Sanya (Hainan, China) Weather | Best Time to Visit Sanya

 

Sanya (三亚) is located in the southern part of Hainan Island, which belongs to the tropical monsoon climate zone. The weather of Sanya is greatly influenced by the marine climate, with high temperatures and little change in cold and heat all year round. The annual average temperature in Sanya is about 25°C. July is the hottest month with an average temperature of 28°C. January is the coolest month with an average temperature of 21°C. The sunshine duration lasts to over 2500 hours per year. The annual precipitation is about 1280 mm. The weather is warm all year around, which has given Sanya the name of “Oriental Hawaii”.

Best Time to Visit Sanya

Sanya has little change in cold and heat around the year. It is suitable for tourism all year round. The peak travel season in Sanya is from October to April (especially in December, January and February). Because the northern part of China has started to get cold during this time, Sanya is pleasantly warm. You can still stroll along the sunny beaches in summer clothes and sandals, soak in the warm water, enjoy tropical fruits and feel the romance wedding season at Tianya Haijiao. As one of the top destinations for family vacation, another high season of Sanya is during summer holidays (normally in July and August).

Average Sanya Temperature by Month

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Sanya Seasons to Go

Sanya has little temperature change throughout the year. With annual temperature ranges from 21°C to 28°C, it is a perfect tourist destination for family vacation, couple vacation, honeymoon, solo escape... Since the seasonal change in Sanya is not obvious, visitors usually divide the season according to the number of tourists.

From October to next April, when it's cold in northern China, Sanya has entered its’ peak tourist season. The number of tourists gradually increases, reaching its peak during the Spring Festival. During the winter vacation (December to February) and festivals like Christmas and New Year’s Day, etc. prices of hotels, restaurants and amusements in Sanya would be higher than normal, and famous attraction sites might be crowded.

May to September is the low season in Sanya. Although it may be hot during the daytime, there are still many places to escape the heat. Moreover, there are fewer tourists in summer and the travel experience might be better for those who prefer quiet and private. Traveling during the low season is also more cost-effective. The prices of hotels, resorts, flights, local food and commodities would also be lower than the peak season.

Peak Tourist Season in Sanya (October ~ April)

Different from most classic tourist destinations in mainland China like Beijing, Shanghai, Xian and Chengdu, etc. The peak tourist season in Sanya is from October to next April (winter especially). The temperature during this period ranges from 22°C to 28°C, with an average temperature of 25 °C and humidity of about 73%. Under the influence of the warm current of the Pacific Ocean, the average ocean temperature here is above 20°C even in the coldest month - January. From October to January, the UV index in Sanya is normally below 10. Precipitation decreases significantly from October (235 mm) to January (8 mm), and rises gradually from February (13 mm) to April (43 mm). Overall, the peak season of Sanya is cool and sunny. It is an excellent season for seaside activities.

Dressing Tips: Long sleeves, T-shirts, thin sweaters and long dresses, etc., are recommended for the daytime. As night falls, add thin outwears if you plan to go outside.

Things to Do in Sanya Peak Season

1. Have fun at Yalong Bay: As one of the most popular bay areas in Sanya, Yalong Bay (亚龙湾) has a 7km long silvery beach with fine sand. The ocean here is clear and transparent. Looking far into the distance, the sea comes in several shades of blue. Coral species are abundant below the surface, which is suitable for a wide range of underwater activities. The coast is dotted with luxury resorts and hotels and the temperature here is 27°C and the water temperature is 20°C in winter, making it an ideal place to escape winter cold and have an amazing family holiday.

2. Enjoy the panoramic view of Sanya city and the stunning night scene at Luhuitou: Standing at the peak of Luhuitou (鹿回头), you can overlook the vast sea and rolling mountains in the distance, and have a panoramic view of Sanya city. When night falls, you can enjoy the most beautiful night scene of Sanya here.

3. Feel the warm and passion of Sanya at Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park: Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park (亚龙湾热带天堂森林公园) is the first coastal ecological sightseeing and vacation forest park in Hainan Province. The best time to visit the park is winter. When many places are covered with snow, Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park has a completely different scenery. The green mountains and blue waters will surely make you feel the warmth of Sanya.

4. Immerse in the romance of Sanya at Tianya Haijiao: Every December, Sanya Tianya Haijiao (天涯海角) will hold the "International Wedding Festival". Visiting the place during the wedding season could be a trip of a lifetime.

5. Dive to see the coral group at Wuzhizhou Island: Wuzhizhou Island (蜈支洲岛) is one of the few small islands around Hainan Island with fresh water and rich plant cover. It is the most famous resort in China. Professional instructors will teach you how to wear and use the oxygen tank and then take you underwater. Once you are entering the ocean kingdom, coral and tropical fish of all colors surround you will make you feel like walking into a dream.

