Sanya weather, the best time and seasons to visit

The Peak Season of Tourism

The best time for traveling to Sanya is from October to April.

In Sanya, it’s comfortable in autumn and winter. is warm and comfortable, with relatively little rainfall and abundant sunshine. It is widely regarded as the golden season for tourism in Sanya.

October to November: With the typhoon season just over, the sea is exceptionally clear. Temperatures range between 25°C and 30°C, rainfall is minimal, and visitor numbers have not yet reached their peak. The weather is stable, and overall value for money is high. Every December, Sanya hosts the International Wedding Festival, typically held at iconic and picturesque locations such as Tianya Haijiao, making any visit during this time even more memorable.

December to February: Winter feels like spring, with average temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. The skies are blue, the sea breeze is gentle, and weather conditions are excellent. This is the peak travel season, especially during the Spring Festival holiday around February, when large numbers of visitors flock to Sanya for vacation.

‌

March to April: Temperatures rise to between 25°C and 32°C. The weather remains sunny with little rain, and soft sea breezes make it ideal for beach and seaside activities. Visitor numbers decline after the Spring Festival peak, offering a more relaxed and comfortable travel experience.

If you come to visit Sanya in the third day of the third month or the ninth day of the ninth month in Chinese lunar calendar, you can see folk dance performances that can’t be easily seen at other times. You can also take part in the various festivities.

Tips: During this time hotels are often packed and difficult to reserve rooms due to the peak of tourists. If you favor a quiet environment and are not ready for high travel expenses, you should avoid the peak season.

Regular Season of Tourism

You can travel to Sanya any time of the year. The tourism industry booms year-round without obvious division of peak and slack seasons. It’s only in summer and around the National Holiday that it has a regular season.

The hottest month in Sanya is June, with an average temperature of 31℃ and sometimes an extreme one of 37℃. In summer, Sanya also falls within the rainy and peak typhoon season. In spite of this, many travelers still choose Sanya as their summer resort regardless of the potential bad weather. When it’s affected by the bad weather, the prices of hotel rooms will drop a little bit and the number of visitors will be smaller.

Sanya Weather in Four Seasons

Located at the southernmost tip of Hainan Province at around 18° north latitude, Sanya enjoys a true tropical climate that differs greatly from most regions in China, which experience four distinct seasons. With a latitude comparable to Hawaii, Sanya feels like summer all year round. There is no real winter and no frost, and temperatures remain warm even in the coolest months.

Autumn Winter is considered the best time to visit Sanya’s seaside. While many cities in northern China are cold and even snowy, visitors here can still wear swimsuits and sandals, stroll along the beach, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea. For this reason, Sanya has become a top winter escape for travelers seeking sunshine and warmth. You can also savor fresh tropical fruits while soaking in the romance of the golden sands and the sparkling ocean.

Sanya Weather by Month/Year Round

For some travelers, the best time to visit is not necessarily the most popular travel season, but rather the time that best suits their personal circumstances and interests. For example, some people prefer to visit during the Spring Festival. Although it is more crowded and prices may be higher, they can experience the local Spring Festival culture.

No matter when you decide to come, it is helpful to first understand the pros and cons of visiting Sanya each month, so you can plan ahead accordingly.

January: Is January a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

From a climatic perspective, the weather is generally warm and comfortable, making it an excellent time to travel. Clear skies and low rainfall create ideal conditions for diving, beach relaxation, and rainforest hiking. Sea visibility is high, and destinations such as Wuzhizhou Island and West Island are especially captivating, with their crystal-clear “jelly-like” waters. For these reasons, visiting Sanya during this period is highly recommended.

In January, Sanya enjoys very dry and comfortable weather, with an average rainfall of only 2.13 mm and around 1.7 rainy days throughout the month. The average monthly temperature ranges from 17°C - 27°C. Daytime temperatures typically stay between 24°C - 30°C, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor sightseeing, while nighttime temperatures are cooler at around 14°C - 20°C, perfect for evening walks and relaxation.

