Looking for a warm, tropical escape during the colder months? 🌞 Hainan Island in southern China is the perfect destination from October to March, especially for travelers from Russia, Central Asia, and East Asia looking to trade snow for sunshine.
With white-sand beaches, lush palm trees, and an increasing number of international direct flights, Hainan is quickly becoming a go-to spot for winter beach holidays. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or quiet relaxation, here’s your ultimate guide to Hainan’s top beaches during the cool-season months.
🌴 1. Yalong Bay (亚龙湾) – The Luxury Beach Holiday Favorite
📍 25 km from Sanya City Center
🌟 Why go: Pristine white sand, crystal-clear water, and upscale resorts
🏝️ Ideal for: Couples, families, honeymooners, luxury getaways
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Best weather window; hotels fill up fast—book early for holidays
⭐ Popularity: ★★★★★
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★★
Travel Tip: Many beachfront resorts offer private beach access and spa packages—perfect for a romantic winter retreat.
🏙️ 2. Sanya Bay (三亚湾) – Cityside Beach Holiday with Sunset Views
📍 Just 5 km from downtown Sanya
🌟 Why go: Iconic sunsets, a scenic palm-lined promenade, and convenient location near the airport
🏝️ Ideal for: Travelers seeking budget-friendly options close to the city
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Water may be slightly murky, but the views and atmosphere are perfect for evening walks
⭐ Popularity: ★★★★☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Travel Tip: Try a seafood barbecue dinner by the beach for an authentic local experience.
🏖️ 3. Dadonghai Bay (大东海) – Lively & Accessible
📍 3 km from Sanya City Center
🌟 Why go: Buzzing beach life, easy transportation, and nightlife options
🏝️ Ideal for: Young travelers, solo adventurers, digital nomads, and water sports lovers
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Always warm enough for swimming; popular with Russian-speaking tourists
⭐ Popularity: ★★★★☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Travel Tip: Great for those who want a mix of city energy and beach vibes—many speak basic Russian here.
🏄 4. Houhai Beach (后海) – The Surfer’s Paradise
📍 28 km east of Sanya
🌟 Why go: Hainan’s rising surf scene, hip cafés, and boho beach town atmosphere
🏝️ Ideal for: Beginner surfers, backpackers, creatives
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Peak surf season; you can rent gear or take surf lessons. Wetsuits are optional in Jan–Feb
⭐ Popularity: ★★★★☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Travel Tip: Houhai is known for its relaxed charm and live music nights—don’t expect polished resorts.
🏝️ 5. Wuzhizhou Island (蜈支洲岛) – Packed Day Trip
📍 Ferry from Haitang Bay, 30 km northeast of Sanya
🌟 Why go: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and coral reefs in a protected marine zone
🏝️ Ideal for: Couples, families, and adventure-seekers
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Calm water and clear visibility; ferry tickets sell out quickly during peak holidays
⭐ Popularity: ★★★★☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Travel Tip: Book an early ferry for fewer crowds and better light for underwater photography.
🌊 6. Clearwater Bay (清水湾) – Peaceful & Upscale
📍 50 km east of Sanya, in Lingshui County
🌟 Why go: Wide open beaches, modern beachfront resorts, and fewer tourists
🏝️ Ideal for: Long-stay travelers, retirees, wellness seekers
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Great spot for morning jogs and undisturbed sunbathing
⭐ Popularity: ★★★★☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Travel Tip: This area is less commercialized, so it’s perfect for quiet holidays with sea views.
🌅 7. Shimei Bay (石梅湾) – Nature-Lover’s Beach Hideaway
📍 90 km from Sanya, near Wanning
🌟 Why go: Lush forests meet turquoise waters, ideal for eco-tourism
🏝️ Ideal for: Photographers, couples, slow travelers
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Slightly cooler here (~20–24°C), but beautifully serene
⭐ Popularity: ★★★☆☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★★★☆
Travel Tip: Wake up early for one of Hainan’s best sunrise views over the ocean.
🏙️ 8. West Coast Beach, Haikou (海口西海岸) – Cityside Coastal Vibe
📍 10 km from Haikou City Center
🌟 Why go: Coconut groves, ocean breeze, jogging paths
🏝️ Ideal for: Casual visitors, expats, and morning runners
💡 Oct–Mar Tips: Water temperatures cooler (18–22°C); better for relaxing than swimming
⭐ Popularity: ★★☆☆☆
✅ Recommendation: ★★☆☆☆
Travel Tip: A great spot to catch local life and unwind during a city tour of Haikou.
🎒 Beach Holiday Tips for October to March
☀️ Weather: Expect sunny days and mild evenings. Sanya averages 20–28°C.
👙 Water Temperature:
Sanya: ~23–26°C
Wanning & Haikou: ~20–22°C
💨 Windy Days: East-facing beaches (Houhai, Riyue Bay) can be breezy in Jan–Feb—bring a light windbreaker.
🏄 Surf Season: November to March is ideal for surfing on the east coast (Houhai, Riyue Bay).
🧳 What to Pack: Sunscreen, swimwear, sunglasses, light jackets, sandals, dry bags, and snorkel gear if you have it.
🎫 Booking Advice: Chinese New Year (late Jan–Feb) brings large domestic crowds—book flights and hotels early.
📊 Summary Table – Hainan Beach Ratings
| Beach | Distance from City | Best For | Oct–Mar Experience | Popularity | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yalong Bay | 25 km (Sanya) | Luxury, swimming | Ideal for winter holiday | ★★★★★ | ✅✅✅✅✅ |
| Sanya Bay | 5 km (Sanya) | City access, sunsets | Great for evening walks | ★★★★☆ | ✅✅✅✅ |
| Dadonghai Bay | 3 km (Sanya) | Nightlife, activities | Always lively | ★★★★☆ | ✅✅✅✅ |
| Houhai Beach | 28 km (Sanya) | Surf, backpackers | Best surfing months | ★★★★☆ | ✅✅✅✅ |
| Wuzhizhou Island | 30 km (Sanya) | Diving, snorkeling | Mild and clear water | ★★★★☆ | ✅✅✅✅ |
| Clearwater Bay | 50 km (Sanya) | Relaxation, long stays | Peaceful and quiet | ★★★★☆ | ✅✅✅✅ |
| Shimei Bay | 90 km (Sanya) | Nature, photography | Secluded and cool | ★★★☆☆ | ✅✅✅✅ |
| Haikou West Coast | 10 km (Haikou) | Locals, casual walking | Best for jogging, not swim | ★★☆☆☆ | ✅✅ |
🌏 Final Thoughts
Hainan isn’t just China’s tropical island—it’s Asia’s rising winter beach paradise. From vibrant resort beaches to quiet coastal escapes, the island offers something for everyone. Plan ahead, pack smart, and soak up the sun on China’s southern shore.