What Hainan Island has to offer
Natural wonders
Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove natural reserve in the capital, Haikou, is an unusual forest peculiar to the subtropical coastal area. Despite the name, the trees here do not actually have red leaves, but they do have medicinal value. Tourism companies offer boat rides through the trees, some of them ripe with pineapples. Dongjiao Coconut Plantation is also about 20 minutes by ferry from the city's Qinglan Harbor. Visitors can follow the winding footpaths through the trees and enjoy seafood at one of the seaside restaurants.
Temples
Nanshan Temple in Sanya is home to the world's tallest "Guanyin", pictured right, the Buddhist goddess of infinite compassion and mercy. The grandiose statue is 108 m and overlooks the South China Sea. Nearby Nanshan Mountain is also believed to be auspicious in Chinese mythology.
Beaches
Dadonghai is one of Sanya's cleanest beaches and is about 3 km from the center of Sanya, a city on the south coast. White sand curves round a crescent, blue water bay. Water sports are popular and there are many small restaurants and bars. Yalong Bay National Resort, which is about 25 km from Sanya, is the premier destination for fun in the sun. It offers a world-class beach and superb golf facilities.