From a Cost Perspective

January is not peak tourist season in Sanya. The first half of the month usually falls into a quiet window between New Year‘s Day and the Spring Festival, when visitor numbers are relatively low and flight and hotel prices remain stable. This makes January an excellent time to visit for travelers seeking good value and a more relaxed holiday experience.

What to Wear/Bring in January

What to wear

Day time (24°C - 30°C): It is recommended to wear clothes made of cotton or linen, such as shirts, long skirts, thin T-shirts, and thin sweatshirts.

Night time(14°C - 20°C): We recommend wearing long-sleeved T-shirts with suits, jackets, windbreakers, casual wear, blazers, suits, thin sweaters, or other outerwear.

What to bring

It is recommended to bring lightweight clothing, sunglasses, a hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, moisturizer, beach shoes, a sun-protection jacket, motion sickness medication for boats or cars, and a portable handheld fan.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

February in Sanya offers ideal conditions for travel and outdoor water activities. With abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and dry-season weather, temperatures remain pleasantly stable between 20℃ and 28℃. Daytime is warm and comfortable, perfect for wearing summer clothing such as T-shirts and shorts. Mornings and evenings can feel slightly cooler, so it is advisable to bring a light jacket or sun-protective outerwear for added comfort.

Sanya in February has an average rainfall of 1.1 mm, with an average of 1.7 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 18℃ ~ 28℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 23℃ ~ 30℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 12℃ ~ 21℃, The temperature difference is significant, The historical lowest temperature is 12℃, and the historical highest temperature is 30℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, February can be a good time to visit Sanya. If the Spring Festival holiday has passed, visitor numbers decrease and flight and hotel prices tend to stabilize, offering good value despite Sanya remaining more popular than many other cities. However, when Chinese New Year falls in February, during this period, hotels in popular areas such as Sanya Bay and Yalong Bay often record occupancy rates exceeding 90%, while airfare prices typically rise by 50% to 100% compared with the off-season. So early booking is recommended; outside these dates, travel costs are generally reasonable.

What to Wear/Bring in February

What to wear

Day time (23℃ ~ 30℃): I recommend wearing shirts, long skirts, thin T-shirts, and thin sweatshirts made of cotton or linen.

Night time(12℃ ~ 21℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes such as T-shirts + single-layer cotton and linen sets, T-shirts, thin denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

What to bring

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In March, Sanya enjoys a pleasant and highly comfortable climate. Daytime temperatures are warm without being muggy, while mornings and evenings are slightly cool, creating ideal conditions for travel. Compared with the peak summer months, the weather feels fresher and more enjoyable, making it especially suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. If your visit coincides with the Li ethnic “Third Month Festival,” you can also take part in immersive cultural experiences such as bamboo pole dancing, bonfire celebrations, and traditional Li brocade weaving, adding a rich cultural highlight to your trip.

Sanya in March has an average rainfall of 0.03 mm, with an average of 3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 21℃ ~ 28℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 26℃ ~ 31℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 17℃ ~ 24℃, The temperature difference is significant, The historical lowest temperature is 15℃, and the historical highest temperature is 33℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, March is a very good time to visit Sanya. By March, the Spring Festival peak has ended, so airfare and hotel prices drop noticeably and return to more stable, mid-range levels and fewer crowds. Overall expenses in March are significantly lower than during Chinese New Year, while weather and sea conditions remain excellent, making it a high value-for-money travel period.

What to Wear/Bring in March

What to wear

Day time (26℃ ~ 31℃): I recommend wearing shirts, long skirts, thin T-shirts, and thin sweatshirts made of cotton or linen.

Night time(17℃ ~ 24℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes such as T-shirts + single-layer cotton and linen sets, T-shirts, thin denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

What to bring

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

April in Sanya is one of the most comfortable months to visit, with warm sunshine and gentle sea breezes creating excellent overall conditions. Sea visibility is especially high at this time, making it ideal for a wide range of water sports on Wuzhizhou Island, including snorkeling, diving, and other marine activities.

As spring reaches its peak, the island is lush and green, filled with blooming flowers and tropical fragrances. It is also a great season to explore tropical rainforests, enjoy cycling through coconut groves, or visit charming countryside villages such as Zhongliao Village and Bohou Village for a glimpse of Sanya’s rural beauty and laid-back local life.

