Get up close to the gradient blue sea！Cycle along Taiwan’s most beautiful coastal road and soak in the wonders of the East Coast

Reported and photographed by reporter Tsai Wen-jun, Taitung

Provincial Highway 11 is a key route connecting Hualien and Taitung. Along its winding path lies an expansive, two-tone sea that shimmers in gradient blues under the sunlight, earning it the reputation as “Taiwan’s most beautiful highway.” If you want to take your time and truly appreciate its beauty, skip the car. Hop on a bike and ride along the Provincial Highway 11 bicycle path—whether you’re heading from Taitung to Hualien or vice versa—set your own pace and immerse yourself in the delicate beauty of the East Coast.

▲ The Provincial Highway 11 bike path has gentle slopes, making it accessible even for beginners.

▲ The Provincial Highway 11 bike path is separated from regular roads, allowing riders to enjoy the adjacent gradient blue sea.

The Provincial Highway 11 bike path stretches from downtown Taitung along the coastal route all the way to downtown Hualien, giving travelers the freedom to choose their starting point. This route is especially popular among cyclists not only for its stunning scenery but also for its relatively flat terrain without drastic elevation changes—making it manageable even for first-timers tackling long cycling routes. Moreover, many sections are separated from regular traffic, ensuring safety, and you can always stop to snap photos of the views without worry.

▲ Scenery along the Provincial Highway 11 bike path.

▲ Take memorable photos amidst the rice fields along the Provincial Highway 11 bike path.

As you ride, shortly after passing through Changbin Township, the endless sea appears by your side. White waves crash silently against the shore, seemingly cheering on the cyclists pedaling with all their might. And if you do get tired, take a break—the rice waves along the path have quietly formed. Step into the sea of rice and snap a commemorative photo as a keepsake of your journey.

▲ Expansive view at the 80.5k mark of the Provincial Highway 11 bike path.

One of the most unforgettable sections might be near the 80.5k mark on Provincial Highway 11. As you descend, the sea view opens up even wider, with a crescent-shaped coastline coming into view that’s sure to take your breath away. For great sea views, the Baxiandong Visitor Center and the Tropic of Cancer Recreational Area are recommended spots, and they also serve as great rest and supply points.

▲ The coastline near the Baxiandong Visitor Center.

▲ The Tropic of Cancer Recreational Area can serve as a rest and refueling stop.

Uni Air has launched a new East Coast experience titled “East Coast Slow Travel 'FUN' Journey,” which includes a light cycling trip along the Pacific coast, visits to local Taitung buildings over 50 years old to explore regional culture and architectural aesthetics, and experiences in Hualien sampling ocean-inspired, migratory cuisine with fresh perspectives. Various tour options are available on the Uni Air official website.