Xiamen · Visitor Guide
Huandao Road (Island Ring Road) (环岛路, Huándǎo Lù)
Huandao Road (also known as Island Ring Road) is a 43-kilometer scenic coastal road that circles Xiamen Island, connecting the city's main beaches and coastal neighborhoods. The road is famous for its palm-lined promenades, wide bike lanes, and unobstructed views of the Taiwan Strait. The most scenic and visited section runs from Xiamen University south along the coast through Zengcuoan and on to Huangcuo Beach. Renting a bicycle and riding the coastal path is the most popular way to experience it.
Last updated:
Quick Answer
Is Huandao Road (Island Ring Road) worth visiting?
43 km coastal scenic road around Xiamen Island. Best explored by bicycle. Free. Beaches, palm trees, and sea views.
Quick facts
| Ticket | Free — the road and beaches are public (as of 2026). Bicycle rental: ¥20–40 per hour, ¥50–80 for half day. |
|---|---|
| Hours | Road is always open. Beach areas accessible 24 hours. Bicycle rental shops typically 7:00–19:00. |
| Recommended duration | Half day to full day depending on how much you ride. |
| Best time to visit | Autumn and spring for mild weather. Early morning (7:00–9:00) for quiet beaches and good light for photography. Summer is hot and crowded but good for beach activities. Typhoon season (July–September) can disrupt plans. |
| How to get there | The road circles the entire island — access points include: Metro Line 1 to Zengcuoan Station (曾厝垵站) for the southern section; Metro Line 2 to Huandao Road stations for the eastern section; or bus routes 29, 47, 92, B3 along the southern coast. Taxis and DiDi run the entire route. |
| English signage | partial |
| Wheelchair accessible | partial |
| Total length | 43 km (full island circuit) |
| Scenic section | ~12 km (Xiamen University to Huangcuo Beach) |
| Bike lane width | 4–6 meters (separate from motor traffic) |
| Best known segment | International Marathon route (Jan 1–3 each year) |
| Beach access points | 12 named beach areas |
What to expect
Huandao Road was constructed in phases from the 1980s onward as Xiamen developed as a Special Economic Zone. The road was designed as a scenic coastal parkway rather than a pure traffic artery, which is why it features such wide promenades, planted median strips, and dedicated bike lanes separated from motor traffic by curbstones and trees. The engineers who designed it took full advantage of Xiamen's island geography, creating a road that hugs the coastline and offers sea views from virtually every point.
The most photographed and visited section runs from the south side of Xiamen University, past the beach areas of Zengcuoan, and continues eastward past the resort hotels of Dongshan and Huangcuo. This stretch is lined with coconut palms, hibiscus hedges, and sculptural modern lampposts. It is also the route of Xiamen's annual international marathon, which draws 30,000+ runners each January 1st. The wide bike lane makes it safe for cyclists of all levels, and the flat terrain means no challenging hills.
Beyond the tourist heartland, Huandao Road continues around the island's eastern side through the fishing port of Xiaodeng, the golf courses of Xiang'an, and the university town on the northern coast. The northern and western sections are less visited by tourists but offer glimpses of Xiamen's working waterfront — container ports, shipyards, and fishing docks.
How to get there
Rent a bicycle from one of many rental shops near Xiamen University or Zengcuoan (¥20–40/hour). For specific sections: Metro Line 1 to Xiamen University or Zengcuoan Station for the south coast; Metro Line 2 to Huangcuo for the resort area. Taxis and DiDi can drop you anywhere along the route.
Best photo spots
- The "International Marathon" starting point sculpture near Xiamen University — the classic Huandao Road shot
- The coconut palm avenue at sunset near Huangcuo Beach — long shadows and golden light
- The view from the small hilltop park near Pearl Bay (珍珠湾) — sea and road in one frame
- The fishing boats at Xiaodeng Port on the eastern section — raw and authentic
Tips
- Rent a bicycle from shops near Xiamen University and ride south to Zengcuoan and beyond — the bike path is excellent and completely separate from traffic
- Start your ride early in the morning (7:30 AM) to avoid both heat and crowds, and to have the beach to yourself
- Bring water and sun protection — there are few shade spots along the southern exposed section
- The best sunset views are from the eastern section near Huangcuo and the golf course area
- If you want to do the full 43 km circuit, plan for 4–5 hours of cycling with breaks
Scams to avoid
- Some bicycle rental shops near tourist areas overcharge or require a deposit — agree on the price before taking the bike and get a receipt
- "Beach chair" rentals on the beach that charge excessive fees — confirm all prices before sitting down
Frequently asked questions
Is Huandao Road suitable for casual cyclists?
Yes. The bike lane is wide, flat, and separated from motor traffic for most of the southern and eastern sections. Casual riders can comfortably cover the scenic 12 km from Xiamen University to Huangcuo in 1–2 hours. The northern and western sections have more interaction with traffic and are less pleasant.
Which section of Huandao Road is best for beaches?
Huangcuo Beach (黄厝海滩) on the eastern section is the most popular and has the best facilities. Pearl Bay (珍珠湾) near Xiamen University is quieter. Zengcuoan Beach is convenient if you are already in the village. All beaches are free and public.
Can I walk Huandao Road instead of cycling?
Yes, but the distance between interesting points is too long to make walking practical for the full scenic section. Walking is fine for short stretches (e.g., 1–2 km between metro stations along the beach). Use the metro or a taxi to cover longer distances.
Is Huandao Road wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The bike lanes and promenades are generally smooth and wheelchair-friendly. However, some beach access points have sand or steps. The metro stations along the route (Line 1 and Line 2) are accessible. The northern industrial section is not suitable.
Read next
Other things to do in Xiamen
Gulangyu Island
Car-free island with colonial architecture, piano museum, and seaside charm. Ferries from Xiamen. Best for a full day.
Gulangyu Island
A 1.88 km² car-free island 500 m off Xiamen's waterfront, with about 30 paid museums and piano heritage — plan at least 4 hours, ideally a full day, plus an overnight to dodge the day-tripper stampede.
Gulangyu Piano Museum
World's largest public piano collection on car-free Gulangyu Island. Antique pianos from the 18th–20th century. ¥20 entry.
Nanputuo Temple
Buddhist temple at the foot of Wulao Peak, Xiamen. Free entry. Vegetarian restaurant on site. One of China's most active monasteries.
Xiamen University
China's most beautiful university campuses. Colonial-era architecture, lakes, and palm-lined avenues. Free to walk through.
Zengcuoan Ancient Village
Former fishing village turned tourist food street. Narrow lanes, local snacks, and budget hostels. Free to walk through.
Museums in Xiamen
Gulangyu Organ Museum
Asia's finest organ museum on Gulangyu Island — with concerts at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00.
Gulangyu Maritime Museum
Gulangyu Island's museum documenting the UNESCO-listed colonial island's 140-year history as a piano island and treaty port. Free (island entry ¥50-100 for non-residents).