Sanya in April has an average rainfall of 1.8 mm, with an average of 4.3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 15℃ ~ 32℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 28℃ ~ 32℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 19℃ ~ 24℃. The historical lowest temperature is 17℃, and the historical highest temperature is 33℃.

From a Cost Perspective

What to Wear/Bring in April

What to wear

Day time (28℃ ~ 32℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothes such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

Night time (19℃ ~ 24℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes such as T-shirts + single-layer cotton and linen sets, T-shirts, thin denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

What to bring

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective, May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Sanya, but showers are usually brief and refreshing rather than prolonged. Although summer has arrived, the heat is not yet as intense as in July and August, making the weather relatively comfortable. Sea temperatures are warm and ideal for swimming, diving, and various water sports. Tropical fruits are in abundance during this time, and surfing in Houhai is especially enjoyable thanks to the pleasant sea breeze and manageable waves.

Sanya in May has an average rainfall of 56.1 mm, with an average of 13.7 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 22℃ ~ 32℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 27℃ ~ 35℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 19℃ ~ 25℃, The temperature difference is significant, The historical lowest temperature is 13℃, and the historical highest temperature is 41℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a Cost Perspective, May is generally a good time to visit Sanya. It falls outside the peak winter season and major holidays such as Chinese New Year and the summer vacation period, so hotel rates and airfares are usually more stable and often lower than during the high season. While prices may rise slightly around the May Day holiday in early May, the rest of the month typically offers better value for money, making it a relatively cost-effective time to enjoy Sanya’s beaches and resorts.

What to Wear/Bring in May

What to wear

Day time (27℃ ~ 35℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothing such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

Night time (19℃ ~ 25℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes such as T-shirts + single-layer cotton and linen sets, T-shirts, thin denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

What to bring

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective, June is one of the hottest and most humid months in Sanya, especially in the afternoons when the perceived temperature can feel extremely high. Ultraviolet radiation is also strong during this time, so proper sun protection is essential. As the early rainy season begins, short showers are common and occasional typhoons may occur, so it is important to check the weather forecast before traveling. Despite the heat, the sea temperature remains comfortable, making swimming and wading ideal ways to cool down. You can also escape the coastal heat by heading to Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park for hiking, mountain views, and refreshing rainforest scenery.

Sanya in June has an average rainfall of 185.03 mm, with an average of 15.3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 23℃ ~ 33℃.Daytime temperatures range from around 30℃ ~ 36℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 21℃ ~ 27℃, The historical lowest temperature is 21℃, and the historical highest temperature is 36℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a Cost Perspective, June is generally a good time to visit Sanya. As it falls into the shoulder season before the summer holiday peak, hotel and airfare prices are usually at relatively low levels compared with the winter high season. Tourist numbers are lower, which means better availability and a more relaxed atmosphere. In addition, tropical fruits are abundant and freshly harvested during this time, adding extra value to your trip.

What to Wear/Bring in June

What to wear

Day time (30℃ ~ 36℃): It is recommended to wear short-sleeved shirts, thin skirts, shorts, etc., made of silk, linen, or light cotton fabrics.

Night time (21℃ ~ 27℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes such as T-shirts + single-layer cotton and linen sets, T-shirts, thin denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

What to bring

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

July marks the height of summer in Sanya, with average daytime temperatures reaching around 32°C. Although it is hot, the sea breeze helps reduce the feeling of stuffiness. Sunshine is intense, and the UV index often exceeds level 10, so proper sun protection and adequate hydration are essential. July also signals the beginning of the typhoon season, so it is important to check the weather forecast before traveling to Sanya.

Sanya in July has an average rainfall of 194.9 mm, with an average of 19 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 23℃ ~ 32℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 28℃ ~ 35℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 21℃ ~ 27℃, The historical lowest temperature is 20℃, and the historical highest temperature is 35℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, July can be relatively affordable compared with the peak winter season, as flight and hotel prices are generally lower and promotional discounts are often available. However, July and August coincide with China’s summer vacation, making it the busiest period for family travel. As a result, hotel rates and airfares may rise compared with June, especially in popular areas like Yalong Bay and Haitang Bay. Booking in advance is strongly recommended to secure better deals.

