Dadonghai
Dadonghai, Sanya’s vibrant urban beach, is a 2.3-kilometer crescent of golden sands and azure waters renowned for its lively atmosphere, water sports, and proximity to downtown. Dubbed "China’s Most Popular Public Beach," it offers free entry, bustling night markets, and a 1.2-kilometer coastal promenade dotted with sculptures and cafes. Unlike secluded bays, Dadonghai thrives as a social hub, blending tropical relaxation with street food and live music.
Historical Overview
Developed in the 1980s as part of Hainan’s tourism boom, Dadonghai transformed from a military port to a public beach in 1992. Its name, meaning "Big East Sea," reflects its location east of Sanya Bay. The area gained fame in the 2000s as backpackers and local families flocked to its affordable seaside joys. Today, it remains a rare free-access beach in Hainan, hosting annual events like the International Sand Sculpture Festival.
Structural Layout
The bay is divided into three zones:
Beach Core: A public swimming area with lifeguard towers, volleyball courts, and shower stations.
Coastal Promenade: A pedestrian path featuring the "Luhuitou Legend" sculpture, a 10-meter-tall bronze of a hunter and deer (symbolizing Sanya’s origin myth).
Entertainment Hub: The "Dadonghai Night Market" and "Summer Mall" with beachwear shops, seafood BBQ stalls, and live bands.
Key landmarks include the Sanya Coral Reef Aquarium (underwater tunnels) and the Sunrise Viewing Platform (a cliffside deck at the bay’s eastern tip).
Major Attractions
Dadonghai Beach: Free public sands with calm waters (roped-off swimming zones).
Coastal Sculptures: Artworks like "Heavenly Maiden Dancing" and "Island Guardians" along the promenade.
Night Market: Grilled lobster, coconut juice, and handicrafts (6–11 PM daily).
Jet Ski Zone: Rentals from ¥150/hour (helmets and life jackets provided).
Sanya Coral Reef Aquarium: 360° underwater tunnels with 200+ marine species.
Sunrise Platform: Early-morning yoga and photography sessions (5:30–6:30 AM).
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (3–4 Hours):
Beach Access → Coastal Promenade → Sculpture Park → Night Market Dinner → Sunset Volleyball.
Highlights: Swimming, street food, and cultural sculptures.
- Extended Route (5–6 Hours):
Beach → Aquarium → Jet Skiing → Rooftop Bar (Cocktails at Haiyun Sky Lounge) → Night Market.
Highlights: Marine life, thrill rides, and nightlife.
- Family Route (Full Day):
Morning: Sandcastle building and aquarium visit.
Afternoon: Banana boat rides and pizza at The Hut.
Evening: Night market shopping and outdoor movie screening (Fridays).
Highlights: Kid-friendly activities and casual dining.
Ticket Purchase
Free Entry: Public beach and promenade.
Paid Activities: Aquarium: ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (children). Jet Ski: ¥150/hour (ID deposit required).
Online: Book aquarium tickets via 携程 (Ctrip) or 美团 (Meituan).
Transportation
Bus: Routes 2, 4, 8, or 26 to Dadonghai Station (¥2, 25 minutes from downtown Sanya).
Taxi: Direct from Sanya Bay (¥15, 10 minutes) or Yalong Bay (¥40, 25 minutes).
Bike Rental: ¥10/hour (e-bikes available; helmets required).
Shuttle: Free resort buses from Sanya’s Dadonghai hotels.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Seasons: October–April (dry season); avoid Chinese New Year (crowded).
Avoid Crowds: Visit weekdays; weekends draw 20,000+ visitors.
- Essentials:
Reusable water bottle (free refill stations at aquarium).
Waterproof phone pouch (for beach activities).
Cash for night market vendors (some stalls lack card readers).
Prohibited: Littering, overnight camping, and unleashed pets.
