Sanya Ranks Top 7 Among China's Most Desired Graduation Trip Destinations

As the national college entrance exam concludes, graduation travel season begins. "Head to Sanya, unwind by the sea this summer" trends on social media. Data from Qunar, Tongcheng, and other leading platforms show Sanya ranks Top 7 for graduates, thanks to its dual appeal of "summer retreat + water fun."

On June 8, the waters off Sanya Bay buzzed with activity. Tourists flocked via yachts to try banana boats, jet skis, and other aquatic adventures. (Photo by Yuan Yongdong)

"I packed right after the exam," said Xiao Ding, a Hunan graduate, planning a Sanya trip with friends. "June flights and hotels are 40% cheaper than peak summer, with fewer crowds." Data confirms: Beijing-Sanya direct flights drop to ¥350 in June—half July’s lowest fare (¥820)—making Sanya a "price sweet spot." Travel agencies report surging inquiries from exam families, with small groups (2-8 people) favoring immersive slow travel. Combo deals (attraction tickets + water activities, flights + hotels) are top choices.

Attractions launch "graduation packages":Red Detachment of Women Park offers free live shows to graduates with exam tickets (Jun 7-Aug 31);Silk Road Happy World: all-access pass for ¥88;Size Cave Tourism Zone gifts coconuts and exclusive water activity discounts;Yalong Bay Rose Valley and Wuzhizhou Island waive entry fees or offer 50% off tickets.

Sanya will host 21 large-scale events (1,000+ attendees) in June, alongside the "Fall for Sanya" promotion featuring a "Culture-Tourism Pass" and hotel rewards. Summer highlights include:

"Little Navigators" Youth Sailing Camp (Jul 5-9);

World Beach Ultimate Elite Invitational (Jul 12-13).

Industry insiders suggest that graduates should travel flexibly during off-peak periods, make good use of tourist attraction discount policies to reduce costs, choose travel products with flexible cancellation and modification policies, and avoid affecting their college applications.