Since February 2024, China expanded the allowed purposes of visa-free entry to Hainan Province for ordinary passport holders of 59 countries. 

With the approval of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, citizens from the designated 59 countries are allowed to enter Hainan province visa-free for tourism, commercial activities, trade, visits and exchange, and family reunions, receiving medical treatment, attending exhibitions, taking part in sporting events and other needs (excluding long-term working and studying) for up to 30 days. They can enter Hainan through any designated ports of entry in the province and travel within the province's administrative area only during their stay periods (subject to the relevant provisions if applicable to mutual visa exemption agreements signed with China).

The 59 Countries eligible for visa-free entry to Hainan Province are the following:

Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Norway, Ukraine, Italy, Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Belgium, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Kazakhstan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Monaco, and Belarus.

No trip to Hainan would be complete without basking in the golden sands of Sanya, Hainan's most famous resort town. Yalong Bay, often called the "Oriental Hawaii," boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. For a quieter escape, head to Shimei Bay or Wuzhizhou Island, were nature reigns supreme.

Hainan's provincial capital, Haikou, is a treasure trove of history and local life. Don't miss Qilou Old Street, where colonial-era arcades blend with traditional Chinese architecture. For a glimpse into ancient temples, visit the Wugong Temple, which pays homage to scholars of the Tang and Song Dynasties.

Step into a lush wonderland at the Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone. Wander through dense foliage, cascading waterfalls, and rope bridges as you immerse yourself in the island’s tropical ecosystem. Guided tours often include explanations of the local flora and fauna.

One of the most serene spots on the island, Nanshan Temple is a sprawling Buddhist complex featuring the stunning Guan Yin of the South Sea statue, which rises an impressive 108 meters above the water. This spiritual haven is a must-visit for anyone seeking tranquility and breathtaking views.

For nature enthusiasts, a trip to the Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Forest is a treat. Explore the unique mangrove ecosystem, which is a haven for migratory birds. Boat tours provide an up-close experience of this vital coastal habitat.

From surfing in Riyue Bay to diving in the coral-rich waters of Wuzhizhou Island, Hainan is a paradise for water sports aficionados. Seasonal windsurfing events also attract global enthusiasts.

Hainan is a culinary haven. Savor the iconic Wenchang chicken, renowned for its tender, flavorful meat. Other must-try dishes include Hainanese coconut rice, crab congee, and tropical fruits such as lychee and mangosteen.

Hainan is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Li and Miao people. Visit cultural villages to experience their vibrant traditions, handicrafts, and folklore. Engage with locals to learn about their weaving techniques and enjoy cultural performances.

For adventure seekers, a trek up Mount Wuzhi (Five Finger Mountain) offers both challenge and reward. The trails wind through lush forests, with scenic viewpoints along the way. Remember to pack suitable hiking gear.

Hainan’s volcanic heritage has blessed it with natural hot springs. Unwind in thermal spas in areas like Qionghai and enjoy their reputed health benefits.

Often referred to as the "Hawaii of China," Hainan is an idyllic golfing destination offering a perfect blend of luxury, natural beauty, and world-class courses. The island paradise boasts a year-round warm climate, making it an ideal spot for golf enthusiasts seeking a consistent and pleasant playing experience.

Hainan is home to several internationally acclaimed golf courses, each designed by renowned architects and offering stunning scenery.

A premier golf resort stands out with its ten diverse courses, including the famous Blackstone Course, which has hosted numerous professional tournaments. These courses are set amidst volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and serene waters, providing a truly unique backdrop for every round of golf.

Among the many tournaments and world-class events that have taken place here are the Mission Hills World Celebrity Pro-Am, Omega Mission Hills World Cup, World Ladies Championship, and The Match at Mission Hills - featuring Tiger Woods and Rory Mcllroy. | Google Map

A 36-hole golf complex with an additional five practice holes has been thoughtfully designed by internationally renowned golfer and architect Tom Weiskopf to make the most of the distinctive geography and dramatic beauty of this unique location - from rugged coastal dunes to strong, craggy boulders. The unique native bunker style has been designed to blend in with natural surroundings and made to look like it has been there for centuries. | Google Map

The BFA (Boao Forum for Asia) Golf Club was built by Cosco Shipping Boao Co. Ltd and covers an area of 111 hectares with huge man-made lakes measuring more than 7.5 hectares. Designed by famous Australian architect Graham Marsh, the golf course has 18 holes and a par of 72, with a total length of 7,129 yards. The design merges the unique terrain of the land, its surroundings and streams, waterfalls, and garden landscape into a symphonic harmony to form a unique and exotic golf course. | Google Map

Yalong Bay Golf Club is located in the southernmost part of China and enjoys about 300 sunny days per year. The 7,189-yard golf course is an 18-hole masterpiece, nine holes of which have floodlights, and covers an area of 12 hectares. It is dotted with 99 challenging bunkers and is laced by a winding river. The course, shaped like a dragon’s claw and with each fairway having five tee boxes and featuring large stretches of grass, is hemmed in by adjacent green hills and beautiful Yalong Bay, all combining to form a beautiful landscape. | Google Map

Beyond the game itself, Hainan offers a luxurious experience with upscale resorts and services tailored to golfers. Visitors can unwind at the island's pristine beaches, indulge in local seafood delicacies, or explore cultural landmarks like the Nanshan Temple. The combination of championship courses and leisure activities ensures that golfers and non-golfers alike can enjoy an unforgettable getaway.

