My First 48 Hours in Hainan, China (Sanya)

In March 2025, my sister and I took a 6-day package trip to Sanya, a beautiful coastal city in Hainan, China. Known as the "Hawaii of China," Sanya is famous for its warm climate, tropical scenery, and affordable luxury resorts. We booked our tour through HanaTour, and here’s how our first two days unfolded.

Day 1 – Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Our flight from Incheon took about 4.5 hours. Upon arrival at Sanya Phoenix International Airport, we passed immigration relatively smoothly. Our local guide was already waiting and escorted us to our hotel, a 4-star resort with a beautiful view of palm trees and the ocean.

The room was spacious and clean with basic amenities, a bathtub, and even a balcony. Though it was late at night, we could still explore the nearby convenience store and grab some Chinese snacks. Wi-Fi worked well, which was a relief!

Day 2 – Temples, Tropical Roads, and a Bit of Shopping

After a quick hotel breakfast, our group departed for the first day of the guided tour. The highlight of the day was visiting Nanshan Temple, home to the towering Guanyin statue on the sea. The place was peaceful, grand, and culturally rich — even for someone who doesn’t practice Buddhism.

Lunch was a traditional Chinese table meal, served in courses for a group of ten. While the food wasn’t spicy, it was flavorful and filling. Beverages like water or soda were not included, so we had to pay extra.

In the afternoon, we drove along what our guide called the "Coconut Road," lined with tall palm trees and sweeping coastal views. We made a few stops at viewpoints before visiting a health product store that sold things like pearl creams, herbal drinks, and latex pillows. No pressure to buy, but the presentation was long.

Dinner was another set menu similar to lunch. After returning to the hotel, we had time to stroll around, visit a local market, and relax. I noticed Sanya's pace is slower than other Chinese cities — perfect for those looking to unwind.

Tips from My Experience

• Bring your own water — it’s rarely included with meals.
• Have some RMB cash on hand for snacks or souvenirs.
• If you're not into shopping, the optional stops might feel a bit long.
• Nanshan Temple is a must-see — culturally and visually impressive.
• Try local snacks from convenience stores for a fun taste adventure.

Next up: Our foodie adventures and beach relaxation on Day 3 and 4!