Hainan Travel Guide (South China/China/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Hainan

Hainan is an island province located in South China. Known as the “Hawaii of China”, Hainan is a tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, lush forests, and stunning mountains. The island is home to a vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With a warm climate all year round and plenty of outdoor activities, Hainan is the perfect destination for all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Hainan

There are plenty of things to see and do in Hainan. Here are some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hainan Museum: The Hainan Museum showcases the art, history, and culture of Hainan Island. The museum’s collections include ancient artifacts, traditional crafts, and contemporary art.
Wugong Temple: Wugong Temple is dedicated to five Confucian scholars from the Tang and Song dynasties. The temple is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, especially during the annual Confucius Culture Festival.
Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone: Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone is home to one of the largest tropical rainforests in China. Visitors can explore the forest on foot, by cable car, or on a zipline. The park also has several cultural exhibits, including a Li Minority Village and a Hainanese Farmhouse.

Natural Attractions of Hainan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sanya Bay: Sanya Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Hainan. The beach is known for its clear waters and sandy shores, and visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports and activities.
Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone: Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone is a Buddhist-themed park that features several temples, statues, and cultural exhibits. The park also has a hot spring resort and several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Wuzhizhou Island: Wuzhizhou Island is a small island off the coast of Hainan that is known for its coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hainan

Hainan has several hiking and biking routes that showcase the island’s natural beauty. Here are a few popular options:

Wuzhi Mountain: Wuzhi Mountain is the highest peak in Hainan, with an elevation of 1,849 meters. The mountain is a popular destination for hikers, with several trails leading to the summit.
Binglanggu Li & Miao Cultural Heritage Park: Binglanggu Li & Miao Cultural Heritage Park is a cultural park that features several hiking trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Jianfengling National Forest Park: Jianfengling National Forest Park is a nature reserve in Hainan that is home to several hiking and biking trails. The park is known for its lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Hainan: Activities and Tours

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there are plenty of things to do in Hainan. Here are some of the best activities and tours:

Sanya Romance Park: Sanya Romance Park is a theme park that features live performances, cultural exhibits, and interactive experiences. The park’s highlight is a nightly performance featuring over 200 actors, singers, and dancers.
Haikou Volcano Park: Haikou Volcano Park is a geological park that features several hiking trails, a cable car ride, and exhibits on the area’s volcanic history.
Hainan Island Day Tour: A day trip around the island, the Hainan Island Day Tour will take you to several scenic and cultural attractions, including Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone, Wuzhizhou Island, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hainan

For visitors who want to explore Hainan in-depth, here’s a week-long itinerary:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit Hainan Museum and Wugong Temple
Day 2	Explore Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone
Day 3	Relax at Sanya Bay and enjoy water activities
Day 4	Hike or bike at Binglanggu Li & Miao Cultural Heritage Park
Day 5	Visit Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone and go to the hot springs
Day 6	Go scuba diving or snorkeling at Wuzhizhou Island
Day 7	Take a day tour around the island

Food and Drink Scene of Hainan

Hainan cuisine is influenced by the island’s tropical climate, local seafood, and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Hainanese Chicken Rice: Hainanese Chicken Rice is a classic dish in Hainan that consists of steamed chicken, rice cooked in chicken broth, and a variety of condiments, including ginger and chili sauce.
Wenchang Chicken: Wenchang Chicken is a type of chicken that is unique to Hainan. It is often served boiled and sliced, and is known for its tender and flavorful meat.
Seafood Hotpot: Hainan is famous for its fresh seafood, and a seafood hotpot is a popular way to enjoy it. The hotpot consists of a variety of seafood and vegetables cooked in a spicy broth.

Local Beverages

Coconut Milk: Coconut Milk is a popular beverage in Hainan, and can be found fresh at local markets and stands.
Hainan Coffee: Hainan is one of the few places in China where coffee is grown, and Hainan Coffee has a unique flavor that is different from other types of coffee.
Litchi Wine: Litchi Wine is a sweet, fruity wine that is made from litchi fruit. It is a popular drink in Hainan, and can be found at local markets and shops.

Where to Stay in Hainan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hainan has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles. Here are some options:

Luxury Hotels: Hainan is home to several world-class luxury hotels, including the St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay Resort, the Raffles Hainan Hotel, and the Banyan Tree Sanya.
Mid-Range Hotels and Hostels: For travelers on a budget, Hainan has plenty of mid-range hotels and hostels to choose from. Some popular options include the Yalong Bay Universal Resort, the Hua Ting Hotel & Towers, and the Xieheju Hotel.
Guesthouses: Hainan also has several guesthouses and homestays for travelers who want a more authentic experience. Some popular options include the Zhengfu Island Inn, the Summer Guesthouse, and the Wuzhishan Kau Inn.

