Riding the waves of change: female surfers experiences and cultural shifts in hainan, China

Adventure tourism has experienced significant growth, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, as people have increasingly sought outdoor activities. Traditionally a male-dominated sport, surfing is gaining popularity worldwide, with Hainan Island emerging as a key destination for surf tourism in China. This study employs a phenomenological approach to investigate the lived experiences and adaptive strategies of 14 female surfers within the context of Hainan's surf tourism, utilizing unstructured interviews and Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The findings reveal the multifaceted nature of surfing for women in Hainan, highlighting personal growth, vibrant female-centric communities, emotional connections to the environment, and the challenges posed by commercialization and societal pressures. As surf tourism continues to evolve, this study highlights the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for female surfers while preserving the authenticity of local surfing cultures, such as those found in Riyue Bay. The study calls for policies supporting female surfers' inclusion in tourism and promoting sustainable, community-oriented surf tourism practices. It also suggests further research into the intersection of gender, tourism, and local culture to better understand the way surf tourism can evolve in more inclusive and regenerative directions.