Beach safety in Sanya and Hainan
Quick answer
Swim only at beaches with lifeguards and marked swimming areas, such as the main parts of Sanya Bay, Yalong Bay and Dadonghai. Stay out of the water when you see a red flag or a no-swimming sign. Some beaches have rip currents. If one pulls you out, swim parallel to the shore, then back in.
Where to swim
- Choose beaches with lifeguards and marked swimming areas. The main stretches of Sanya Bay, Yalong Bay and Dadonghai are popular choices.
- Quiet, empty beaches look lovely but often have no lifeguard and stronger currents.
Flags and signs
- Red flag or a "no swimming" (禁止游泳) sign: stay out of the water.
- Typhoon warnings close beaches. See typhoon season.
Rip currents
Rip currents can look calm on the surface and still pull you away from shore.
- Don't swim straight back against it.
- Swim parallel to the beach until you're out of the current.
- Then swim back to shore at an angle.
- If you can't, float and wave for help.
Simple rules
- Don't swim after drinking.
- Keep kids within arm's reach.
- Midday sun is fierce. Swim in the morning or late afternoon.
- In an emergency, call 120 for an ambulance or 110 for police.