As surfing prepares to make a splash at the Paris 2024 Olympics, young thrill-seekers are flocking to Hainan Island – China’s tropical paradise – to chase barrels and carve waves. 🌴🏄♀️
The island’s Wan Ning city is transforming into a surf hub, blending sport, culture, and business. \"It's more than a hobby – it's a lifestyle,\" says a local board-shop owner, as beaches buzz with wetsuit-clad Gen-Zers and Instagram-ready surf schools.
With its 1,500km coastline and consistent swells, Hainan aims to rival Bali and Hawaii as Asia’s surfing capital. Local officials are riding this momentum, developing eco-friendly resorts and hosting international competitions to attract both pro athletes and digital nomads working from beachside coworking spaces. 💼🌏
As Olympic fever builds, Hainan’s surf culture shows how sports can create economic waves – from board manufacturing to sunset yoga sessions. Ready to paddle out? 🏻♂️
