Best Places to Visit in Sanya: Jiyang, Haitang, Tianya, Yazhou.

Helen Tang
820 Words/3 Minutes, By Helen Tang, Updated February 13, 2026

Known as the “Hawaii of the East,” Sanya is a tropical coastal city located at the southern tip of Hainan Island. The city is divided into four main districts, each with its own character and attractions. Haitang District represents luxury and high-end resorts, Jiyang District blends vibrant city life with natural scenery, Tianya District captures seaside romance and local charm, and Yazhou District preserves Sanya’s deep historical and cultural heritage. Together, they create the diverse and unique charm of Sanya.

Jiyang District

Jiyang District is the urban center of Sanya, where modern city life meets natural beauty. It includes Yalong Bay, Dadonghai, and Luhuitou Park, as well as the CBD commercial area. Yalong Bay is famous for its soft white sand, clear water, and excellent water sports facilities, making it one of the best beaches in Sanya. Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park offers lush rainforest scenery and panoramic coastal views. Other highlights include Yalong Bay Rose Valley and the spectacular “Romance of Sanya” cultural show, which showcases the city’s long history through impressive performances. Luhuitou Park and Dadonghai are also popular for sightseeing and leisure.

Haitang District

Haitang District is the eastern gateway of Sanya and the city’s premier luxury resort area. Haitang Bay features a 22.4-kilometer coastline known as part of China’s National Coast. Wuzhizhou Island is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, with crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life. Houhai Village is a favorite spot for surfing, especially among young travelers. The area is also home to the Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex and the iconic Atlantis Resort, including its water park and aquarium. Haitang District is best places to visit for upscale relaxation, shopping, and island adventures.

Yazhou District

Yazhou District is a historic and cultural center with a history dating back over a thousand years. It is home to Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, Nanshan Temple, Daxiao Dongtian Scenic Area, and Yazhou Ancient City. Visitors can explore ancient streets, admire the southernmost Confucian Temple in China, and experience the region’s rich cultural heritage. With 23 protected cultural relic sites at national and provincial levels, this district is perfect for cultural exploration and eco-tourism.

Tianya District

Tianya District is known for its romantic coastal scenery and vibrant seaside atmosphere. Landmark attractions include the famous Tianya Haijiao, where the iconic “End of the Earth” stones symbolize love and eternity. Coconut Dream Corridor along Sanya Bay offers beautiful sunset views, while West Island features traditional coral stone houses and authentic fishing village culture. Tianya Town and Sanya Bay are popular for relaxed sightseeing, beach walks, and enjoying the laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Sanya’s Major Bays

Sanya is also famous for its four main bay areas, each offering a different experience.

Sanya Bay is close to the airport and city center, featuring Coconut Dream Corridor, Tianya Haijiao, Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, Daxiao Dongtian, West Island, and Phoenix Island.

Haitang Bay is known for luxury resorts and attractions such as Wuzhizhou Island, Houhai Village, Atlantis Water World and Aquarium, the International Duty-Free Mall, Queen’s Bay, and Coconut Island.

Yalong Bay is often considered the most beautiful bay, with fine sand, calm waves, excellent swimming conditions, and various water activities. It also includes Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park and Rose Valley.

Dadonghai is a lively and accessible beach area near Luhuitou Park, Sanya Romance Park, and Phoenix Ridge, popular among both international visitors and younger travelers.

Together, these districts and bays make Sanya a destination that perfectly combines tropical scenery, luxury resorts, cultural heritage, and vibrant coastal life.

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If you are interested in the Sanya itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Sanya Tour, please visit our Sanya Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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Helen Tang

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