Xiamen's Island Ring Road (Huandao Road) is one of China's most beautiful urban cycling routes, following the southern and eastern coastline of Xiamen Island. The dedicated cycling path covers approximately 16km of the most scenic coastline, running right along the beach with golden sands, palm trees, rocky headlands, and the sparkling Taiwan Strait. The route passes several iconic Xiamen landmarks: Yanwu Bridge (a cable-stayed bridge with sweeping sea views), Zengcuo'an (a hip village turned artsy hostel district), Hulishan Fortress (a Qing Dynasty coastal battery), and Huangcuo Beach (the best sunset spot on the island). The cycling path is wide, well-paved, and completely separated from traffic — making it safe for families, beginners, and casual riders. The full ring road extends to 43km for those wanting a longer ride. Xiamen's subtropical climate means cycling is pleasant year-round, but October to April is ideal with mild temperatures and clear skies.
Easy. The entire route is flat on a dedicated, traffic-free cycling path. No significant elevation. The path is wide enough for cyclists, pedestrians, and rental quad-bikes to share comfortably. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, including children and seniors. Electric bikes and tandem bikes are available for rent. The only consideration is sun exposure — most of the path has no shade. Morning and late afternoon are the most comfortable times.
Everything you need to know as an international traveler planning this cycling route in China.
Xiamen has a public bike share system (Hello Bike/哈啰单车) accessible via Alipay/WeChat mini-programs. Scan-to-ride, ¥1-2 per 30 min. However, the most popular option is the many private rental shops along the Huandao Road, especially near Baicheng Beach (白城沙滩) and Zengcuo'an (曾厝垵). Tandem bikes: ¥30-50/hour, mountain bikes: ¥20-30/hour, electric bikes: ¥40-60/hour. Deposit: ¥200-300, passport required. Most shops are open 7 AM-9 PM. No advance booking needed — just walk up and rent. The bikes are basic but adequate for this flat, easy route.
Fly to Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport (XMN) — direct flights from most Asian capitals and major Chinese cities. Airport bus to city center: ¥15, 45 min. High-speed train to Xiamen North Station (厦门北站) from Shanghai (5h, ¥360), Shenzhen (3.5h, ¥180), Hangzhou (5h, ¥330). Metro Line 1 connects the train station to the city center. To reach the cycling starting point: take a bus or taxi to Baicheng Beach (白城沙滩) near Xiamen University — this is the western end of the Huandao Road cycling path. The Metro does not directly reach the beach area; a taxi from the city center is ¥15-25.
Start at Baicheng Beach (白城沙滩) near Xiamen University. Cycle east along the Huandao Road (环岛路) cycling path. Pass Hulishan Fortress (胡里山炮台, 2km) → Yanwu Bridge viewing platform (演武大桥观景平台, 5km) → Zengcuo'an Village (曾厝垵, 8km, stop for coffee/snacks) → Huangcuo Beach (黄厝沙滩, 12km, best sunset spot) → Qianpu section (前埔, 18km) → Wuyuan Bay (五缘湾, 25km) → continue around the north shore back to the starting point. Full island loop: ~43km, 3-4 hours. Shorter version: Baicheng to Huangcuo and back (24km, 2 hours) — this is the most scenic section.
Alipay and WeChat Pay accepted everywhere — Xiamen is a modern tourist city. All bike rentals, cafes, and shops accept mobile payment. Hulishan Fortress entrance: ¥25. Zengcuo'an Village: free. Some beach vendors prefer cash — carry ¥100. International credit cards accepted at some international hotels but not at local shops. Budget: ¥100-200 for bike rental, food, and drinks for a half-day ride. No entrance fee for the cycling path itself.
Xiamen is a popular tourist destination — English is spoken at major hotels, some restaurants, and the Gulangyu ferry terminal. Bike rental shops along Huandao Road have basic English (they cater to tourists). Zengcuo'an village has many English-speaking cafe and hostel owners. Useful phrases: 环岛路 (huán dǎo lù) = Island Ring Road; 白城沙滩 (bái chéng shā tān) = Baicheng Beach; 曾厝垵 (zēng cuò ān) = Zengcuo'an; 自行车 (zì xíng chē) = bicycle; 日落 (rì luò) = sunset. Most signage along Huandao Road has English translations.
Excellent 4G/5G signal throughout the entire route — Xiamen is a well-connected modern city. Free WiFi at cafes and restaurants along the route. Google Maps works well in Xiamen for cycling navigation. No connectivity concerns. Battery drains faster with GPS and photos — a small power bank is useful for all-day rides.
Xiamen Zhongshan Hospital (厦门中山医院): 0592-2292001. Xiamen First Hospital (厦门市第一医院): 0592-2137001. Ambulance: 120. The Huandao Road has lifeguard stations at major beaches during summer. Tourist information centers are at Baicheng Beach and Zengcuo'an. Bike repair: numerous shops along the route — if your rental bike breaks, simply return to the nearest shop and exchange it. The route is well-patrolled by police and security.
Based on 442 reviews from international cyclists who have completed this route. Ratings reflect route quality, scenery, infrastructure, and overall experience.
Last verified: August 1, 2026