Renting a car in Sanya is theoretically possible, but tourists should carefully consider it before proceeding. Firstly, the city's traffic can be incredibly hectic, and if you're not accustomed to such driving conditions, it can be quite challenging on the road.
Secondly, to rent a car in Sanya 24/7, you'll need certification from the local highway authority that permits you to drive in the People's Republic of China (PRC).
To avoid the need for this certificate, you can opt for renting a car with a driver. However, in this case, the rental cost in Sanya will increase by CHY 100-200. If this doesn't deter you, be prepared to provide your passport, international driver's license, and return ticket for the car.
Renting a car in Sanya requires leaving a deposit, either your passport or a monetary deposit. The cheapest car rental in Sanya typically starts at least at $60 per day, plus an additional charge of 8 CHY per liter of gasoline. It's worth noting that parking in Sanya is only free for the first 10 minutes, after which you'll be required to pay a fee based on your car's size.