Location & How to Get There

Houtian Beach sits in the Tong’an District of Xiamen, about a 40-minute drive from the city center. The exact address is at the southeast corner of the intersection between Guangzhou Road and Chuanggu Road, tucked near the Huandao East Sea coastal area. To reach Houtian Beach, you can:

  • By taxi/ride-hailing: Tell the driver “Houtian Beach, Tong’an” (locals might know it as Houtian Hai’an).
  • By bus: Take routes 653 or 692 and get off near Xi’ao Town, then walk 10 minutes.
  • By bike: Rent a shared bike in downtown Xiamen and follow the coastline—it’s a scenic ride!

Natural Scenery: A Hidden Coastal Gem

Houtian Beach isn’t as crowded as Xiamen’s famous Gulangyu Island, but it’s equally stunning. The beach has soft golden sand and crystal-clear water that’s perfect for swimming, especially on sunny days. During low tide, you’ll spot tidal pools with tiny fish and crabs—great for kids to explore!
At sunset, the sky turns pink and orange, reflecting off the water. Locals say this is one of the best spots in Xiamen to catch a “seaside sunset”. Bring a camera—you’ll want to snap photos of the lighthouse in the distance, which looks like something out of a movie.

Cultural Touches: Local Life by the Sea

Unlike touristy beaches, Houtian Beach feels authentically Xiamen. Nearby, you’ll find fishing villages with colorful boats lined up. In the morning, locals sell fresh seafood right off their boats—try grilled squid or oyster omelets from the street vendors.
There’s also a small temple by the shore where fishermen pray for safe voyages. If you visit on a weekend, you might catch a traditional dragon boat race—ask a local for schedules!

Amenities: Simple but Practical

Houtian Beach isn’t overly commercialized, but it has enough便利设施 (convenient facilities) for a relaxed day:

  • Parking: Free parking lots for cars and bikes.
  • Restrooms: Clean public bathrooms near the entrance.
  • Food: Basic seafood stalls and a few beachside cafes serving coffee and coconut juice.
  • Rentals: You can rent umbrellas, beach chairs, or even kayaks to paddle near the shore.

What to Do: Tips for Your Visit

  • Swim or sunbathe: The water is calm and clean, ideal for a refreshing dip.
  • Walk the coast: A paved path runs along the beach—perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls.
  • Try water sports: Jet skis and paddleboards are available if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Eat like a local: After swimming, grab fried shrimp dumplings from a nearby cart. They’re cheap and delicious!
  • Avoid weekends: For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday. Weekends get busy with families and groups.

Why Houtian Beach Stands Out

Compared to Xiamen’s other beaches, Houtian feels less touristy and more “off-the-beaten-path”. It’s a mix of natural beauty and local charm—no loud vendors or overpriced tours here. If you want to see how Xiameners enjoy their seaside, this is the place. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and your appetite for seafood!

This guide gives you everything you need to enjoy Houtian Beach like a pro. Let me know if you have other questions about Xiamen!