Nature-Led Luxury on China's Tropical Coast

Book now

Why DNA Hotels loves it

Previously the first 1 Hotels property in China, bringing the brand's sustainability-first philosophy to the tropical shores of Hainan.

Architecture that works with the landscape rather than against it, blending terraces, living gardens, and ocean views into one seamless experience.

A resort where luxury is measured not by excess, but by its deep connection to nature, wellbeing, and responsible design.

The Stay

Sunshine Yi Hotel Haitang Bay | Sanya, Hainan | China

A Resort Grown from the Landscape

Set along the pristine coastline of Haitang Bay on Hainan Island, Sunshine Yi Hotel Haitang Bay offers a different vision of luxury hospitality. Rather than dominating its surroundings, the resort is carefully integrated into the natural contours of the site. Cascading terraces, open-air courtyards, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views create a destination that feels inseparable from the tropical landscape itself. The architecture embraces nature instead of competing with it.

Design Inspired by Hainan

Every element reflects the island’s unique ecology. Curved architectural forms echo the movement of waves, while natural timber, locally sourced stone, and abundant planting soften the contemporary design. Living walls, green roofs, and water features extend the surrounding rainforest into the heart of the resort, creating spaces filled with light, fresh air, and greenery. The palette remains calm and organic, drawing inspiration from Hainan’s forests, beaches, and the South China Sea. The result is contemporary architecture with an unmistakable sense of place.

Luxury Through Sustainability

At the heart of the property lies a simple philosophy: nature is the greatest luxury. Locally sourced and reclaimed materials reduce environmental impact, while passive cooling, natural ventilation, energy-efficient systems, and renewable technologies are integrated throughout the resort. Single-use plastics are minimised, and sustainability is embedded in every operational decision rather than treated as an afterthought. The experience feels effortless, allowing guests to enjoy exceptional comfort while leaving a lighter footprint.

Wellness Rooted in Nature

Life at Sunshine Yi Hotel Haitang Bay unfolds at the pace of the landscape. Morning yoga takes place beneath tropical trees, spa treatments draw inspiration from natural ingredients, and landscaped pathways wind through gardens filled with native planting. Open-air lounges blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, encouraging guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with their surroundings. Here, wellbeing is created by the environment itself.

From Farm to Table

Dining follows the same thoughtful philosophy. Seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and regional producers celebrate Hainan’s rich agricultural heritage, while fresh seafood and locally grown produce form the foundation of menus that are both refined and sustainable. Every meal reinforces the resort’s commitment to supporting local communities while reducing environmental impact. It is conscious dining without compromise.

Why It Works

Sunshine Yi Hotel Haitang Bay demonstrates that sustainability and luxury can strengthen one another. By allowing architecture, landscape, ecology, and hospitality to exist in harmony, the resort creates an experience that feels both restorative and forward-thinking. Rather than asking guests to choose between comfort and responsibility, it proves the two can exist together beautifully. For travellers seeking design, wellbeing, and meaningful luxury, Sunshine Yi Hotel Haitang Bay represents a compelling vision of hospitality’s future—where nature is not simply admired, but protected, celebrated, and placed at the very centre of the experience.

Information

At a glance

Vibe: Quiet Eco & Sustainability Pets allowed

Architecture

Oval Partnership

Opened / Renovated

2020 (previously 1 Hotel Haitang Bay)

Size matters

294 rooms & suites (62-450m2) (667-4,843 sq ft)

Interior design

FARM

Featured in

Don't take our word for it

Handpicked worldwide

A carefully curated collection of exceptional boutique and design hotels across the globe.

Design with soul

Architecture, atmosphere and craftsmanship come together in stays with a clear identity.

Hidden, not hyped

Independent boutique hotels you rarely find on mainstream booking platforms.

Travel guidance

Personal recommendations and thoughtful support from people who actually know the places.