6. Soak in a hot spring under coconut palms: There are hot springs everywhere, but soaking in hot springs under coconut trees is the unique feature of Sanya Nantian Hot Spring (南田温泉). There are over 50 different types of open-air hot spring pools; Soaking in a small green pool, smelling the fragrance of flowers, looking up at the clear sky decorated by coconut trees and chatting with the people you love. It seems like a different world.

Hot Sanya Tours:

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Sanya Weather

Panoramic View of Sanya City
© Tom Wang/unsplash

Sanya Weather

Tianya Haijiao
© aitianya.cn

Sanya Weather

Have fun on Wuzhizhou Island
© wuzhizhou.com

Sanya Weather in October

  • Temperature: 27°C / 80°F
  • High Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
  • Low Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 27°C / 80°F
  • Rainfall: 235 mm
  • Rainy Days: 13.5 days
  • UV Index: 10

Sanya Weather in November

  • Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
  • High Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • Low Temperature: 21°C / 70°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 27°C / 80°F
  • Rainfall: 58 mm
  • Rainy Days: 7 days
  • UV Index: 9

Sanya Weather in December

  • Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
  • High Temperature: 27°C / 80°F
  • Low Temperature: 19°C / 66°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
  • Rainfall: 11 mm
  • Rainy Days: 4 days
  • UV Index: 8

Sanya Weather in January

  • Temperature: 22°C / 72°F
  • High Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Low Temperature: 19°C / 66°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
  • Rainfall: 8 mm
  • Rainy Days: 3 days
  • UV Index: 9

Sanya Weather in February

  • Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
  • High Temperature: 27°C / 80°F
  • Low Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
  • Rainfall: 13 mm
  • Rainy Days: 4 days
  • UV Index: 11

Sanya Weather in March

  • Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
  • High Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • Low Temperature: 22°C / 72°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 23°C / 73°F
  • Rainfall: 43 mm
  • Rainy Days: 4 days
  • UV Index: 12

Sanya Weather in April

  • Temperature: 27°C / 80°F
  • High Temperature: 31°C / 88°F
  • Low Temperature: 24°C / 75°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Rainfall: 43 mm
  • Rainy Days: 6 days
  • UV Index: 12

Low Tourist Season in Sanya (May ~ September)

From May to September, Sanya has a higher average temperature, more precipitation, plus it’s the typhoon season, so fewer tourists choose to visit Sanya at this time than other months. But if you don’t mind the heat, have a budget, and like quiet, it might be a better time for you to visit Sanya. The average temperature during the period is about 29°C. The total precipitation from May to September accounts for over 70% of the annual total, which is over 1,000 mm. Radiation is strong during the period, the UV index is high, all at 12. Tourists should pay attention to sun protection when doing outdoor activities.

Dressing Tips: Short sleeve shirts, beach pants and cotton dresses, etc. are recommended clothes for Sanya summer. Also, don’t forget to wear sunglasses, sunhats, suncream and sunshades if you are planning to go out during the daytime. If you are going to swim, dive, or do other sea sports, always bring a swimsuit.

Things to Do in Sanya Low Season

1. Take a stroll along Haitang Bay during sunset and have fun at Atlantis: Haitang Bay (海棠湾) has a pleasant climate, which can avoid cold in winter and heat in summer. Young thrill seekers can also challenge themselves with exciting water recreations such as Shark Safari, the Leap of Faith, Tornado Storm and the Rapid River, etc. at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark (亚特兰蒂斯水世界).

2. Spend a wonderful vacation on Wuzhizhou Island: Wuzhizhou Island (蜈支洲岛) is the most famous vacation island in Sanya. The island has beautiful natural scenery, various holiday villas, wooden houses, bars, tennis courts, seafood restaurants and all kinds of supporting facilities. Besides, more than 30 recreational activities at sea and on the beach have been carried out.

3. Feel the romance of Sanya Bay by wandering along the Coconut Landscaping Belt: Located in Sanya Bay, the site is famous for coconut palms all along the road. Here, it is common to see young parents having fun with their babies by building sand castles on the beach, caching crabs and collecting shells.

4. Learn more about Buddhist culture by visiting Nanshan Temple: Nanshan Temple (南山旅游区) is a large tourist area displaying traditional Chinese Buddhist culture. The most spectacular site in the area must be the 108-meter-high Nanhai Guanyin, which is also known as the "Treasure of the Hainan Island”.

