Cool fun in the summer sun

July is hot hot hot! You might have the idea that Hainan is a pretty sizzling place, but actually the island offers plenty of ways to cool down, including the mountains, waterfalls, and the ocean. Let’s get out of the heat and enjoy the summer in Hainan!

Wuzhishan Tropical Rainforest

Wuzhishan Mountain, the highest mountain in Hainan at 1,867 meters above sea level, is named for its iconic peaks, which look like nothing more than five enormous fingers reaching up into the sky. Only the first and second peaks are open to hikers, as the others are too steep and covered in impenetrable jungle. The spectacular nature views along the winding trails in the park will make you feel like you’ve gone back to the land before time.

(Photo: Li Tianping / Hainan Daily)

(Photo: Li Tianping / Hainan Daily)

Bawangling Nature Reserve

Located at the junction of Changjiang and Baisha counties in the western part of Hainan Island, Bawangling is the only national nature reserve in China where gibbons, a nationally protected species, live. The park has a natural ecosystem complete with mountains and forests, and boasts the largest natural endemic South Asian pine forest, the largest wild plum forest, and the oldest and largest wild lychee forest in the country, giving Bawangling its unparalleled reputation. Bawangling’s Futou Peak is the primary protected habitat of the Hainan Gibbon. There are three trails here with a combined length of 4.3 kilometers, so lace up your shoes and take a hike through the rainforests of Bawangling.

Diaoluo Mountain National Forest Park

Diaoluo Mountain is one of the six tropical rainforest areas in Hainan, and is divided into three main areas: the tropical gorge rainforest, the original tropical forest below the mountain, and the Fengguoshan Waterfall. There are a lot of sights to see here, such as root-hugging rocks, ancient vines wrapped around giant trees, exotic flowers, plants that live on nothing but light and air, and more. Keep an eye out for the Tree Fern, a living fossil that dinos once munched on.

The fresh mountain air purifies your lungs as well as your soul. Who needs air conditioning when you are cooled by the mountain breezes?

(Photo: Yang Haicheng / Hinews & New Hainan app)

Baihualing Waterfall, Qiongzhong

According to legend, Baihualing (Hundred Flower Peak) Waterfall, the most famous waterfall in Hainan, was named for the way the falling water resembles a constant rain of fresh white flowers. The water cascades down in a silvery veil, dropping 300 meters to the pool below. As your eyes slowly make their way up, up, up to the top, you’ll notice different details at each level.

Climb the over 2,000 steps through the forest and up alongside the waterfall for spectacular views from the three scenic platforms, where you can not only feel the spray of the water on your face, but also see Baihualing Reservoir in the distance and much of Qiongzhong laid out at your feet.

Dali Waterfall, Lingshui

Lingshui’s Dali Waterfall is tucked away in Dali Village, like a shy girl who hides her beauty from the eyes of the world. There are actually a group of waterfalls here, so be sure to also track down her two little sisters, Tuonanri and Sister Waterfalls.

(Photo: Yang Haicheng / Hinews & New Hainan app)

Walking around 100 meters up the stone path in the forest, you will see Sister Waterfall, which is named for its two drops, making it seem like two affectionate sisters. As you walk closer, the coolness brought by the waterfall will soothe your parched soul, and you will see the Tuonanri Waterfall nearby.

Tuonanri means ‘fairies’ in the local Li language. The Tuonanri Waterfall has a vertical drop of nearly 50 meters, with the water merrily splashing down over the layers of rock like playful fairies descending from the sky. This is a great place to snap some incredible photos of the falls surrounded by lush trees sprouting from jagged rocks.

Longmen Jiuwentang Cold Spring, Ding’an

Cold springs always come to mind when the topic of summer comes up. Longmen Jiuwentang Cold Spring, which is located in Ding’an gushes out 40,000 cubic meters a day of icy water that meets the highest standards of potable natural mineral water. Temperatures stay at 23°C–25°C all year round. This is China’s third largest cold spring, bested only by Su'ao Cold Spring in Taiwan and Wudalianchi Cold Spring in Heilongjiang. It is also the largest tropical selenium-rich cold spring in China discovered so far.

(Photo: Wang Pinzhao / Hainan Daily)

The cool, flowing waters give rise to lush green grass, and large trees lean over the water, providing shade for the flowers, butterflies, and people. Don’t be alarmed if your toes feel a tickle - look down into the clear water and you’ll see friendly little fish nibbling away at all the rough spots as you relax. This fish pedicure would cost quite a lot in a high end spa, but here the service is free of charge!

White Water Rafting in the Wuzhishan Red Canyon

Wuzhishan Red Canyon is located deep in the wilds of the tropical rainforest, with mist-covered mountain peaks lining the river on both sides. As you drift down the river, you’ll enjoy the sounds of waterfalls, birds, and the breezes rustling the leaves of the forest trees. Immerse yourself in nature and breathe the fresh mountain air as you rush along the turbulent eddies and drops of the course.

(Photo: Ding Wenwen / New Hainan app)

Surfing in Riyue Bay, Wanning

Riyue Bay, or Sun and Moon Bay, is shaped like a perfect crescent. Thanks to the excellent surfing conditions, pleasant temps, and clear waters, this is is China’s surf mecca.

(Photo: Cai Qindong / Hinews & New Hainan app)

This summer at Riyue Bay, hit the waves or just relax on the beach and watch the action. The laid-back surf culture means there’s plenty of fun and tasty eats, plus regular parties, live music events, handicraft markets, and more.

These great Hainan destinations offer not only a place to cool down, but also scenic views, fun activities, and much more. Bring your friends and family to enjoy the summer together!