Yalong Bay

Address Yalong Bay National Tourism Resort, Sanya City, Sanya, Hainan
Hours Beach is open 24 hours; water sports typically operate 08:00–18:00.
Phone +86 898 88568899
Announcement: Premier Beach Resort
Entrance ¥0
Hours Beach is open 24 h...
Best Season September to May (avoiding peak summer heat and typhoon season).
Time needed Half-day to full-day
Last visit: Jun 3, 2026
Author: Ling Wu
Reviewer: Wenjing Pan

Yalong Bay Overview

Renowned as the 'Oriental Hawaii', Yalong Bay boasts a 7.5-kilometer crescent-shaped beach with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is Sanya's premier resort destination, featuring upscale international hotels and a lush tropical forest park backdrop.

Yalong Bay Opening Hours & Tickets

  • Beach is open 24 hours; water sports typically operate 08:00–18:00.
  • Best season: September to May (avoiding peak summer heat and typhoon season).
  • Ticket note: The beach itself is free to enter. Activities like scuba diving, parasailing, an...

Essential Yalong Bay Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 898 88568899
  • High-end resort amenities
  • Water sports centers
  • Public restrooms
  • Beach loungers
  • International dining options

How to Get to Yalong Bay

Bus 15, 25, or 27 from downtown Sanya. About a 40-minute drive from Sanya Phoenix International Airport.

Yalong Bay Travel Safety & Advice

Lifeguards are stationed at designated swimming zones during the day. Dial 120 for medical emergencies.

Practical Info

  • Yalong Bay National Tourism Resort, Sanya City, Sanya, Hainan
  • Beach is open 24 hours; water sports typically operate 08:00–18:00.
  • +86 898 88568899
Ling Wu
Ling Wu
Certified National Tour Guide
Ling Wu, a Guangzhou-based Certified National Tour Guide, specializes in Central South China itineraries covering the 3-Day Guangzhou Historical Deep Dive, Zhuhai coastal loop, and Shamian Island.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

★★★★☆ 3.8 (5 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • The beach itself is free to enter. Activities like scuba diving, parasailing, an...

Online booking may be required

Tips

Excellent for foreign tourists seeking luxury and English-speaking staff at international resorts. Sunscreen and strong UV protection are ab...

Reality Check

  • Food and water sports here are significantly more expensive than in other bays. Public beach access points can be crowded; hotel-front beaches offer a much more exclusive and quieter experience.

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Recent Reviews

3.8 ★★★★☆ (5)
Jessie_OnThe Jun 02, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I expected more given all the hype. Yes, the water is beautiful, but the beach was packed with tourists and selfie sticks. The water sports are fun but way overpriced. We paid 200 yuan for a 15-minute jet ski ride – felt like a rip-off. If you want a quiet beach experience, skip this and go to a less famous spot. Just my honest take.

Chris_Wander Jun 02, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Sunset at Yalong Bay is magical. I grabbed a coconut and just watched the sky turn pink and orange over the water. The beach wasn't too crowded in the late afternoon, which was a plus. My only complaint is that the sand had a few cigarette butts here and there – wish people would be more respectful. Still, a lovely peaceful evening.

Mia_Explorer Jun 02, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

We came here with our kids and had a fantastic time. The shallow area is safe for little ones to splash around, and there are lifeguards on duty. Rentals for umbrellas and chairs are reasonably priced. The only downside is that the food options nearby are a bit overpriced. But if you bring your own snacks, it's a perfect family day out.

Sam_Adventur Jun 02, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Nice beach overall, but it felt a bit too commercialized for my taste. The water was clean and warm, perfect for swimming. However, the constant hawkers selling sunglasses and fruit got annoying after a while. Also, the public restroom could use a serious upgrade. Still, a solid choice for a relaxing day by the sea if you don't mind the noise.

TravelBug_Je Jun 02, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning! The water is so clear and turquoise, like a postcard. We spent the whole morning just floating around. The sand is soft and white, and there are plenty of shaded spots if you need a break from the sun. Definitely the best beach I've visited in Hainan. Highly recommend getting there early to avoid the midday crowds.

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Yalong Bay Travel FAQ

Should I stay inside Yalong Bay or near Dadonghai if I want both beach and nightlife?
If you want to walk from your hotel to the beach and then to bars, Dadonghai is better. Yalong Bay is quieter at night — most resorts have their own bars but they're pricey and close early. For a balance, consider staying just outside Yalong Bay (mid-range area) and taking a short taxi to the beach during the day, then a 15-minute Didi to Dadonghai for evening fun.
Are there hostels near Yalong Bay for solo budget travelers?
Not many directly inside the bay, but the area just outside has a few guesthouses and hostels. I've recommended Sanya Backpacker Hostel on Yalong Bay Road — it's about 3 km from the beach but has a free shuttle twice a day. For more options, head to Dadonghai where hostels are abundant. Prices start around 60 CNY per night for a dorm.
How far is Yalong Bay from Sanya Phoenix International Airport?
It's about 30–40 minutes by taxi (100–130 CNY). From the airport, you can also take the airport bus to Yalong Bay (line 3) for 25 CNY per person, but it only runs every hour. I'd recommend a Didi if you have luggage — it's worth the extra cost for convenience.
Is it better to book hotels in advance or find a place on arrival?
During off-season (summer, except July–August), you can often find walk-in deals, especially at smaller hotels. But for peak seasons, book at least 2–3 months ahead. I've seen travelers end up in overpriced rooms because they waited. For the best rates, compare on Trip.com, Booking.com, and the hotel's own WeChat mini-program — sometimes the latter has exclusive discounts.
What facilities should I look for in a Yalong Bay hotel for families?
Family-friendly essentials include: kids' pool, playground, babysitting service (many resorts offer it), and a kids' club. The Marriott and Sheraton both have excellent kids' programs. Also check if the hotel provides free cribs and high chairs. Some mid-range hotels just outside the bay also have these, but call ahead to confirm.
I have a tight budget. Is July really that bad?
Honestly, it’s not as bad as people say. The rains are usually short – 30 minutes of downpour, then sun again. But the humidity is no joke. If you’re from a dry climate, it’ll feel like breathing soup. The upside: I’ve seen hotels at 80% off peak prices. Just be mentally prepared to sweat. Bring moisture-wicking clothes and a portable fan.
Should I avoid Sanya during Chinese New Year entirely?
If you can, yes. It’s the most expensive and crowded time. But some travelers have no other vacation window. If you’re stuck, choose a hotel in Sanya Bay (less crowded than Yalong) and eat at local eateries far from tourist hubs. Also, most attractions raise prices – scan their official WeChat mini-program a week before to see if you need to pre-book.
What’s the absolute best month for snorkeling?
April. Hands down. Water visibility is at its peak – I’ve seen 15 meters. The sea is calm, and the temperature is warm without being scorching. Go to the west side of Wuzhizhou Island for the best coral. But check the tide tables: low tide means shallower water.
I’m bringing kids. When is the safest time for swimming?
November to March, but only if the water doesn’t feel cold for them. Many hotel pools are heated. For ocean swimming, March is better – the sea is already warm (24-25°C). Avoid any month with typhoon warnings, and always swim at lifeguard-patrolled beaches like Dadonghai.
Does Sanya have a rainy season that lasts the whole day?
No. That’s a myth. Even in June (the wettest month), mornings are often sunny. The rain typically comes in short, heavy bursts in the afternoon. Plan outdoor activities for the morning, have a backup indoor option (like a spa or the Sanya International Shopping Centre), and you’ll be fine.
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