Best Beaches In Taiwan You Need To Visit

Beaches might not be your initial consideration when planning a vacation in Taiwan. 

However, this small island is renowned for its lively night markets and invigorating subtropical hiking experiences. It is an excellent choice for urban getaways that offer a break from the city's hustle and bustle. Even though hiking is an unofficial favorite pastime here, with locals conquering over 260 peaks exceeding 3,000 meters in height (9,842 feet), weekends are also frequently dedicated to seaside relaxation. Residents often hop on high-speed trains for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.

Golden and black sand beaches with more than 1600km (995 miles) of shoreline can be found in Taiwan's north, making them ideal for swimming, tanning, and paddling. Taiwan beaches are well worth the trip, whether you're searching for kid-friendly beaches with a resort vibe, surf places, or snorkeling opportunities. The best beaches in Taiwan are listed here.

Taiwan beaches are well worth the trip

List Of The Most Beautiful Beaches In Taiwan

While Taiwan beaches may not grab the same attention as the immaculate shores of Thailand or the Philippines, it would be a mistake to underestimate them. You might even be astonished to see how many undiscovered beaches are spread over this lovely little island.

1. Fulong Beach

If it's your first time visiting Taiwan, you'll almost certainly be staying in Taipei, the nation's capital. Take a 1.5-hour train ride to Fulong Beach if you feel you have spent enough time exploring the city's night markets and concrete city walls. Fulong, a well-liked weekend getaway, is best visited during the week when you may enjoy more than 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) of golden sand, seemingly all to yourself for a peaceful swim or sunbathing.

Where the Shuangxi River empties into the ocean, the area is perfect for windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking due to the calm waters. The Fulong Sand Sculpture Festival is a pleasant, family event that attracts thousands of visitors from May through July. However, beware of the scorching heat - Taiwan has severe summers!

Sunrise scenery of coast in Fulong Beach ,Taiwan

2. Waiao Beach

Waiao Beach, which is located on the island's northeastern shore, is the perfect destination for tourists who want to see some of the most beautiful beaches in Taiwan. Waiao Beach is situated in Yilan county, which is only 45 minutes by train from Taipei Main Train Station and boasts waterfalls, mountain biking trails, and the Jiaoxi hot springs all nearby for a fun-filled weekend away from the city. 

The beach stands out due to its distinctive black volcanic ash sand, known for its incredible softness, making it an ideal landing surface for paragliders and kite surfers who may not hit their target precisely. It's also an excellent choice for novice surfers, with numerous classes offered for beginners. If you're eager to catch a glimpse of dolphins, a trip to the nearby Turtle Island is highly recommended.

3. Kaohsiung Beach

Every resident in Taiwan has a  passion for food, and it's common knowledge that Kaohsiung in the southern region is renowned for its seafood, particularly the giant crab served on a bed of noodles.

Otherwise, it's preferable to spend your time by the seaside, under a spacious umbrella, soaking up the sun and unwinding to your favorite music. The beach vicinity offers a plethora of dining options, ranging from local-favored seafood eateries to fusion restaurants, serving straightforward and nostalgic homemade dishes. A bit farther out, off the coast of Kaohsiung, lies the petite Cijin Island, an appealing destination known for its volcanic black sand beaches.

Read more about Taiwan Street Food: 8 Must-Try Dishes

The Kaohsiung Beach vicinity offers a plethora of dining options

4. Qixingtan Beach

Qixingtan Beach, a local favorite, is a ten-minute drive north of Hualien's downtown. The pebble beach on the east coast is well-known for its attractiveness. The Qixingtan Scenic Area, which is behind the beach, features a park with bike lanes and pathways, making it a pleasant beach to visit. So, for a great afternoon activity, rent a bike and ride down the back of the beach.

Because of the choppy waves, this beach is more beautiful to gaze at than to swim in. Visit Qixingtan Beach for a day at the beach and take a drive through Taroko National Park to see the enormous 11.8-mile marble gorge known as Taroko Gorge to experience two extremes of Taiwan's natural splendor. Qixingtan Beach is 45 minutes away by car from Taroko National Park.

5. Laomei Beach

If you find yourself in Taiwan during the period from April to May, make a beeline for Laomei Beach, which offers one of the most unique coastal experiences on the island. This famous beach in Taiwan, coupled with a reef, came into existence millions of years ago due to the eruption of Datun Mountain, resulting in the formation of volcanic rocks along the shoreline. This phenomenon is only observable during low tide in that season, as the algae clinging to the rocks creates striking, large green patterns that rise above the sandy surface, creating a captivating contrast with the azure waters.

Even if you're not an Instagram user looking to make your friends envious, capturing a photo here is definitely worthwhile. Located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) away, Yangmingshan National Park is highly esteemed by Taiwanese locals as a premier destination for hiking, strolling, and cycling. It's an excellent spot for engaging in peak-to-peak treks as well.

Laomei Beach is a famous beach in Taiwan 

6. Gangkou Beach

Gangkou Beach is one of the nearest places to Jialeshui, a local region that is noted for having some of Taiwan's best surfing. Black sand lines a long, wide stretch of the beach. It might not be as immediately intimidating and majestic as other Taiwan beaches, but the waves are excellent for surfing.

If you don't have your own board, there are many surf shops in the area where you may rent one. You may either take the Gangkou River Suspension Bridge, which is an interesting experience in and of itself, to go to the beach, or you can take Chashan Road to Jialeshuei Scenic Park.

Best Time To Visit Taiwan Beaches

The Best Spring for Taiwan’s Beaches

Spring (March to May) is an excellent time to visit many of Taiwan's beaches. The weather is mild, with comfortable temperatures and relatively low humidity. During this season, you can enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing without the scorching heat of summer. Popular beach destinations like Fulong and Laomei are pleasant in the spring, and you can also explore other attractions like national parks and hiking trails.

The Best Summer for Taiwan’s Beaches

Summer (June to August) is the peak beach season in Taiwan, especially for water sports enthusiasts and sunbathers. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and humidity, so it can be quite hot, and there's a higher chance of occasional rain or typhoons, particularly in July and August.

The Best Autumn for Taiwan’s Beaches

Autumn is considered one of the best times to visit Taiwan's beaches, especially from September to October. The weather is still warm, but the humidity starts to decrease, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. You can enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds compared to the summer months, making it an ideal time for a relaxing beach getaway.

The Best Winter for Taiwan’s Beaches

Winter is generally not the preferred time for beachgoers in Taiwan, as temperatures drop significantly, and the water can be quite cold.

However, if you're looking for a peaceful and quiet beach experience and aren't interested in swimming or water sports, some beaches may still be appealing, particularly on the southern coast where it's milder.

Taiwan boasts a captivating coastline, home to some of Asia's most stunning beaches. Whether you're in search of aquatic adventures, tranquil beachfront moments, or a taste of local culture, Taiwan's coastal treasures cater to every traveler's desires

And for travelers planning to explore Taiwan, consider applying for a Taiwan eVisa conveniently through our website: Taiwan Immigration Services. This online platform allows you to complete your visa application swiftly and securely, eliminating the need for time-consuming visits to embassies or consulates. Applying for a Taiwan eVisa via our website ensures a hassle-free and efficient way to obtain the necessary travel authorization, making your journey to Taiwan smoother and more enjoyable.