Day 1: Exploring the city
As you arrive in Sanya, rent a car from the airport and head straight to the city. Stop by the iconic Luhuitou Park and admire the stunning panoramic views of Sanya Bay. Don't forget to also make a visit to the Hainan Provincial Museum and learn about the history and culture of this beautiful region. After that, drive to the bustling downtown area and explore the local markets, food stalls, and shops.
Day 2: Diving into Nanshan Buddhism Culture Park
Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast and then drive to Nanshan Buddhism Culture Park, a large-scale cultural park dedicated to promoting Buddhist culture. This attraction features incredible monuments, gardens, temples, and a giant statue of the Guan Yin Goddess. You can also try some vegetarian dishes, purchased from the park's restaurant, that are prepared according to ancient Buddhist traditions.
Day 3: Bask in the Natural Beauty of Tianyahaijiao
Today, you'll visit one of the most beautiful destinations in Sanya – Tianyahaijiao Scenic Area. Spend the day exploring the stunning beaches, rock formations, and blue sea. You can also take a boat ride to see the famous "two lions playing with a ball" natural rock formation. End your day by enjoying a delicious seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Day 4: Hiking the Beauty of Yanoda Rainforest
Wake up early and drive to Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, a stunning ecosystem of lush forests, waterfalls, and natural stone bridges. You can choose from several hiking trails in the area, each offering its own unique views of this scenic paradise. After the hike, relax and unwind at the hot springs resort and indulge in a therapeutic spa treatment.
Day 5: Departure day
On your last day in Sanya, spend the morning exploring one last attraction – the Wuzhizhou Island. Accessible only by ferry, the island is home to pristine beaches, coral reefs, and a wide range of water activities like jet-skiing, banana boating, and parasailing. In the afternoon, return your rented car and head back to the airport for your flight back home.
Conclusion
Sanya has a diverse range of attractions that cater to different interests. Self-driving is the best way to explore this picturesque city as it provides you with more freedom in choosing your destinations, and you can also experience its scenic beauty on your own terms. With a little bit of planning, you'll discover the hidden gems that make Sanya an unmissable destination.