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 (...
Time needed Half-day to full-day
Last visit: Aug 30, 2026
Author: Ling Wu
Reviewer: Wenjing Pan
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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

★★★★☆ 4.3 (40 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

4.3 ★★★★☆ (40)
TrekkingTomK Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Yalong Bay is the real deal. I wasn't expecting much compared to other tropical beaches, but the coral and marine life near the rocky edges were a pleasant surprise. I hired snorkelling gear from one of the licensed stalls and saw parrotfish and a sea cucumber within five minutes. The lifeguards were actively patrolling and the water seemed really safe. Sunsets from the north end are incredible. Already planning my return.

D.K.Wanders Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

We visited Yalong Bay as part of our honeymoon and it did not disappoint. We splurged on a beachfront resort, and being able to walk right out onto this soft white sand was magical. Service on the private beach area was quick and friendly; they brought towels quickly and the bar made a great mojito. The water clarity was amazing and we even saw a few small fish right near the shore. If you're looking for a relaxing tropical beach experience, this is it.

Hannah_Jane_ Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Honestly one of the most beautiful bays I have ever visited. The sand was so fine and white, and the water had this unreal turquoise color, even in the early morning. We arrived around 8am and had the beach almost to ourselves. There were hardly any waves, perfect for floating around. The coastline is stunning with green hills on both sides. I could have stayed all day. Absolutely loved it!

kk_travelbug Aug 11, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

We spent half a day here during our Sanya trip. Clean beach, warm water, and nice gentle waves for swimming. The palm-lined promenade is lovely for a walk. Why not 5? The public showers and changing rooms were basic and the water activities felt a little chaotic, with everyone honking inflatable donuts. Still, definitely worth visiting if you're staying nearby.

Sleepless_in Aug 11, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Yalong Bay is stunning to look at, and I really wanted to love it. The water is clear and the sand is soft. However, the public entrance was packed and we were constantly approached by jet ski guys offering 'very cheap' deals that doubled once you got in. Sunbeds cost almost as much as my lunch. It's still a beautiful beach, but I left feeling a bit exhausted instead of relaxed.

Rob_in_Asia Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This is the place to come if you want that classic tropical beach experience without leaving China. The bay is huge, with powdery white sand and sparkling blue water that actually looks like the postcards. I kayaked out in the morning when it was still quiet and saw a couple of small starfish in the shallows. Even midday, with more tourists around, it didn't feel dirty or overcrowded, which surprised me. There are lifeguards on duty, clear signage, and decent toilets near the main entrance. Easily a 5-star day out.

Liv_and_Stev Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Yalong Bay was the highlight of our Hainan holiday. As a couple, we loved just walking along the shore in the evening, feeling the soft sand between our toes and listening to the waves. The water was crystal clear, and we rented a paddleboard for an hour — so much fun! The local staff were friendly and helped us set up a little parasol spot. There are plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants if you want a cold drink with a view. We already miss it and hope to come back next year.

KiteSurfKat Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Honestly one of the best beach days I've had in China. Yalong Bay is stunningly beautiful — the water is turquoise, the sand is fine and white, and the surrounding mountains make it feel almost tropical island-like. We stayed at a resort along the bay, so we had access to a quieter stretch, but even the main beach was cleaner and better maintained than many famous beaches I've visited. Snorkeling near the rocky edges was a highlight, saw a few colorful fish. Sunsets here are unreal. Absolutely worth the trip.

BeachBum_Sam Aug 03, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Beautiful crescent of sand, no doubt. We spent a full afternoon here and the water was warm and calm, perfect for floating around. The only reason I'm not giving a 5 is the shade situation—renting an umbrella cost as much as a meal and there weren't enough trees to escape the sun. Still, the views of the green hills behind the bay are stunning, and the gentle waves make it great for kids. If you go early, you'll get a better spot and a nicer vibe.

M.Chen Aug 03, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Yalong Bay is pretty, but I left feeling a bit let down. The sand is soft and the water is clear, but the public beach area was packed when we went, and it took forever to find a spot. Also, the facilities felt a bit worn—changing rooms and showers could use a serious upgrade. There are some decent food stalls nearby, but everything is overpriced for what it is. It's a nice beach, but I've seen just as good in other parts of Asia with less hassle.

Sunset_Lover Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I went to Yalong Bay in the late afternoon and caught an incredible sunset over the bay. The sky turned shades of pink, orange, and purple—it was absolutely magical. The beach wasn't crowded at that hour, so I had plenty of space to just sit and soak it all in. Perfect way to end the day.

Snorkel_Quee Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Best snorkeling spot in Sanya! The water was crystal clear with lots of coral and tropical fish. I even spotted a sea turtle near the rocks. The beach is well-maintained and the lifeguards were attentive. A must-visit for anyone who loves snorkeling.

