Wanning | The Perfect Blend of Nanyang Charm

Wanning Travel Guide: A Perfect Fusion of Surfing Paradise, Coconut Coastline, and Nanyang Charm

Tired of overcrowded tourist hotspots? Wanning, Hainan—a low-key yet captivating coastal town—awaits your discovery! Free from Sanya's hustle, it boasts world-class surf spots, pristine bays, lush tropical rainforests, and unique Nanyang (Southeast Asian) influences. Ready for an untamed Hainan adventure?

I. Must-Experience Highlights of Wanning

1. **Riyue Bay: Passion and Freedom on the Waves**
- Why go? One of China’s most famous surf destinations, ideal for beginners! Year-round waves peak in winter. Features a long sandy beach, trendy surf shops, and oceanfront cafés with a youthful vibe.
- Activities: Surf lessons (highly recommended!), café lounging, beach strolls, sunset views, soaking up surf culture.
- Tips: Book lessons in advance at professional surf clubs. Rash guards and sunscreen are essential.

2. **Shimei Bay: Serene Luxury at the "Most Beautiful Bay"**
- Why go? Dubbed "Hainan’s most beautiful bay," with 6km of powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. Home to luxury resorts (e.g., Westin, Le Méridien) and the photogenic Phoenix Nine Miles Bookstore.
- Activities: Resort hopping (public areas are visit-worthy), reading by the sea, water sports (jet skiing, banana boats), snorkeling/diving at Jiajing Island (boat required).
- Tips: Perfect for quiet getaways and families. Book Jiajing Island trips ahead.

3. **Shenzhou Peninsula: Romantic Lighthouse & Vibrant Shores**
- Why go? Iconic red-and-white lighthouse (best at sunset) and a long coastline with golf courses, dining options, and mature resort facilities.
- Activities: Lighthouse photos, beach sports, golf, resort relaxation.
- Tips: Reach the lighthouse on foot or by rented golf cart.

4. **Xinglong: Nanyang Flavors & Tropical Gardens**
- Why go? A hub of returned overseas Chinese culture, offering authentic Southeast Asian cuisine (Indonesian/Malay/Thai) and tropical products. Don’t miss Xinglong Coffee Factory and Tropical Botanical Garden.
- Activities:
- **Eat**: Must-try Nanyang dishes—curry beef, satay skewers, coconut rice, kueh lapis (layered cake). Top picks: Nanyang Flavor, Wong Kok Bun, Aone Café.
- **Drink**: Sip Xinglong’s signature charcoal-roasted coffee.
- **Explore**: Botanical Garden (exotic flora), shopping for coffee/pepper/coconut products.
- Tips: Allocate half a day. Hire a garden guide for deeper insights.

II. **Local Food Recs**
- *Hou’an Rice Noodles*: Wanning’s breakfast staple! Rich pork bone broth with offal, soft-boiled egg, and pepper.
- *Hele Crab*: A Hainan delicacy—best steamed or stir-fried, bursting with roe.
- *Dongshan Goat*: Tender, non-gamey; try hotpot or braised.
- *Xinglong Coffee*: Bold, smoky aroma. Buy beans as souvenirs.
- *Nanyang Cuisine*: Curries, satay, nasi goreng, and Nyonya desserts in Xinglong.

III. **Itinerary Ideas**
- **3D2N Classic**:
Day 1: Arrive → Riyue Bay (surf/café) → Stay at Riyue/Shimei.
Day 2: Shimei Bay (beach/bookstore) → Shenzhou Lighthouse → Stay at Shimei/Shenzhou.
Day 3: Xinglong (noodles → garden → lunch → coffee shopping) → Depart.
- **5D4N In-Depth**: Add Jiajing Island snorkeling or hidden bays (Nanyan Bay, Shanqin Bay).

IV. **Where to Stay**
- *Riyue Bay*: Surf hostels/apartments for a laid-back vibe.
- *Shimei Bay*: Luxury resorts (Westin/Le Méridien) for premium beaches.
- *Shenzhou Peninsula*: Resorts (Sheraton) with golf and lighthouse access.
- *Xinglong*: Budget-hotels/thermal springs for foodies.

V. **Transport**
- **Getting There**: Fly to Haikou/Sanya, then take high-speed rail (1–1.5hr) to Wanning/Shenzhou Station.
- **Local**: Rent a car (ideal for flexibility), use taxis (short distances), or e-bikes (limited range).

VI. **Tips**
1. **Sunscreen** is non-negotiable—UV is intense!
2. **Bug spray** for rainforests/evenings.
3. **Attire**: Lightweight clothes, rash guards for surfing, sandals.
4. **Surf safely**: Beginners must use certified instructors.
5. **Book ahead** for peak seasons (winter/holidays).
6. **Payment**: Mobile pay is king; carry minimal cash.
7. **Eco-friendly**: Leave no trace on beaches.

VII. **Best Time to Visit**
- **Surfing**: Oct–Apr (best waves in winter).
- **Overall**: Nov–Apr (cool, dry weather).
- **Rainy season**: May–Oct (fewer crowds, lower prices).

Pack your bags! Chase waves in Riyue, embrace Shimei’s blues, savor Xinglong’s flavors, and let Wanning’s carefree spirit become your unforgettable escape. 🌊☕🌴