Sanya, the tropical coastal city on China's Hainan Island, is attracting growing numbers of international travelers. Known for its beaches, luxury resorts, and year-round warm climate, the destination is increasingly serving as a starting point for foreign visitors who want to explore more of China.
During the 2026 National Day holiday, official immigration statistics showed a notable increase in international passenger traffic through Sanya Phoenix International Airport, highlighting the city's expanding role in China's inbound tourism market.
International Passenger Traffic at Sanya Airport Rises 28.7%
According to figures released by Hainan's immigration authorities, Sanya Phoenix International Airport handled approximately 22,000 inbound and outbound passenger crossings during the October 1–7 National Day holiday, an increase of 28.7% compared with the same period in 2025.
Across Hainan Province, border inspection authorities processed approximately 54,000 inbound and outbound passenger crossings, representing a year-on-year increase of 13.4%.
The main source countries for inbound travelers to Hainan included Russia, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Belarus.
These figures measure cross-border passenger movements, including arrivals and departures, rather than the number of individual foreign tourists visiting Sanya.
Why Sanya Is Becoming an Important Entry Point to China
Sanya's growing popularity among international travelers reflects several developments in China's tourism market.
Expanded Visa-Free Travel Opportunities
China's visa-free entry arrangements, including policies applicable to Hainan, have made visiting the island more convenient for eligible international travelers.
However, entry conditions differ according to nationality, passport type, intended length of stay, and travel itinerary.
Travelers planning to visit other parts of mainland China after arriving in Hainan should confirm that their entry permission covers their full journey. Eligibility under a Hainan-specific visa-free policy does not automatically mean unrestricted travel to every destination in China.
Improving International Air Connections
International air services connecting Hainan with overseas markets are helping make Sanya more accessible.
Travelers from markets such as Russia and Kazakhstan are among those using Sanya as a destination for coastal holidays.
Convenient air connections can also make it possible for eligible travelers to combine Hainan with other Chinese destinations, subject to flight schedules and entry requirements.
A Different First Impression of China
For many overseas visitors, China is associated with the Great Wall, Shanghai's skyline, or the dramatic mountains of Zhangjiajie.
Sanya offers a different introduction.
Visitors can begin their journey with tropical beaches, coastal resorts, local seafood, and the relaxed atmosphere of southern China before continuing to the country's historic cities and natural landmarks.
From Beach Holidays to Multi-City China Adventures
An emerging travel pattern involves combining a stay in Sanya with visits to other destinations across China.
Instead of spending an entire holiday in one location, international visitors can experience different sides of the country in a single journey.
For example, travelers may consider:
Sanya + Beijing
Start with a relaxing beach holiday in Hainan before exploring the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Beijing's historic neighborhoods.
Sanya + Shanghai
Combine tropical island scenery with Shanghai's modern skyline, traditional gardens, and vibrant urban culture.
Sanya + Chengdu
Enjoy the beaches of southern China before discovering giant pandas, Sichuan cuisine, and Chengdu's distinctive local culture.
Sanya + Guilin
Experience Hainan's coastal landscapes alongside the limestone mountains, rivers, and countryside of Guilin and Yangshuo.
These are suggested travel combinations rather than established direct-flight routes or fixed tour packages. Actual itineraries depend on transport availability, travel time, and visa eligibility.
International Tourism Growth Extends Beyond the National Day Holiday
Sanya's tourism growth is not limited to the October holiday period.
Earlier in 2026, the city also reported strong international visitor activity.
According to information published by the Sanya municipal government, Sanya Phoenix International Airport recorded approximately 630,000 inbound and outbound passenger crossings during the first half of 2026, an increase of 33% year on year.
Foreign nationals accounted for approximately 83% of the airport's international passenger traffic during that period.
These figures reinforce Sanya's position as an increasingly important destination in China's international tourism market.
What International Travelers Should Know Before Visiting Sanya
For visitors planning to use Sanya as the first stop on a longer China holiday, several considerations are important.
Check Entry Requirements
Confirm whether your nationality qualifies for China's national visa-free arrangements, Hainan-specific entry policies, or another applicable visa category.
Plan Domestic Connections Carefully
Allow enough time for onward flights and transfers when combining Hainan with destinations such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, or Guilin.
Consider the Climate
Sanya has a tropical climate. Weather, rainfall, and seasonal travel demand can affect the experience, so choosing suitable dates is important.
Balance Relaxation with Exploration
Combining a few days of beach relaxation with cultural and scenic destinations can create a more varied China itinerary.
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Sources & References
Hainan Provincial Government — October 10, 2026
Hainan sees 13.4% rise in inbound and outbound travelers during National Day holidayHainan Daily — October 10, 2026
“入境首站”让国际游客欣然而至People's Daily Online — October 8, 2026
国庆假期海南出入境客流同比增长13.4%Sanya Municipal Government — August 2026
Sanya turning tourism spike into magnet
This article combines verified public tourism statistics with original travel insights and itinerary suggestions from SEEK CHINA TRAVEL.