Tianya Haijiao

Address Lower Maling Mountain, Tianya District, Sanya City, Sanya, Hainan
Hours 08:00–18:30
Phone +86 898 88910131
Announcement: Romantic Heritage Site
Entrance ¥0
Hours 08:00–18:30
Best Season Late afternoon (16...
Time needed 2–3 hours
Last visit: Aug 30, 2026
Author: Ling Wu
Reviewer: Wenjing Pan

Tianya Haijiao Overview

Literally translating to 'The Ends of the Earth', this iconic romantic scenic spot is famous for its monumental beachfront boulders inscribed with ancient Chinese calligraphy. It holds deep cultural significance as the historical southernmost boundary of the Chinese empire.

Tianya Haijiao Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 08:00–18:30
  • Best season: Late afternoon (16:00–18:00) for sunset views and slightly cooler temperatures.
  • Ticket note: The scenic area recently waived its basic entrance fee, making admission free, t...

Essential Tianya Haijiao Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 898 88910131
  • Electric shuttle carts
  • Numerous photo zones
  • Souvenir shops
  • Snack stalls
  • Clean public restrooms

How to Get to Tianya Haijiao

Bus 16, 25, 30, or 55 from Sanya downtown. A taxi takes about 30 to 40 minutes from Sanya Bay.

Tianya Haijiao Travel Safety & Advice

Security guards and first-aid staff are stationed throughout the park. Dial 120 for serious medical emergencies.

Practical Info

  • Lower Maling Mountain, Tianya District, Sanya City, Sanya, Hainan
  • 08:00–18:30
  • +86 898 88910131
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

★★★★☆ 4.4 (40 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • The scenic area recently waived its basic entrance fee, making admission free, t...

Online booking may be required

Tips

Since it is a major symbol of romance in Chinese culture, it is a popular spot for wedding photography. Explore the nearby Tianya Town for c...

Reality Check

  • The beach here is more for sightseeing and photography than swimming. The main inscribed rocks get extremely crowded, so patience is required for photos.

Top Attractions Near Tianya Haijiao

Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone 5A Scenic Area

Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone

A revered Buddhist cultural park featuring the magnificent 108-meter-tall Guanyi...

Sanya 2026-08-30
Yalong Bay Premier Beach Resort

Yalong Bay

Renowned as the 'Oriental Hawaii', Yalong Bay boasts a 7.5-kilometer crescent-sh...

Sanya 2026-08-30
Wuzhizhou Island Water Sports & Diving Hub

Wuzhizhou Island

Often called the 'Maldives of China', this 1.48-square-kilometer island in Haita...

Sanya 2026-08-30
Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park National 4A Scenic Spot

Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park

A large-scale ecological park combining a drive-through safari with a walk-throu...

Haikou 2026-08-30
Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark UNESCO Global Geopark

Haikou Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark

A rare urban volcanic site featuring beautifully preserved craters, unique basal...

Haikou 2026-08-30
Mission Hills Haikou Luxury Golf & Wellness Resort

Mission Hills Haikou

An expansive world-class luxury resort complex famous for its championship volca...

Haikou 2026-08-30
Holiday Beach Haikou Tropical beach resort

Holiday Beach Haikou

A vibrant 7-kilometer tropical coastline divided into four distinct zones: Sea S...

Haikou 2026-08-30
Hainan Provincial Museum National First-Class Museum

Hainan Provincial Museum

A modern, comprehensive cultural museum showcasing Hainan's rich history, divers...

Haikou 2026-08-30

Recent Reviews

4.4 ★★★★☆ (40)
SunflowerSam Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Came here on our last day in Sanya and wow—what a way to finish the trip. There was a light breeze and a little drizzle, so it wasn't too crowded, and the whole place felt moody and romantic. Walking hand in hand past those massive stones while waves crashed around us was like being in a movie. We took so many photos, especially around the Tianya rock, and an older local guy told us the old legends behind the names. Some souvenir vendors are a bit pushy, but they take no with a smile. Standing at the so-called 'End of the Earth' with someone you love is something else. I’d say this is an absolute must whenever you're in Hainan.

BigMark_TV Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Not usually one for the big ‘must-see’ spots, but this was actually a blast. I have a bad knee, so the staff helped me get on the shared golf cart from the entrance—really nice about it, even made sure I had shade. The rocks themselves are cool and historic, but my favorite part was the little stretch of beach nearby with coconut palms leaning over the sand. We found a quiet spot and just watched the waves for a while. I even spotted a little crab scrambling between the rocks. The grounds were clean, well-marked, and not as chaotic as I feared. For me, it was a perfect relaxed afternoon in Sanya and well worth the ticket.

