring the intertidal zone with children. A shuttle operates between the hotel and nearby properties within the same hotel group, allowing guests to use different public areas more conveniently.

The public areas and swimming pools have a strong resort atmosphere. The hotel has indoor and outdoor children’s play areas and offers several complimentary family craft activities, with relatively spacious areas dedicated to children. The rooms are generally kept clean, but the hotel has been operating for many years, and some interior finishes, bathroom fixtures, and in-room facilities show signs of use. Breakfast offers a wide selection, including local dishes such as Hainan rice noodles, zao po vinegar soup, and qingbuliang. The hotel is suitable for families who value children’s facilities, breakfast, and a quiet resort environment.

Pearl River Garden Hotel Sanya

Pearl River Garden Hotel Sanya
  • Location: Dadonghai
  • Price per night: from 798 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials
  • Rating: Trip 9.6
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground, family rooms, 4-person suites

The hotel is located in the central area of Dadonghai, with a dedicated rainbow-colored passage leading directly to the beach. Sand-rinsing facilities are also available before guests return to the hotel, making it convenient after children have played in the sand or gone swimming. The surrounding commercial district is well developed, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and places for evening walks. The rooftop features an ocean-view infinity pool overlooking the entire Dadonghai coastline, while the third floor has a shallow family pool, children’s activity area, and cactus garden.

Following its renovation, the guest rooms and public areas feel relatively new, clean, and refreshing. The hotel provides complimentary use of various swim rings and sand-play tools and arranges robot interactions, children’s activities, and other family programs. Guests can replace their room card with a wristband, making access to the swimming pools and beach more convenient.

InterContinental Hotels SANYA RESORT by IHG

InterContinental Hotels SANYA RESORT by IHG
  • Location: Dadonghai
  • Price per night: from 897 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, kids’ playground

The hotel is located on the quieter Xiaodonghai coastline near Luhuitou Scenic Area, with convenient taxi access to central Sanya. It has a relatively private beach with areas suitable for playing in the sand and entering the sea, as well as coral rocks and an intertidal zone suitable for snorkeling and family shoreline exploration. Some ocean-view rooms offer views of coconut trees and the sea from both the bedroom and bathroom, while the illuminated summit of Luhuitou can also be seen in the distance at night.

The hotel grounds are not particularly large, but the swimming pools, restaurants, and beach are close to one another, making it relatively easy to move around with children. The hotel provides children’s sand buckets, shovels, arm floats, and other items. Breakfast offers a wide selection, including Hainan specialties such as qingbuliang and rice noodles in zao po vinegar broth. Although the hotel has been operating for many years, it remains reasonably well maintained. Some parts of the beach contain broken coral or rocks, so guests should take care when walking barefoot. Overall, the hotel is more suitable for travelers who value peaceful ocean views, snorkeling, and intertidal exploration.

Mandarin Oriental, Sanya

Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
  • Location: Dadonghai
  • Price per night: from 1922 CNY
  • Check Rates: Trip.com Specials、Compare on Klook
  • Rating: Trip 9.4
  • Special Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, snorkeling, kids’ playground, family rooms, 4-person suites

The hotel is hidden between the forested hills and coastline of Coral Bay, with dense tropical vegetation, a private shoreline, and several swimming pools spread across the grounds. The overall environment is quiet and offers a high level of privacy. As the property covers a large area, guests mainly use shuttle carts to travel between the guest rooms, restaurants, swimming pools, and beach. Coral Bay is suitable for snorkeling, exploring the intertidal zone, and observing coastal wildlife, making the hotel a good choice for travelers who want to avoid busy commercial districts and spend most of their holiday within the resort.

The guest rooms and suites are generally spacious, while the standards of cleaning, bedding, and toiletries are high. Children can participate in snorkeling, swimming pool activities, and recreational programs, and staff patiently guide younger children or those entering the water for the first time. Breakfast is one of the hotel’s highlights, with dishes such as lobster wontons, wagyu hot-and-sour rice noodles, soufflés, and a wide range of Chinese and Western options. Overall, the hotel is suitable for family holidays, couples, and travelers who value privacy, natural surroundings, and service quality.

How to Get to Luhuitou Park

From Downtown Sanya

Luhuitou Park is close to downtown Sanya — about 20 minutes by taxi. There are also multiple public bus routes that go directly to the park.

Public Bus

Several routes go directly to Luhuitou Park, including lines 125, 254, 482, and 55. Get off at the “Luhuitou Scenic Area” stop. The fare is around 2 CNY, and the ride takes about 50 minutes.

Taxi / Ride-Hailing

Taking a ride-hailing car or taxi from downtown Sanya to Luhuitou Park takes about 20 minutes and costs around 15 CNY.

How to plan your Sanya trip

For a first visit, 2 days works well for a short getaway with a tailored route. If you want more time to mix activities—like island trips, rainforest walks, and water sports—consider 4–5 days. Here are our most popular private tour options:

  • Sanya 5-Day Private Tour — Flexible “4 out of 10” activity selection covering islands, yachts, forests, surfing, and cultural spots.
  • Sanya 4-Day Private Tour — Design your ideal island holiday with mix-and-match activities from yacht trips to rainforest walks and water sports.
  • Sanya 2-Day Private Tour — Pick from 11 route options featuring islands, forests, diving, surfing, yachts, and cultural sites for a tailored mini-vacation.

FAQ

Is Luhuitou Park stroller and wheelchair friendly?

Yes, it’s very accessible! The entire route is equipped with barrier-free pathways reaching the top of the hill and even the main sculpture. The path is shaded by trees, keeping it cool even on sunny days. Though there are uphill sections, the slope is gentle, and walking to the top takes about 30 minutes.

Where can I store my luggage?

Luhuitou Park offers free luggage storage at the sightseeing bus ticket office, located at the leftmost counter. After leaving your bags, you’ll receive a claim tag to pick them up after your visit — it’s convenient and secure.

Essential Sanya Travel Resources