Luxury Hainan Island Holidays
Overview
Hainan’s most popular resort area is Sanya, which is situated at the island’s southern tip. Vast stretches of soft golden beach line the main strips here, with some of the finest hotels found in Luhuitou and the neighbouring area of Yalong Bay. When you’re not relaxing by the pool or swimming in the warm turquoise waters, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Sanya, including amusement parks, shopping malls and scenic hilltop parks. Up the eastern coast from Sanya, the areas of Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay offer more delights for travellers seeking sun, sea and sand. Famed for its laid-back vibe and white sand beaches, Shimei Bay is lighter on resorts than Sanya, but big on relaxation. In neighbouring Riyue Bay you can enjoy some excellent surfing, while inland you can visit the Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden. Beach resorts aside, Hainan boasts some incredible areas worth exploring. The forested highlands of the centre are home to dramatic mountain peaks, hot springs and rice terraces, and provide plenty of excellent walking and cycling routes. In the northern city of Haikou, you can explore the atmospheric old town and learn the history of the island at the excellent temples and museums.
When To Visit
The climate on Hainan Island remains fairly consistent throughout the year. Temperatures typically stay in the twenties, peaking in the summer months (May to August) and cooling off a little during the winter. The southern resorts tend to get hotter weather, but across the island, the rains come at the same time of year, during the summer and early autumn. Spring can be an excellent time to visit, particularly if you’re keen to see flowers in bloom across the island.
Food & Drink
The restaurants of Hainan’s luxury beach resorts are designed to offer a variety of culinary experiences. In addition to refined Chinese dishes, you’ll have the opportunity to sample other Asian cuisines, as well as Western favourites, fresh seafood, and plenty of world-class wine. Venture away from the resorts and you can seek out a more rustic dining experience by trying the local specialities. Seafood is a key staple here, but other popular dishes include Dongshan lamb, Hainan rice noodles and breakfast favourites such as congee and steamed buns.
Passport & Visas
British nationals usually require a visa to enter China – before booking your holiday to Hainan you should check the entry requirements at GOV.UK. While travelling, it's advised that you carry identification with you and keep photocopies of official documents.
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