LunaTravels Aug 11, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Tianya Haijiao is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype. We strolled through the gardens and palms, and then suddenly the coastline opened up—huge rocks, turquoise water, and this incredible sense of being at the edge of the world. The two famous stones are right at the shore, and there’s something poetic about standing where ancient travelers once looked out at the sea. We spent almost two hours just sitting near the water, listening to the waves and watching clouds drift over the distant mountains. The sunset was unforgettable, all pink and orange across the sky. Yes, it's touristy, but it's touristy for a reason. I left feeling genuinely moved. Highly recommend.

Dave_Wandere Aug 11, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Overall I really liked this place! Coming early in the morning made a huge difference—the light was soft, the air was fresh, and we had the boardwalk almost to ourselves. The walk in is lined with palm trees and pretty gardens, and when the sea opens up in front of you, it's genuinely impressive. The Tianya and Haijiao rocks are right where you'd expect, and yes, you can feel the symbolism even if it's just a photo spot. The only reasons I'm not giving a 5: by mid-morning the crowds really piled up, making it hard to linger in the best spots, and the electric car ride back was overpriced for a very short trip. Still, I'd recommend it. Just go early and manage your expectations.

JenniExplore Aug 11, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

I was really excited to tick Tianya Haijiao off my China bucket list, but honestly it left me a little flat. The beach is pretty and the two main rocks are iconic, but that's about it. You queue to take a photo with the Tianya rock, then queue again for the Haijiao rock, and then you're kind of done. The entrance ticket felt expensive for what’s essentially a beach with some engraved stones. The little shuttle train inside costs extra, which seemed unnecessary since the walk wasn't that far. There were also quite a few vendors constantly trying to sell coconuts and bracelets. I think if you’re expecting a profound 'end of the world' experience, you might be disappointed. It's a nice enough stop, but I wouldn't rush to go back.

Kris_Nomad Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I didn't know what to expect, but the sheer scale of the place caught me off guard. It's not just one rock—it's a massive coastal park with long winding paths, sculptural stone formations, and viewpoints overlooking the South China Sea. The contrast of white foam, dark volcanic rock, and bright blue sky is unforgettable. I ended up spending nearly four hours here and still didn't want to leave. Sure, the Tianya and Haijiao stones are the main draw, but the whole coastline is the real star. Best money I spent in Sanya.

Sam_and_Leah Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

We came for the romantic whole 'ends of the earth' idea and we were not disappointed. The coastal walk is gorgeous, especially the stretch near the Haijiao stone where the waves crash against the dark rocks. We took tons of photos, but the best moment was just sitting on a smooth rock, feeling the spray, and watching the tide roll in. Ticket process was smooth, restrooms were clean, and there were plenty of stalls for cold drinks. Go in the late afternoon—softer light and way fewer tour buses.

Wanderlust_W Aug 03, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place lived up to the hype for me. Standing on the wide beach with the giant engraved rocks and endless ocean in front of me honestly gave me chills. The sound of the waves, warm soft sand under my feet, coconut trees swaying behind—it felt like a postcard. I arrived right at opening time and had a peaceful hour just watching the water before the crowds showed up. The paths are easy to walk and the gardens are well kept. If you're in Sanya, this is absolutely worth seeing.

Barefoot_Bri Aug 03, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

We went in late afternoon and actually had a really nice time. The sky looked soft pink and the sea breeze kept it comfortable. Walking along the boardwalk to the Tianya stone is easy, but once you get there it's crowded with tour groups, so we didn't stay long. The highlight for me was the strip of sand near the Haijiao stone—it felt less busy and the waves were wonderful. We took the shuttle back to the gate and it was worth the few yuan. Solid half-day trip, not amazing but genuinely enjoyable.

Lily_Adventu Aug 03, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Maybe I built it up too much after seeing so many tagged photos. The park is pretty and the ocean is blue, but the famous Tianya and Haijiao are literally just two big stones with red writing, surrounded by lines of people waiting for selfies. Entrance fee felt high for what it is, and the little shuttle inside costs extra on top of that. If you have extra time in Sanya, it's okay for a stroll, but I wouldn't make a special trip just for this.

Sarah_in_Asi Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

If you're into symbolism and beautiful landscapes, this is your spot. The idea of standing at 'the edge of the earth' is so romantic. I brought a small lock and clipped it to the chain near the rocks – cheesy but fun! The beach is lovely, the water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of spots to sit and just stare at the horizon. I saw a couple getting wedding photos taken and it made total sense. Top-notch experience, would come again in a heartbeat.