Family_Fun_D Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Perfect family destination! The water was calm and safe for my kids. We rented a kayak and saw colorful fish right near the shore. The resorts along the bay have great restaurants with kid-friendly menus. Highly recommend for a relaxing and worry-free beach day.

Wanderlust_R Jul 27, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Yalong Bay has stunning scenery, especially the mountains in the background. The sand is soft and white. However, I noticed some litter near the shore and the public restrooms could be much cleaner. Still, a pleasant day out overall, just not perfect.

Beach_Pete Jul 27, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, Yalong Bay was okay but not as amazing as I expected. The water was a bit murky and there were way too many people. I also got stung by a jellyfish which totally ruined my day. The beach chair rental was overpriced and the service was painfully slow. Probably won't come back.

HonestReview Jul 13, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly a bit disappointed. The beach is pretty, but it's way too commercialized now - vendors constantly approaching you and the whole area feels like a tourist trap. The sand wasn't as clean as I expected either, with some litter here and there. For such a famous spot, I expected more natural beauty and less chaos. Not terrible, but definitely not worth the hype.

TravelBug_Sa Jul 13, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

A really nice beach overall - the water is warm and the view of the surrounding mountains is lovely. I enjoyed my time here, but I have to say it was quite crowded even on a weekday, and the food at the nearby stalls was overpriced for what you get. Still, a solid 4-star experience if you manage your expectations.

AdventureSee Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

If you're into water sports, this is the place to be! I tried parasailing and jet skiing, and both were incredibly fun. The staff were professional and safety-conscious. The beach itself is gorgeous too - wide and clean. I'd give it a 5 for the thrill factor alone, but even just lounging on the sand is top-notch.

SunsetChaser Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Yalong Bay is paradise for anyone who loves a beautiful sunset. We stayed until the evening and watched the sky turn orange and pink over the calm sea - absolutely magical. The beach is well maintained and there are plenty of beach chairs for rent. Only minor downside is that the water sports area can get a bit noisy, but overall a perfect day.

BeachLover_J Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning beach! The sand is incredibly soft and white, and the water is so clear you can see fish swimming around your feet. We spent the whole day here just relaxing and swimming - it's easily one of the best beaches I've ever been to. Highly recommend arriving early to grab a good spot under the shade.

SunnyDays_Ka Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolute paradise. The bay is well maintained, with clear signage and clean restrooms nearby. I loved how the water stays shallow for a long way — perfect for wading with kids. Sunset walk along the shoreline was unforgettable. Highly recommend!

Adventure_Pa Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Snorkeling here was incredible! Saw colorful coral and even a sea turtle. The water was warm and calm. The lifeguards were attentive and the whole area feels safe. Best beach I've visited in Hainan so far.

LizTravels88 Jul 06, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

The bay is gorgeous — soft white sand and turquoise water. The only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is that the facilities (changing rooms and showers) could use a refresh. They were clean but pretty basic. Still, a great day out if you don't mind the lack of luxury.

Wanderlust_S Jul 06, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, Yalong Bay is beautiful but way too crowded. We arrived at 10am and finding a spot was a nightmare. The beach itself is nice but the noise from jet skis and vendors really kills the vibe. If you want peace, come early or go somewhere else.

SeaBreeze_Je Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Spent a whole day here and loved every minute. The water was so clear I could see tiny fish swimming near my feet. Sand is super soft, not too hot even at noon. Plenty of lounge chairs under the palm trees. Definitely coming back next year!

SurfingSteve Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Yalong Bay is the real deal. The water visibility is insane — snorkeling right off the beach you see colorful fish and even a couple of rays. The waves were gentle, great for beginner surfers. I've been to beaches all over SE Asia and this one tops many. The sunset view from the far end of the bay is something you won't forget. Highly recommend!

FamilyFun_20 Jun 23, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Great family spot! The kids loved the gentle waves and we found plenty of shade under the palm trees. There's a nice walking path along the beach, and plenty of food stalls nearby. Only reason I'm giving 4 stars instead of 5 is the parking situation — it was a bit chaotic and we had to walk a long way with all our gear. Other than that, awesome day out.

JenAndRob_Ad Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

We went to Yalong Bay on a weekday in the morning and it was perfect. Almost no crowds, the water was warm and calm. We rented kayaks and paddled around the little islands — absolutely magical. The staff at the rental booth were friendly and spoke decent English. Would come back in a heartbeat.

Mike_Travels Jun 23, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit let down. The bay itself is pretty, but it was way too crowded when we went. The water had some trash floating near the shore, which was disappointing for a place with such a reputation. Also, the prices for renting chairs and umbrellas felt too high for what you get. Not the worst beach, but I expected more.

BeachBum_Sar Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Yalong Bay is hands down one of the most beautiful beaches I've ever been to. The water is crystal clear and the sand is super soft. We spent the whole day just lounging under the umbrellas and swimming. The lifeguards were attentive and the facilities were clean. Definitely a must-visit if you're in Sanya!