What to Wear/Bring in July

What to wear

Day time (28℃ ~ 35℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothes such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

What to bring

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

August is one of the hottest months of the year in Sanya, with intense heat and high humidity that can feel like a sauna. It is not recommended for travelers who are sensitive to heat. August also falls within the rainy and peak typhoon season, which may lead to flight delays, ferry suspensions, and restrictions on water activities. If possible, it is advisable to avoid visiting Sanya during this month.

Sanya in August has an average rainfall of 799 mm, with an average of 17.3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 22℃ ~ 32℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 27℃ ~ 35℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 20℃ ~ 24℃, The historical lowest temperature is 20℃, and the historical highest temperature is 35℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, August can be relatively affordable compared with the peak winter season, as flight and hotel prices are generally lower and promotional discounts are often available. However, July and August coincide with China’s summer vacation, making it the busiest period for family travel. As a result, hotel rates and airfares may rise compared with June, especially in popular areas like Yalong Bay and Haitang Bay. Booking in advance is strongly recommended to secure better deals.

What to Wear/Bring in August

What to wear

Day time (27℃ ~ 35℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothes such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

Night time(20℃ ~ 24℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as T-shirts paired with lightweight cotton or linen outfits, thin denim shirts or jeans, casual wear, or light business attire. Choose breathable fabrics to stay cool and comfortable in the warm weather.

What to bring

It is recommended to bring some lightweight warm clothing, sunglasses, hats, Mosquito repellent spray, sunscreen cream, rain gear.

It is recommended to bring lightweight clothing, sunglasses, a hat, SPF 50+ sunscreen, moisturizer, Mosquito repellent spray, beach shoes, a sun-protection jacket, motion sickness medication for boats or cars, and a portable handheld fan，rain gear.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

From a climatic perspective, the temperature is suitable, making it a good time for travel, but there are many rainy days, with showers being predominant. From a climate and average temperature perspective, September is generally not the most ideal time to visit Sanya. While air and sea temperatures remain warm (around 28-30°C), it is typically the wettest month of the year with frequent heavy rainfall and a continued high risk of typhoons. This combination of heat, high humidity, and unpredictable stormy weather can significantly disrupt outdoor plans and beach activities.

Sanya in September has an average rainfall of 541.53 mm, with an average of 23.3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 22℃ ~ 32℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 28℃ ~ 34℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 20℃ ~ 23℃, The historical lowest temperature is 20℃, and the historical highest temperature is 34℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, September is relatively favorable for travel. The summer vacation has just ended, and students and parents have returned home for school and work. During this time, most travelers are elderly, and the crowds from summer vacation have dissipated. Hotel and related costs have also dropped.

What to Wear/Bring in September

What to wear

Day time (28℃ ~ 34℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothes such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

Night time(20℃ ~ 23℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable and breathable clothing such as T-shirts, lightweight cotton or linen outfits, thin denim shirts or jeans, casual wear, or light business attire. Fabrics that are soft and airy will help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.

What to bring

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective, October in Sanya is much less intense than the peak summer months, and the rainy season is gradually coming to an end. With abundant sunshine and gentle sea breezes, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, beach leisure, and watersports. It is a great time for surfing in Houhai or diving around Wuzhizhou Island. However, the UV index remains high, so proper sun protection is still essential.

Sanya in October has an average rainfall of 514.7 mm, with an average of 21.7 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 21℃ ~ 30℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 26℃ ~ 33℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 19℃ ~ 25℃, The temperature difference is significant, The historical lowest temperature is 19℃, and the historical highest temperature is 34℃.

From a Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, In October, its peak season of Sanya with increased tourist traffic due to the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival. This results in longer queues at various attractions, and consequently, there is an increase in travel costs such as accommodation, transportation, and meals. During this time, there are crowds, and travel costs are higher, resulting in a less enjoyable experience.

If your schedule allows flexibility, it's advisable to avoid this period. Aside from this period, the rest of October is an excellent time for traveling.

