Stunning Coconut Grove and Sea Views

Xiamen Island Ring Road Travel Guide

Xiamen Island Ring Road is the main track of the Xiamen International Marathon and is hailed as one of the world's most beautiful marathon routes. Cycling or strolling along the road, you'll be treated to azure seas on one side and lush greenery with blooming flowers on the other, fully immersing yourself in Xiamen's romance and leisure.

1. Best Time to Visit

- Year-round appeal: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) offer comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor activities; summer (June-August) is ideal for beach fun but requires strong sun protection; winter (December-February) is cooler but sunny with fewer tourists.

2. Transportation Guide

- Bus: Xiamen's extensive bus network includes routes 29, 47, and 751 passing the Ring Road, with fares typically 1-2 RMB.
- Metro: Line 2 has stations near the Ring Road; transfer to buses or taxis for specific attractions.
- Taxi: Convenient but may encounter traffic during peak seasons.
- Rental options: Shared bikes for short trips, e-bikes for greater mobility along the coast, or car rentals for group travel through platforms or local agencies.

3. Recommended Attractions

White City Beach

- Highlights: Adjacent to Xiamen University with fine sand and clear water. Features iconic bathing areas and boardwalks, perfect for sunset photography and sandcastle building.
- Duration: 1-2 hours.

Hulishan Fortress

- Highlights: Historic site from China's Westernization Movement, housing the world's largest coastal Krupp cannon. Includes Qing soldier reenactments.
- Ticket: 25 RMB.
- Hours: 7:30-18:00.
- Duration: 1-2 hours.

Zengcuoan

- Highlights: Transformed fishing village now a cultural hub with local delicacies like satay noodles, worm jelly, and peanut soup.
- Duration: 2-3 hours.

Music Square

- Highlights: Themed plaza featuring giant harp sculptures and musical staff pathways, blending ocean breezes with artistic ambiance.
- Duration: ~1 hour.

Huangcuo Beach

- Highlights: Premier sunrise spot with golden dawn vistas over soft sands and turquoise waters.
- Duration: 1-2 hours.

Guanyinshan Dream Coast Resort

- Highlights: Dual-theme park with thrill rides (Land World) and summer water attractions (Water World).
- Tickets: Vary by package; advance online booking recommended.
- Hours: 10:00-18:00.
- Duration: Half to full day.

4. Food Recommendations

- Satay Noodles: Rich broth with seafood and tofu at "Sili Satay Noodles"
- Worm Jelly: Chewy delicacy with savory sauces
- Peanut Soup: Creamy traditional dessert best paired with fried dough at "Huangzehe"
- Oyster Omelette: Crispy exterior with tender oysters and sweet chili dip

5. Accommodation Suggestions

- Coastal hotels: Luxury options like Xiamen International Conference Center Hotel
- Zengcuoan B&Bs: Artsy lodgings immersed in local culture
- Huangcuo inns: Budget-friendly stays near sunrise beaches

6. Important Notes

- Sun protection: Essential against strong UV rays
- Beach safety: Heed tide warnings and stay within marked areas
- Environmental care: Maintain cleanliness along this scenic route