Howard Johnson Resort Sanya Bay Poker Guide 2026: CPG Info

Howard Johnson Resort Sanya Bay is a massive 5-star beachfront landmark and the spiritual heart of the tournament scene on Hainan Island. Known to locals as the Sanya Guoguang Howard Johnson, this resort serves as the legendary home of the China Poker Games (CPG) Championship, the most prestigious domestic tour in mainland China. While it lacks a traditional casino, its 1,000-square-meter Grand Ballroom frequently transforms into a high-stakes “Mind Sports” arena for thousands of players.

Why Howard Johnson Resort Sanya Bay Resort?

• The CPG Flagship: For over 13 years, the resort has hosted the annual CPG Championship Finals, an event so massive it is often referred to as the “ WSOP of China.”
• Massive Floor Space: Boasts a 1,000 sqm ballroom and 23 meeting rooms, capable of handling 1,200+ players for a single tournament flight.
• Beachfront Proximity: Located directly across from the famous Sanya Bay “Coconut Dream Corridor,” providing players with the perfect tropical escape between sessions.

The Poker Experience

Like all mainland China properties, Howard Johnson Resort Sanya Bay does not host cash games. Poker action is strictly event-driven. The 2025 CPG Championship Finals (August 20–29, 2025) recently concluded here, and the resort remains the anticipated venue for the 2026 CPG August Finals.

During these festivals, the resort’s ballroom is packed with professional tables, world-class dealers, and RFID livestream equipment. Players generally qualify for these events through the official CPG App or regional sports poker clubs across China. The atmosphere is unique, blending high-level competition with a “Mind Sport” community vibe that is distinct from the high-roller rooms of Macau.

Venue Logistics

📍 Location: Howard Johnson Resort Sanya Bay, No. 188, Sanya Bay Road, Tianya District, Sanya, Hainan, 572000, China. It is one of the closest 5-star resorts to the airport.

✈️ Transport: Only 3.5km from Sanya Phoenix International Airport (SYX), a short 10-minute taxi ride away. Sanya Railway Station is about 8.5km from the hotel.

🏖️ Amenities: Players have access to an expansive tropical garden, beachfront pools, and multiple Chinese and Western dining options, including a popular poolside BBQ.