The Surf Window

Riyue Bay

Hainan, China

Beach breakIntermediate

Hainan Island's premier surf destination, Riyue Bay (Sun Moon Bay) hosted the 2010 ISA World Surfing Games and remains China's most famous surf location, a beautiful crescent bay where tropical swells and a warm South China Sea create the country's most consistent and organised surf scene.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–E 1–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

SW

Light to W under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Oct–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the crescent bay

Length

60–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: All levels
  • •Why: Consistent, warm-water beach break with good surf school support

Hazards

  • •Typhoon season (June–October) brings dangerous conditions
  • •Jellyfish in certain seasons
  • •Crowded during Chinese national holidays

Local Tips

  • •The ISA World Games legacy means excellent surf infrastructure, board hire and lessons readily available
  • •Wanning city nearby has great local Hainanese food, try Wenchang chicken
  • •Hainan's tropical interior (rainforest, hot springs) makes for excellent flat-day exploration

Location

Map showing the location of Riyue Bay in Hainan, China

18.9000, 110.4000