Hainan - Discovering China

Travelling to Hainan

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hainan, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hainan and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hainan, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Hainan for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hainan

Hainan is the smallest and southernmost province of China, located in the South China Sea. It is made up of various islands and has a tropical climate with year-round warm temperatures. The capital city is Haikou and the most populous city is Sanya. Hainan is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse culture. It is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring the local cuisine and traditional villages.

What to visit in Hainan

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Hainan, China: 1. Sanya Bay: Located in the southern part of Hainan, Sanya Bay is a beautiful beach that stretches for over 22 kilometers. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming.
2. Nanshan Temple: Nanshan Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone in Sanya, Hainan. The temple complex covers an area of around 40 hectares and features one of the tallest statues of Guan Yin in the world. The statue stands at 108 meters tall and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning views of the South China Sea.
3. Yalong Bay: Yalong Bay is located in the southeast of Hainan and is known for its turquoise waters and long stretches of golden sand. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hainan, attracting visitors from all around the world.
4. Wuzhizhou Island: Wuzhizhou Island is located just off the coast of Hainan and is known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Visitors can enjoy various water sports activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
5. Qixianling Hot Springs: Qixianling Hot Springs is located in the center of Hainan and is known for its therapeutic hot springs. The area features over 20 hot spring pools with varying temperatures and mineral properties, which are said to have healing properties for a wide range of ailments. 6. Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park: Located in Haikou, the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park is home to over 4,000 animals from more than 100 different species, many of which are native to Hainan. Visitors can see tigers, bears, monkeys, and many other animals, as well as attend various animal shows.
Hope that helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Hainan

The best time to visit Hainan in China is during the months of October to April as the weather is relatively dry and cool during this time. The temperature can range from around 16°C in the winter months to around 28°C during the summer months. However, it's important to note that the peak tourist season is from December to February, so in order to avoid the crowds and higher prices, it may be better to plan your trip outside of these months.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hainan

There are several ways to get to Hainan, China. Here are some options: 1. By Plane: The easiest way to reach Hainan is by taking a flight to the Haikou Meilan International Airport or Sanya Phoenix International Airport. These airports are well-connected to major cities in China and also to other countries.
2. By Train: Hainan doesn't have direct train connections, but you can take a train to Haikou or Sanya from mainland China and then take a ferry to Hainan. The Hainan East Ring High-Speed Railway connects cities such as Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong to Haikou.
3. By Bus: You can also take a bus from cities in mainland China to Hainan. The bus journey may be long, but it is a budget-friendly option.
4. By Ferry: You can take a ferry from Beihai, Guangzhou, or Hong Kong to Haikou or Sanya.
Once you reach Hainan, you can easily explore the island by public transport, taxi, or car rental.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hainan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hainan

Hainan (China) is famous for its local cuisine, which is influenced by a mix of Cantonese, Hakka, and Hainanese culinary traditions. Some of the typical foods of Hainan with a short description for each of them are: 1. Wenchang Chicken - a famous dish of Hainan. The whole chicken is first poached, and then served with a mixture of minced ginger, scallions, and soy sauce.
2. Hainanese Rice with Boiled Hainan Chicken - Poached chicken is served with steamed rice that is cooked with chicken broth, ginger, and chicken fat. The dish is often topped with a spoonful of soy sauce or chili sauce.
3. Dongshan Mutton - a local dish of Dongshan Island. The lamb is cooked with a variety of herbs and spices, including ginger, garlic, and chili.
4. Jiaji Duck Porridge - A savory porridge made with duck broth and rice, shredded duck meat, ginger, and garlic. The porridge is smooth and silky in texture.
5. Seafood - Hainan is surrounded by the sea, so fresh seafood is a staple in the local cuisine. Crab, squid, shrimp, and fish are often steamed, boiled, or fried with a mouth-watering mix of spices.
6. Coconut Rice - a sweet and fragrant dessert made with sticky rice cooked with coconut milk and garnished with grated coconut meat.
7. Haijian Bing (Hainanese Pancakes) - a popular street food in Hainan. The pancake is made with rice flour and stuffed with chopped peanuts, sugar, sesame seeds, and coconut meat.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and varied cuisine of Hainan.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Hainan an expensive destination for tourists?

