Hainan, situated in the South China Sea, holds the distinction of being China’s smallest and southernmost province. Often referred to as the “Hawaii of China,” this place boasts a tropical climate, abundant greenery, and a breathtaking coastline. Hainan has emerged as a favored destination for both local and global tourists who seek a tranquil getaway, a dive into the island’s rich culture and history, or a taste of exhilarating activities.
In this piece, we’re set to walk you through the optimal periods for a Hainan visit. We’ll factor in the weather, and the changing seasons, weigh the pros and cons, and showcase the top attractions and experiences. Furthermore, we’ll dish out some savvy pointers to help you map out your Hainan adventure, covering aspects such as travel arrangements, accommodation, packing essentials, and what to anticipate.
Hainan, this splendid island in the southern reaches of China, boasts a diverse array of attractions and entertainment options for wanderers. Whether your heart yearns for serene beaches, natural thermal springs, cultural legacies, or pulse-pounding adventure sports, Hainan caters to all tastes. Dive into our comprehensive guide for insight into the prime time to explore Hainan. We’ll unwrap details on the climate, seasonal highlights, the upsides and downsides, and a curated list of the finest activities and sights to indulge in.
Why Visit Hainan?
Hainan is a beautiful island in southern China that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers. Whether you are looking for relaxing beaches, natural hot springs, cultural heritage, or adventurous sports, Hainan has something for everyone. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit Hainan:
- Hainan has a tropical climate that makes it a year-round destination. The average temperature is around 25°C (77°F), and the island enjoys plenty of sunshine and rainfall. You can swim, surf, sail, fish, golf, and enjoy other outdoor activities in any season.
- Hainan has a stunning coastline that stretches for more than 1,500 kilometers (930 miles). The island has more than 50 beaches that vary in size, shape, and color. You can find white sand beaches, black sand beaches, coral beaches, and volcanic beaches. Some of the most famous beaches are Yalong Bay, Sanya Bay, Dadonghai Beach, and Wuzhizhou Island.
- Hainan has a rich biodiversity that makes it a paradise for nature lovers. The island has more than 4,600 kinds of plants and 570 kinds of animals, many of which are rare and endemic. You can explore the rainforests, mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs that are home to various species of birds, butterflies, monkeys, dolphins, turtles, and more.
- Hainan has a diverse culture that reflects its history and ethnic diversity. The island has been influenced by various foreign powers and immigrants over the centuries, such as the Mongols, the Portuguese, the Dutch, the British, the French, and the Japanese. The island also has a large population of indigenous people, such as the Li and Miao ethnic minorities. You can learn about their history, culture, art, and lifestyle through their traditional houses, costumes, crafts, music, dance, and festivals.
- Hainan has a modern development that provides comfort and convenience for travelers. The island has many internationally operated hotels and resorts that offer stunning views of the sea and the mountains. The island also has many facilities and services that cater to different needs and preferences of travelers, such as airports, railways, highways, shopping malls, restaurants, bars, clubs, spas, and more.
Weather in Hainan by month
Hainan has a tropical monsoon climate, with warm weather year-round. The average temperature is 25°C (77°F), with highs of up to 35°C (95°F) in the summer and lows of 15°C (59°F) in the winter. The wet season runs from May to October, with an average of 1,800 mm (71 inches) of rain per year. The driest months are January and February. The average temperature in Hainan varies throughout the year, with the warmest months being April to October. The coldest months are December to February. Here are some more details about the weather in Hainan:
- The average annual temperature in Hainan is 23.8°C (74.8°F), which is higher than most parts of mainland China.
- The average temperature in Hainan ranges from 16°C (60.8°F) in January to 29°C (84.2°F) in July.
- The average rainfall in Hainan is 1,600 mm (63 inches) per year, which is higher than most parts of mainland China.
- The rainy season in Hainan is from July to October, when typhoons and storms may occur.
- The dry season in Hainan is from November to March when the weather is sunny and pleasant.
The average January temperature in Hainan ranges from slightly below 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the north to slightly above 68 degrees Fahrenheit in the south. Rainfall is abundant on the eastern side of the island from May to November, and it rains about twice as much on the western side. In the north, where the capital, Haikou, is located, rainfall averages 63 inches per year and is heaviest from May to October.
| Month | Rainfall (mm) | Number of Days with Rain |
|---|---|---|
| January | 20 | 9 |
| February | 35 | 11 |
| March | 50 | 10 |
| April | 105 | 12 |
| May | 185 | 16 |
| June | 210 | 16 |
| July | 210 | 14 |
| August | 225 | 15 |
| September | 250 | 15 |
| October | 200 | 13 |
| November | 95 | 10 |
| December | 35 | 8 |
When is the Best Time to Visit Hainan?
