We were in Sanya from 17-21Dec2005. We loved the resort, the room, the beach. BUT the weather was not great. The best we got was one windy afternoon that was warm enough to go onto the beach. This is THE place to go for rest and relaxation. There is no vibrant night life, shopping or touristy things to do. We went to the seashell and butterfly Museums, interesting, but that's about it. In warmer weather it would be spectacular to hang out at the beach all day, enjoy the water activities. Our advice, YES go there, just choose the right time! By the way we found the food OK, but not yet at the level we've had at other 5 stars. The staff are polite and well trained, but the level of english was limited. We had a problem with not getting a (prepaid) non-smoking room upon arrival. We had to wait hours only to be told we couldn't get it until the next day. My wife is ultra-sensitive to scents/smoke, we felt the situation could have been handled better, but we still recommend them.

Just spent four days at the Marriott in Yalong Bay, Sanya, Hainan. Maybe the best way to describe the hotel and sorroundings is a good product that needs some work on service.

The Hotel is 5 * Marriott beach hotel quality. The rooms are modern and comfortable, with many of them having ocean views (we stayed on 8th floor with an ocean view). The lobby is spacious and comfortable while the pool and garden landscaping is excellent. They have a 5 * Spa (with high prices though a steal compared to Hong Kong / Singapore -- 80 minute massage is 520 RMB) which is very comfortable. We only had dinner once in the hotel at the Chinese restaurant (which was good) and breakfast every day (which was excellent).

The main problem with the Marriott (and this applies to all the hotels in Sanya) is the lack of a 'western' or 'asian' service culture. There is no doubt that over time the Marriott and other hotels here will improve their standards but there is clearly a failing by the staff on how to deliver a competent service. As an example, the beach area is meant to be serviced by wait staff to provide lunch / drinks; they don't really walk around or offer anything, you need to go find them and ask for stuff. The food in the restaurant (though good) came out main dish first, soup second, and not everyone got their food at the same time. If you have a problem with the room (which we did), you are going to have a hell of a time getting it fixed (even if you speak perfect Mandarin).

A few recommendations on Sanya in general. It makes sense to visit here if you are living in China and thus can just hop on a flight here. If you are travelling around China, it is a great way to end your trip. If you are coming from abroad (and not chinese), the visa factor is a bit of a hassle (for a beach holiday), getting here is a bit labored (through Shenzhen if coming from Hong Kong -- ferry first to Shenzhen Airport from Hong Kong / Shanghai / Beijing). Eating out in Sanya is probably a good idea (we did most nights) though you should check where to go with a local or staff at the hotel who speak english. As usual in China (unless you are in Beijing / Shanghai / Shenzhen) it is probably a good idea if you speak some Mandarin or a with someone who does to really get the right experience.