Sanya Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Sanya. Your complete guide to dining in Sanya.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Sanya! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Sanya has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Sanya's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Sanya like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Sanya offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Sanya.
Casamia Restaurant Pizzerla
Highly rated Restaurant in Sanya with 4.7 stars from 82 reviews.
📍 88 San Ya Wan Lu, Tian Ya Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Sanya EDITION
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.7 stars from 106 reviews.
📍 100 Hai Tang Bei Lu, Hai Tang Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572013
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Ritz Carlton Sanya
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 128 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, 亚龙湾国家旅游度假区 邮政编码: 572011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
JW Marriott Hotel Sanya Dadonghai Bay
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 94 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, 海韵路88号 邮政编码: 572000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Edogin Japanese Restaurant
Highly rated Japanese in Sanya with 5 stars from 6 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, 亚龙湾国家旅游度假区三亚万豪度假酒店A座1层 邮政编码: 572011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Japanese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay Resort
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4 stars from 27 reviews.
📍 Yalong Bay National Resort District, 6JF6+6XV吉阳区三亚市海南省 China, 572016
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lijia Restaurant Sanya Branch
Highly rated Chinese in Sanya with 4.4 stars from 17 reviews.
📍 China, San Ya Shi, Tian Ya Qu, CN 海南省 三亚市 天涯区 揽海听涛 1 1-3 邮政编码: 572008
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Chinese cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
InterContinental Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.1 stars from 25 reviews.
📍 No.128, North Haitang Road,, Haitang Bay, 海棠区三亚市 China, 572013
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Shanhaitian Resort Sanya, Autograph Collection
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.7 stars from 114 reviews.
📍 No. 77 Haiyun Road, Dadonghai Bay, 吉阳区三亚市海南省 China, 572000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Pullman Sanya Yalong Bay Villas and Resort
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.4 stars from 91 reviews.
📍 Jiyang District, Sanya, Sanya, China, 572011
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Mandarin Oriental, Sanya
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 111 reviews.
📍 12 Yuhai Road, 吉阳区三亚市海南省 China, 572000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sanya Baohong Hotel Coast Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Sanya with 4.8 stars from 5 reviews.
📍 6GF9+J6R, Lu Ling Lu, Ji Yang Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572004
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Sanya.
No.1 Agricultural Products Market
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.1 stars from 37 reviews.
📍 155 Xin Jian Jie, Tian Ya Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
第一市场
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4 stars from 24 reviews.
📍 155 Xin Jian Jie, Tian Ya Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sanya First Agricultural Trade Temporary Market
Popular International in Sanya.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Tian Ya Qu, 17, 东南方向50米 邮政编码: 572001
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Nam Dae Mun Farmers Market
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.4 stars from 9427 reviews.
📍 1940 Mt Zion Rd, Morrow, GA 30260, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Heru Buffet
Highly rated International in Sanya with 5 stars from 1 reviews.
📍 36 Shang Pin Jie Si Xiang, Ji Yang Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572002
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Wanghao Supermarket
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.1 stars from 15 reviews.
📍 Tianya District, Sanya, China, 572000
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
三亚湾
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.4 stars from 61 reviews.
📍 7FHC+P5F, Tianya District, Sanya, Hainan, China, 572023
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sanya Daoxiang Deli Shop
Popular International in Sanya.
📍 China, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, CN 海南省 三亚市 吉阳区 19 大东海安置楼 邮政编码: 572002
- 🍽️Quality ingredients and preparation
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Sanya.
Luhuitou Park
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.6 stars from 1219 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Linwang Night Market Plaza
Highly rated Chinese in Sanya with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
JW Marriott Hotel Sanya Dadonghai Bay
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 94 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Dibo Haidi Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Sanya with 5 stars from 2 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.8 stars from 17 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Yalong Bay Mangrove Tree Resort Sanya
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.6 stars from 321 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Sanya.
Casamia Restaurant Pizzerla
Highly rated Restaurant in Sanya with 4.7 stars from 82 reviews.
📍 88 San Ya Wan Lu, Tian Ya Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Banyan Tree Sanya Resort Spa
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.8 stars from 22 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, 鹿岭路6号 邮政编码: 572004
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
JW Marriott Hotel Sanya Dadonghai Bay
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 94 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, 海韵路88号 邮政编码: 572000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Shanhaitian Resort Sanya, Autograph Collection
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.7 stars from 114 reviews.
📍 No. 77 Haiyun Road, Dadonghai Bay, 吉阳区三亚市海南省 China, 572000
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Baohong Hotel Sanya
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.4 stars from 620 reviews.
📍 18 Hai Yun Lu, Ji Yang Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572004
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ka Coffee Bar
Highly rated Cafe in Sanya with 5 stars from 1 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Tian Ya Qu, 155, 湾红树林度假世界 邮政编码: 572008
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Renaissance Sanya Resort & Spa Sanya
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.6 stars from 103 reviews.
📍 1 Ye Zhou Lu, Hai Tang Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572013
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Ritz Carlton Sanya
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 128 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, 亚龙湾国家旅游度假区 邮政编码: 572011
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Sanya.
Signature Dish
A must-try Sanya specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Sanya dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Sanya with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Sanya specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Sanya creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Sanya classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Sanya specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Sanya dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Sanya with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Sanya specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Sanya.
海豚西餐酒吧
Highly rated Bar in Sanya with 4.4 stars from 147 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Jiyang District, Sanya, Sanya, China, 572019
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Soho Bar
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.5 stars from 4 reviews.
📍 6GM7+H26, Yu Ya Lu, Ji Yang Qu, San Ya Shi, Hai Nan Sheng, China, 572003
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sand Beach Pub
Highly rated Bar in Sanya with 4 stars from 1 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Tian Ya Qu, San Ya Wan Lu, 三亚湾路银苑对面 邮政编码: 572023
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Times Coast Bar Street
Highly rated International in Sanya with 4.1 stars from 25 reviews.
📍 China, Hai Nan Sheng, San Ya Shi, Ji Yang Qu, Yu Ya Lu, 2号市委对面 邮政编码: 572003
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Welcoming atmosphere
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Sanya's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Sanya vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sanya is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Sanya offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Sanya specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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