Location & How to Get There

South Bay Monkey Island isn’t in Hangzhou—it’s actually a hidden gem in Hainan’s tropical paradise! Situated in Lingshui Li Autonomous County, near Sanya, this monkey-filled island is easy to reach. If you’re flying into Sanya Phoenix Airport, it’s about a 90-minute drive to the New Village Dock in Xincheng Town. From there, a short ferry ride (around 15 minutes) whisks you away to South Bay Monkey Island. Renting a car is also a breeze, and the scenic coastal road makes the journey half the adventure.

Natural Scenery: Tropical Paradise

As soon as you step onto South Bay Monkey Island, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a jungle wonderland. Coconut trees sway over white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters lap against the shore. The island’s lush greenery is home to over 2,500 adorable macaques—they’re everywhere! You’ll spot them climbing palm trees, sunbathing on rocks, or playfully chasing each other. Bring your camera: the combination of blue skies, turquoise water, and mischievous monkeys makes for postcard-perfect shots.

Up-Close Monkey Encounters

At South Bay Monkey Island, the monkeys aren’t just for show—they’re the stars! Unlike zoos, here you can observe them in a semi-wild environment. Guides share fun facts: did you know these monkeys are trained to recycle? They trade plastic bottles for treats! It’s a quirky eco-initiative that shows how smart and adaptable they are. Just remember: don’t feed them on your own—stick to the designated areas to avoid naughty bites!

Cultural Highlights & Interactions

While the monkeys steal the spotlight, South Bay Monkey Island also celebrates local Li and Miao cultures. Check out the traditional dance performances where performers wear vibrant costumes and play infectious music. You can even try on Li ethnic attire for a fun photo op. For kids (or kids at heart), there’s a monkey-themed obstacle course and a “monkey school” show where trainers teach the primates funny tricks. It’s entertainment with a heartwarming twist!

Practical Tips & Amenities

South Bay Monkey Island is super tourist-friendly. Entry tickets include the ferry ride, and there’s a handy audio guide app with monkey facts. The island has shaded pavilions, clean restrooms, and snack stands serving tropical fruits and ice cream. Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon. That’s when the monkeys are most active, and the light is golden for photos. Wear comfy shoes—there’s plenty of walking on uneven paths, but it’s worth it for those instagrammable views.

Ultimate Day-Trip Experience

Start your day with the ferry’s gentle rocking, then explore the Monkey Zone first. Watch as momma monkeys carry their babies on their backs and teens swing from treetops. Next, relax at the beach—the water’s warm enough for a dip! For lunch, grab fresh seafood at the island’s cafe. Afternoons are perfect for hiking the Jungle Trail, where you might spot monkeys napping in hammocks made of vines. End your visit with a sunset boat ride: the sky painted pink and orange, monkeys silhouetted against the horizon—it’s pure magic.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture buff, or just looking for a unique day trip, South Bay Monkey Island delivers. With its blend of wildlife, culture, and tropical beauty, it’s one of Hainan’s best-kept secrets. Trust me—this isn’t your average zoo. It’s a chance to connect with creatures (and landscapes!) that’ll leave you grinning from ear to ear.