The InterContinental Sanya Resort, the first InterContinental brand property in Sanya, has opened in Xiaodonghai, Sanya on Hainan Island.

Tony Marrinan, the general manager of InterContinental Sanya Resort, commented that the design of the whole resort is quite unique and represents IHG's first 'new wave' of differentiated resort designs, as well as the group's environmentally friendly design concept. He pointed out that every effort had been made to make use of natural light and natural ventilation, in order to reduce dependence on electricity and mechanical air conditioning. For example all flat roofs that are visible from the rooms and public areas have been planted with a combination of native grasses, flowers, and shrubs to reduce the heat load and act as an insulating layer to cool the spaces beneath.

The resort offers 343 sea view rooms including 24 beachside villas, and guests can lounge round five swimming pools, and dine in eight restaurants and bars. For meetings and conferences the resort has pillar free ballroom and seven meeting rooms, and delegates can unwind in the resort's spa.