Planning Your Trip

At this escape on the southernmost tip of China’s Hainan Island, visitors are treated to miles of immaculate white-sand beaches on Yalong Bay (known as the “Hawaii of China”), one of the region’s largest spas, verdant mountains, rainforests and views of the pristine South China Sea. Here’s what to pack to take advantage of it all.

Beach Vacation

With four pools — including a Ritz Kids pool complete with water slides — as well as miles of white-sand beaches, be sure to pack the essentials for long, relaxing days spent by the water.

With so many options for swimming or taking in the sun, it’s wise to bring at least two bathing suits so one will always be dry and ready if both morning and afternoon swims are in order.

Sun is plentiful and temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius year-round. Bring a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun, and don’t forget a good SPF sunscreen — and reapply often.

While one would certainly not be out of place wearing a bathing suit around the resort, it’s best to bring a sarong or light cover-up to ward off any chill from the air conditioning indoors.

Spa Retreat

Spend a day recharging at the property’s luxurious spa. Begin with a workout in the fitness studio before enjoying a pampering facial and massage. Pack a few items to make the most of your visit.

Bring a bathing suit to take advantage of the resort’s pools and the spa’s unique features.

If you plan to use the extensive exercise studios like the fitness, kinesis and Chi studios, pack activewear and tennis shoes.

Luxurious robes and slippers are provided for guests to enjoy in the spa, but consider packing comfortable clothes suitable for lounging if you are inclined to linger in the spa’s relaxation lounge or courtyard before or after your treatment.

Outdoor Adventure

While it would be easy to spend an entire visit relaxing at the beach or by the pool, there are many other outdoor adventures to occupy your days. Bring a few key items to be prepared for any activity.

Tennis shoes or good walking shoes are recommended for the Segway tour along the coast, a bike excursion through the mangrove reserve, or a day trip to a spectacular site like the Nanshan Temple or the Caves Tourism Zone.

A light backpack or satchel is helpful to bring a water bottle or snacks for longer excursions as well as a bathing suit to enjoy the hot springs at Seven Fairy Mountain.

The resort is just minutes away from both the Yalong Bay Golf Club and Sun Valley Golf Club — two of the area’s most famous courses. Bring your clubs to enjoy a few rounds.

Don't Forget:

If visiting on a romantic holiday, bring a small padlock and climb to the peak of Luhuitou Park (“deer turning head” park), where locals leave locks on a special chain in hopes that their love will endure as long as the lock stays in place.

There are so many things to see and do while on holiday in Sanya — from outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing to spectacular dining and relaxing afternoons at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sanya, and even unique activities for the youngest visitors. Set a few advance plans to make the most of your visit.

Dining Reservations

Visit the Culinary Shell — a hub featuring seven unique restaurants — for meals to suit every taste. In particular, make a reservation at Sofia for an exceptional wine list of prestigious vintages and the best Italian food in Sanya. Authentic dishes like mushroom risotto or Wagyu beef with mushrooms, arugula, Parmesan and sun blush tomato are the star of the show. For local fare, Pearl offers Cantonese, Hainanese and Sichuan dishes. Make a reservation at Scene for an elegant afternoon tea with breathtaking views of the South China Sea.

Spa Appointments

Begin or end any treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sanya by enjoying the many on-site amenities like the steam room, cool mist showers, or the serene leisure area with its water features and courtyards. Reserve a locally inspired treatment like the Tropical Poultice Massage to increase circulation, enhance immunity and soothe muscles. The Island Oasis Retreat uses the nourishing and brightening properties of coconut to renew the skin and aid in deep muscle relaxation. Or arrange for the Spa Wellness Program — a full day of exercise, diet and detox.

Day Trips

Set off for a drive to the Nanshan Temple — a massive recreational area that includes three stunning parks, Longevity Valley and Nanshan Bay, and the famous Kwan-Yin statue on the South China Sea. If a day of golf is in order, arrange for a tee time at either Yalong Bay Golf Club or the nearby Sun Valley Golf Club. Or have an adventure at Diaoluo Mountain, one of the six tropical rainforest regions on Hainan Island with a mountain summit nearly a mile high, providing stunning views as well as the opportunity to encounter much spectacular flora and fauna on the way to the peak.

Children’s Activities

While many off-site adventures are ideal for younger travelers, there is also much to do at the resort for children of all ages. Upon arrival, the youngest guests receive a passport that includes suggestions for on-site activities involving the coral reefs, forest, programs about recycling and sustainability, story time, art and cuisine. If children complete all activities listed on the passport, they receive a special certificate. Children can also partake in special events like Catch the Crab at the beach front or a fishing adventure at Chi Studio Lake.

The miles of beautiful white-sand beaches, consistently balmy tropical weather and clear turquoise seas have transformed Sanya into “the Hawaii of China,” and made it the nation’s most popular tourist city. The city’s history stretches back more than 2,200 years, and visitors have a wealth of opportunities for recreation, exploration and education. From the tremendous coral reefs on the seabed to limestone caves in the towering mountains, every level of Sanya and the southern Hainan province beckons with something that will enchant and entice.

2-Day Romantic Getaway

Sanya is renowned for beautiful beaches, sylvan forests, historic temples — and an abundance of sites brimming with romance. In this southernmost part of Hainan province — China’s most popular vacation destination — hilltop statues, beachfront monuments and seaside structures all have their roots in legends of everlasting love and devotion, and the area’s beautiful climate and enchanting destinations are bound to inspire it even further.

Discover More

5-Day Family Vacation Fun

The Sanya area has become China’s top vacation getaway, and the region’s bounty of recreational destinations easily validates that decision. In addition to the Hainan province’s expansive coastline, which inspired its nickname “the Hawaii of the East,” its ecological, zoological and historic sights all rank high on the list of superlatives — biggest, oldest and most beautiful, just to name a few. Get ready to go exploring!