Discover Sanya: The Ultimate Tropical Getaway for Filipino Travelers

Sanya, often called the "Hawaii of China," is a dream destination for Filipino travelers seeking sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thrilling adventures. With its luxurious resorts, breathtaking islands, rich cultural heritage, and duty-free shopping, Sanya offers a perfect escape for couples, families, and adventure seekers alike.

If you're looking for a new tropical paradise to explore beyond Boracay or Palawan, let Sanya surprise you! Here's your ultimate list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Sanya for an unforgettable holiday.

1. Tianya Haijiao – A Romantic Escape by the Sea

📍 Location: Sanya Bay, Hainan, China
⏳ Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours
🎟️ Entrance Fee: CNY 68-81

Tianya Haijiao, meaning "Edge of the Sky and End of the Sea," is one of Sanya's most famous landmarks, perfect for couples and beach lovers. This picturesque coastal area features stunning rock formations, including the legendary "Tianya" (Heaven’s Edge) and "Haijiao" (Sea’s End) stones, which symbolize eternal love.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🌅 Stunning sunset views similar to Manila Bay but with a more serene vibe
💖 A romantic atmosphere ideal for honeymooners and couples
🏝️ Soft white sand and clear waters perfect for beach lovers

2. Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone – A Buddhist Sanctuary by the Sea

📍 Location: Nanshan Village, Yazhou District, Sanya
⏳ Recommended Duration: 4-6 hours
🎟️ Entrance Fee: CNY 108

Home to the majestic 108-meter-tall Guanyin Buddha statue, Nanshan is a must-visit for those interested in Chinese culture and spirituality. This coastal Buddhist park is filled with temples, scenic gardens, and peaceful landscapes, making it a great place to relax and reflect.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🕌 A cultural experience similar to Cebu’s Taoist Temple but on a grander scale
🙏 A peaceful and spiritual destination perfect for prayer and reflection
🏞️ Spectacular views of the South China Sea

3. Yalong Bay – The "Boracay of Sanya"

📍 Location: Yalong Bay National Resort, Sanya
⏳ Recommended Duration: Half-day to full-day
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free (beach access), CNY 158 for the Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park

If you love Boracay’s powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, Yalong Bay will take your breath away! Known as the "best bay in China," this 7.5 km-long beach offers world-class resorts, exciting water sports, and a lush tropical rainforest nearby.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🏖️ Pristine beach similar to Boracay’s White Beach but less crowded
🐠 Excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities
🌴 Lush forest parks for nature lovers

4. Wuzhizhou Island – The Maldives of China

📍 Location: Haitang Bay, Sanya
⏳ Recommended Duration: Full day
🎟️ Entrance Fee: CNY 144 (includes round-trip ferry)

For an exclusive island experience, take a short boat ride to Wuzhizhou Island, often compared to the Maldives. This tropical paradise offers crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and thrilling activities like diving, parasailing, and jet skiing.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🏝️ A tropical island getaway similar to Palawan’s Coron or El Nido
🤿 World-class diving and snorkeling
🏊‍♂️ A variety of exciting water activities

5. Dadonghai Bay – The Best Beach Near Sanya Downtown

📍 Location: Between Yulin Port and Luhuitou Peninsula
⏳ Recommended Duration: Half-day
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free

Only 5 km from downtown Sanya, Dadonghai Bay is a convenient beach destination offering fine white sand, clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to mix beach time with city life.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🚖 Easily accessible, just like Manila’s nearby beaches but cleaner
🌊 Great for beginner surfers and water sports enthusiasts
🍹 Plenty of beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood

6. Haitang Bay – A Shopper’s Paradise with a Secluded Beach

📍 Location: Haitang District, Sanya
⏳ Recommended Duration: Half-day to full-day
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Free

Haitang Bay is not just about gorgeous beaches – it’s also home to the world’s largest duty-free shopping mall! If you love shopping for luxury brands at tax-free prices, this is the place to be.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🛍️ Tax-free shopping for luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton
🏝️ A quieter beach perfect for relaxation
🏨 5-star resorts like Atlantis Sanya with water parks and aquariums

7. Luhuitou Scenic Area – The Best City Viewpoint

📍 Location: Luhuitou Peninsula, Sanya
⏳ Recommended Duration: 1-3 hours
🎟️ Entrance Fee: CNY 35-42

For the best panoramic view of Sanya, head to Luhuitou Scenic Area, a hilltop park with a legendary "Deer Looking Back" statue. Visit in the evening for a romantic sunset or breathtaking night views of the city lights.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🌄 A viewpoint similar to Tagaytay but overlooking the sea
📸 Instagram-worthy sunset and city views
🌳 A peaceful escape from the busy city

8. Helicopter Tour – See Sanya from the Sky!

📍 Location: Various departure points in Sanya
⏳ Recommended Duration: 10-30 minutes
🎟️ Price: CNY 980-5,000 (varies by route)

For an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of Sanya, take a helicopter tour and see the city's stunning coastline, turquoise waters, and luxury resorts from above. You can fly over Yalong Bay, Wuzhizhou Island, or even Tianya Haijiao for an aerial adventure like no other.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🚁 A thrilling experience similar to Manila’s helicopter tours but with tropical views
🌊 Unique aerial photography opportunities
💎 A luxury experience for honeymooners and adventure seekers

9. Yanoda Rainforest – A Jungle Adventure Awaits!

📍 Location: Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County
⏳ Recommended Duration: Full day
🎟️ Entrance Fee: CNY 98-738 (varies based on activities)

Escape the beach and explore Yanoda Rainforest, a lush jungle filled with waterfalls, hanging bridges, and thrilling adventure courses. This is perfect for Filipino travelers who love nature and hiking.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🌿 A tropical rainforest adventure similar to Cebu’s Osmeña Peak but with more activities
💦 Natural waterfalls and refreshing pools
🌲 Exciting jungle trekking and zip-lining

10. Binglanggu – Discover the Culture of Hainan’s Ethnic Groups

📍 Location: Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County
⏳ Recommended Duration: Full day
🎟️ Entrance Fee: CNY 120

Experience the rich heritage of the Li and Miao ethnic minorities in Binglanggu. This cultural park features traditional houses, dance performances, and local handicrafts, offering a glimpse into Hainan’s indigenous history.

Why Filipinos Will Love It:
🎭 A cultural experience similar to Baguio’s Igorot Village
🎶 Traditional music and dance performances
🍛 Authentic local cuisine to try

Plan Your Sanya Getaway from the Philippines!

🌞 Best Time to Visit: October – May (dry season, perfect weather)
✈️ How to Get There: Direct flights from Manila or connecting flights via Hong Kong, Guangzhou, or Shanghai

Sanya is the perfect tropical escape for Filipino travelers looking for beautiful beaches, exciting adventures, rich culture, and world-class shopping. Ready for your next island paradise? Sanya is waiting for you! 🇨🇳🌴