Where to Eat & Play in Sanya: A Curated Guide from Coral Bay

From island temples to surf towns and night markets, discover the best restaurants and things to do in Sanya, minutes from Mandarin Oriental Sanya.
Table of Contents
Sanya blends easygoing island energy with polished comforts. Base yourself at Mandarin Oriental Sanya in Coral Bay, then use this hit list to graze, stroll, dive, surf, shop—and still be back in time for sunset.
CDF Haitang Bay Duty-Free + Oceanfront Dining
China’s flagship duty-free complex is a destination in itself with statement architecture, art installations, and every luxury brand you can name. After browsing, head to the waterfront promenade for casual seafood and fresh coconut drinks. From Mandarin Oriental Sanya, it’s about 30–35 minutes by car.
Wuzhizhou Island: Snorkel, Sea-Walk, Repeat
A quick boat hop lands you in glass-clear water. Spend the morning snorkelling or sea-walking above coral gardens, then recharge at a beach café. Aim for an early start to beat the queues; allow 45–60 minutes from Coral Bay including the ferry.
Nanshan Temple & Guanyin
Sanya’s spiritual landmark pairs coastal gardens and pavilions with a towering Guanyin statue. Go at golden hour for softer light and cooler air. Expect a 40–50 minute drive each way and set aside two unrushed hours to wander.
Houhai Village: Surf Town
When the wind and swell align, Houhai becomes a mellow surf playground with rentals, cafés and smoothie stalls along sandy lanes. If waves are shy, it’s still a lovely boho stop for lunch and people-watching. About 45 minutes by car.
Luhuitou Park Overlook
For a cinematic panorama of city, bays and islands, shuttle or walk up to this hilltop park. Sunset paints everything tropical-pink before the twinkling evening lights appear. Roughly 20 minutes from Coral Bay.
Sanya Romance Park & Night Market
Catch the grand stage show by day, then drift into the lively night market after dark. Griddled squid, sugar-coated fruit and Hainan specialties pair with street performers tucked between stalls. It’s an easy 15–20 minute hop.
No.1 Market: Fishermen’s Catch, Cook-on-the-Spot
Sanya’s classic “buy and cook” experience—pick live seafood (spotted crabs, tiger prawns, slipper lobsters), then take your haul to a nearby kitchen for wok-kissed magic. Go early evening for peak buzz; about 20 minutes from the resort.
Signature Hainan Plates to Try
Coconut-chicken hotpot, Wenchang chicken with ginger-scallion dip, Jiaji duck, and Hainan rice noodles are local must-tastes. A chilled coconut or passion-fruit tea completes the picture.
Atlantis Aquaventure & The Lost Chambers
A full-day splash for families: big slides, lazy rivers, and a striking aquarium. Around 30 minutes from Coral Bay.

Dadonghai Promenade Stroll
Boardwalk cafés, paddle rentals and easy swimming make Dadonghai perfect for a first afternoon. Come late day for golden light, then linger for beachside barbecues. Just 10–15 minutes away.
Practical planning
Ride-hailing apps work smoothly; for multi-stop days, ask the concierge to arrange a car and driver. Early starts beat heat and crowds; sunset is your cue to return to Coral Bay for aperitifs and a slow evening.
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