Sanya's national cuisine, like that of Hainan Island in general, is renowned for its seafood dishes and the ubiquitous presence of coconut in nearly every culinary creation. The key rule in their preparation is to use only fresh, recently harvested or caught ingredients. Chinese cuisine often features various types of noodles made from rice flour, with Hainanese noodles with vegetables, roasted peanuts, and beef jerky being a popular choice on the island.
Not all of Sanya's national dishes are found in upscale restaurants; some hidden gems can be discovered in small or mobile cafes. For instance, qingbuliang, a local dip that leans more towards a refreshing dessert. It incorporates raisins, pineapples, watermelons, and even meat, offering a unique blend of sweetness. Chaobin, a fried ice cream and the resort's signature sweet treat, is sold on virtually every corner and is prepared right in front of the customer.
When it comes to beverages, Sanya is famous for its local teas, including fermented, gunpowder, jasmine, and mountain teas, offering a wide range of varieties to explore. Coffee is also quite popular.