Wanderer_Kai Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place exceeded every expectation. The geological formations are incredible – those ancient granite rocks have stories to tell. I loved walking barefoot on the beach, feeling the warm water, and watching the waves crash against the stones. The whole area is very well maintained, with clear signs and clean facilities. Even the little cultural performances near the entrance added charm. A perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. Truly a must-do in Hainan.

SunnySandy87 Jul 27, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely magical! The moment I stepped onto the soft sand and looked out at the endless ocean, I felt a sense of peace I haven't felt in years. The towering rocks, especially the famous 'Tianya' and 'Haijiao' carvings, are breathtaking. We went at sunset and the golden light reflecting off the water was pure heaven. Definitely one of the most romantic and scenic spots I've ever visited. Highly recommend taking the small tram if you don't want to walk too much.

Mark_Adventu Jul 27, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

A nice place to visit once, but I wouldn't rush back. The coastline is pretty and the walk along the shore is pleasant. I enjoyed seeing the huge boulders and the legend behind them. The souvenir shops are a bit aggressive with their pricing. It's decent for a half-day trip, but I'd rather spend more time at other beaches in Sanya. Not bad, just not amazing.

TravelBug_Je Jul 27, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Stunning scenery but way too crowded. The giant rocks and the 'End of the Earth' inscription are iconic, but you can hardly get a photo without thirty people in the background. The beach itself is clean and the water is beautiful. If you come early morning or late afternoon, it might be better. Overall a bucket list spot, but temper your expectations on the experience.

OffThePath_N Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Went here on a whim after reading mixed reviews, so my expectations were low. Ended up being one of my favorite stops in Sanya. Yes, it's touristy, but the sheer beauty of the location wins. I arrived right at opening time and had the first 30 minutes almost to myself - magical. Watching the sunrise paint the rocks and ocean in soft oranges and pinks was unforgettable. Brought a book and sat on a quiet bench near the 'Nan Tian Yi Zhu' stone for an hour. If you avoid peak hours, it's a peaceful paradise.

MangoLassi_E Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place made my trip to Hainan complete. I went with my parents and we all had a fantastic time. It's not just about seeing the famous rocks - the entire park is well-maintained with tropical plants, clean paths, and clear signage. We took the electric cart one way and walked back along the shore. The sea breeze felt amazing. Prices for food and drink inside are a bit high, but that's expected. The atmosphere was joyful and relaxed. Would absolutely return!

J.Traveler_2 Jul 13, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely loved it! This place is way more than just two rocks. The whole coastal walk is beautiful, with clear turquoise water and soft sand. We spent almost 4 hours just wandering, taking photos, and sitting on the beach. The 'Tianya' and 'Haijiao' stones are a must-see, but don't miss the little temple and the pavilion on the hill - the view from up there is breathtaking. Felt like a perfect mix of nature and culture. Highly recommend going in the late afternoon for golden hour light.

Saltwater_So Jul 13, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

A solid half-day trip. The 'End of the Earth' rocks are iconic, and the coastline is genuinely stunning. We went early morning around 8 AM to beat the crowds, which made a huge difference. The sea breeze and the sound of waves crashing against the stones were meditative. Only reason I'm not giving a 5 is because the facilities (toilets, benches) could use some maintenance. Still, a meaningful spot to visit - especially if you're into Chinese poetry or folklore.

BreezeChaser Jul 13, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I had higher expectations for Tianya Haijiao. The scenery is beautiful - those giant rocks against the ocean are postcard-perfect. But the place felt way too crowded and commercialized. There were souvenir stalls every few meters and selfie sticks everywhere. Paid 100 RMB for entry and then another 30 for the shuttle; felt a bit overpriced for what it is. If you're just passing through Sanya, it's okay, but I wouldn't go out of my way again.

Solo_Travele Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I came here solo with my camera and spent almost 3 hours exploring every corner. The location is beautiful – wide beach, clear water, and those massive rocks with Chinese calligraphy are so photogenic. I loved the peaceful vibe away from the main crowd (went on a Monday morning). There are also some nice pavilions and a small temple. Entry fee is reasonable for what you get. Definitely a 5-star experience for me.

KK_Adventure Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

What a magical place! Tianya Haijiao exceeded all my expectations. The legend behind the rocks adds so much romance to the visit. Walking hand in hand with my partner along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky orange and pink – unforgettable. The facilities are clean and the staff are helpful. Even the little train ride inside is fun. If you're in Sanya, do not miss this! 5 stars without hesitation.

