In 2019, China conducted its first wave pool experiment in Henan province, marking its entry into the global wave pool market. The facility’s design closely resembled that of Kelly Slater’s wave pool in Lemoore, California. While the waves produced did not match the quality of Slater’s pool, the initiative indicated potential for future advancements in surfing if the Chinese government committed resources. That pool shut down in 2022.

Now, in a bid to attract more foreign tourists, China has increased the visa-free layover period to 240 hours (10 days) for all visitors, as announced by the State Administration of Immigration. Coincidentally, American Wave Machines announced an agreement with China Tourism Group to develop a wave pool project adjacent Chinese surf mecca Riyue Bay on the island of Hainan. The project will be known as Sun and Moon Bay in the town of Wanning and will be dubbed “Riyue Bay Surf Resort.”

With American Wave Machines powering successful wave projects on several continents, this latest China play looks to be solid.

Riyue Bay Surf Resort

The resort’s first phase will include a surf-themed hotel and a designer hotel with a total of 132 rooms, a shopping district, bars and restaurants, a surf retail shop, and a skate park, alongside the wave pool. Phase two will expand the hotel and introduce additional lodging options. The project aims to attract both international surfing enthusiasts and local beginners.

“With the launch of PerfectSwell, China solidifies its commitment to developing world-class athletes across all Olympic sports, surfing included,” said Kuan Zhao, surf park director of the resort. “… the venue will deliver a world-class resort experience for all levels of surf tourists. We will expand the surfing community throughout the country while welcoming the diverse and broad spectrum of surf enthusiasts from around the world.”

Headquartered in Hong Kong, China Tourism Group Corporation Limited (CTG), has a network that spans mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and over 30 countries and regions globally. It is a state-owned enterprise directly managed by the central government. The company operates across multiple sectors, including travel agencies, scenic areas, hotels, duty-free retail, tourism transportation, travel document services, cruises, and real estate.

Riyue Bay, recognized for its premier surfing conditions in China, has developed a robust restaurant and bar scene for international tourists – all thanks to surfing. It has hosted international surfing competitions for eleven consecutive years and serves as the base for China’s National Surfing Team.