Beaches may not be the first thing you think of for a vacation in Taiwan.
The tiny island is well known for its night markets and vibrant hiking in subtropical climates that make for great city breaks, allowing both locals and travelers alike to escape the city grind. However, weekends are often spent by the sea too, with residents jumping on a high-speed train for a quick dip in pristinely cool waters.
With more than 1600km (995 miles) of coastline, there are golden and black-sand beaches in Taiwan’s north which are best for swimming, sunbathing, and canoeing; whereas to the east, surfers find themselves in paradise without having to fight for gnarly waves. Whether you are looking for family-friendly beaches with a resort feel, surf spots, or snorkeling activities, Taiwan’s beaches are well worth traveling for. Here are the best.
1. Fulong Beach, New Taipei City
Best beach for families
If it is your first time in Taiwan, you will surely be based in the capital city of Taipei. If you feel you have spent enough time roaming the night markets and concrete city walls of the city, jump on the train for 1.5 hours and find yourself at Fulong Beach. A popular destination on weekends, Fulong is best on weekdays, allowing you to enjoy the more than 3km (1.9 miles) of golden sand seemingly to yourself for a quiet swim or sunbathe. The calm waters also make it an ideal place for windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking where the Shuangxi river flows out to the ocean. During the months of May to July, the Fulong Sand Sculpture Festival is a fun, family event drawing in thousands of visitors. Beware of the sweltering heat though – summer is hot in Taiwan!
2. Wai’ao Beach, Yilan
Best volcanic beach
Sitting on the northeastern side of the island, Wai’ao Beach is an ideal place for vacationers to visit and experience some of the excellent things that Taiwan is known for. Just 45 minutes by train from Taipei Main Train Station, this beach is located in Yilan County, which has waterfalls, mountain biking trails, and hot springs all within a short distance of each other for a fun-filled weekend away from the city. The unique black volcanic ash sand makes for a perfect landing spot for paragliders and kite-surfers, while also being great for beginner surfers.
3. Kaohsiung Beach and Cijin Island
Best beach for foodies
Everyone in Taiwan is a closet foodie, and it is no secret that Kaohsiung in the south is one of the best destinations for seafood – particularly giant crab served over noodles. A very touristy vibe can be found in the old town, which may be avoided unless you’re looking to cool off during the summer with a giant bowl of shaved ice. Otherwise, you can spend your time by the beach under a large umbrella, sunbathing, and enjoying your favorite tunes with plenty of eateries nearby offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
4. Gangkou Beach, Kenting
Best for evening surf and pretty sunsets
The lively commercial districts of Kenting Night Market and Baisha Bay are frequented by travelers looking for nightlife; however, if you prefer a quiet evening of surf, head out to Gangkou Beach to admire the sunset. Surrounded by forested mountains, this beach is known for great surf conditions suited for both learners and seasoned surfers.
5. Nanwan Beach, Kenting
Best beach for water sports and activities
Nanwan Beach in Kenting is one of Taiwan’s favorite beaches and is regarded as the “prettiest” surfing beach in the country. Expect crowds who come to capture the turquoise blue waters, especially on weekends. The beach is great for families and offers opportunities to engage in various water sports. If you’re serious about surfing, the west end of the beach presents ideal conditions.
6. Laomei Beach, New Taipei City
Best unusual beach
Between April and May, Laomei Beach offers a unique experience where algae creates large green ripples rising over the sand, contrasting beautifully with cerulean waters. This stunning display is worth witnessing, and nearby Yangmingshan National Park offers some of the best hiking and cycling spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Jinzun Beach, Donghe
Best beach for serious surfers
Located in Donghe, Jinzun Beach is Taiwan’s unofficial surf capital, hosting numerous surf competitions and suited for those who are confident in their surfing skills. Professional surfers love its challenging waves, making it a fantastic venue for experienced surfers looking for excitement.
8. Zhongao Beach on Xiao Liu Qiu, Lambai Island
Best beach for diving and snorkeling
Clear waters surrounding many of Taiwan’s little inlets and islands make for great snorkeling and diving adventures. Zhongao Beach, the largest on Xiao Liu Qiu, offers fantastic opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, and marine life sightings, including green turtles and various fish species.
