Self-Driving (Car Rental)
Ready to Explore Sanya by Road? Sanya offers one of the world’s most enjoyable coastal driving environments. Thanks to Hainan’s unique policy of toll-free expressways across the entire island, you can travel freely and effortlessly. More importantly, driving regulations and route guidance for international visitors have been fully upgraded, making a self-drive journey in Sanya easier than ever.
Driving Permit: Online Pre-Application for Overseas Visitors
To legally drive in Sanya, you must hold either a Chinese driver’s license or a Temporary Motor Vehicle Driving Permit. Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is not valid in mainland China. To simplify the process, Hainan has introduced a convenient digital system that allows you to complete the application before your trip.
To apply, visit the Hainan Temporary Entry Motor Vehicle Driver Management Service System. The platform supports five languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Russian, and German. Follow the on-screen instructions to upload the required documents, including your passport, visa, home-country driver’s license with a translation, and a passport-size photo.
As part of the process, you will also complete a short online learning module covering China’s road traffic laws and basic safe-driving practices.
Once approved, you can collect your Temporary Motor Vehicle Driving Permit upon arrival at Sanya Phoenix International Airport or at a local vehicle administration office by presenting your original documents.
⚠️ Please note that the validity of the temporary driving permit generally matches your visa duration and does not exceed one year.
Car Rental
Sanya has a well-developed car rental market, with both international brands such as Hertz and Avis, as well as leading domestic companies including eHi and Shenzhou.
While SUVs and standard sedans are widely available, the most iconic Sanya experience is renting a convertible. Lower the roof, let the sea breeze wash over you, and embrace the true spirit of a tropical road trip.
Pick-up and drop-off services are easily arranged at airport parking facilities, railway stations, and major resort hotels in Yalong Bay and Haitang Bay.
Traffic Rules & Driving Etiquette
When driving in Sanya, please observe China’s traffic regulations. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, consistent with practices in the United States and most of continental Europe. Hainan is the only province in China with fully toll-free expressways, meaning you can travel the island’s highways without stopping at toll gates, as related fees are included in fuel taxes.
China enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drunk driving, with severe penalties. Drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, including those in the rear seats.
Recommended Route: The Sanya Coastal Tourism Road
Once you’ve picked up your car, consider heading straight onto the 131-kilometer Sanya Coastal Tourism Road. Often described as a “moving coastal gallery,” this scenic route unfolds like a string of pearls, linking Sanya’s most iconic bays.
Starting in Haitang Bay, you’ll encounter contemporary luxury resorts and a modern seaside atmosphere. Passing through Yalong Bay, you’ll experience the timeless romance of the famed “Best Bay Under Heaven.” The journey concludes in Yazhou Bay, where the ancient soul of Yazhou Old Town reveals Sanya’s deep historical roots.
The road is well maintained and dotted with multiple scenic viewpoints and rest stops, allowing you to pause, take photos, and enjoy sweeping views of the sea, sky, and city skyline.
Download the Official Road Trip Guide
Looking for detailed route maps, must-stop viewpoints, and insider driving tips? We recommend reading the official guide “Sanya Road Trip: Driving Along the Most Beautiful Coastline”, or downloading the official self-drive guide for a complete coastal journey.