Riyue Bay

Historical Overview
Riyue Bay’s history dates to ancient times when it served as a vital fishing ground for coastal communities. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it emerged as a maritime hub along the Maritime Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange. Modern development began in the 1990s with infrastructure upgrades, culminating in its rise as a global surfing hotspot. In 2005, the World Surfing Day was first celebrated here, solidifying its international reputation. Recent initiatives include the 2022 launch of an eco-tourism zone and annual surfing championships sanctioned by the World Surf League (WSL).

Structural Layout
The bay is divided into three zones:

• Surfing Zone: Central area with world-class waves, including the main break “Riyue Bay Point.”
• Resort Zone: Luxury accommodations like the Forest Inn and GROM Surf Camp line the eastern shore.
• Cultural Village: Traditional Li ethnic settlements and ancient salt farms in Tianxin Village.
  Key landmarks include the Surfing Museum, the 1.2km “Coconut Dream” boardwalk, and the annual World Surfing Day event venue.

Major Attractions

1. Riyue Bay Surfing Point: China’s top surfing spot with 2m winter waves (Oct–Mar) and beginner-friendly breaks.
2. GROM Surf Camp: A surfers’ hub offering lessons, equipment rentals, and beachfront yoga.
3. Tianxin Li Village: Experience Li culture through Bamboo weaving, folk dances, and traditional salt-making.
4. Surfing Museum: Chronicles the history of surfing in China with vintage boards and historic photos.
5. Coconut Grove: 20,000-square-meter palm forest with hammocks, fruit stalls, and nightly bonfires.
6. Electric Surfing: Rent e-foils for a futuristic ride across the bay’s calm waters.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Surf Adventure (3–4 hours):
   Arrive at GROM Camp → Surf lesson/practice → Lunch at the camp’s seafood grill → Explore the Coconut Grove.
   Highlights: Surfing debut or skill refinement.

2. Full-Day Cultural Immersion (6–7 hours):
   Morning: Surfing at Riyue Bay Point → Afternoon: Tour Tianxin Village → Evening: Li cultural performance.
   Highlights: Adventure and local traditions.

3. Eco-Adventure (Full Day):
   Kayak through mangrove forests → Join a beach cleanup → Sunset yoga at the public beach.
   Highlights: Sustainable tourism and nature connection.

Ticket Purchase

• Free Access: Public beaches and cultural villages are open to all.
• Paid Activities:
  • Surf lessons: ¥300–¥500 (2 hours, equipment included).
  • Electric surfing: ¥200/hour.
• Online Booking: Reserve via Ctrip, Trip.com, or the WSL official website.

Transportation

• By Car: 1.5 hours from Sanya Phoenix Airport via Hainan East Ring Highway.
• By High-Speed Rail: Take the Hainan East Ring Railway to Wanning Station, then a 20-minute taxi.
• By Bus: Route 102 from Wanning City Center to “Riyue Bay Stop.”
• Bay Shuttle: Free electric buses connect resorts and surf points (8:00–18:00).

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: October–April (dry, sunny weather; ideal for surfing).
• Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays or early mornings.
• Essentials:
  • Sunscreen, rash guard, and reusable water bottle.
  • Water shoes for rocky shorelines.
  • Cash for village crafts and street food.
• Prohibited: Littering, feeding wildlife, and unauthorized drone use.
• Eco-Tip: Participate in monthly beach cleanups organized by local surf clubs.