The other day, I visited Sanya, known as the “Oriental Hawaii.” After getting up close with the blue sea and sky, taking photos with macaques, and seeing the crystal-clear waters, I finally understood what a relaxing life truly feels like. Below, I’ll share my foodie’s guide to Sanya seafood. (P.S.: Non-foodies, you can skip this, as most of this is about food.)
NO1: Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is made by using a coconut as the container, then filling it with fragrant, sticky glutinous rice, sweet red dates, lotus seeds, and other ingredients. I didn’t see the cooking process myself, but the taste was truly unforgettable. When you first take a bite, you’re hit with a unique fragrance—the kind of flavor that comes from the mix of coconut flesh, glutinous rice, red dates, and other ingredients is hard to describe, but it’s truly an aromatic experience you won’t forget.
NO2: Spicy Stir-Fried Seafood
Technically, spicy stir-fried seafood is a Sichuan dish and is now a widely popular staple. I’m highlighting it here because the owner of the Sanya Yingjie Seafood Processing Restaurant I visited is from Sichuan, so I finally got to try the authentic version. It’s pretty much a different dish compared to the spice-overpowering version you get back home. Also, since the seafood here is bought fresh and cooked on the spot, the texture and taste are absolutely amazing.
NO3: Steamed Lobster
This is another dish you can find just about anywhere, but I have to tell you—what you get in Sanya tastes completely different from other places. The water here is especially clear, giving the seafood a uniquely fresh and clean texture. This is most evident in the steamed lobster. That’s why I highly recommend it.
NO4: Hainan Heye Crab
For my final recommendation, let me introduce a local specialty. The Hainan Heye crab is quite famous, especially when served steamed—it’s extremely popular. The meat is very tender and plentiful, and when cooked with their special method, the flavor is even better.
Actually, I have to say I picked the wrong time to visit Hainan. According to locals, if you go around the Qingming Festival, the crabs will be full of rich, fragrant roe—and that’s when they’re at their absolute best. Ah, no such luck this time.
One last reminder: never eat dead seafood. People with sensitive stomachs should also avoid undercooked seafood and pairing seafood with beer—it’s a recipe for food poisoning. To get the most out of your Sanya trip, always go for fresh seafood and have it cooked by a skilled local chef. That’s how you’ll get the most delicious “aftertaste.”