Hainan is a beautiful island province in the south of China, known for its tropical climate, sandy beaches, and rich culture. It is a popular destination for travelers who want to enjoy the sun, sea, and nature. However, before you pack your bags and book your flight, you need to know some important facts about Hainan weather. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Hainan weather, such as the average temperature, rainfall, sunshine hours, seasons, the best time to visit, weather forecasts, and tips for travelers. We will also provide some useful information about the Hainan travel guide, such as visa policy, attractions, and more. By reading this guide, you will be well prepared for your trip to Hainan and have a wonderful time on this island paradise.
The average weather in Hainan
Hainan is a tropical island known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and delicious cuisine. Hainan has a warm and humid climate, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
Hainan has a dry season and a wet season, with different rainfall and sunshine patterns. The dry season lasts from November to April, when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the rainfall is low. The wet season lasts from May to October, when the weather is hot and humid, and the rainfall is high. Hainan is also prone to typhoons and thunderstorms during this period. The sea temperature in Hainan is also warm all year round, making it a popular destination for swimming and water sports.
The average weather in Hainan varies greatly depending on the time of year. The island has a tropical monsoon climate, with two distinct seasons:
- The wet season: This runs from May to September and is characterized by hot and humid weather with frequent rainfall. The average temperature during this time is 28-32 degrees Celsius (82-90 degrees Fahrenheit).
- The dry season: This runs from October to April and is characterized by warm and sunny weather with less rainfall. The average temperature during this time is 25-29 degrees Celsius (77-84 degrees Fahrenheit).
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the average weather in Hainan by month:
| Month | Temperature (°C) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 25-30 | 10-20 |
| February | 25-31 | 10-20 |
| March | 26-32 | 10-20 |
| April | 27-33 | 10-20 |
| May | 28-34 | 100-200 |
| June | 29-35 | 150-250 |
| July | 29-36 | 200-300 |
| August | 29-36 | 200-300 |
| September | 28-34 | 150-250 |
| October | 27-33 | 100-200 |
| November | 26-32 | 10-20 |
| December | 25-31 | 10-20 |
As you can see, the weather in Hainan is generally warm and sunny throughout the year. However, the wet season can be quite humid, so it’s important to pack accordingly. If you’re planning a trip to Hainan, be sure to research the weather in advance so you can pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly.
The best time to visit Hainan
The best time to visit Hainan depends on your personal preferences. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy warm weather with less rainfall, then the dry season from October to April is the best time to go. If you don’t mind the heat and humidity, then the wet season from May to September can be a great time to visit, as there are fewer tourists and prices are lower.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the best time to go to Hainan based on different activities:
- For swimming and sunbathing: The best time to visit Hainan for swimming and sunbathing is during the dry season from October to April. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit).
- For hiking and exploring nature: The best time to visit Hainan for hiking and exploring nature is during the dry season from October to April. The weather is pleasant, with clear skies and less humidity.
- For cultural and historical sightseeing: Hainan has a rich history and culture, so it is a great place to visit for cultural and historical sightseeing. The best time to visit Hainan for these activities is during the dry season from October to April when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
- For attending festivals: Hainan hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, so if you are interested in attending a festival, be sure to plan your trip accordingly. Some of the most popular festivals in Hainan include the Sanya International Beer Festival (April), the Hainan Island International Fireworks Competition (June), and the Li Nationality Spring Festival (February).
The different climates in Hainan
The climate of Hainan is not the same everywhere, as it varies depending on the location, season, and monsoon. Here are some of the different climates in Hainan:
- The north coast: The north coast of Hainan, where the capital Haikou is located, has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The average temperature in January is 18.5 °C (65 °F), while the average temperature in July is 29.4 °C (85 °F). The rainfall is abundant from May to October, with an annual total of 1,600 mm (63 inches). The sunshine hours are about 2,000 per year, with more sun in summer than in winter. The sea temperature is warm all year round, but a bit cool for swimming from January to March.
