Opened earlier this month (November 2025) in Hainan province, the Chinese mainland's first Olympic-grade artificial wave pool offers surfers a taste of the ocean in a controlled, tech-driven environment.
Located on the southern coast of the island, this 15,000-square-meter facility harnesses adjustable wave settings to generate swells up to 2.5 meters, catering to beginners and pros alike.
Innovation Meets Sustainability
Designed with renewable energy and seawater recirculation, the wave pool aligns with the province's push to build sustainable tourism hotspots. Experts estimate it could attract over 500,000 visitors in its first year, boosting local tourism revenue by 8%.
A New Chapter for Surf Tourism
Hainan has seen international arrivals grow by 12% year-on-year through October 2025, and analysts predict surf-related activities will be a key driver in the next wave of beach tourism. Certified coaches and local surf schools are already booking slots to introduce travelers to the sport.
Liu Mei, a pro surfer who tested the pool last week, described it as a 'game-changer for Asia’s surf scene.'
This facility marks a milestone for Asia’s surf scene, blending technology and sustainability for a new era of beach tourism.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