Hainan, as a popular holiday destination in China, has a range of accommodation options, transportation modes, and attraction sites that cater to different budgets. Generally speaking, Hainan can be a bit expensive for tourists due to its exclusive resort-style hotels, high-end restaurants, and higher prices for imported goods. However, with careful planning and research, tourists can still find affordable options for travel, accommodation, and dining. As an assistant, I recommend checking out local markets and street food vendors to save on food costs and considering traveling during the shoulder season (between high and low seasons) for lower prices on flights and accommodations.

Where to find accomodation in Hainan

There are several areas in Hainan where you can find suitable accommodation, depending on your preferences and the type of trip you are planning. Here are a few options: 1. Sanya - this is a popular resort city in Hainan with plenty of upscale hotels and resorts, many of which are located near the beach. Sanya is a great choice if you're looking for a luxurious beach vacation.
2. Haikou - as the capital city of Hainan province, Haikou offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. The city has a good transportation infrastructure and is located near many attractions and scenic spots.
3. Dadonghai - located in Sanya, Dadonghai is a quieter option for those who want to be close to the beach but also want to avoid the crowds. There are several mid-range hotels in this area.
4. Yalong Bay - also located in Sanya, Yalong Bay is known for its pristine beaches and high-end resorts. This area is a good choice if you're looking for a relaxing, upscale vacation.
Overall, Sanya is probably the most popular area for tourists visiting Hainan, but there are several other options depending on your preferences and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Hainan here:
Booking.com

Is Hainan a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally Hainan is a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low in this province, and the local government takes the safety of tourists seriously. However, as with any travel destination, it is still important to take appropriate precautions such as avoiding carrying large sums of cash or valuables, being aware of your surroundings at all times, and following local laws and customs. It is also recommended to stay informed about any potential safety risks or travel advisories before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hainan.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hainan the most?

Hainan, China offers something for travelers of all types, whether you are a couple, young people looking for fun, or a family. Here are some of the reasons why each of these types of travelers would enjoy Hainan: - Couples: Hainan is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and tropical climate. There are plenty of activities for couples, including boat trips to nearby islands, strolls on the beach, and dining at one of the many restaurants that offer local seafood.
- Young people: Hainan has an active nightlife scene that is perfect for young people looking for fun. The island has several bars and nightclubs, particularly in the resort town of Sanya, where partygoers can dance the night away.
- Families: Hainan is a great place for families to bond and have fun together. There are many activities for kids, such as water parks, theme parks, and animal parks. Hainan is also home to several cultural sites, such as the Hainan Island Folk Culture Village, which offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the local people.

How to get around Hainan

In Hainan, China, there are several options for transportation such as buses, taxis, rental cars, and motorcycles. However, the most popular and convenient mode of transportation for tourists is by taking a taxi or hiring a private car with a driver. You can also rent a car, but it is not recommended for foreigners due to the language barrier, traffic rules and the unfamiliarity of the area. Additionally, there are some electric scooters available for rent in popular tourist areas, but it is important to note that they are not allowed on major highways.

What to see around Hainan

Here are a few options for day trips from Hainan, China: 1. Yalong Bay: This is one of the best beaches in Hainan, known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and gorgeous scenery. You can spend the day relaxing on the beach, taking a dip in the ocean, and enjoying the stunning views.
2. Nanshan Temple: This is a Buddhist temple located on the southern coast of Hainan. It's known for its monumental statue of Guan Yin, the Bodhisattva of Mercy, which stands at over 350 feet tall. You can explore the temple grounds, admire the architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
3. Wuzhishan National Park: This is a mountainous area located in central Hainan. It's known for its breathtaking natural scenery, including lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. You can spend the day exploring the park and taking in the beauty of Hainan's interior.
4. Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden: This is a botanical garden located in the foothills of Hainan's Wuzhi Mountain range. It's known for its collection of exotic plants and flowers, as well as its scenic views. You can take a leisurely stroll through the garden, learn about different plants and their medicinal properties, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
5. Qixianling Hot Springs: This is a natural hot springs resort located in the center of Hainan island. It's known for its therapeutic properties and serene atmosphere. You can relax in the hot springs, indulge in a massage or other spa treatment, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
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