Yalong Bay

Yalong Bay is the beach everyone pictures when they think of Hainan: a 7-kilometer crescent of fine white sand, calm turquoise water, and a rim of resort hotels set back in the palms. It is the safest, most beautiful swimming in Sanya.

Public beach access is free and easy. Go early or late - midday it fills with families - and note that jet skis and parasailing are best negotiated on the far end, away from the lifeguard towers.