- The south coast: The south coast of Hainan, where tourist resorts such as Sanya and Yalong Bay are found, has a tropical climate, with very mild winters and long, hot, muggy, and rainy summers. The average temperature in January is 22 °C (72 °F), while the average temperature in July is 29 °C (84 °F). The rainfall is more evenly distributed throughout the year, with an annual total of 2,000 mm (79 inches). The sunshine hours are about 2,200 per year, with more sun in winter than in summer. The sea temperature is pleasantly warm all year round, making it a popular destination for swimming and water sports.
- The east coast: The east coast of Hainan faces the South China Sea and receives more rain than the west coast. The rainfall is abundant from May to November, especially in August and September, when typhoons and thunderstorms may occur. The climate is humid and hot, with an average temperature of 25.6 °C (78.1 °F). The sunshine hours are about 1,800 per year, with more sun in spring and autumn than in summer and winter. The sea temperature is warm all year round but may be affected by storms and waves.
- The west coast: The west coast of Hainan faces the Gulf of Tonkin and receives less rain than the east coast. The rainfall is moderate from June to October, and scarce from November to May. The climate is dry and hot, with an average temperature of 26.3 °C (79.3 °F). The sunshine hours are about 2,400 per year, with more sun in winter and spring than in summer and autumn. The sea temperature is warm all year round but may be influenced by the currents from the gulf.
Hainan is an island located in the southernmost part of China. Its climate is quite tropical, with mild winters and long, hot, humid, and rainy summers. In fact, during January, the temperature is around 68°F (20°C) in the north and slightly warmer in the south. Rainfall is abundant from May to November on the eastern side, while the western side receives moderate rains from June to October, with more rain in August and September. The total annual rainfall on the western side is about 40 inches (1,000 mm), while the eastern side receives around double that amount.
On the northern coast, where the capital city Haikou is situated, the average January temperature is 65°F (18.5°C). Winter months bring cloudy days with drizzles, fog, and sometimes cold and windy days with highs around 55°F (13°C) or even lower. In January 2016, the temperature dropped to 43°F (6°C). Below are the average temperatures.
| Month | Min (°C) | Max (°C) | Mean (°C) | Min (°F) | Max (°F) | Mean (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15.6 | 21.2 | 18.4 | 60 | 70 | 65.2 |
| February | 16.8 | 22.7 | 19.8 | 62 | 73 | 67.6 |
| March | 19.6 | 26.4 | 23 | 67 | 79 | 73.3 |
| April | 22.8 | 29.9 | 26.3 | 73 | 86 | 79.4 |
| May | 24.8 | 32.1 | 28.5 | 77 | 90 | 83.2 |
| June | 25.7 | 33.3 | 29.5 | 78 | 92 | 85.2 |
| July | 25.8 | 33.1 | 29.4 | 78 | 92 | 85 |
| August | 25.6 | 32.3 | 28.9 | 78 | 90 | 84.1 |
| September | 24.9 | 30.8 | 27.9 | 77 | 87 | 82.2 |
| October | 23.4 | 28.8 | 26.1 | 74 | 84 | 78.9 |
| November | 20.6 | 25.8 | 23.2 | 69 | 79 | 73.8 |
| December | 17.3 | 22.2 | 19.8 | 63 | 72 | 67.6 |
| Year | 21.9 | 28.3 | 25.05 | 71.5 | 82.9 | 77 |
In Haikou, they receive around 1,600 millimeters (about 63 inches) of rainfall each year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between May and October.
| Month | Millimeters | Inches | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 20 | 0.8 | 9 |
| February | 35 | 1.4 | 11 |
| March | 50 | 2 | 10 |
| April | 105 | 4.1 | 12 |
| May | 185 | 7.3 | 16 |
| June | 210 | 8.3 | 16 |
| July | 210 | 8.3 | 14 |
| August | 225 | 8.9 | 15 |
| September | 250 | 9.8 | 15 |
| October | 200 | 7.9 | 13 |
| November | 95 | 3.7 | 10 |
| December | 35 | 1.4 | 8 |
| Year | 1625 | 64 | 149 |
In Haikou, you can expect around 2,000 hours of sunshine each year. During the wintertime, the sky tends to be cloudy, while from May to September, there’s a bit more sunshine compared to the southern regions of mainland China.
