Sanya is synonymous with turquoise waters, sandy beaches and a balmy climate. Sitting at the southern tip of Hainan – the Chinese island province often dubbed the “Hawaii of the East” – the city is blessed with miles of stunning coastline. Unsurprisingly, this premier destination is a favourite for both romantic getaways and family holidays.
If you have your sights set on Sanya, then read on to discover our favourite hotels there – from quiet retreats to lively beachfront resorts that showcase the very best of this tropical island city.
Credit: Rosewood Sanya
Credit: Rosewood Sanya
Credit: Rosewood Sanya
Rosewood Sanya
Located in Haitang Bay, Rosewood Sanya was the brand’s first resort in the Chinese Mainland, underscoring the city’s rising appeal to luxury travellers. Ocean-view rooms and suites with private pools invite guests to relax in style. Throughout the property, curated experiences span renowned restaurants and wellness centres – think market-style dining featuring the daily catch and spa rituals rooted in ancient remedies. Here, culture and design come together to create a stay grounded in a sense of heritage and timeless elegance.
Credit: The Sanya EDITION
Credit: The Sanya EDITION
The Sanya Edition
The Sanya Edition combines sophistication with a clear sense of place. At its heart is a private lagoon, which encompasses a 4,000-square-metre saltwater pool designated for swimming. Crescent‑shaped and adorned with mosaic tiles, the Ocean Pool appears to blend into the horizon. Guest rooms are airy and understated, framed by spectacular ocean views, while the spa and garden fitness facility reach new levels of tranquillity. Eight fine dining venues serve local and international cuisine, yet perhaps none beat the experience of dining on a private deck that floats serenely on the ocean.
Credit: Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
Credit: Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
For a family trip you’ll treasure, this cruise-ship-inspired hotel delivers everything young adventurers crave. Family rooms combine ample space with gorgeous sea views, and there are four outdoor swimming pools for endless fun – from a rooftop pool with panoramic views to a miniature pool encircled by a rainforest garden. Four different dining spots ensure everyone gets their favourite dish, and restaurant Chew Chew even offers children’s cooking classes. While younger guests are kept entertained by the activities on offer, parents can pause to soak in the beautiful surroundings.
Credit: Zhang mengyang/Getty Images
Credit: Emmanuel Wong/Getty Images
Atlantis Sanya
Known for entertainment-rich stays, the Atlantis brand delivers its signature experience to Sanya. Spanning some 30 hectares of prime Haitang Bay frontage, this ocean‑inspired resort comes complete with a waterpark and one of the Chinese Mainland’s largest open‑air aquariums, promising unique experiences for travellers of all ages. For a room with a truly one-of-a-kind vista, book one of the underwater suites and enjoy intimate views of marine life. A variety of themed dining spaces round out this grand property.
Credit: Mandarin Oriental Sanya
Credit: Mandarin Oriental Sanya
Credit: Mandarin Oriental Sanya
Mandarin Oriental Sanya
For those looking for a quieter and more refined stay, the Mandarin Oriental Sanya overlooks the natural beauty of Coral Bay. This resort reflects local culture through its understated luxury: tropical wood, volcanic rock, water features and slate‑grey roofs inspired by indigenous design. Spanning around 12 hectares of beachfront, the property boasts ocean views from every room, five restaurants and an extensive spa and fitness facility where you can enjoy yoga and tai chi classes.
Hotel Pullman Oceanview Sanya Bay Resort & Spa
Swaying palm trees and a private white‑sand beach set the scene at this hotel . Sleek interiors and open spaces complement the resort’s lineup of leisure options, including multiple swimming pools and water slides, signature Shan Spa treatments, a 24-hour gym, tennis courts and a kids’ club. Located just minutes from downtown Sanya, it’s an easy escape for leisure and business travellers alike.
Credit: St. Regis Sanya
Credit: St. Regis Sanya
St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay Resort
Situated next to a mangrove reserve, the St. Regis property celebrates the great outdoors. With a private beach offering paddleboarding and exclusive sail‑in, sail‑out yacht access, it delivers experiences that marry adventure with luxury – guests can even fish for and dine on their own catch. In between, unwind at the Iridium Spa, splash in multi‑level pools and let the kids run wild at the playground. True to its legacy, the resort upholds several St. Regis traditions, from serving the hotel’s signature cocktails to performing the old ritual of opening champagne with a sabre.