The best time to visit Hainan is during the spring (March to April) or fall (November to December). The weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. There are also many activities and attractions to enjoy during these times of year. If you are interested in swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities, the summer months (June to September) are a good time to visit Hainan. However, be aware that the weather can be hot and humid during this time of year. If you are interested in hiking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities, the spring or fall months are a good time to visit Hainan. The weather is still warm and sunny, but there is less rain.
Here is a breakdown of the weather by month to help you decide when to go:
- January: The coldest month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 16°C (60.8°F) and an average rainfall of 15.8 mm (0.6 inches). The weather is dry and sunny, but sometimes windy and chilly. It is a good time to visit the hot springs, the museums, and the cultural attractions.
- February: A slightly warmer month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 17.4°C (63.3°F) and an average rainfall of 19.9 mm (0.8 inches). The weather is still dry and sunny, but more pleasant and comfortable. It is a good time to enjoy the beaches, the golf courses, and the festivals, such as the Spring Festival and the Lantern Festival.
- March: A warmer and wetter month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 20.6°C (69.1°F) and an average rainfall of 26.5 mm (1 inch). The weather is humid and cloudy, but still mild and sunny. It is a good time to explore the rainforests, the wetlands, and the coral reefs.
- April: A hot and humid month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 24.4°C (75.9°F) and an average rainfall of 71.2 mm (2.8 inches). The weather is tropical and rainy, but also breezy and refreshing. It is a good time to try some water sports and activities, such as diving, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing.
- May: A hotter and rainier month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 27.1°C (80.8°F) and an average rainfall of 167.8 mm (6.6 inches). The weather is sultry and stormy, but also colorful and lively. It is a good time to experience some cultural events and performances, such as the Sanyuesan Festival, the Danzhou Folk Song Festival, and the Hainan International Coconut Festival.
- June: The hottest month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 28.3°C (82.9°F) and an average rainfall of 212.9 mm (8.4 inches). The weather is sweltering and rainy, but also vibrant and energetic. It is a good time to enjoy some nightlife and entertainment, such as bars, clubs, spas, and shopping malls.
- July: A slightly cooler but wetter month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 28.9°C (84°F) and an average rainfall of 205.7 mm (8.1 inches). The weather is muggy and cloudy, but also calm and peaceful. It is a good time to relax and rejuvenate at the hotels, resorts, pools, and gardens.
- August: A cooler and drier month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 28.5°C (83.3°F) and an average rainfall of 242.6 mm (9.6 inches). The weather is tropical and sunny, but also windy and rough. It is a good time to explore some natural wonders and attractions, such as the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, the Wuzhizhou Island Tourist Zone, and the Boao Jade Belt Beach.
- September: A cooler and rainier month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 27.5°C (81.5°F) and an average rainfall of 287.2 mm (11.3 inches). The weather is humid and stormy, but also beautiful and romantic. It is a good time to visit some historical sites and monuments, such as the Qiongya Red Army Memorial Park, the Dongjiao Coconut Plantation, and the Boao Forum for Asia.
- October: A mild and pleasant month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 25.3°C (77.5°F) and an average rainfall of 222 mm (8.7 inches). The weather is warm and clear, but also colorful and festive. It is a good time to enjoy some local cuisine and specialties, such as Wenchang chicken, coconut rice, Qiongshan tofu pudding, Hele crab, and Jiaji duck.
- November: A cool and dry month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 21.9°C (71.4°F) and an average rainfall of 68.8 mm (2.7 inches). The weather is sunny and comfortable, but also crisp and refreshing. It is a good time to experience some outdoor activities and adventures such as hiking, biking, camping, and zip-lining. It is a good time to visit some scenic spots and parks, such as the Nanwan Monkey Island Ecological Tourism Zone, the Xinglong Hot Spring, and the Sanya Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone.
- December: The coolest and driest month in Hainan, with an average temperature of 18.3°C (64.9°F) and an average rainfall of 24.1 mm (0.9 inches). The weather is cold and sunny, but also cozy and festive. It is a good time to celebrate some holidays and events, such as Christmas, New Year, and the Hainan International Film Festival.
Things to Do and See in Hainan by Season
Whether you are looking for relaxing beaches, natural hot springs, cultural heritage, or adventurous sports, Hainan has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Hainan by season:
Winter (December to February): Winter is the peak season for tourism in Hainan, as many tourists come to escape the cold winter in mainland China and other countries. The weather is mild and pleasant, with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and little rain. The sea is calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming, diving, surfing, sailing, fishing, and other water activities. Some of the best places to enjoy the sea and the sun are Yalong Bay, Sanya Bay, Dadonghai Beach, and Wuzhizhou Island. Winter is also a good time to visit the hot springs, which are abundant and diverse in Hainan. You can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot spring pools, which have different temperatures, minerals, and health benefits. Some of the best places to enjoy the hot springs are Xinglong Hot Spring, Qixianling Hot Spring, Sanya Pearl River Nantian Hot Spring Resort, and Baoting Qiaogang Hot Spring Resort.
