Hello! My name is Lily Xia and I am a professional travel consultant with over 2 years of experience in the industry, specializing in destinations across China. I’ve helped countless international visitors plan their perfect trips throughout this vast and beautiful country. This article is a comprehensive guide to one of Sanya’s most beautiful escapes: Xidao Island. The following guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit, from transportation and tickets to activities and dining.
Introduction to Xidao Island
Xidao, also known as West Island, is a charming island located just off the coast of Sanya City in Hainan Province, China. It is one of the two largest inhabited islands near Sanya. The island covers an area of approximately 2.8 square kilometers.Xidao offers a more tranquil and authentic fishing village experience. Historically, it has been home to fishing families for generations. In recent years, it has been developed into a scenic area that allows visitors to experience both its natural beauty and traditional cultural atmosphere, all while enjoying modern water sports and facilities.
Tickets & Opening Hours
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Last entry to the island is usually at 4:30 PM. The return ferry time will be announced upon arrival; please pay attention to the last ferry back.)
Ticket Price: The ticket is typically a combined package that includes a round-trip ferry ride and entrance to the island.
Standard Ticket: Approximately ¥90 – ¥98 per person.
Concession Tickets: Discounts are often available for children between 1.2m – 1.4m tall, students (with valid ID), and seniors aged 60-69 (with valid ID). Children under 1.2m are usually free.
Note: Prices and operating hours are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official website or reliable travel platforms like Ctrip or Meituan for the most current information before your visit.
Main Attractions
Niuwang Ridge: Connected to the main island by a charming suspension bridge, this small hill offers the best panoramic views of Xidao, the surrounding ocean, and Sanya’s coastline. It’s a great spot for watching sunsets.
Xidao Village: Experience the authentic life of the local fishing community. You can stroll through the village, see the colorful fishing boats, and observe the daily routines of the fishermen. The village has been tastefully renovated with murals and cultural displays.
Island Landscape:A tropical gem with clear waters, coconut groves, and a 400-year fishing village. Enjoy snorkeling, sunset at Niuwang Ridge, and the Sea Library. A perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Water Sports Center: For adventure seekers, the island offers a wide range of activities including parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, snorkeling, and diving to explore the coral reefs.
Transportation: How to Get There
The only way to get to Xidao is by ferry from the Xidao Wharf.
By Taxi/Didi (Ride-hailing): The most convenient way. Simply tell the driver “Xidao Wharf” or show them the Chinese name “西岛肖旗港码头”.
Price:A taxi from Sanya Bay or the city center costs around ¥30-¥50. From Yalong Bay or Dadonghai, expect to pay ¥50-¥80.
By Public Bus: The cheapest option. Several buses stop near the wharf.
Bus Routes: 16, 25, 26, 30, 55.
Get off at: “Xidao Wharf”or “Xidao Port”
Price: ¥2-¥5 per person, depending on the bus and distance.
Driving: If you have a rental car, you can drive to the wharf.
Price:There is a large parking lot available for a fee, usually around ¥5-¥10 per hour or ¥30-¥50 for the day.
Experiences & Activities
Relax on the Unique Beach: Walk barefoot on the coral beach and soak in the sun.
Explore the Fishing Village: Get a glimpse of local life, try fresh seafood from small stalls, and take photos of the picturesque scenery.
Hike up Niuwang Ridge: Cross the suspension bridge and climb to the viewing platform for breathtaking views.
Try Water Sports: Go snorkeling or diving to see the marine life, or get your adrenaline pumping with motorized water sports.
Cycling: Rent a bicycle or an electric scooter to explore the island’s paths at your own pace.
Watch the Sunset: Niuwang Ridge is the perfect spot to end your day with a spectacular sunset over the ocean.
Food Guide
Seafood: This is the must-try on Xidao. You can choose live fish, prawns, crabs, and shellfish from tanks at small restaurants in the fishing village or at stalls along the beach.
Hainan Cuisine: Don’t miss local specialties like Wenchang Chicken, Jiaji Duck, and Dongshan Lamb.
Coconut Rice: Sticky rice steamed inside a young coconut, imparting a sweet and fragrant flavor.
Hainan Rice Noodles: A delicious bowl of rice noodles with various toppings like peanuts, bamboo shoots, and minced pork in a savory broth.
Q&A
Q: What should I bring?
A: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, towel, comfortable walking shoes (for Niuwang Ridge), sandals, cash (for small vendors in the village), and a camera.
Q: Is the island suitable for young children and elderly visitors?
A: Yes, the beach areas and the village are flat and easy to navigate. However, the climb to Niuwang Ridge involves stairs and may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Strollers can be difficult to use on the coral beach.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit?
A: October to April is the ideal time, with pleasant and dry weather. Avoid Chinese national holidays (e.g., October 1st week) if you dislike crowds. The summer months (May-September) are very hot, humid, and rainy, but also less crowded.
Lily Xia
She is Lily Xia,a 25 years old gilr.
For over ten years, she’ve been traveling with her camera,
and her greatest passion is capturing the beautiful moments,
places, and especially the people she meet along the way.