Surfing in China
China is still not one of the top surf destinations in the world and most surfers and travelers never thought that China even has waves. The country doesn't have the traditional surf and beach culture but certainly has some good waves. Hainan is a tropical island and it's the main surfing area in the country. There you can find all kinds of waves ranging from long point breaks to fun powerful beach breaks. The island hosted major QS and ISA contests in the past putting China in the radar of the international surf community. Besides Hainan, China has a vast coastline with 14,500km of unexplored shore where many surf spots are waiting to be found. They are also developing a wave pool in order to help their athletes to train for the Olympic Games which is proof that surfing is starting to increase popularity. The activity is getting more visibility supported by a more open minded young generation that promotes the surf culture as something healthy and exciting. With so much potential China can easily be the next ultimate surf destination so you better get yourself there before it gets too popular and crowded.
Climate in China
The Chinese climate varies since the country is huge. In the northeast, where Beijing is located, the summers are hot and dry and the winters are freezing cold. The north and central regions have frequent rainfall coupled with hot summers and cold winters. In the southeast there is plenty of rainfall, semi-tropical summers and cool winters. The weather in China is best in spring, from March to April or autumn, from September to October. There are two main surfing seasons in China. The typhoon season goes from August to October and the NE monsoon happens from November to March. November has good N swells and possibility of late season typhoons. Mid to late season monsoon creates the most consistent waves in January and February.
Best surf spots in China
There are plenty of surf spots to be explored in China. Here is a list of the best breaks in the country: Abalone Farm, Buddha Beach, Da Hua Jiao, Dadonghai Bay, Dao ao Bay, Dapingpo, Hai Ling Dao, Hainan, Houhai Bay, Kame Rock, Kani Rock, Xincun Beach, Windmill Bay, Moon Bay, Niuling, Rivermouth Bridge, RiyueWan-Main Left, Sandalwood, Shimei Bay, West Beach, Xing Tan Wan, Yab-J Rihue Bay, Yalong Bay and Yarakawa.
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $6 USD. Mid-range meals start at $12 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $60-100 USD
Equipment rental
There are a few places where you can find rental gear. Boards start at $14 USD.
Prepaid SIM cards
China Mobile is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from official stores only or the airport, but keep in mind prepaid plans/cards will be more expensive at the airport. .
Prepaid packages start at $18 USD.
Public transport
China’s public transport is comprehensive and good value. The rail network extends to every region is vast, efficient and reliable.
All Chinese cities have some form of public transit system -light-rail systems, metros, city bus.
Taxis are always available in larger towns and cities
Bicycles can be rented for $3 USD.
Gas prices
$0.83 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Flooding can occur in the central, southern and western regions and the country in general can experience earthquakes.
How to prepare
Visa
Most visitors to mainland visa will need a visa, unless you are from one of the 18 countries that are exempt.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. You’ll be asked to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination if you come from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
Things to know
Language & Currency
Mandarin is the official language in China. You might find some English spoken, but it’s not common.
Best time to go
August to October and November to March.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
110 for police, 120 for ambulance.
Check surf pictures of China at #chinasurf.