| Month | Average | Total |
|---|---|---|
| January | 3.5 | 110 |
| February | 3.5 | 100 |
| March | 4.5 | 135 |
| April | 5.5 | 170 |
| May | 7 | 220 |
| June | 7.5 | 225 |
| July | 8 | 250 |
| August | 7 | 220 |
| September | 6.5 | 195 |
| October | 5.5 | 175 |
| November | 5 | 145 |
| December | 4 | 130 |
| Year | 5.7 | 2070 |
The ocean water temperature along Hainan’s northern coast is quite comparable to that of Guangdong, although it tends to be slightly warmer during the winter months. Yet, swimming might feel a bit brisk from January to March, whereas the water turns comfortably warm from May through October.
| Month | Celsius (°C) | Fahrenheit (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 21 | 70 |
| February | 21 | 70 |
| March | 22 | 72 |
| April | 24 | 75 |
| May | 27 | 81 |
| June | 29 | 84 |
| July | 29 | 84 |
| August | 29 | 84 |
| September | 29 | 84 |
| October | 28 | 82 |
| November | 25 | 77 |
| December | 23 | 73 |
| Year | 25.6 | 78.1 |
On the “southern coast,” which is where you’ll discover the tourist resorts, the winter weather gets gentler. It’s almost like a tropical climate – for example, the average temperature in January is about 22°C (72°F). Still, during the months of November through March, the nighttime temperature can occasionally go down to approximately 10°C (50°F). Here are the usual temperatures you can expect in Sanya, the biggest city on this southern coast.
| Month | Min (°C) | Max (°C) | Mean (°C) | Min (°F) | Max (°F) | Mean (°F) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18.5 | 26.1 | 22.3 | 65 | 79 | 72.1 |
| February | 19.8 | 26.8 | 23.3 | 68 | 80 | 73.9 |
| March | 21.9 | 28.6 | 25.2 | 71 | 83 | 77.4 |
| April | 24.2 | 30.7 | 27.4 | 76 | 87 | 81.4 |
| May | 25.6 | 32 | 28.8 | 78 | 90 | 83.8 |
| June | 26.1 | 31.9 | 29 | 79 | 89 | 84.2 |
| July | 25.9 | 31.7 | 28.8 | 79 | 89 | 83.8 |
| August | 25.5 | 31.4 | 28.4 | 78 | 89 | 83.2 |
| September | 24.7 | 31.2 | 28 | 76 | 88 | 82.3 |
| October | 23.4 | 30.2 | 26.8 | 74 | 86 | 80.2 |
| November | 21.3 | 28.5 | 24.9 | 70 | 83 | 76.8 |
| December | 19 | 26.6 | 22.8 | 66 | 80 | 73 |
| Year | 23 | 29.7 | 26.25 | 73.4 | 85.4 | 79.5 |
In Sanya, the annual rainfall reaches around 1,400 mm (55 inches). The pattern closely resembles that of the northern coast. However, the period from November to April tends to be drier in this area due to the shielding effect from the north winds.
| Month | Millimeters | Inches | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10 | 0.4 | 3 |
| February | 15 | 0.6 | 4 |
| March | 20 | 0.8 | 4 |
| April | 45 | 1.8 | 6 |
| May | 140 | 5.5 | 10 |
| June | 200 | 7.9 | 14 |
| July | 195 | 7.7 | 14 |
| August | 220 | 8.7 | 16 |
| September | 250 | 9.8 | 17 |
| October | 234 | 9.2 | 14 |
| November | 60 | 2.4 | 7 |
| December | 10 | 0.4 | 4 |
| Year | 1390 | 54.7 | 111 |
During winter, the southern coast enjoys more sunshine compared to the northern coast.
| Month | Average | Total |
|---|---|---|
| January | 5.5 | 170 |
| February | 5 | 145 |
| March | 5.5 | 175 |
| April | 6 | 185 |
| May | 7.5 | 225 |
| June | 6.5 | 200 |
| July | 7.5 | 225 |
| August | 6.5 | 200 |
| September | 6.5 | 200 |
| October | 6.5 | 200 |
| November | 6 | 185 |
| December | 6 | 185 |
| Year | 6.3 | 2295 |
On the southern coastline, the ocean stays notably warmer during the winter months. In fact, the water temperature remains above 23°C (73°F) even in January and February. So, believe it or not, you can still enjoy a swim during the winter season.
