Ten tips for travelling to Hainan to play golf
1. Visa Requirements for Hainan Golf Travelers
Good news: Many nationalities are eligible for Visa-Free Entry to Hainan for up to 30 days, making it easier for international golfers to visit.
- Visitors from over 60 countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, most of Europe, and Japan can enter Hainan without a visa if arriving via Haikou or Sanya airports.
- This applies for tourism, including golfing, but does NOT cover other parts of China — stay limited to Hainan during your visit.
- Always check the latest updates from official Chinese consulate websites or Hainan Provincial Government before traveling, as visa policies can change.
If you don’t qualify for visa-free entry or plan to visit mainland China as well, apply for a tourist (L) visa in advance through your local Chinese embassy or consulate.
2. Best Time to Play Golf in Hainan
Hainan is a great golf destination year-round with a tropical climate. Key points to know:
- October to April: Best season — cooler (22°C–28°C), dry, comfortable rounds, but busier and higher green fees.
- May to September: Hotter (28°C–34°C), humid, possible heavy rain and typhoons, but courses are quieter and green fees cheaper.
- Early mornings or late afternoons are best in summer to avoid heat.
- Always stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Whether you visit in peak or off-peak, Hainan offers beautiful, lush golf courses for every golfer.
3. Transportation Around Hainan
Getting around Hainan to golf courses in Haikou, Sanya, and beyond is easy and affordable:
- Taxi or Private Car: Widely available, reliable, and affordable for most tourists.
- Car Rentals: Foreign drivers can apply for a temporary tourist driver’s license in Hainan, allowing legal driving of rental cars. This requires a valid passport, visa, and home country driver’s license. Note that International Driving Permits (IDPs) are generally not accepted in China.
- Airport Transfers: Many golf resorts offer shuttle services—check when booking.
- Hainan High-Speed Train: Fast, cheap, and convenient, connecting Haikou, Sanya, and other cities, making it easy to travel between golf courses.
Plan your trips ahead to manage travel times, especially if playing courses in both Haikou and Sanya.
4. Tipping Golf Caddies in Hainan
While tipping is generally not customary in China, golf caddies are an important exception. In Hainan’s golf courses, it’s customary and appreciated to tip your caddy for their service. The typical minimum tip is around 150 RMB per round. Caddies offer valuable local knowledge, assist with club selection, and help manage your pace of play. Showing appreciation through tipping helps maintain good relationships and ensures attentive service during your rounds.
5. Golf Etiquette in China
- Dress codes are strictly enforced—collared shirts and golf shoes are standard.
- Respect local customs: polite greetings, patience on the course, and following marshal instructions.
- Avoid slow play to respect others’ time.
6. Packing Essentials for Your Golf Trip
- Lightweight, breathable golf clothing for tropical weather.
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen.
- Insect repellent, especially in the evenings near coastal or jungle courses.
- Adaptors for China’s electrical outlets (Type I plugs, 220V).
- Portable umbrella or rain jacket during the rainy season.
7. Language and Communication
English is not widely spoken outside major resorts, so learning a few golf-related phrases in Mandarin or having a translation app can help. Many golf clubs have English-speaking staff but it’s best to be prepared.
8. Currency and Payments
- The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY).
- Credit cards are accepted at most resorts and golf clubs, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
- Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are popular but may require a Chinese bank account.
9. Health and Safety
- Drink bottled water; avoid tap water.
- Carry any personal medications with you.
- Purchase travel insurance that covers golfing activities.
10. Explore Beyond Golf
While Hainan is famous for its golf, don’t miss exploring its stunning beaches, tropical forests, hot springs, and vibrant local culture during your downtime.
Final Thoughts
Hainan is quickly becoming Asia’s premier golf destination with its world-class courses, stunning natural beauty, and growing travel infrastructure. With these top 10 travel tips in hand, golfers can focus on what matters most — enjoying unforgettable rounds in China’s tropical golf paradise.
Plan your next golf trip with confidence at golfinhainan.com — your trusted guide to golfing in Hainan.