What to Buy in Hainan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hainan is known for its local products and handicrafts. Here are some souvenirs to bring home:

Coconut Products: Hainan is known for its coconut production, and you can find a variety of coconut products, including coconut oil, coconut candy, and coconut shell handicrafts.
Wen’s Phoenix Tree Products: Wen’s Phoenix Tree is a local brand that specializes in high-quality coffee and tea. The company also offers a variety of snacks and souvenirs.
Li Brocade: Li Brocade is a traditional fabric made by the Li ethnic minority in Hainan. The fabric is known for its intricate patterns and bright colors, and can be found at local markets and shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Hainan

Hainan has a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by its tropical climate and diverse ethnic groups. The island is home to several unique customs and traditions, including:

Li Ethnic Minority Culture: The Li ethnic minority is one of the largest ethnic groups in Hainan, and their culture and customs are deeply rooted in the island’s history.
Dragon Boat Festival: The Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional holiday in Hainan that is celebrated on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month. The festival features dragon boat races, cultural events, and traditional food.
Folk Songs and Dances: Hainan is known for its traditional folk songs and dances, which are often performed at festivals and cultural events throughout the island.

Best Time to Visit Hainan

Hainan has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity all year round. The best time to visit Hainan is from November to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. However, the peak tourist season in Hainan is during Chinese New Year and the summer months, from May to August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hainan

When visiting Hainan, it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and etiquette. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Learn some basic Mandarin or Hainanese phrases: Although many locals speak English, knowing some basic phrases will help you communicate more effectively.
Try the local food and drinks: Hainan has a rich culinary culture, and trying the local dishes and beverages is a great way to experience the island’s culture.
Respect the local customs and traditions: Hainan has a unique cultural heritage, and being respectful of the local customs and traditions is important when visiting the island.

Don’t:

Disrespect the local religion and beliefs: Hainan is home to several religious and ethnic groups, and it’s important to be respectful of their beliefs and customs.
Litter or damage the environment: Hainan is known for its natural beauty, and keeping the environment clean and protected is everyone’s responsibility.
Ignore local rules and regulations: Hainan has several rules and regulations in place to protect the environment and ensure public safety. Ignoring these rules can result in fines or other penalties.

Safety and Health

Hainan is a relatively safe destination, with low crime rates and a high level of public safety. However, visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Hainan

Be aware of your surroundings: Like any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid potential dangers.
Protect yourself from the sun: Hainan has a tropical climate, and sunburn and heat exhaustion can be a danger during the summer months. Be sure to use sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses, and stay hydrated.
Pay attention to weather warnings: Hainan is prone to typhoons and other severe weather, so it’s important to pay attention to weather warnings and stay up-to-date on the latest information.

Health in Hainan

Get vaccinated: Visitors should make sure to get vaccinated before traveling to Hainan, especially for diseases like hepatitis A and B, and typhoid fever.
Drink bottled water: Tap water in Hainan is not safe to drink, so it’s important to drink bottled water instead.
Watch what you eat: Hainan is known for its delicious cuisine, but travelers should be cautious when eating street food or dining at local restaurants to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Getting to Hainan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hainan is easily accessible by air, land, and sea. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Hainan

Haikou Meilan International Airport: Haikou Meilan International Airport is the main airport in Hainan, and is located in the capital city of Haikou.
Sanya Phoenix International Airport: Sanya Phoenix International Airport is located in the southern part of Hainan, and is a popular destination for domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Hainan

Haikou Bus Station: Haikou Bus Station is the main bus station in Haikou, and offers regular bus services to cities throughout Hainan and mainland China.
Sanya Bus Station: Sanya Bus Station is the main bus station in Sanya, and offers bus services to cities throughout Hainan and mainland China.

Other Options

Ferry: Hainan is connected to mainland China by several ferry services, including the Hainan-Hong Kong Ferry and the Hainan-Guangdong Ferry.
Train: Hainan is connected to mainland China by a high-speed rail line that runs from Guangzhou to Sanya.

How to Get Around in Hainan

Hainan has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to get around the island. Here are some transportation options:

Taxi: Taxis are plentiful in Hainan, and are a convenient way to get around the cities and towns on the island.
Bus: Hainan has a network of buses that connects the major cities and towns on the island. The buses are cheap and reliable, but can be crowded during peak travel times.
Car Rental: Car rental is available in Hainan, and can be a convenient option for travelers who want to explore the island on their own.

Where to Go Next from Hainan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hainan is a great jumping-off point for exploring other destinations in South China. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

Guangzhou: Guangzhou is a major city in South China that is known for its history, culture, and cuisine. The city is easily accessible from Hainan by high-speed train or plane.
Hong Kong: Hong Kong is a vibrant city that is known for its skyline, shopping, and dining. The city is easily accessible from Hainan by plane or ferry.
Macau: Macau is a former Portuguese colony that is known for its casinos, history, and culture. The city is easily accessible from Hainan by plane or ferry.

Conclusion

Hainan is a tropical paradise that offers something for everyone. From stunning natural beauty to rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, Hainan is a destination that should not be missed. Plan your trip to Hainan today and experience all that this beautiful island has to offer.