TravelBug_Mi Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely loved our day at Tianya Haijiao! The scenery is stunning – the contrast of the blue ocean against the large granite rocks is picture perfect. We went early morning and it was peaceful, with a nice breeze. The 'End of the Earth' stone is a must-see. We took so many photos! The pathways are well maintained and there are even some nice spots to sit and just watch the waves. Definitely a top attraction in Sanya. I highly recommend!

Wanderlust_J Jul 06, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Tianya Haijiao is a classic stop, and I'm glad I went. The view of the sea with those huge engraved rocks is pretty iconic. The walk along the coast was pleasant, though a bit crowded. I wish there was more shade and seating. The staff at the entrance were friendly. Not the most breathtaking spot on the island, but definitely worth a half-day trip if you're in Sanya. A solid 4 stars from me.

Alex_in_Chin Jul 06, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed by Tianya Haijiao. The famous rocks are cool to see once, but the whole place felt way too commercialized. Endless souvenir stalls and overpriced snacks. Plus it was packed even on a weekday. The beach itself is nice, but nothing special compared to other spots in Hainan. For the hype and the entrance fee, I expected more. Ok for a quick photo op, but don't build it up too much.

Disappointed Jun 23, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was expecting more. It's basically a beach with two big rocks that have Chinese characters carved on them. The entry fee is pretty steep for what you get – around 80 RMB if I remember correctly. Inside it's overly commercialized: souvenir shops, food stalls, and selfie sticks everywhere. The 'end of the earth' vibe I imagined just wasn't there. Maybe it's better on a quiet day, but my visit felt like a tourist trap. Would skip if you're short on time.

FamilyFun202 Jun 23, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Great place overall – the scenery is beautiful and the kids loved running around on the sand. However, it was way too crowded when we visited on a Saturday. Waiting for a photo with the main rocks took almost 20 minutes, and there were a few trash bins overflowing near the snack stands. Still, the natural beauty is undeniable. If you can handle the crowds, it's definitely worth a visit. Just manage expectations on peak days.

Solo_Journey Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I came here alone on a whim and it turned out to be the highlight of my trip. The sunset hour is magical – the sky turns pink and orange, and the sea breeze is perfect. I sat on a quiet patch of sand near the 'Haijiao' rock and just watched the waves. It's one of those rare places that actually lives up to the romantic name. Bought a small shell bracelet from a local vendor; fair price and nice memory. Would return in a heartbeat.

Travel_Bug_K Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Brought my elderly parents here and they were blown away. The walk from the entrance to the rocks is pretty flat and scenic, so it's manageable for seniors. My dad couldn't stop taking photos of the coastline and the famous engraved stones. We spent a good two hours just soaking it all in. Only tip: go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. A solid 5-star experience for the whole family.

OceanDreamer Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning! Walking along the beach and finally seeing the 'Tianya' and 'Haijiao' rocks in person felt surreal. The waves crashing against the boulders, the vast ocean stretching out… it really does feel like the end of the world. We went on a weekday morning and it wasn't too crowded. The views are postcard-perfect. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Sanya – a true bucket-list spot!

AdventureCam Jun 15, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

One of the most scenic spots I’ve ever visited in China. The contrast between the huge granite boulders and the deep blue sea is stunning. Even on a cloudy day the photos came out amazing. There’s a nice boardwalk, some shaded areas, and benches to relax. I could have stayed all day. A must-see if you're in Sanya!

LonelyWander Jun 15, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I came here alone, sat on a quiet bench near the boardwalk, and just watched the ocean for an hour. It was pure peace. The name 'Tianya Haijiao' really captures the feeling of being at the edge of the world. Yes, it's touristy, but if you find a quiet corner away from the main rock, it’s magical. Highly recommend for a reflective moment.

SandyToesMam Jun 15, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Took my kids here during our family trip to Sanya. They loved running on the soft sand and chasing the waves by the famous rocks. There’s a clear walking path, and the views are postcard-perfect. We spent about two hours and felt it was just right. The only reason I’m not giving 5 stars is that the restroom facilities were quite crowded and not super clean.

J.Traveller Jun 15, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Beautiful coastline but way too commercialized for my taste. The entrance fee is steep, and once inside you’re funneled through endless souvenir stalls. The actual sea views are stunning, but the whole experience feels more like a shopping mall than a natural wonder. If you're strictly here for the scenery, push past the shops quickly.

OceanSeeker_ Jun 15, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely breathtaking! The massive rocks against the turquoise water are a photographer's dream. We went at sunset and the colors were unreal. The “End of the Earth” stones felt so iconic. Definitely worth the trip despite the crowds—just go early or late. This is a bucket-list spot!

