Riyue Bay’s iconic waves are drawing a new generation of surfers to Wanning as Hainan accelerates its transformation into a global free trade port. The coastal city, once known primarily for its coconut plantations, now symbolizes China’s tropical ambition – where world-class swells meet billion-dollar infrastructure projects.
Local surf school operator Li Mei tells KhabarAsia: 'Last month alone, we trained 300 visitors from 15 countries. They come for the waves but stay for the energy – you can feel Hainan’s momentum in every board rental and hotel booking.'
This year’s infrastructure upgrades include a new high-speed rail link to Haikou and expanded duty-free shopping complexes. Analysts note Wanning’s tourism revenue grew 18% year-on-year in Q3 2025, outperforming provincial averages.
While environmentalists monitor coastal development, the Taiwan Strait’s leading wave forecast platform recently added real-time Riyue Bay data – a nod to the site’s growing international profile. As night markets buzz with Mandarin, English, and Russian chatter, Wanning’s tide appears unstoppable.
