Hainan, China Visa-Free For Filipinos: The Ultimate 7-Day Haikou, Lingshui, and Sanya Family Itinerary

Hainan Island is quickly becoming a top choice for Filipinos because you do not need to apply for a visa to stay for up to 30 days. It is an easy international trip that offers a tropical vibe similar to the Philippines but with world-class roads and infrastructure. They even call it "Little Hawaii of China".

If you are looking for a nearby getaway, you can follow this expanded 7-day itinerary that combines the best of Haikou, beaches of Lingshui, and the famous sights of Sanya.

Day 1. Arrive in Haikou and explore Qilou Snacks Street

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After you arrive at the airport and pick up your rental van, you can start your trip right in the capital city. You should check out Qilou Snacks Street, which is famous for its historic architecture and incredible food.

You can try over 2,000 types of local snacks here, like the famous Qingbuliang coconut dessert, which costs about 12 RMB to 20 RMB (102 PHP to 170 PHP). It is a great way to taste the island’s culture as soon as you land.

Day 2. Visit Binglang Valley and explore Lingshui

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You can drive toward Sanya and stop at Binglang Valley (Betel Nut Heritage Park). This is where you can learn about the Li and Miao ethnic groups and see their traditional weaving skills. You can also watch the Bing Lang Gu Yun Show, a live performance that tells the story of the local tribes. Afterward, you can continue to Lingshui and check out the Xincun Port.

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For an authentic Chinese lunch, you can eat at a Danjia Fishing Raft, with seafood meals averaging 85 RMB to 150 RMB (722 PHP to 1,274 PHP) for the family.

Also read: China Opens Visa-Free Entry for Filipinos to Visit Hainan — See How to Be Eligible

Day 3. Relax at Boundary Island and find seaside snacks

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You can take a short boat trip to Boundary Island (Fenjiezhou) in Lingshui. The water here is very clear, so you can enjoy a good swim or some snorkeling. To keep the grandparents comfortable, you can rent an electric cart for about 30 RMB (255 PHP) to get around easily.

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You should also check out the marine theater where kids can see sea turtles. Then, you can try the local shaved ice with tropical fruits near the pier for about 20 RMB (170 PHP).

Day 4. Pick fruit at Maijia Farm and visit Dadonghai Beach

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Hainan is famous for tropical produce, and you can try fruit picking at the Maijia Dragon Fruit Farm. You can pick mangoes or dragon fruit for about 9 RMB (76 PHP) per half a kilo.

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Afterward, you can drive into Sanya to visit Dadonghai Beach. You can walk along the coconut groves or enjoy water sports.

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For dinner, you should check out the Sanya Pedestrian Street to find local trinkets and street food like grilled seafood skewers for about 10 RMB to 30 RMB (85 PHP to 255 PHP).

Day 5. See the Guanyin statue and Yalong Bay tropical paradise

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You can visit the 108-meter Guanyin statue at the Nanshan Cultural Tourism Area. The entrance fee is around 120 RMB to 150 RMB (1,019 PHP to 1,274 PHP).

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After exploring the temple, you can head to Yalong Bay Tropical Paradise Forest Park. You should check out the Glass Bridge for a panoramic view of the sea. For dinner, you can try Coconut Chicken Soup at a local restaurant, which costs around 180 RMB (1,529 PHP) for a large family pot.

Day 6. Hike Phoenix Hill and explore volcanic craters

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In the morning, you can hike through Phoenix Hill Park, the highest peak in Sanya city. You can get a 360-degree view of all four major bays from the top.

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Afterward, you can drive back toward Haikou to visit the Volcanic Cluster Global Geopark. You can explore extinct volcanic cones and lava caves for about 50 RMB to 60 RMB (425 PHP to 510 PHP). It is a unique geological experience that you won't find in many other places.

Day 7: Shop at Haixiu East Road and depart

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On your last day, you can spend a leisurely morning at Haixiu East Road Commercial Street in Haikou. This is one of the largest shopping centers on the island where you can find department stores and local pearls. You can grab a final bowl of Hainanese Beef Noodles for about 20 RMB (170 PHP) before you drive back to the airport for your flight home.

Why Hainan should be your next family getaway

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Hainan is a smart choice for Filipinos because it removes the stress of a visa. You can enter the island without paying for embassy fees or waiting weeks for an appointment.

• No Visa Required. You can just bring your Philippine passport (valid for 6 months), a return ticket, and your hotel booking.

• Smart Transport. You can rent a 7-seater van for about 1,000 RMB (8,495 PHP) for the week, which is the cheapest way for a family to travel together.

• Easy Payments. You can link your GCash card or credit card to Alipay, which you can use for everything from park tickets to street snacks.

• Accessible Travel. You can find flights from Manila to Haikou that are short and often go on sale, making it a very affordable international destination.

Honestly, Hainan is such a steal for us Filipinos. It gives you that high-end, international vacation feel but for a price that actually makes sense for a family. Since you don't have to deal with visa fees or embassy appointments, it is probably the easiest way to give your family a "luxury" abroad experience without actually breaking the bank. If you want a trip that feels expensive but is actually budget-friendly, you should definitely give Hainan a shot!

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