Yelong Corridor

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Yelong Corridor is a coconut-lined seaside boulevard along Sanya Bay, stretching about 20 kilometres. It is a free, open landscape belt where you can walk, cycle or drive beside the sea, and it is especially popular around sunset and in the evening.

What to expect along the corridor

The corridor runs along Sanya Bay for roughly 20 kilometres, with coconut palms planted along the shore. On the seaward side, a tropical garden landscape meets silver sand and blue water.

There are several viewing platforms and rest areas along the route, so you can stop whenever you like to take in the sea view. The corridor is free to visit, making it an easy-going option for an evening out.

Sunset and evening visits

Sunset and the night view over Sanya Bay are both attractive, so late afternoon into evening is a good time to come and enjoy both. After dark, the palms sway under the lights, the waves meet the beach, and the light show on Phoenix Island can be seen in the distance.

A recommended window for an evening stroll is 19:30 to 21:30, when the sky is dark and the lighting is at its best. You can walk, cycle or take a sightseeing electric cart, and public buses stop at stations along the Sanya Bay route.

For sunset, the Meili Xinhaian and Haihong Square sections are recommended. The Haihong Square stretch tends to be quieter with an open view, and Meili Xinhaian is also a good spot for photos and sunset watching.

At night there are more mosquitoes by the sea, so bring mosquito protection, keep your belongings with you, and avoid remote stretches alone late at night.

Swimming and family activities

On the western side of the corridor, the Haipo resort area has soft sand and clean seawater and is a suitable place for swimming.

Near the junction of Sanya Bay Road and Jinjiling Street there is a small rocky area where, at low tide, children can look for small crabs. Check the tide times in advance and take care with safety.

If you want to take photos, walk a little further along the corridor rather than crowding at the entrance, where there are more people and busier backgrounds. Further in, the crowds thin out and the coconut groves and sea views are clearer.

If you ask a beach photographer to take your picture, agree on the price, the number of photos and how they will be delivered before the shoot starts, so there are no surprises afterwards.

Local culture along the way

Along the corridor there are displays of Li and Miao culture. You may occasionally see Li women weaving brocade in bright colours, and there are bamboo dance performances that visitors can join in.

Hainan's ethnic minority culture has its own distinctive clothing, music and dance, which you can learn a little about during a visit to Sanya.

Getting there and nearby boat links

If you drive, you can set your navigation to Haiyue Square or Meili Xinhaian. Parking is charged per day, and the evening peak in high season can be busy, so it is worth avoiding the busiest hours.

From the western end of the corridor at Xiaoqi Port, you can take a boat to West Island, making it easy to combine the two in one trip.

There are also boat services between Tianya Haijiao pier and the Yelong Corridor pier. The Tianya Haijiao service runs from 8:00 to 18:00, departing every 30 minutes, with a return ticket per person. The Yelong Corridor pier service runs from 8:30 to 17:30, departing every 40 minutes. Check current prices and schedules on the partner channel before you go.

Practical notes

The area around the corridor has food, drink, shopping and entertainment within easy reach, and you can enjoy the sunset in your spare time.

The corridor is open and free to visit. Keep an eye on your belongings, and plan your transport back if you stay into the evening.

Frequently asked questions

Is Yelong Corridor free to visit?

Yes. The corridor is a free, open seaside boulevard, and there is no charge to walk, cycle or drive along it.

When is the best time to see the sunset and night view?

Late afternoon into evening lets you catch both sunset and the night view. For the evening lights, 19:30 to 21:30 is recommended. The Meili Xinhaian and Haihong Square sections are suggested for sunset.

Where can I swim near the corridor?

The Haipo resort area on the western side has soft sand and clean seawater and is suitable for swimming.

How do I get to West Island from the corridor?

From Xiaoqi Port at the western end of the corridor, you can take a boat to West Island.

Are there boat services from the corridor pier?

Yes. The Yelong Corridor pier service runs from 8:30 to 17:30, departing every 40 minutes. The Tianya Haijiao service runs from 8:00 to 18:00, departing every 30 minutes, with a return ticket per person. Check current prices and schedules on the partner channel.

What should I keep in mind when asking a beach photographer to take photos?

Agree on the price, the number of photos and the delivery method before the shoot begins, so there are no unexpected charges.

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