Blue Bay Coral Gardens

Jiaji Island Wall

Shenzhou Peninsula Reef

Wanning Macro Slope

The Wanning coast is renowned for its incredibly fresh seafood caught daily by local fishing fleets. Hele crab, one of Hainan's four famous dishes, originates from this region and is best enjoyed steamed with ginger and garlic at local restaurants. The Bo'ao area has developed a sophisticated dining scene catering to international conference visitors, while Shimei Bay and Riyue Bay feature casual beachside restaurants serving grilled fish, tropical fruits, and refreshing coconut drinks.

Sheraton Shimei Bay Resort

Westin Shimei Bay Resort

Bo'ao Yuxinwan Hotel

Riyue Bay Surf Hostel

The Wanning and East Coast region of Hainan offers a more remote and pristine diving experience compared to the developed resort areas around Sanya. Dazhou Island, the crown jewel of this region, features some of the most untouched hard coral gardens in all of China, with hawksbill turtles, eagle rays, and seasonal whale shark encounters between March and June making it a bucket-list destination for serious divers. The waters around Dazhou remain remarkably clear due to limited development and strong ocean currents that keep the reefs healthy and vibrant. Shimei Bay provides accessible shallow coral sites ideal for training dives and beginners, while Riyue Bay combines surfing culture with rocky reef diving in a unique dual-sport environment. The Bo'ao area offers surprising macro diving in sandy lagoon environments with occasional guitarfish sightings. This region appeals to divers seeking uncrowded, authentic diving experiences away from the tourist masses.

Hainan – Wanning & East Coast

Optimal diving with warm water, excellent visibility, and calm seas.

Cooler winter months or typhoon-prone summer period with reduced visibility.

Good conditions with slightly cooler water and fewer crowds.

Explore the uninhabited island's coastal trails and bird watching spots

Dazhou Island nature reserve hiking

Learn to surf at one of China's premier surfing beaches

Surfing lessons at Riyue Bay

Visit the famous international conference area and coastal promenades

Bo'ao Forum area sightseeing

Cycle along the scenic coastal road and enjoy pristine beaches

Shimei Bay beach and coastal cycling

Experience traditional fishing culture and fresh seafood markets

Local Hainanese fishing village visit

Explore tropical botanical gardens showcasing Hainan's flora

Xinglong Tropical Garden tour

Fly into Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX) or Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK), then transfer to Wanning by high-speed rail. Dazhou Island requires a boat transfer from the Wanning coastline.

Dive Sites in Hainan – Wanning & East Coast

Blue Bay Coral Gardens

Jiaji Island Wall

Shenzhou Peninsula Reef

Wanning Macro Slope