Wanning

Compared with Sanya, Wanning offers a more relaxed pace of travel. Palm-lined roads, surfing bays and Southeast Asian flavors make a good combination for a leisurely island trip of 4 days and 3 nights.

• Shimei Bay: A 6-kilometer stretch of silvery sand borders a native green-bark forest, with soft sand and clear water. Stop for coffee at Fenghuang Jiuli Bookstore, or head to Guanhai Pavilion for an elevated view of the two bays.

• Riyue Bay: Known as China's surfing capital, this bay has relatively consistent waves and a lively surf scene. Younger travelers can try surfing during the day and have a drink at a beachside bar in the evening. For sunset views, take a seat before dusk.

• Shenzhou Peninsula: The Japanese-style lighthouse and coastal seawall are local landmarks. The grassy scenery at Qiaohai Ranch has earned it the nickname “Hainan's New Zealand meadows.” Stop at the lighthouse in the evening to watch the sunset.

• Swallow Cave, Shanqin Bay: Black coastal rocks and a natural sea cave define the scenery here, which recalls Iceland's coastline. Enter the cave only at low tide. Use the backlighting and cave entrance to frame photos of the sea and blue sky.

• Taiyang River Scenic Bridge: Sand and sea interweave around the bridge, with water on three sides, broad views and distinct layers of scenery. It attracts fewer visitors than the popular bays.

Where to Eat in Wanning

• Diadia's Coconut Chicken: This restaurant has also attracted celebrity diners. Staff crack open three green coconuts on the spot, use the coconut water as the soup base, then add tender Wenchang chicken. The overall flavor is light and naturally sweet.

• Taiqiong Zaopo Vinegar Hot Pot: Zaopo vinegar is a local Hainan specialty with a history stretching back a century. Its sour and spicy broth works well with seafood and crispy-skinned chicken. Finish with mango rice noodle rolls for a change of flavor.

• No. 87 Fishing Boat Seafood Stall: Popular with many local diners, this seafood restaurant cooks seafood freshly selected from its tanks, with prices that are fairly matched to the quality. Look out for the signature black pepper stir-fried crab and rice with oysters.

• Hupo Herb Duck: The restaurant uses coastal free-range ducks that feed on seafood. Slow simmering makes the meat tender and full of flavor, and the sauce is good mixed with rice. After the meal, try a serving of durian stir-fried ice.

• Local Snacks: Try Hou'an rice noodle soup or Qiongnan sour rice noodles for breakfast, then have a bowl of qingbuliang, a chilled sweet dessert with assorted toppings, in the afternoon. At local produce markets, you can also sample zh azha-style fried snacks and baked buns.

Choosing Where to Stay

• Shimei Bay: The coast has plenty of beachfront hotels with sea views, clean beaches and relatively few visitors. Consider this area if you have a generous accommodation budget, want to spend much of your time relaxing at your hotel and value a high standard of accommodation.

• Riyue Bay: There are plenty of guesthouses, with surf shops and cafés nearby. The lively atmosphere suits younger travelers and surfing enthusiasts. Street-facing accommodation may be affected by bar noise, so check before booking.

• Shenzhou Peninsula: This area has a good range of everyday amenities and resort facilities, comfortable accommodation, and a lighthouse and sunset bar nearby. It is a good option for families and travelers who want quiet walks and a slower pace.

• Xinglong Town: Although it is not by the sea, accommodation costs are easier to keep down. There are plenty of Southeast Asian-style dining options, and fruit is reasonably priced. It suits students on a budget and travelers focused on local food.

Suggested 4-Day, 3-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Wanning and check in. In the early evening, walk along Shimei Bay's beach and watch the orange light spread across the sea at sunset. Have seafood for dinner.
• Day 2: Visit Fenghuang Jiuli Bookstore and Guanhai Pavilion in the morning, then head to Riyue Bay in the afternoon for a beginner-friendly surfing session. Watch the sunset from a beachside bar in the evening.
• Day 3: After arriving on the island, rent an electric scooter to explore, stopping at Qiaohai Ranch, the palm-lined road on Shenzhou Peninsula and the lighthouse. Head to the sunset bar in the evening to watch the sun go down.
• Day 4: Visit Swallow Cave at Shanqin Bay first, timing your visit to the low tide you have checked in advance to view and photograph the black coastal rocks. In the afternoon, explore the exposed shore and collect shells at Xinqun Bay before heading home.

Transport and Travel Tips

• Getting There: Wanning has no airport. Fly to Haikou Meilan Airport, then go downstairs to transfer to a high-speed train. The journey to Wanning Station or Shenzhou Station takes about 1 hour.
• Getting Around: Attractions are spread out, so renting a car gives you more flexibility. If you do not drive, take taxis or rent an electric scooter for around RMB 30–50 per day. Electric scooters cannot carry passengers.
• Weather: Sea views look noticeably different in sunny and overcast weather. Check the forecast before your trip and, where possible, plan coastal visits for sunny days.
• Tide Safety: Check tide tables before visiting Swallow Cave or exploring the exposed shore. Enter the cave or explore the shore only at low tide; rising tides pose a serious risk.
• Choosing Activities and Places to Eat: Book surfing through an established shop with certified instructors. Do not choose unqualified instructors simply because of cheap roadside offers. For seafood, choose restaurants with clearly displayed prices and be cautious of roadside touts.
• Sun Protection and Clothing: Hainan has strong UV rays, so pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and sun-protective clothing. The sea breeze can be cool in the evening, so carry a light jacket.