Sansha City Tourism

Sansha, Hainan — the Pearl of the South China Sea. Explore the mysterious waters of the Xisha Archipelago, visit the government seat on Yongxing Island, experience the unique island landscapes, and feel the magnificence of China’s southernmost maritime frontier.

2012
Year Established
2M+
km² of Sea Area
2800+
km Coastline
2500
Permanent Population

Sansha City District & County Tourism

5-Day 4-Night Sansha South China Sea Secret Realm Expedition

Explore the Xisha secret realm, visit the Pearl of the South China Sea, and experience China’s southernmost maritime frontier

Duration
5 Days 4 Nights
Main Destinations
Yongxing Island, Quanfu Island, Yinyu Island, Seven Connected Islets
Suitable For
Adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, marine ecology researchers
Budget Per Person
¥5000–¥10000
01
South China Sea Departure
Heading to Yongxing Island
Trip Highlights

Depart from Sanya by cruise ship to Yongxing Island, Sansha City, and begin your South China Sea journey.

Attractions
Nanhai Zhi Meng / Chang Le Gong Zhu Cruise
Dedicated cruise ships to the Xisha Archipelago, offering comfortable voyages and professional commentary on the South China Sea.
Practical Information
Accommodation
  • Cruise cabin
  • Advance booking required
Travel Tips
  • Complete relevant procedures in advance
  • Prepare sun protection
  • Bring motion sickness medication
Important Notes
  • Original ID card required
  • Comply with South China Sea conduct regulations
  • Protect the marine environment
02
Exploring Yongxing Island
Seat of Sansha Municipal Government
Trip Highlights

Land on Yongxing Island and visit the Sansha Municipal Government and island facilities.

Attractions
Yongxing Island
The seat of Sansha Municipal Government and the largest island in the Xisha Archipelago, featuring complete infrastructure and unique South China Sea landscapes.
Sansha Municipal Government Building
China’s southernmost municipal government office building and the administrative center and landmark of Sansha City.
Xisha Marine Museum
A museum showcasing the marine ecology and cultural history of the Xisha Archipelago, with rich collections of marine specimens and archaeological discoveries.
Practical Information
Special Experiences
  • Visit China’s southernmost government
  • Learn about Sansha’s development history
  • Experience island reef life
Important Notes
  • Obey military management area regulations
  • Do not photograph sensitive facilities
  • Follow the guide’s arrangements
03
Quanfu Island Experience
Pristine White Sand & Glassy Seas
Trip Highlights

Land on Quanfu Island and experience pristine white sand beaches and glass-like transparent seawater.

Attractions
Quanfu Island
One of the most beautiful islands in the Xisha Archipelago, famous for its pure white sand beaches and glass-like transparent seawater — a paradise for snorkeling and photography.
Practical Information
Recommended Activities
  • Beach walking
  • Snorkeling to view coral reefs
  • Photography
  • Patriotic oath ceremony
Environmental Tips
  • Do not take coral or shells
  • Avoid wearing sunscreen when entering the water
  • Leave no trash behind
04
Yinyu Island Exploration
Fishermen Culture & Ecological Experience
Trip Highlights

Land on Yinyu Island and experience fishermen culture and rich marine ecology.

Attractions
Yinyu Island
A small island formed by coral sand and reef flats, rich in marine biological resources. Fishermen reside on the island year-round, offering an authentic South China Sea fishermen culture experience.
Seven Connected Islets
An archipelago composed of seven adjacent islands and reefs, featuring pristine ecology and rich marine biodiversity, serving as an important area for birdwatching and marine ecological research.
Practical Information
Special Experiences
  • Interact with local fishermen
  • Taste South China Sea seafood
  • Observe seabird ecology
  • Photograph coral reefs
Important Notes
  • Respect fishermen’s lifestyles
  • Do not disturb wildlife
  • Follow island management regulations
05
Return & Reflection
South China Sea Memories
Trip Highlights

Return to Sanya and reflect on the gains and insights from the South China Sea journey.

Attractions
South China Sea Cruise Return
Take the cruise back to Sanya, review the highlights of the South China Sea trip, and share photography works and experiences.
Practical Information
Return Suggestions
  • Organize photography works
  • Purchase South China Sea souvenirs
  • Share travel experiences
Souvenir Recommendations
  • South China Sea postcards
  • Sansha commemorative stamps
  • South China Sea photo albums
  • Marine culture books

Must-Try Foods in Sansha

South China Sea Seafood

Abundant marine resources from the Sansha waters, including various fish, shellfish, shrimp, and crab. Simple cooking methods preserve the original fresh flavor.

Coconut Seafood Hot Pot

A Hainan specialty using coconut juice as the hot pot broth, cooking fresh South China Sea seafood. The soup is sweet and clear, and the seafood is tender and flavorful.

South China Sea Fish Congee

A traditional dish of the South China Sea region, made with fresh fish simmered into a thick, flavorful congee.

Sansha Travel Tips
Best Travel Time
  • March–May: Calmer seas, suitable for sailing
  • October–December: Cool climate, suitable for island landings
  • Avoid June–September typhoon season
Must-Do Experiences
  • Visit Sansha Municipal Government on Yongxing Island
  • Snorkel in the glassy seas of Quanfu Island
  • Experience fishermen culture on Yinyu Island
  • Ecological observation at Seven Connected Islets
  • Photograph South China Sea sunrises and sunsets
Budget Reference
  • Cruise ticket: ¥4000–¥8000
  • Trip expenses: ¥1000–¥2000
  • Total: ¥5000–¥10000
Frequently Asked Questions
  • How to get to Sansha? → Book through designated travel agencies for cruise itineraries
  • Required documents? → Original Mainland Chinese ID card
  • Can I travel independently? → Currently only group tours are allowed
  • Any restrictions? → Photography prohibited in some areas; follow all regulations