Traveling to Hainan: When Should You Go?

Hainan Island is located in the South China Sea off the southern coast of China. Its popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. The island attracts tourists with its warm climate and picturesque beaches. Let’s take a closer look at the water temperature and weather conditions by month on Hainan.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hainan?

Hainan has a tropical climate, which means the year is divided into dry and wet seasons. From December through April, there is virtually no rain and the sea is warm. The air and water temperatures drop enough to ensure a comfortable vacation. The only downside during this period may be the occasional fog.

While winters are cold in many parts of China, many people come to Hainan during these months to escape the chill and enjoy a warm winter holiday. However, it’s worth noting that travel costs tend to increase during this period due to higher demand.

Looking at the temperature by month in more detail, the weather in March and April is sunny and warm—ideal for traveling without it being too hot. The average temperature is between 18 and 24℃. From December to February, although it’s winter on Hainan, it is not cold and there is no snow. Precipitation decreases and the sunny, dry season begins. The average temperature is between 24 and 28℃.

If you need accommodation on Hainan, TravelHub has prepared a selection of hotels to make your stay on this island unforgettable:

• DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hainan Chengmai
• Four Points By Sheraton Danzhou
• Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Sanya Bay
• Wingate by Wyndham Sanya Luhuitou
• Sanya Serenity Coast Marina Hotel
• Holiday Inn Express Wenchang, an IHG Hotel
• Shengyi Holiday Villa Hotel
• Crowne Plaza Sanya City Center, an IHG Hotel
• Waika Hotel
• Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Sanya Yalong Bay, an IHG Hotel

When Is It Better to Avoid Visiting Hainan?

The rainy season on Hainan begins in May and lasts until October. During this period the weather is hot and the sea is warm. Don’t miss the opportunity to dive in and enjoy the waves. Prices for vacations also drop during this time, but those looking to save should keep in mind that the rainy season coincides with the typhoon season on Hainan. However, tropical cyclones rarely affect Sanya, the resort city on the southern part of the island.

The peak rainfall occurs in July and August. Fog is more common in the northern part of the island, around Haikou, but it’s rare in the south, in Sanya. So if you don’t mind the humidity, the rainy season could be a good time to visit.

Overall, summer (from May through September) is hot on Hainan. The highest recorded temperature is 39℃, with an average range of 26 to 33℃. In October and November, the weather becomes a bit milder, but it’s still warm. The average temperature during these months is between 25 and 30℃.

If you’re looking for an excursion tour in Hainan or other cities in China, TravelHub offers an exciting selection of tours:

• Beijing-Sanya-Beijing Tour
• Beijing-Xi’an-Chongqing-Cruise-Yichang-Beijing
• Classic China
• Ancient and Modern Capitals
• Imperial Palaces of the Celestial Empire
• The Land of Silk and Tea
• Beijing-Shanghai-Beijing
• Avatar – Zhangjiajie
• Land of Pandas – Chengdu
• Shanghai Tour
• The Mystery of Beijing
• First Impressions of Beijing

What Is the Water Temperature?

• January: about 19 °C.
• February: about 20 °C.
• March: about 22 °C.
• May: roughly 28 °C on average.
• Summer (June – August): the water warms up to 30 °C, making it very pleasant for extended swimming. However, this coincides with the rainy season.
• September: 28…29 °C.
• November: 26…27 °C.
• December: 24…25 °C.

Hainan's Best Beaches

Hainan Island is home to many beaches, including West Island, Houhai, Riyue Bay, Shimei Bay, and Wuzhizhou. We’ve selected the top three most popular.

China’s number one beach – Yalong Bay – offers visitors 7 km of soft, white sand and warm, clear waters. Surrounded by green hills, this bay is considered one of the most picturesque beaches in the Celestial Empire. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, and even try snorkeling or diving among the coral reefs.

For an incredible nighttime atmosphere, head to Sanya Bay. Stretching 22 km along the island's southern coast and just a few steps from downtown Sanya, the beach buzzes during the day—especially during the Chinese New Year. But at night, it’s the perfect spot for a stroll and watching locals dance along the shore.

The ideal blend of sea, sun, and local life can be found at Dadonghai Beach—a stunning location where you could easily spend an entire day. Situated between green hills about 4 km southeast of downtown Sanya, you can relax under swaying coconut palms, on soft white sand, beside brilliant blue water.

China is a land of contrasts where the differences between the north and south are particularly striking. Visiting various parts of China will help you gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture. After exploring the country’s southernmost province, head north to discover northern Chinese traditions.

When planning your trip to Hainan, be sure to check out the best time to travel. And remember, traveling with TravelHub will turn your vacation into an unforgettable adventure.