Hainan Island, also known as "South of the Sea," is China's southernmost province and second-largest island after Taiwan. It is located in the South China Sea, separated from the Leizhou Peninsula of Guangdong province by the Qiongzhou Strait. Once a remote outpost and place of exile, Hainan has transformed into a popular tropical resort destination, often promoted as "China's Hawaii".
Hainan boasts a tropical to subtropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round, making it ideal for beach holidays. The island is known for its clear blue waters, white-sand beaches, lush highlands, and an abundance of palm trees. Key attractions include the Nanshan Buddhism Center, Phoenix Island, Yalong Bay, and Dadonghai Bay. The island's interior features mountains like Wuzhi Mountain and rainforests, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring diverse ecosystems. Hainan is also a major base for cultivating tropical plants, including rubber, oil palm, coconut, cacao, pepper, and coffee.
In recent years, Hainan has undergone significant development as a Special Economic Zone and a Free Trade Port. In December 2025, island-wide special customs operations were launched, allowing for freer trade and investment. This initiative aims to reduce tariffs, simplify customs procedures, and enhance market access, attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth. The island is becoming a hub for tourism, modern services, high-tech industries, and high-efficiency tropical agriculture.