Surf Paradise: Riding the waves of Hainan

en.hainan.gov.cn

Updated: 2025-10-17

Welcome to Hainan — China’s tropical surf sanctuary, where warm turquoise waves roll year-round onto sun-drenched shores, and the rhythm of the ocean sets the pace of life.
This guide brings you seven of the island’s most iconic and must-visit surf spots, complete with a map to plan your perfect wave-chasing adventure. Hope it inspires your next surf trip — and if it does, share it with your surf buddies!

1.Wanning
On the Wanning surf map, there are three main bay areas, each offering a different experience:
·Riyue Bay
Rated as one of the world’s top 10 surfing destinations, Riyue Bay is uniquely blessed by nature. The water temperature averages 26 C annually, and the area enjoys a super long wave season lasting from October all the way through March, with powerful, consistent waves that can reach up to two meters high.

An aerial view of surfers at Riyue Bay. [Photo/Hainan Daily]

Riyue Bay is not only a surfing paradise, it’s a state of mind, a wild and free love for the sea, for the joy of movement, and for life itself.

A man enjoys surfing at Riyue Bay. [Photo/Hainan Daily]

·Shimei Bay
In Shimei Bay, the flat seafloor creates regular, smaller waves that make learning to surf a breeze. The 6-kilometer-long white, sandy beach has been called "the most pristine beach in Hainan" by UN experts. The area is home to the world’s largest coastal green bark, or spindle tree forest, as well as the Jiajing Island diving spot with visibility of 10 meters through crystal clear waters and fish dancing through the coral reefs.

An aerial view of Shimei Bay. [Photo/Hainan Daily]

·Shenzhou Peninsula
Wanning’s Shenzhou Peninsula boasts long, sandy beaches and steady, dependable waves. In summer, the water is warm and the waves are gentle, making this the ideal time for beginners to get in the water. In winter, the waves surge, providing an exciting challenge to more advanced surfers. There are a number of pro surf shops here, providing surfers of every skill level exactly what they need to rock their time on the waves.

An aerial view of Shenzhou Peninsula. [Photo/Hainan Daily]

2.Lingshui
In Lingshui, the sea sings a quieter, more poetic song — inviting surfers to two hidden gems where nature still leads the rhythm:
·Perfume Bay
Perfume Bay is an emerging surfing destination that beautifully blends natural charm with versatile wave conditions. Unlike busier surf spots, Perfume Bay retains its unspoiled coastal beauty, offering serene beaches, swaying palms, and a peaceful atmosphere. With its pristine environment and growing surf infrastructure, including local instructors and board rentals, Perfume Bay is quickly becoming a go-to for those seeking both quality waves and untouched tropical scenery in Hainan.

An aerial view of Perfume Bay. [Photo/VCG]

·Clearwater Bay
Clearwater Bay is a surfer’s haven renowned for its pristine turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and a long, scenic coastline dotted with multiple surf breaks. With its growing surf scene and tranquil atmosphere, it’s quickly becoming one of Hainan’s most versatile and inviting destinations for surfers of all levels.

An aerial view of Clearwater Bay. [Photo/VCG]

3.Sanya
In Sanya, the ocean offers two calls — Houhai’s gentle waves for beginners, and Dadonghai’s lively surf in the heart of the city. Calm or energetic, both bays welcome you to ride your own rhythm.
·Houhai
Nestled in Sanya’s Haitang Bay, Houhai has emerged as a premier destination for beginner surfers. This sheltered, pocket-shaped bay features gentle "baby waves" rolling in from the east, offering safe and consistent conditions year-round.

An aerial view of surfers at Houhai. [Photo/VCG]

Thanks to its mild climate and calm waters, Houhai has become an ideal classroom for first-timers with its mature surfing instruction system.

Tourists enjoy surfing at Houhai. [Photo/VCG]

Houhai is known as a surfing paradise more suitable for beginners. [Photo/VCG]

The area seamlessly blends sport, culture, and tourism, with surf clubs, cozy guesthouses, and beachfront stays just steps from the waves — perfect for those who want to surf anytime, right from their doorstep.

Tourists enjoy surfing at Houhai. [Photo/VCG]

·Dadonghai Beach
Dadonghai, a classic beach in Sanya’s city center, offers convenient access and vibrant surf vibes for beginners and intermediate riders alike. Its central location means you’re never far from amenities, making it a practical and lively choice for those looking to learn or level up their surfing while enjoying Sanya’s bustling coastal atmosphere.

An aerial view of Dadonghai Beach. [Photo/VCG]