BeachLover_K Jun 02, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Incredible spot! The combination of the giant rocks rising straight out of the clear water, the soft sand between them, and the legend behind it all—it’s just epic. I loved wading into the shallow pools around the stones. There's even a little lighthouse and some nice walking paths. The whole place feels like a natural sculpture garden by the sea. Highly recommend going later in the afternoon when the light is golden and the crowds thin out. One of my favorite stops in Hainan!

Wandering_So Jun 02, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

There's something magical about standing at 'the edge of the earth'—the name alone pulls at your heart. I went at sunset and the sky turned all shades of pink and orange behind the famous rocks. It was really emotional for me, thinking about all the travelers who came here over centuries. The park is clean, well-maintained, and the staff were friendly. A bit pricey for the entrance fee, but the experience was worth it for the vibe.

Travel_Bug_J Jun 02, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

A decent day out, but I wouldn't call it a must-see. The scenery is lovely—those weathered granite boulders by the sea are unique—but the whole area feels overly commercialized with souvenir stalls and overpriced snacks. We spent about two hours here, took some photos, and left. The 'End of the Earth' concept is cool for a photo op. Not bad, but not amazing either. Good for a quick stop if you're on a Sanya tour.

Mike_in_Asia Jun 02, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit underwhelmed. The site itself is pretty, but it was absolutely packed with tour groups—people everywhere shouting and jostling for selfies. The walk from the entrance to the actual rocks is long and there's not much shade. The ticket price felt too high for what you get. If you've seen one beach and a big rock, you've seen them all. Maybe try a weekday off-season?

Sunny_Sands Jun 02, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely stunning! The views of the coast with those iconic rocks against the turquoise water are postcard-perfect. We went early in the morning and had the place almost to ourselves—felt like we were standing at the edge of the world. The breeze was cool, the sound of waves crashing, and the 'Tianya' stone gave it such a poetic vibe. Definitely a bucket-list spot. Bring sunscreen, though!

Leave a Review

Tianya Haijiao Travel FAQ

How do I avoid the midday crowds for a clean shot of the Tianya stone?
Shoot it in the first 30 minutes after opening (7:30–8:00 AM) from the side angle. The front gets mobbed instantly. I position my tripod on the wet sand to the left of the stone—then I clone out the occasional straggler in post. Also, don't forget that the stone is roped off, so you can't get right next to it anyway.
Is drone photography allowed at Tianya Haijiao?
Strictly no. The park has signs and security. I've seen tourists have their drones confiscated and pay a fine of 500 RMB. If you need aerial shots, consider a nearby beach like Xiaodonghai or Dadonghai, where enforcement is lighter.
What is the best time of year for photography here?
November to April offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures (22–28°C). May to October is monsoon season—sudden rain can ruin a shoot, but you might get dramatic storm clouds. I personally love February: low humidity, and the sunset aligns perfectly with the western rocks.
Can I shoot fireworks or light painting here at night?
The park closes at 6 PM, so no entrance after that. However, the public beach outside the west gate remains accessible. I've done light painting on the beach after dusk—no security bothers you. Bring a headlamp because there are no lights.
How do I handle the language barrier at ticket counters?
Buy tickets in advance on Trip.com or Klook—they accept international cards. Show the QR code at the turnstile. If you must buy on-site, have your hotel write the Chinese for "senior ticket" or "student ticket" if applicable. The staff rarely speaks English.
Can I bring luggage on the Tianya Haijiao scenic shuttle?
Small backpacks and daypacks are fine. Suitcases and large bags are not allowed – there's no storage. Best to leave them at your hotel or use a luggage locker near the entrance (about 30 RMB per day).
Is the shuttle wheelchair accessible?
The carts have a step, so manual wheelchairs are tricky. The staff can help, but it's not always smooth. I recommend renting a private golf cart if you have a wheelchair. Otherwise, the paths are paved and walkable, though hilly in sections.
Do I need to book the shuttle in advance?
No reservation needed for the shuttle. But the entrance ticket must be booked online (use Trip.com or the official WeChat account). On peak days (Chinese holidays), tickets sell out. Book at least 24 hours ahead and bring your passport for entry.
What happens if I lose my ticket and can't get on the shuttle?
Keep your ticket safe – you'll need it for boarding the shuttle. If lost, go back to the ticket office with your passport and purchase details. They can reprint for a small fee (10 RMB). I never let my clients walk without taking a photo of the ticket barcode on their phone.
Is the shuttle worth it if I'm only visiting the first rock?
Absolutely. The walk from entrance to the first rock is 1.5 km – 20 minutes in the heat. The shuttle takes 5 minutes. Even for one stop, you save energy. Plus, you can stay on and ride back, enjoying the sea breeze.
2026 on-site verified