Giving up on Sanya because this place is too amazing! You must come here for May Day.
Tired of cookie-cutter trips? Want to frolic on the beach and encounter stunning scenery? Then come to Wanning! This hidden gem of a coastal city in Hainan is full of little-known scenic spots and delicious food, guaranteeing a unique travel experience.
I. Preparation Before Departure
- Documents: ID card, driver's license (if you plan to rent a car).
- Clothing: Light and breathable summer clothes, swimwear, swimming goggles, sun protection clothing, beach towels, sun hats, sunglasses.
- Skincare and Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, after-sun repair masks and lotions, moisturizing skincare products, lip balm.
- Other: Portable charger, camera, waterproof phone case, common medications (for stomach issues, colds, motion sickness, etc.).
II. Transportation Guide
- External Transportation: You can choose to arrive at Haikou Meilan International Airport or Sanya Phoenix International Airport first, and then transfer to Wanning Station by high-speed rail. The journey from Meilan Airport to Wanning Station is about 1.5 hours, and from Phoenix Airport to Wanning Station is about 1 hour.
- Internal Transportation:
- Car Rental: The most flexible and convenient way to travel, with daily rental prices for ordinary cars ranging from CNY 100 to 300. Book in advance on a car rental platform and pick up the car near Wanning High-speed Railway Station or the airport.
- Electric Scooter: The first choice for budget travelers or those who enjoy coastal rides, with daily rental prices ranging from CNY 30 to 50. However, pay attention to battery life and range, as some attractions are quite far apart.
- Bus: Bus routes cover major towns, but the frequency is low and waiting times are long, making it less suitable for travelers on a tight schedule.
III. Must-See Attractions
- Shenzhou Peninsula: The perfect place to relax by the sea, with a 13-kilometer south-facing beach, fine white sand, and clear blue water. Check in at the iconic Shenzhou Lighthouse, which exudes an artistic atmosphere against the backdrop of blue sky, white clouds, and the vast sea—a perfect photo spot!📸 In the afternoon, head to the Corona Sunset Bar, order a signature cocktail, and quietly admire the stunning sunset as the evening glow paints the sky and sea in romantic hues.🌅 You can also visit Qiaogang Pasture to experience idyllic pastoral life, where herds of cattle and sheep graze leisurely on the grassland and by the sea, as if stepping into a Miyazaki anime.
- Shimei Bay: The filming location of "If You Are the One 2," Shimei Bay boasts fine sand and high water visibility. Stroll along the 6-kilometer-long beach, feel the gentle sea breeze, and enjoy the tranquility. Visit Jiajing Island, an untouched island and a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. The rich coral reefs and tropical fish will transport you to a dreamy underwater world.🐠 Browse the Phoenix Nine Mile Bookstore by the sea, and enjoy a quiet reading time amidst the fragrance of books and the sound of waves.
- Riyue Bay: A world-renowned surfing destination, it's a must-try experience.🏄♀️ Find a professional surf club, such as Houlang Surf Club or Hot Wave Surf Club, where experienced instructors can guide you from beginner to pro, and let you feel the thrill of riding the waves. Besides surfing, there's the beautiful Haimen Coconut Grove and the romantic Sunac Riyue Bay Auditorium. Cycle along the coconut-lined road, embrace the tropical coastal charm, and capture stunning photos with every click.
- Xinglong: Filled with a rich Southeast Asian atmosphere, it feels like stepping into another world. At the Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden, admire rare tropical plants like the "upas tree," learn about plant science, and savor fresh tropical fruits and Xinglong's signature coffee.☕ Visit Bali Village, enjoy Indonesian song and dance performances, taste authentic Indonesian cuisine, and experience the unique charm of returned overseas Chinese culture.
IV. Culinary Exploration
- Hou'an Noodles: The soul of Wanning's breakfast, featuring delicious pork bone soup with smooth and chewy rice noodles, topped with lean pork, pork intestines, dried shrimp, and other ingredients, sprinkled with chopped green onions and pepper. One bite will warm your heart and stomach. Wu Ji Hou'an Noodle Soup is highly recommended for its rich broth and fresh ingredients.
- Hele Crab: One of Hainan's four most famous dishes, Hele Crab from Hele Town in Wanning is particularly renowned for its plump meat and rich roe. Steaming is the most classic way to enjoy it, preserving the original flavor of the crab. Dip it in a ginger-vinegar sauce for an unparalleled taste.
- Dongshan Goat: Another of Hainan's four most famous dishes, Dongshan Goat from Dongshan Ridge in Wanning is known for its rich and flavorful meat and soup. Whether braised, sliced, or in hot pot, it leaves a lasting impression.
- Dregs Vinegar: A local specialty, this dish uses fermented rice wine vinegar as the soup base, with added vegetables, animal offal, cartilage, crab roe, oysters, and other ingredients, seasoned with chili, sugar, and minced garlic. The sour and spicy flavor is incredibly appetizing.
- Ching Bo Leung: A dessert made with coconut milk or sugar water, mixed with red beans, mung beans, barley, macaroni, coconut meat, watermelon, mango, and other ingredients. A bowl full of icy sweetness, it's a must-have for summer.
V. Accommodation Recommendations
- Shenzhou Peninsula: Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort, adjacent to the iconic lighthouse, offers prime ocean views, luxurious facilities, and attentive service; Private Ocean Villa Hotel Wanning Shenzhou Peninsula, with balconies overlooking the Shenzhou Peninsula Lighthouse and beach, offers a private vacation experience.
- Shimei Bay: Le Méridien Shimei Bay Beach Resort & Spa, featuring a wide beach and ocean-view restaurant, also offers exciting land and sea surfing experiences; The Westin Shimei Bay Resort, with seaside camping, helicopter Trip Moments, surfing, and other activities, is perfect for families.
- Riyue Bay: Yajing Haiju Surf Ocean View Design Hotel, with balconies offering stunning ocean views and perfect sunrise spots; Swiden Surf Hotel, with balconies directly facing the sea, offering unparalleled ocean views and close proximity to surfing spots.
VI. Itinerary Planning
- Day 1: Arrive in Wanning → Shenzhou Peninsula (Shenzhou Lighthouse - Corona Sunset Bar - Qiaogang Pasture) → Enjoy a seafood feast
- Day 2: Shimei Bay (Jiajing Island Snorkeling - Phoenix Nine Mile Bookstore - Shimei Bay Beach Stroll) → Xinglong (Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden - Bali Village) → Xinglong Night Market for Southeast Asian cuisine
- Day 3: Riyue Bay (Surfing Experience - Haimen Coconut Grove - Sunac Riyue Bay Auditorium - Coconut Road Cycling) → Explore and eat in Wanning city (try Hou'an Noodles, Dregs Vinegar, and other local snacks)
- Day 4: Free activities or visit less-known attractions (such as Dazhou Island, Shanqin Bay, etc., depending on personal interests and time) → Prepare for departure
VII. Friendly Reminders
- Sun Protection: Wanning has strong sunlight, so be sure to take sun protection measures to avoid sunburn.
- Surfing Safety: Follow the instructor's guidance before surfing, wear professional equipment, and do not go to dangerous waters alone.
- Seafood Consumption: Choose fresh seafood to avoid stomach upset caused by spoiled seafood; avoid drinking beer with seafood, as it can easily trigger gout.
- Beachcombing: Check the tide times in advance, bring beachcombing tools, and stay in safe areas.