Spring (March to May): Spring is a warmer and wetter season in Hainan, as the temperature rises and the rainfall increases. The weather is humid and cloudy, but still mild and sunny. The sea is still suitable for water activities, but also more windy and rough. Spring is a good time to explore the coral reefs and marine life in Hainan, which are among the best preserved in China. You can dive or snorkel in the crystal clear water, and see more than 2700 kinds of marine creatures, such as fish, shrimp, crab, sea cucumber, sea urchin, starfish, and more. You can also admire the colorful and diverse coral formations, such as brain coral, table coral, and staghorn coral. Some of the best places to enjoy the coral reefs are Wuzhizhou Island Tourist Zone, Luhuitou Peninsula Park Coral Reef Protection Area, and Sanya Coral Reef National Nature Reserve.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the hottest and rainiest season in Hainan, as the temperature reaches its peak and the rainfall reaches its maximum. The weather is sweltering and stormy, but also vibrant and energetic. The sea is not very suitable for water activities, as it is murky and choppy. Summer is a good time to enjoy some nightlife and entertainment in Hainan, which are abundant and diverse on the island. You can find many bars, clubs, spas, shopping malls, and restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can also watch some shows and performances that showcase the culture and talent of Hainan. Some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife and entertainment are Sanya Bay Coconut Dream Corridor, Haikou Qilou Old Street Snack Street, and Hainan International Film Festival.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a mild and pleasant season in Hainan, as the temperature drops and the rainfall decreases. The weather is warm and clear, but also crisp and refreshing. The sea is still not very suitable for water activities, as it is still murky and choppy. Autumn is a good time to explore some natural wonders and attractions in Hainan, which are stunning and diverse on the island. You can find many rainforests, mangroves, wetlands, and waterfalls that are home to various species of birds, butterflies, monkeys, dolphins, turtles, and more. You can also hike, bike, camp, and zip-line in these natural areas. Some of the best places to enjoy nature and wildlife are the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone, Nanwan Monkey Island Ecological Tourism Zone, and Sanya Nanshan Cultural Tourism Zone.
To learn more about the top attractions and activities in Hainan, please read our article, ‘Best Things to Do in Hainan.’
Travel tips for visiting Hainan
Hainan is a beautiful island province in the south of China, known for its tropical climate, sandy beaches, and rich culture. If you are planning to visit Hainan, here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa-free entry or a visa on arrival to Hainan. Tourists from 21 countries can enjoy a visa-free policy for up to 15 days if they travel in groups of at least five members and book through a designated travel agency. Tourists from any country that has diplomatic relations with China can apply for a visa on arrival at Sanya Airport. You can check the details and requirements of the visa policies on the official website of Hainan Tourism.
- Currency: The currency in Hainan is the Chinese yuan (CNY). You can exchange your currency for CNY at the airport or at any bank in Hainan.
- Time zone: Hainan is in the UTC+8 time zone, which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).
- Language: The official language in Hainan is Mandarin Chinese. However, many people in Hainan also speak English.
- Transportation: There are a variety of ways to get around Hainan. You can fly, take the train, bus, or taxi.
- Accommodation: There are many hotels, resorts, and guesthouses to choose from in Hainan. You can find accommodation to fit any budget.
- Activities: Hainan offers a variety of activities for different interests and preferences. If you love water sports, you can enjoy surfing, diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, and more in the clear blue sea. You can also relax on the white sandy beaches, such as Yalong Bay, Sanya Bay, and Dadonghai Bay. If you are interested in nature and wildlife, you can explore the tropical rainforests, volcanic parks, hot springs, and monkey islands. You can also visit the cultural and historical sites, such as the Li and Miao ethnic villages, the Nanshan Temple, and the Tianya Haijiao (the End of the Earth). You can also experience the nightlife and entertainment options in Sanya, such as bars, clubs, casinos, and shows.
- Food: Hainan is famous for its seafood and tropical fruits. You can taste fresh and delicious fish, shrimp, crab, lobster, oyster, scallops, and more at the local markets or restaurants. You can also try some of the local specialties, such as Hainan chicken rice (a dish of boiled chicken served with rice cooked in chicken broth), Wenchang chicken (a dish of roasted chicken with crispy skin and tender meat), Hele crab (a dish of steamed crab with ginger and vinegar), Jiaji duck (a dish of braised duck with soy sauce and spices), and Dongshan lamb (a dish of stewed lamb with coconut milk). You can also enjoy various kinds of fruits, such as coconut, mango, pineapple, banana, papaya, dragon fruit, lychee, longan, and more.
- Safety: Hainan is a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
- Health: There are no major health risks in Hainan. However, it is a good idea to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid fever before you travel.
- Culture: Hainan is a unique blend of Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures. Be sure to experience the local culture by visiting temples, markets, and restaurants.
- Shopping: There are many opportunities for shopping in Hainan. You can find everything from souvenirs to high-end designer goods.