Ultimate 3-Day Family Travel Guide to Sanya: Budget-Friendly Wellness & Adventures
Explore tropical beaches, aquatic wonders, and cultural gems in Sanya with this family-friendly itinerary for 2025
Family TravelWellness RetreatsBudget Travel3 Days Itinerary
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 三亚
Location: Hainan Province, China
Famous For: Tropical beaches,Aquaventure Waterpark,Coral reefs,International air routes
Daily Cost: $50-100 USD/person
Best Season: October-March
Why Sanya is Perfect for Family Travel
Sanya combines tropical paradise with family-friendly attractions like Atlantis Sanya's waterpark, gentle ocean currents ideal for children, and diverse cultural experiences. With 85+ countries eligible for visa-free entry and 240-hour transit exemptions, this coastal gem offers seamless travel for international families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Best Time to Visit Sanya
Ideal Seasons: October-March avoids extreme heat and monsoon season
🌱Spring: March-April: Warm temperatures (22-28°C) with blooming tropical flowers
☀️Summer: May-September: High humidity with occasional typhoons, but perfect for water activities
🍁Autumn: October-November: Ideal weather (20-26°C) with fewer crowds
❄️Winter: December-February: Pleasant 18-24°C temperatures make it China's tropical escape
Arriving and Leaving Sanya
Metro Line 1 + ride-hailing apps for family travel. Renting a minivan recommended for multi-stop itineraries ($40/day)
Sanya Phoenix International Airport [Recommended]
Main airport 13km from city center with direct flights from 25+ international destinations. Taxi takes 30 minutes ($15-20 USD), airport shuttle buses available
Sanya Railway Station
Connects to Hainan's环岛高铁 line with 40+ daily high-speed trains to Haikou. 15-minute taxi ride ($5 USD) to downtown
Where to Stay in Sanya
Yalong Bay
Family-friendly luxury resorts with private beaches and kid-friendly amenities
Sanya Bay
Budget-conscious options near tropical markets and seafood restaurants
Top Family Activities in Sanya
Atlantis Sanya Aquaventure
Asia's largest waterpark with wave pools, lazy rivers, and dolphin encounters
Wuzhizhou Island
Family-friendly island with shallow coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and glass-bottom boat rides
Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone
Giant 108-meter Guanyin statue and peaceful Buddhist gardens for cultural exploration
Tips
Book waterpark tickets in advance during peak seasons. Morning hours recommended for outdoor attractions
Sanya Family Food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Chunyuan Seafood Restaurant
Local favorite with family-style dining and market-fresh seafood selections
2. Atlantis The Lost Chambers Restaurant
Underwater-themed dining with marine life views perfect for kids
Signature Dishes
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice
Famous local dish with poached chicken, aromatic rice, and chili dipping sauce
2. Seafood Hotpot
Fresh market-caught seafood cooked tableside in nourishing broth
3-Day Sanya Family Itinerary
DAY 1
🍳Breakfast at Atlantis Sanya:Buffet breakfast with kid-friendly options
Visit Atlantis Aquaventure:Explore family slides and marine habitats
🍽️Dinner at Aqua Restaurant:Dine surrounded by marine life
Evening Beach Walk:Stroll along the illuminated beach promenade
DAY 2
🍳Breakfast at resort:Continental breakfast at hotel
Ferry to Wuzhizhou Island:30-minute scenic boat ride
🥗Lunch at Island Restaurant:Seafood lunch with ocean views
Visit Nanshan Temple:Explore giant Buddha statue and tranquil gardens
🍽️Dinner at Lotus Restaurant:Vegetarian-friendly options available
DAY 3
🍳Breakfast at Coconut Market:Try local specialties like Hainanese noodles
Visit Tropical Fruit Market:Sample exotic fruits and local snacks
🥗Lunch at Dongmen Market:Choose fresh seafood for market-to-table dining
Family Beach Relaxation:Gentle waves perfect for children's playtime
🍽️Farewell Dinner at Sky Restaurant:Skyline dinner with city views