Hainan is China’s largest island and the country’s only island province. Once a quiet place where little happened, Hainan has quickly turned into one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. Most people come here for the warm weather and the excellent beaches. The island is well connected to the mainland by plane, train and ferry. Tourists in China who have visited all the usual attractions in Beijing and Shanghai should definitely consider taking a quick trip down to Hainan Island.
This enchanting isle offers visitors quite a list of things to do. Bird watching is one tourist activity that has become highly popular over the past few years, especially among nature lovers. Despite widespread development and urbanisation, large portions of the island are still covered in tropical rainforest, forming homes for an astonishing variety of birds. Over four hundred different bird species have been spotted on the island. The abundance of avian fauna can be attributed to the island’s extensive plant cover as well as its location along Asian-Australian bird migration routes.
Although a fair share of the bird population is seasonal, most bird species can be found throughout the year. The island is also home to two endemic bird species – the Hainan leaf warbler and the Hainan partridge. The best bird watching spots are the Yinggeling Reserve, the Bawangling Reserve and the Dongzhaigang Reserve.
Sanya is located on the southern tip of Hainan and is a popular tourist area. The region has some truly wonderful beaches and most come here to try out various water sports such as snorkelling, scuba diving and jet skiing. One can also find plenty of upscale shops, restaurants and lodgings here. Sanya enjoys warm tropical weather for most of the year. The main attractions here include the Guanyin Statue of Hainan, the Deer Turning Head Park and Yalong Bay.
Tourists looking for a luxury resort in Sanya can try the Anantara Sanya Resort & Spa. The Sanya resort is wedged between the South China Sea on one side and majestic, forest covered mountains on the other. With facilities for golf, tennis and plenty more, guests are sure to enjoy their stay here.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