What to Wear/Bring in October

What to wear

Day time (26℃ ~ 33℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothes such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

Night time(19℃ ~ 25℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable and breathable clothing such as T-shirts, lightweight cotton or linen outfits, thin denim shirts or jeans, casual wear, or light business attire. Fabrics that are soft and airy will help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.

What to bring

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In November, the temperature difference between day and night is minimal. It is neither as hot as summer nor as cool as winter, making it one of the most comfortable months in Sanya. The pleasant weather is perfect for outdoor activities and beach holidays. Sea temperatures remain moderate and the water is clear, creating ideal conditions for swimming, diving, surfing, and other watersports. You can choose your favorite stretch of coastline, whether Sanya Bay, Dadonghai, or Yalong Bay, and enjoy a relaxing seaside getaway.

Sanya in November has an average rainfall of 99.67 mm, with an average of 7 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 19℃ ~ 29℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 25℃ ~ 33℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 15℃ ~ 24℃, The temperature difference is significant, The historical lowest temperature is 15℃, and the historical highest temperature is 33℃.

From a Cost Perspective

Compared to peak holiday periods like Spring Festival and National Day, the number of tourists in November is relatively low, and costs are generally at a normal level. It is an excellent month for travel.

What to Wear/Bring in November

What to wear

Day time (25℃ ~ 33℃): It is recommended to wear cool and breathable clothes such as short-sleeved shirts, skirts, and shorts made of lightweight cotton fabric.

Night time (15℃ ~ 24℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable and breathable clothing such as T-shirts, lightweight cotton or linen outfits, thin denim shirts or jeans, casual wear, or light business attire. Fabrics that are soft and airy will help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the day.

What to bring

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In December, Sanya feels like spring, with warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and over 85 percent sunny days. The skies are bright blue, and gentle sea breezes create excellent weather conditions. It is one of the liveliest peak travel seasons of the year, coinciding with Christmas and New Year holidays, when the whole city is filled with a festive atmosphere. Hotels and attractions often host themed events and celebrations. Although daytime temperatures are pleasant, mornings and evenings can be slightly cool due to the sea breeze, so bringing a light jacket or sun-protective layer is recommended.

Beyond enjoying the sunshine, sea, and sandy beaches, visitors can take part in diving, surfing, sea fishing, and other watersports. You may also visit the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone for blessings, explore Tianya Haijiao, or discover the beauty of Wuzhizhou Island and other iconic attractions.

Sanya in December has an average rainfall of 8.97 mm, with an average of 2 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 18℃ ~ 27℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 21℃ ~ 32℃, Nighttime temperatures range from 12℃ ~ 21℃, The temperature difference is significant, The historical lowest temperature is 11℃, and the historical highest temperature is 32℃.

From a Cost Perspective

Compared to peak holiday periods like Spring Festival and National Day, the number of tourists in December is relatively low, and costs are generally at a normal level, making it a suitable time for travel.

What to Wear/Bring in December

What to wear

Day time (21℃ ~32℃): It is recommended to wear lightweight and breathable clothing made of cotton and linen, such as shirts, thin long skirts, and light T-shirts.

Night time(12℃ ~ 21℃): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, jackets, trench coats, casual wear, blazers, and light sweaters.

What to bring

Customize Your Unique Sanya Tour

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.

Informative Articles for Your Sanya Trip

Sanya

Hi, I’m Helen Tang, if you like my article, please share it with your friends. Any sugguestions on this article, please contact me. Thanks!

Want to plan a private Sanya tour? CREATE NOW

Sanya Tours: Sanya Tours

CREATE MY TRIP

GREAT FAMILY CHINA TOUR

JULY 2024 We wanted to thank Grace at China Culture tour for organizing a great tour of China. We enjoyed our Beijing - Xian-Chengdu -Guilin -Yangshuo - Shanghai trip. Our local guides Bruce in Beijing, Susan in Xian, Jane in Chengdu, Mike in Guilin and Mary in Shanghai took care of us…read more details »

Teng Han L from SINGAPORE

Ready to Create a Unique Dream Travel?

Create My Vacation