5. Enjoy Shopping in the largest single duty-free shop in the world - Haitang Bay Duty Free Shop.

Sanya Weather

The Leap of Faith in Atlantis Hotel
© atlantis.com

Sanya Weather

Nanhai Guanyin
© Denny Ryanto/unsplash

More Featured Activities in Sanya Low Season:

Escape summer heat and go for a paddle at Yanoda - Yanoda Rainforest Culture Zone (呀诺达热带雨林文化区) is mainly composed of the Valley of Rain, the Valley of Dreams, the Valley of Three Paths. You may appreciate the original tropical rainforest landscape here. When mounting the observation deck, you can overlook Haitang Bay, Wuzhizhou Island and Nanwan Monkey Island. The featured "Waterfall Splashing" activity is a must try in summer!

Admire the beauty of flowers - There are many places in Sanya for spring outings to enjoy flowers. You may see over 3,000 kinds of orchid blossoms at Sanya Orchid World, appreciate kapok at Nanshan Temple Tourist Area and enjoy a vibrant landscape of rice fields at Sanya Rice National Park, etc.

Sanya hiking, overlooking and culture exploring - You may visit Luhuitou Mountain Peak Park to enjoy the panoramic view of Sanya City; spend one day or two on Wuzhizhou Island, climbing on Guanriyan to watch the sunrise and look out over the island and the South China Sea; Stay one night in the featured Bird Nest Hotel in Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park and enjoy the board view of Yalong Bay the next morning. Moreover, cycle along Sanya Bay, meet cute macaques at Nanwan Monkey Island Ecological Tourism Area and learn more about local culture and minorities at Binglang Ethnic Village.

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Paddle at Yanoda
© yanoda.com

Sanya Weather

Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park
© ylwpark.com

Sanya Weather in May

  • Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • High Temperature: 32°C / 90°F
  • Low Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • Rainfall: 142 mm
  • Rainy Days: 10 days
  • UV Index: 12

Sanya Weather in June

  • Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • High Temperature: 32°C / 90°F
  • Low Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
  • Rainfall: 198 mm
  • Rainy Days: 14 days
  • UV Index: 12

Sanya Weather in July

  • Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • High Temperature: 32°C / 90°F
  • Low Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 30°C / 86°F
  • Rainfall: 193 mm
  • Rainy Days: 14 days
  • UV Index: 12

Sanya Weather in August

  • Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
  • High Temperature: 31°C / 88°F
  • Low Temperature: 26°C / 79°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 29°C / 84°F
  • Rainfall: 222 mm
  • Rainy Days: 16 days
  • UV Index: 12

Sanya Weather in September

  • Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
  • High Temperature: 31°C / 88°F
  • Low Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
  • Ocean Temperature: 28°C / 82°F
  • Rainfall: 251 mm
  • Rainy Days: 17 days
  • UV Index: 12

How to Plan a Sanya Tour

Best Time to Visit Sanya: October ~ Next May

Places to Visit: Various bays, Betelnut Valley, Nanshan Buddhism Cultural Park, Yanoda Rainforest Park

How to Get There: International flights from London, Singapore, Seoul, Jakarta, Moscow, Novosibirsk, etc., and domestic/regional flights from most major cities like Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, etc.

Generally, a Sanya tour can be short or long, and many travelers choose to stay in Sanya for about 4~7 days. We suggest you visit at least one bay for a real "holiday", such as Yalong Bay, Sanya Bay, Dadonghai Bay or Haitang Bay where you can immerse yourself in the relaxing atmosphere by taking a sunbath, strolling on the soft beach, viewing the coastal scenery, etc. It is also available to spend several hours or more time experiencing some watersports. For travelers interested in the primitive nature of tropical forests, Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park or Yanoda Rainforest Park, which needs 0.5~1 day, is worthwhile. Besides, Nanshan Temple (0.5~1 day) with the world’s largest statue of Avalokitesvara - Nanhai Guanyin is also recommended if you have a Buddhist faith or want to appreciate a religious savory. For travelers needing an in-depth tour, Binglanggu is a nice option for local minorities exploration!

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Want to escape the crowds and explore Hainan? Don't miss Haikou - the capital city with lots of culture fun. A classic Haikou tour takes about 2 days. The top highlights include informative Hainan Museum, old buildings in Qilou Old Street, Volcanic Crater Park, etc. Besides, you can spend 1~2 days exploring the undeveloped bays and uninhabited islands, 1~2 days appreciating the peaceful town of Boao and its unique natural landscapes, 1~2 days involving in the sunny homeland of minorities in Lingshui, etc.

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Top 3 Sanya tours chosen by most customers to explore Sanya in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary,or tailor your own trip now with us.

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Stunning Yalong Bay Lying under the Tropical Paradise Forest Park

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