Sanya to host 2026 Asian Beach Games

The 6th Asian Beach Games will be held in Sanya, Hainan province, from April 22 to 30, 2026, as announced by the Olympic Council of Asia on Sunday.

The event is expected to draw top athletes from across Asia to the tropical city's famed shores for nine days of competition. It is one of the continent's premier multi-sport competitions.

The Asian Beach Games feature a mix of traditional and emerging beach sports. The 2026 edition will include 17 disciplines, such as water sports, beach athletics, 3x3 beach basketball, and beach handball.

Sanya is known for its pristine coastline and year-round warm weather. It was awarded hosting rights in 2018. The city was due to host the sixth edition of the Asian Beach Games in 2020, but they were called off because of COVID-19.

Organizers say the event aligns with the city's coastal identity and active lifestyle.

"This is a golden opportunity to showcase Sanya and Hainan to the world," a spokesperson for the local organizing committee said. The games are expected to boost tourism and highlight the region's natural beauty.

Previous editions of the Asian Beach Games have been held in Indonesia, Oman, China, Thailand, and Vietnam.