Sanya Bay

Historical Overview
Once a quiet fishing hub, Sanya Bay’s transformation into a tourism hotspot began in the 1990s with infrastructure development. The 2005 completion of the Coconut Dream Corridor (a 18-kilometer seaside path) solidified its reputation. In 2012, it was designated a national coastal wetland park, balancing tourism with ecological preservation. Recent initiatives include coral reef restoration projects and eco-friendly beachside developments.

Structural Layout
The bay is divided into three zones:

• Eastern Zone: Dominated by Phoenix Island’s futuristic skyscrapers and artificial archipelago.
• Central Zone: The bustling public beach and Coconut Dream Corridor, lined with cafes, hotels, and street art.
• Western Zone: Quiet fishing villages like Tianya Town and West Island’s snorkeling sites.
  Key landmarks include the Sanya Bay Lighthouse, Haiyue Plaza, and the 108-meter "Phoenix Island Gate" sculpture.

Major Attractions

1. Coconut Dream Corridor: A palm-lined promenade with biking/jogging paths, outdoor gyms, and nightly street performances.
2. Sanya Bay Beach: Free public beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
3. West Island: A 20-minute ferry ride away, offering glass-bottom boat tours and coral reef diving.
4. Phoenix Island: A man-made island with luxury hotels and a marina (admission fee applies).
5. tianya haijiao: Though technically outside Sanya Bay, this iconic "End of the Earth" scenic spot is a 30-minute drive west.
6. Sanya Bay Sunset: Ranked among China’s top sunset views, with hues of orange and purple reflecting off the South China Sea.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Relaxation (3–4 hours):
   Start at Coconut Dream Corridor → Rent a bike → Stroll the beach → Watch sunset at Haiyue Plaza → Dine at a seaside seafood restaurant.
   Highlights: Scenic views and local cuisine.

2. Full-Day Adventure (6–8 hours):
   Morning: Snorkel at West Island → Afternoon: Explore Phoenix Island → Evening: Sunset cruise with cocktails.
   Highlights: Marine life and luxury experiences.

3. Cultural & Eco Tour (Full Day):
   Visit Tianya fishing village → Join a coral planting workshop → Attend a Li Ethnic Minority cultural show → Night beach bonfire.
   Highlights: Environmental education and local traditions.

Ticket Purchase

• Free Access: Sanya Bay Beach and Coconut Dream Corridor are open to the public.
• Paid Attractions:
  • West Island ferry: ¥140 (round-trip, includes snorkeling gear).
  • Phoenix Island: ¥160 (adults), ¥80 (children).
• Online Booking: Reserve ferry tickets via Ctrip or Trip.com.

Transportation

• By Plane: Fly to Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX), 15 minutes from the bay.
• By Bus: Routes 8, 25, 26, or 27 to "Sanya Bay" stop.
• By Taxi: Direct to Coconut Dream Corridor (¥25 from downtown).
• By Bike: Shared bicycles available along the promenade (¥2–5/hour).

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: November–March (dry, cool weather).
• Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays or early mornings.
• Essentials:
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+), wide-brimmed hat, and reusable water bottle.
  • Water shoes for rocky shorelines.
  • Cash for street food and local markets.
• Prohibited: Littering, feeding wildlife, and unauthorized drone use.
• Eco-Tip: Participate in beach cleanups organized by local NGOs.