Whether your idea of going coastal involves surf spray intensity, paddleboard calm or some gently lapping middle ground, this new crop of Asian hotels and resorts celebrates the sea in a range of moods. Room styles vary too, from dwelling above coral heads to fronting an industrial wharf. (Dollars are accepted at these properties unless otherwise noted.)

China

In recent years, development in Sanya, a beach resort at the tip of Hainan Island off China’s far southeastern coast, nicknamed the “Hawaii of China” for its expansive beaches and tropical climate, has boomed with new hotels. Opened in October, Shangri-La’s Sanya Resort and Spa is a 45-acre property that offers two pools, bike paths, a beach soccer field, sand volleyball court and a gym with yoga and tai chi classes. Many of the larger of its 340 rooms are designated for families and stocked with child-size robes and slippers. Rooms from 1,200 renminbi ($200 at 6 renminbi to the dollar); shangri-la.com/sanya/shangrilasanya.

Opened this month, the Park Hyatt Sanya Sunny Bay Resort fronts a private beach with wade-in access to coral reefs for snorkelers. The 17-acre property hosts 207 rooms and villas, each featuring bathrooms with deep soaking tubs set beside panoramic windows in view of the South China Sea. Designed to keep guests entertained without leaving the premises, the resort has five pools, a children’s camp, a lakeside spa with eight treatment villas with their own showers and bathtubs, and eight eating and drinking establishments. Rooms from 2,500 renminbi; sanya.park.hyatt.com.

Read Full Article >>