Cycling the perimeter road of Kuroshima takes 45–60 minutes at an easy pace, passing through Ryukyuan-style farmhouses behind their characteristic coral walls, sugar cane and rice paddies, and pastures where the island's famous Yaeyama cattle graze. Bicycle rental is available from shops near the ferry terminal — mamachari (step-through city bikes) are the standard option and entirely sufficient given the flat terrain.
The road is lightly trafficked by cars and heavily trafficked by cattle, which sometimes block the road in a thoroughly unhurried manner. The western coast has the best beaches for swimming and snorkelling; the eastern side has the fishing harbour and most of the island's small businesses. A complete loop can be extended indefinitely by stopping at any beach or cattle viewpoint that appeals.