SharkBait_Ka Jun 15, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Hands down the best snorkeling I’ve done in China! The coral reef near the eastern end of the bay is alive with color — saw clownfish, parrotfish, even a moray eel hiding under a rock. The water clarity was amazing in the morning before the crowds. Bring your own gear if you can; rentals are a bit scratched. An unforgettable experience.

BeachBum_Ben Jun 15, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Perfect spot for families! My kids spent the whole day building sandcastles and splashing in the gentle waves. The lifeguards were attentive, and there’s a shaded area with benches where we had a picnic. We also took a glass-bottom boat ride — the coral wasn’t super vibrant, but the kids loved it. Everything is clean and well-maintained. Will definitely come back!

TropicalTrav Jun 15, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely loved Yalong Bay! The water is that perfect turquoise you see in postcards — I spent hours just floating and staring at the sky. The sand is powdery soft, and there’s plenty of space if you walk a bit from the main entrance. We rented a paddleboard and saw small fish darting around. Felt like paradise. Can’t recommend it enough!

SunAndSand_J Jun 15, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Pretty solid beach overall. The water is warm and the views of the surrounding hills are stunning. Only downside: the food options near the beach are limited and super expensive. We ended up walking 15 minutes to a local spot. Also, some areas felt a bit run down. Still, a great place to spend a lazy afternoon — I’d give it a solid 4.

CoastalWalke Jun 15, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, Yalong Bay is beautiful but way too crowded for my taste. The sand is nice and soft, but the water was pretty murky near the shore — not the crystal clear I was expecting. Also, the lounge chairs cost extra and the staff seemed indifferent. I’d say it’s decent if you just want a quick dip, but don’t expect a peaceful escape. Overpriced for what it is.

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

I only have 3 days in China. Should I go to Hainan?
If you really want to see Hainan, 3 days are enough for Sanya, but you'll miss the rest of the island. Unless you have specific beach dreams, maybe consider a shorter city break in Shanghai or Beijing. If you do go, focus on one area and use a ride-hailing service to maximize time.
Can I visit both Sanya and Haikou in 4 days?
Technically yes, but you'll spend half a day on a train. With 4 days, you'd have only one day in each city. I'd rather suggest staying 3 days in Sanya and taking a day trip to the nearby Li homeland. That gives you a taste of culture without losing a whole day to transport.
Is 10 days too long for Hainan?
For many travelers, 10 days feels right if you enjoy slow travel. You can spend 3 days in Sanya, 2 in the east coast (Wanning, Bo'ao), 2 in Haikou, and 3 in the central mountains. The key is to avoid repeating activities — mix beach, forest, and city.
What's the best way to get around Hainan without renting a car?
The high-speed railway is excellent. There are frequent trains between Sanya, Haikou, and Wanning. Buy tickets on the official 12306 app (get the English version). For short hops, use Didi or AMap to book rides — cheaper than taxis if you're careful.
Do I need a visa to enter Hainan?
Many countries qualify for the 30-day visa-free policy for Hainan. Always verify with the National Immigration Administration before booking. The policy changes, so don't rely on old blogs.
Can I use my Uber app in Hainan, or is there a local alternative?
Uber doesn't work in China. Download Didi—it's the local equivalent. The app has an English translation, and you can link international credit cards through Alipay. I've had many clients who've used it without a hitch. For extra safety, always check the license plate before getting in.
Are the best places to visit in Hainan accessible without renting a car?
Yes, absolutely. The high-speed rail network is excellent, and within cities, Didi and public buses work fine. For remote beaches like Shimei Bay, you'll need to hire a local taxi from the nearest train station—costs around ¥100-150. I recommend this over driving because you won't have to deal with tricky Chinese road signs.
How do I handle booking attraction tickets with my passport?
Most attractions require real-name reservation using your passport number. The easiest way is to use Trip.com or Klook—they handle the translation and verification for you. On-site, sometimes you'll need to show the original passport at the entrance. Always carry it with you. If the online system rejects your name, head to the ticket office and ask for 'passport'—the staff are usually very helpful.
Is Hainan safe for solo female travelers, especially at night?
Hainan is one of the safest places in China. Violent crime is almost nonexistent. That said, street lighting in some scenic areas is poor, so stick to well-lit paths after dark. The local police are approachable, and street vendors won't hassle you. I've traveled alone here many times without a second thought.
What's the best way to avoid tourist traps at beaches?
The biggest trap is paying for umbrella and chair rentals before checking if the hotel next door offers free loungers to beachgoers (many do if you buy a drink). Also, be skeptical of people approaching you with offers for boat rides or jet skis—they're often unlicensed and insurance doesn't cover incidents. Stick to the official water sports centers near the main beaches.
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