Sights and adventures to be had in Sanya
Welcome to the third and final chapter of this Sanya blog series. Just in time for the upcoming Chinese New Year holiday. We’ve dived into where to stay, what to eat and even the hiccups experienced during travel. Now it’s time for us to delve into enjoyment, excitement, adventure and a touch of soft life living.
Yalong Bay Tropical Forest Park
Sanya has a combination of both water sports and greenery activities. Our first stop was in Yalong Bay and the most popular attraction other than the beach, is the Yalong Bay Tropical Forest. This was an expansive attraction. In my opinion this is suitable for travelers who either really adore nature and picturesque views or if you plan to stay in Sanya for more than three days. You’ll also need to keep in mind that this attraction will probably require about three hours to explore.
The attraction is divided into different sections which can be viewed on the map your given at the ticket office. But in my opinion there maybe for main sections: Dragon Rope Bridge, Orchid Valley, The glass bridge and Qianli Umbrella. Admission when I went was RMB256 (USD$40 approximately). That included entrance to the Glass Bridge, Dragon Rope Bridge, the 3D cinema and also the tour bus ride to and from the main entrance. The Qianli Umbrella and Orchid Valley didn’t require separate admission.
My first stop was the Dragon Rope Bridge. Ladies and Gentlemen, I am afraid of heights. Yes good people, and this entire attraction was 90 percent height centered. My anxiety was 100 for most of the day, but I really wanted this experience, so I pushed through the constant voice in my head telling me I was going to fall.
After the rope bridge we moved on to Qianli umbrella which was a simple observatory deck with an umbrella. It stood right above the resort that is also located at the attraction. Then we moved on to (in my opinion) the scariest, but most fulfilling part of the day, you guessed it, the glass bridge.
The walk was just breathtaking and at some point I even forgot that I was so high up and I truly enjoyed this experience. Along the bridge there were different spots that you could stop to take pictures and even art installations. Even though it was a little crowded at times it was worth every penny in my opinion (some may think it’s an overpriced tourist attraction).
After the glass bridge we went to the 3D cinema and then just walked around sightseeing and buying souvenirs and an ice cream that was needed in that heat. There was also a water slide attraction among other attractions but we passed on that one because it was an extra cost and it was just too hot!
For this outing I’d say the most important things are as follows:
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat/umbrella
- Water
- Sunscreen
I was so tanned at the end of this day, not to mention my outfit being completely soaked through with sweat. But I was prepared and my sunscreen did it’s job, not a sunburn was in sight.
Scuba diving
Next up, we finally made it to the beach to try something I never imagined myself doing. But life is for adventure and trying new things. Scuba diving, that’s right. I’m not a good swimmer and doing unfamiliar things makes me so anxious, nonetheless, we overcame it. Each individual is accompanied by an instructor, so that makes it a lot easier. What I realized while on this beach, is that every water sport that’s available comes with someone to guide you. The cost can range from RMB400-600 (USD$55-83 approximately) depending on where you book and if you also book other activities.
When you go scuba diving, you board a boat that takes you to a reef where you’ll be paired with your instructor, (they don’t speak English). If your Chinese is poor like mine, a simple thumbs up or down will suffice to let them know how you are. If you want to record this memory they offer video or photos at an extra cost between (RMB200-400/ USD$28-56).
Luhuitou Park
We now moved on from Yalong Bay and traveled to Dadonghai where our first stop was Luhuitou Park. After we arrived at our new hotel we checked in freshened up and headed straight to the park. It was literally directly above our hotel. By taxi it took about 8-10 minutes to get there depending on the traffic. Once you arrive you go to the ticket office where you have the option to pay for entrance and also a bus ride up and down the mountain (RMB50 or USD$7).
Once you arrive the views are breathtaking and you are just spellbound by it all. We arrived about 2 in the afternoon and it wasn’t very crowded. Most people go on the evening for sunset and when the lights come on. Very picturesque. The park is filled with different historical sites, view points, shops and cafes. Perfect for a chill evening stroll.
Sanya is referred to as the Deer island. And they have a folktale about a hunter and a beautiful woman. It’s like a love story and a lesson all in one, and the details are provide next to the 15 meters high statue.
Nanshan Buddhist Temple
The Nanshan Buddhist Temple is a stellar attraction in Sanya. Located about 40Km from Sanya downtown, it took over an hour’s car ride to get there, but that time provided the best nap in the taxi while on the way there. My energy was top tier once we arrived.
Foreigners have a separate entrance from locals, where we have to fill in our passport and contact information. The reason for this I’m not very sure. Entrance costs from RMB70-150 (USD$10-20). You hop on a shuttle and they take you to the first stop which leads to the temple. After the temple you can stop at different shops to buy souvenirs or food. Then hop on the shuttle again and you can see the grounds of the entire area or stop at different sites located on the property. If visiting culture landmarks and sightseeing are your thing this is great to put on your itinerary.
Photos are prohibited while inside the temple. Many people visit the temple to pray and give offerings. Once you get to the top you can capture the beautiful view from the feet of the Buddhist Guanyin Goddess. Keep in mind there is no elevator and you need to climb up I think 5-6 flights of stairs. The unfitness within me really shone as bright as the sun outside.
‘Greek Village’
About 20 minutes away from the Nanshan Temple is a village that takes inspiration from Greece. All the buildings are painted in white and blue to replicate the vibe that Santorini gives. It’s so beautiful and peaceful. Along with all the homes of the local people there are boutique hotels and restaurants most located along the beach. Here you can relax have a meal, a drink take a walk on the beach or even go for a swim or surf. The best time to arrive is close to sunset. A sunset dinner is spectacular here, as I said in the previous blog.
Yacht Day
My hotel was situated directly in front the harbor and had a clear view of the yacht club. We decided to book with the company in our hotel (Wingate by Wyndham). Any excursion could be booked with them. Prices will vary depending on what you want. You can book regular group trips or rent a yacht just for yourself and friends. Private charters can begin from RMB1200 (about USD$170) upwards.
Packages can include various water sports and refreshments also. Some activities come at an additional cost. We opted for parasailing, which was an additional RMB200 (USD$30 approximately). We also got on the jet ski, which was included in our yacht rental fee. Both these activities were a first for me and I had a blast. My adrenaline was pumping and I was scared and so filled with excitement all at the same time.
The experience overall was beautiful and I can’t wait to do it all again. I have motion sickness at times so it took awhile to get my sea legs but once that motion sickness passed I was lit! My suggestions for this trip are as follows:
- Pack a swim suit
- Loud speaker to move around the yacht
- Bring champagne or sparkling wine
- Take a change of clothes
- Take your own snacks just in case
- A large friend group makes the vibe even better.
So get your friends, pack the champagne, create that stellar playlist and go have a blast in beautiful Sanya. Until next time, let’s see where to next!
Renee, where to next? 
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