Hainan Province has steadily risen as a must-visit destination for golfers seeking not just excellent courses but also a vibrant mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s where the love for the game meets the allure of paradise.

If you are not familiar with the island, we recommend that you stay at many hotels and resorts available. From upscale bespoke resorts to 5-star luxury accommodations, Hainan is one of the best destinations for many ultra-luxurious stays.

* Hilton Haikou Meilan

* HUALUXE Haikou Seaview 

* Q Hotel Haikou

* The Sanya EDITION

* The Shanhaitian Resort Sanya

* Raffles Hainan

* The Ritz-Carlton Sanya

* Atlantis Sanya

* Banyan Tree Sanya

* Grand Hyatt Shenzhou

* The Peninsula Apartment Sanya

* Hilton Sanya Yalong Bay Resort & Spa

* JW Marriott Sanya Haitang Bay Resort & Spa

* Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort

* Rosewood Sanya

* Shangri-La's Sanya Resort & Spa

* The St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay Resort

* Sanya Haitang Bay Wanda Reign Resort & Villas

When visiting a place, it is very important to be mindful of the local rules and not become a nuance to the local community. As important as your souvenir Instagram and Tiktok content, best to remember these basics etiquette:

1. Do Respect Local Culture: The people of Hainan are warm and hospitable, but be sure to show respect for local customs, especially in ethnic villages and religious sites.

2. Do Wear Sunscreen: Hainan’s tropical sun can be intense, so lather on high-SPF sunscreen and wear a hat to avoid sunburn.

3. Do Learn Basic Mandarin Phrases: While many locals in tourist hotspots speak English, knowing a few phrases in Mandarin can help establish connections.

4. Stay Hydrated: The heat and humidity can be draining, so always carry water with you during excursions.

5. Do Use Public Transportation or Tours: Public transportation is affordable and convenient. Guided tours can also enrich your understanding of Hainan’s history and natural beauty.

1. Don’t Litter: Hainan prides itself on its clean beaches and preserved natural habitats. Respect the environment by disposing of trash responsibly.

2. Don’t Take Photos Without Permission: Always ask before photographing locals or cultural performances, as some may consider it intrusive.

3. Don’t Visit During Typhoon Season: Avoid traveling to Hainan between June and September, as the region is prone to typhoons during this period.

4. Don’t Skip Insect Repellent: The tropical environment means plenty of mosquitoes. Repellent is essential, especially if you're heading into the rainforests.

5. Don’t Ignore Traffic Rules: Scooters and bicycles are common, so be vigilant while walking or driving in urban areas.

The tropical island of Hainan, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the South China Sea, features sunny beaches, lush rainforests, mouthwatering cuisine, and a tapestry of local culture, and the island province is recruiting new Hainan International Tourism Promotion Ambassadors who love to travel, love Hainan, and love to tell everyone all about their island adventures.

Hainan is offering a great opportunity for social media influencers, content creators, and travel enthusiasts to experience, engage with and learn more about Hainan.

Hainan Tourism is looking for:

* Travel enthusiasts with a strong interest in Hainan's culture, destinations, local peoples, and island life who want to share the beauty of Hainan with the world.

* Social media influencers with a popular account on at least one social media platform such as Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, etc.

* Content creation experts - engagement gurus sharing about Hainan through text, pictures, video, or other formats.

* Great communicator with excellent teamwork skills.

Here's what you'll need to do:

Use your own words, ideas, and images to share what you love about Hainan, building an international bridge of friendship through genuine, personal stories, real experiences, and unbiased reviews. Wow your audiences with the incredible sights, sounds, and fun of Hainan, and invite everyone to join you as you make new discoveries while exploring the island.

In addition to the lifelong memories and friends you'll make along the way, you'll also receive:

* Hainan International Tourism Promotion Ambassador certificates from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province.

* Cash rewards for posting high-quality content on personal social media accounts. The better the content the better the reward!

* Free Hainan travel, food, hotel stays, and other surprise gifts, like adorable Hainan plushies!

Interested? Send your personal introduction, contact info, and social media account info to: hntourism2025@hotmail.com.

Hainan is more than just an island; it's a multifaceted destination where natural beauty meets cultural richness. Whether you're lounging on its sun-kissed beaches, unraveling its historical mysteries, or exploring its verdant landscapes, Hainan promises an unforgettable experience. By keeping the dos and don’ts in mind, you’ll not only enhance your trip but also contribute to preserving the island’s charm for future visitors.

So, pack your bags, embrace the tropical vibes, and let Hainan's warmth, in every sense of the word, captivate you!