Sanya unveils three sports tourism routes

Nowadays, sports tourism has become an extremely popular way to explore a city: By following sports events, you can create a unique journey that combines athletics, nature and local culture.

Sanya offers three distinct routes featuring golf, diving and adventurous underwater experiences. So, choose a route that excites you and embark on a journey to Sanya!

Route 1: Coastal golf getaway

Sanya features lush golf courses built into the mountains. [Photo/Sanya Tourism Board]

Sanya is home to seven standard 18-hole golf courses, making it a top tropical golf destination in China. This route lets you enjoy a round at a seaside course similar to the AJGA International Pathway Series (IPS) Sanya stop, while soaking in the stunning views of Yalong Bay.

Day 1: On arrival in Sanya, check into the Ritz-Carlton Sanya, Yalong Bay. In the evening, stroll barefoot on the beach and let the sea breeze melt away your travel fatigue.

Day 2: Spend the morning at Yalong Bay Golf Club — practicing your swing at a tropical seaside course.

In the afternoon, unwind back at the hotel with a floating sound meditation, where the sounds mimic the ocean waves.

In the evening, explore Baihuagu Night Market and savor local delights like coconut chicken, Qingbuliang and grilled seafood.

Day 3: Visit Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park in the morning — where you can promenade on the glass walkway surrounded by lush rainforest and enjoy distant sea views.

In the afternoon, head out to the Sanya International Duty-Free Shopping Complex to find a perfect gift.

Route 2: Family fun at champion camp

Students take the plunge during training at the Tian Liang International Diving Club. [Photo/Sanya Tourism Board]

The route is inspired by the Tian Liang International Diving Club — the country's first professional diving club co-founded by Olympics diving champion Tian Liang. This state-of-the-art facility features an international-standard diving pool and Olympic-grade training rooms, led by top coaches. Here, kids can learn the skills and passion of champions.

Day 1: Fly into Sanya and check into Yasha Hotel near the Sanya Sports Center Egret Stadium. In the evening, stretch and prepare for the next day's diving adventure.

Day 2: Join diving lessons at the swimming center at the stadium, guided by professional coaches.

Day 3: Spend the morning at the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, where sharks swim overhead and water slides bring screams and laughter.

In the evening, visit Sanya Haichang Fantasy Town for a magical family night tour.

Route 3: Dive into the Deep Blue

Divers have a blast exploring the pristine water off Wuzhizhou Island in Sanya. [Photo/Sanya Tourism Board]

The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) — the world's biggest dive training organization — offers certifications globally. The PADI 5 Star Dive Center on Wuzhizhou Island is where you can earn your first diving certification.

Day 1: Arrive in Sanya and check into the Coral Hotel Sanya Wuzhizhou Island. Take a relaxing seaside walk in the evening, letting the waves gently lap at your feet.

Day 2: Spend the day at the Wuzhizhou Island Diving Center learning diving principles, mask clearing, buoyancy control and emergency procedures with one-on-one coaching.

Day 3: Sail to advanced dive sites, roll into the sea and experience the utter tranquility of underwater breathing. Dive right among coral gardens and tropical fish as sunlight dances through the water.

Day 4: Complete all open water skills in the morning and receive your certification. Within a week, you'll get an official email from PADI, confirming you're a certified open water diver!

In the afternoon, leave Wuzhizhou Island and explore fabulous urban spots like Sanya Joy City and Sanya One.

With these three routes, there's really something out there for everyone. Don't just watch the events — go experience them!