Essential Hainan Travel Tips 🌊
Your go-to guide for a smooth & unforgettable island adventure
Essential Hainan Travel Tips
Weather & Clothing
Tropical climate year-round (25–35°C). Pack:
• Light cotton clothes & swimwear 👙
• High SPF sunscreen (≥50+) & hat 🧢
• Raincoat/umbrella (sudden showers) 🌧️
• Thin jacket for air-conditioned spaces
Transportation
Getting around made easy:
• Rent a car (IDP required for foreigners) 🚘
• High-speed rail connects Haikou-Sanya (1.5hrs) 🚄
• Motorbikes/scooters for short trips (license needed) 🏍️
• Ferries to islands (Wuzhizhou/Xisha) ⚓
Money & Payments
Convenient tips:
• Cash needed for small vendors/markets
• Alipay/WeChat Pay widely accepted 📱
• ATMs available in cities (foreign cards ok)
• Exchange money in Haikou/Sanya
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs:
• Ask permission before photographing Li/Miao people 👪
• Remove shoes when entering traditional homes
• Avoid touching elders' heads (sign of disrespect)
• Bargain politely in markets 🛍️
Safety Tips
Stay safe during your trip:
• Follow lifeguard warnings at beaches 🏊
• Drink bottled water (tap water not safe) 💧
• Apply mosquito repellent (especially evenings) 🦟
• Save emergency number: 110 (police)
Best Travel Times
Plan wisely:
• Nov-Apr: Ideal (20–28°C, dry) 🌞
• May-Oct: Hot & rainy (typhoon risk) 🌪️
• Avoid Chinese New Year (crowded & pricey) 🧨
• March-April: Perfect for flower viewing 🌸