| Month | Celsius (°C) | Fahrenheit (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 23 | 74 |
| February | 23 | 73 |
| March | 23.5 | 75 |
| April | 25.5 | 78 |
| May | 28.5 | 83 |
| June | 29.5 | 85 |
| July | 29.5 | 85 |
| August | 29.5 | 85 |
| September | 29 | 84 |
| October | 27.5 | 82 |
| November | 26.5 | 79 |
| December | 24.5 | 76 |
| Year | 26.6 | 80 |
On this island, the central part is filled with hills and mountains, covered in lush forests. The tallest peak is called Wuzhishan, known as the “five finger mountain,” standing at a height of 1,840 meters (6,040 feet). At its summit, temperatures during the day hover around 10°C (50°F) from December to February, and around 20°C (68°F) from May to September. However, please note that access for foreign tourists has recently been restricted.
Typhoons
Hainan, along with Southern China, is susceptible to hurricanes, which are the tropical cyclones of Southeast Asia. Generally, hurricanes strike this region between June and mid-November. However, on rare occasions, they have impacted this area outside of this time frame, such as in April or May.
What to pack for Hainan
If you are planning to visit Hainan, you may want to pack some items that will make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some suggestions:
Clothing: Hainan has a warm and humid climate all year round, with an average temperature of 23°C (73°F). However, the weather can vary depending on the location and season. The north coast has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The south coast has a tropical climate, with very mild winters and long, hot, muggy, and rainy summers. The East Coast receives more rain than the West Coast, especially from May to November, when typhoons and thunderstorms may occur.
Therefore, you should pack clothing that is suitable for different weather conditions. You may want to bring some light and breathable clothes, such as cotton or linen shirts, shorts, skirts, dresses, etc. You may also want to bring some warm clothes, such as sweaters, jackets, scarves, etc., for the cooler nights or the occasional cold fronts.
You should also pack some rain gear, such as umbrellas, raincoats, waterproof shoes, etc., for the rainy days. If you are going to the beach, you should pack some swimwear, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, etc., to protect yourself from the sun and enjoy the water activities. For hikers or nature lovers, you should pack some comfortable and sturdy shoes, long pants, insect repellent, etc., to explore the tropical rainforests, volcanic parks, hot springs, and monkey islands.
Documents: Hainan has a visa-free policy for tourists from 59 countries who travel in groups of at least five members and book through a designated travel agency. Tourists can enjoy a visa-free stay for up to 30 days in Hainan. However, you still need to bring your passport and other valid documents that prove your identity and nationality.
You may also want to bring some copies of your documents in case of loss or theft. You should also bring some cash or credit cards for your expenses. The currency used in Hainan is the Chinese yuan (CNY), which can be exchanged at banks or hotels.
You can also withdraw money from ATMs or use credit cards at major shops or restaurants. However, some places may not accept foreign cards or charge fees for transactions. Therefore, it is advisable to have some cash on hand for emergencies or small purchases.
Gadgets: Hainan is a modern and developed province that offers many facilities and services for tourists. You can easily access the internet or make phone calls in most places in Hainan. However, you may need some gadgets to make your trip more convenient and enjoyable.
You may want to bring your smartphone or tablet with a local SIM card or an international roaming plan. You can also download some useful apps that can help you with navigation, translation, transportation, booking, etc., such as Baidu Maps, Didi, Ctrip, etc. You may also want to bring your camera or video recorder to capture the beautiful scenery and memorable moments in Hainan.
You may also want to bring your laptop or e-reader if you need to work or read during your trip. You should also bring your chargers and adapters for your gadgets.
The standard voltage in China is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets are of type A (two flat pins), type C (two round pins), and type I (three flat pins). You may need an adapter if your plug does not match these types.
Here is a list of things to pack for Hainan, regardless of the time of year:
- Swimwear: You’ll definitely want to pack your swimsuits and cover-ups if you’re planning on spending any time at the beach or pool.
- Hat: A hat is essential for protecting yourself from the sun’s rays, especially if you’re planning on being outdoors for extended periods of time.
- Sunglasses: Sunglasses are also a must-have for protecting your eyes from the sun’s glare.
- Sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Be sure to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- A light jacket or sweater: The weather in Hainan can be quite humid, so it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater in case it gets chilly at night or in the air conditioning.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll want to pack comfortable shoes for walking around, exploring, and hiking.
- Rain gear: If you’re visiting Hainan during the wet season, be sure to pack rain gear, such as an umbrella or raincoat.
- Travel essentials: Pack your passport, visa, travel insurance, medications, and any other essentials you might need for your trip.
- Hiking gear: If you plan on doing any hiking, be sure to pack hiking boots, a backpack, and other gear.
- Snorkeling gear: If you plan on snorkeling, be sure to pack snorkeling gear, such as a mask, snorkel, and fins.
- Surfing gear: If you plan on surfing, be sure to pack surfing gear, such as a surfboard, wetsuit, and leash.
- Camera: A camera is essential for capturing all your memories of your trip to Hainan.
- Laptop or tablet: If you plan on working or relaxing on your trip, a laptop or tablet can be a great way to stay connected.
- Books: Pack a few books to read on your flight or during your downtime in Hainan.
Things to do in Hainan based on the weather
There are many things to do in Hainan based on the weather, as the island has different seasons and climates depending on the location and time of the year. Here are some suggestions for you:
- If you visit Hainan in the dry season, which lasts from November to April, you can enjoy the warm and pleasant weather, with low rainfall and moderate sunshine. This is the best time to visit the north coast of Hainan, where the capital Haikou is located. You can explore the historical and cultural attractions of Haikou, such as the Qilou Old Street, the Five Officials Temple, and the Tomb of Hai Rui. You can also relax on the white sandy beaches, such as Holiday Beach, Xixiu Beach, and Baishamen Beach. You can also go swimming and enjoy the water sports, such as surfing, sailing, kayaking, and more in the clear blue sea. The sea temperature is warm all year round, but a bit cool for swimming from January to March.
- If you visit Hainan in the wet season, which lasts from May to October, you can expect hot and humid weather, with high rainfall and sunshine. This is the best time to visit the south coast of Hainan, where tourist resorts such as Sanya and Yalong Bay are found. You can enjoy the tropical climate and scenery of Sanya, which is often called the “Hawaii of China”. You can visit the cultural and natural sites, such as the Nanshan Temple, the Tianya Haijiao (the End of the Earth), and the Luhuitou Park. You can also relax on beautiful beaches, such as Yalong Bay, Sanya Bay, and Dadonghai Bay. You can also go swimming and enjoy water activities, such as diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, and more in the warm and pleasant sea. The sea temperature is pleasantly warm all year round.
- If you visit Hainan in between seasons, such as spring or autumn, you can experience different climates and weather conditions depending on where you go. The east coast of Hainan faces the South China Sea and receives more rain than the west coast. The rainfall is abundant from May to November, especially in August and September, when typhoons and thunderstorms may occur. The climate is humid and hot, with an average temperature of 25.6 °C (78.1 °F). The sunshine hours are about 1,800 per year. The sea temperature is warm all year round. You can visit some of the scenic spots on the East Coast, such as Wanning City, Boao Town, Qionghai City, and Wuzhishan Mountain. You can also enjoy some indoor activities for a rainy day, such as visiting museums, shopping malls, spas, aquariums, etc.
- The west coast of Hainan faces the Gulf of Tonkin and receives less rain than the east coast. The rainfall is moderate from June to October. The climate is dry and hot. The average temperature is 26.3 °C (79.3 °F). The sunshine hours are about 2,400 per year. The sea temperature is warm all year round. You can visit some of the attractions on the West Coast, such as Dongfang City, Ledong County, Changjiang County, Baisha County, Danzhou City, and Lingao County.
Hainan is a beautiful island province in the south of China, known for its tropical climate, sandy beaches, and rich culture. In this article, we have covered everything you need to know about Hainan weather, such as the climate, temperature, rain by month, seasons, the best time to visit, weather forecasts, and tips for travelers. We have also provided some useful information about the Hainan travel guide, such as visa policy, attractions, and more. By reading this article, you will be well prepared for your trip to Hainan and have a wonderful time on this island paradise.