14 of the Most Beautiful Taiwan Beaches

When most people visit Taiwan, they come for the extraordinary food, bustling night markets, epic landscapes, and ancient temples. But what if I told you Taiwan is also home to a whole host of stunning beaches!

Even though Taiwan’s beaches play second fiddle to the pristine shores of Thailand and the Philippines, that doesn’t mean they should be overlooked. In fact, you’ll be surprised to learn just how many underrated beaches there are scattered around this beautiful little island. From dreamy white-sand beaches and golden sandy shores to black sand beaches and pebble-strewn coastlines – you name it, Taiwan has them all!

To help you find the very best ones, here’s my list of the most beautiful Taiwan beaches!

This is a long one, so grab a beer and let’s dive right into Taiwan’s best beaches!

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14 Best Beaches in Taiwan

Qixingtan Beach

Qixingtan Beach (七星潭) is a gorgeous beach located near Hualien on Taiwan’s scenic east coast. Since most travelers rush through Hualien rather quickly to visit Taroko National Park, Qixingtan remains somewhat of a hidden gem making it even more special.

However, what really sets this beach apart from other beaches in Taiwan is that Qixingtan is entirely covered in pebbles. While it’s not your typical sandy beach, it is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful landscapes and a huge must when spending some time in Hualien. There’s much to love about this Taiwan beach. In particular, towering mountains as a backdrop and dreamy turquoise water of the Pacific Ocean. 

If you get sick of soaking up the views and building zen stone towers, pop into one of quirky restaurants nearby. Here you can grab some local grub, aloe ice cream, or an ice-cold beer. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, rent a bike and explore the coastal park at your own pace. 

Qixingtan is a great place to visit throughout the day. In the morning, you can catch one of the best sunrises in Taiwan. While at night, it’s an ideal spot for stargazing. The only downside is that swimming is not allowed here! 

Getting there: The easiest way to get to Qixingtan Beach is to self-drive. It’s easy to rent a scooter or car in Hualien near the train station. However, if you must use public transport, catch bus #310 or #308 at Hualien Station (Tourist Center). Alight at Chihsingtan Beach.

Fulong Beach

Just 1.5 hours east of Taipei, you’ll find Fulong Beach (福隆海水浴場) – a stunning 3km stretch of golden sand perfect for a quick day trip from Taipei. 

Thanks to its proximity to Taipei, Fulong is a popular beach in Taiwan year-round. And during warmer months, you’ll find the beach packed with beachgoers, day-trippers, and families. While Fulong is perfect for sun-baking, swimming, and adventure sports like kayaking and windsurfing, there is yet another reason to add it to your list of must-see beaches in Taiwan. And that’s the International Sand Sculpture Festival. Every summer (Jun – Aug), dozens of artists from all over the world flock here to create the most amazing sand sculptures imaginable. The sculptures take weeks to build, with several standing meters high! The sculptures are on display until the end of October this year.

If you happen to be in Taiwan during this special event, expect to find the entire beach littered with impressive artworks!

Getting there: Take an eastbound Taiwan Railways train to Fulong Station at Taipei Main Station. The ride costs NT$83 and takes roughly 1.5 hours.

Laomei Green Reef

Another beautiful beach near Taipei is Laomei Green Reef (老梅綠石槽). 

Laomei is not your average Taiwan beach, and to be honest, you’ll need to plan if you want to see this gem in all its glory. Every spring (Mar – May), Laomei’s 700-m long rocky reef is blanketed in bright green algae creating the most beautiful setting (but judge for yourself by the picture included). The reef’s ditches and trenches were formed thousands of years ago when lava flowed down from a nearby volcanic eruption, making it one of Taiwan’s most impressive natural wonders. 

Laomei Beach is not really ideal for swimming. However, there is a small nook near the Fugui Cape trailhead where you can splash around in the water. Nonetheless, Laomei is truly an incredible sight to witness firsthand and an excellent photo spot. Bring your favorite travel drone to capture the reef’s beauty from above!

Oh, and heads up, the reef is only visible during low tide. So, remember to check the tidal schedules before tackling the 2-hour journey from Taipei here! 

Getting there: Take bus 863 or 862 from Tamsui Bus Station to Mingde Village 1 stop. Tickets cost NT$45, and buses depart every 20-30 minutes.

Baishawan Beach

There are several nice beaches near Taipei, but finding a powdery white sand beach in these parts of the island might not be as easy as you think. Luckily, there’s Baishawan (白沙灣遊憩區) which literally means white sand beach! 

Located in Shimen District between the Fugui Cape and Linshanbi, Baishawan is a picture-perfect 1km stretch with great sandy shores and excellent swimming conditions. The waves aren’t as big as at Wai’oa, but it’s still a cool place to paddleboard or do some low-key surfing. If that’s not for you, there’s plenty of room to kick back on the beach or bask in the sun. 

Baishawan Beach is a very laidback place and a cool beach to spend a lazy day along Taiwan’s north coast. There are a couple of shops where you can rent gear, grab an ice-cold beer to enjoy on the beach, and even a British-owned pub serving the most delicious fish & chips!

Since Laomei Green Reef is practically around the corner, it would be silly not to combine these two gems on a day trip from Taipei. Buses between the two areas are frequent and reliable, but there’s also a nice little hiking trail. The trail only runs from Laomei Green Reef to the Fuji Fishing Harbor (富基漁港), so you’ll need to catch a bus for the remaining 2.4km to Baishawan. With that said, it’s definitely worth the effort as you’ll get to see some really epic coastal views and a chance to drop by Fuguijiao Lighthouse (富貴角燈塔). Just watch out for the scary-looking lizards! 

Getting there: Take bus 863 or 862 from Tamsui Bus Station and get off at Baishawan Beach. The ride takes just under 1 hour and costs NT$45. 

Waiao Beach

Just past the Wushi Harbor in Yilan County’s Toucheng Township, you’ll find one of the best surf spots in Taiwan – Waiao Beach (外澳沙灘). 

Wai’ao Beach is a huge black sand beach perfect for swimming, surfing, lounging, or playing in the sand. It’s a popular spot among surfers, foreigners, and families who come to enjoy the constant surf, varied beach activities, laidback vibes, and gorgeous views of Turtle Island in the distance. Along the beachfront, you’ll also find a strip of eateries where you can grab an ice-cold beer and fill up on some local grub while you watch the waves come and go. Driftwood Pizza Pub in the northern corners of the beach, in particular, is a great spot to grab a pizza and chill out with friends. Many shops offer surfing lessons and rentals if you don’t have any gear too. 

If you need something more adventurous than kayaking or surfing, then paragliding might be right up your alley. Apart from surfing, paragliding is one of the most popular things to do at Waiao Beach. The best part? You’ll get to land right on the beach!  

Getting there: Take a TRA train from Taipei Main Station to Wai’ao train station. The ride takes roughly 2 hours and costs less than NT$120. The beach is a 10-minute walk from the station.

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Cijin Beach

The tiny island of Cijin, just off the coast of Kaohsiung, might be better known for its delicious seafood, but it’s also home to one of the most beautiful black sand beaches in Taiwan. 

Cijin Beach (旗津海水浴場) is a sprawling beach located a short stroll from Cijin’s bustling Old Street. There’s plenty of room where you can play in the sand, cool off in the water, join a beach volleyball game or simply kick back on the beach. You’ll also find several pop-up stores near the beachfront where you can buy anything from towels to snorkeling gear or ice cream. Just a heads up, the south of Taiwan is usually scorching hot during summer! So remember to pack a beach umbrella. Alternatively, rent one near the beachfront. 

If you plan on spending an entire day in Cijin, don’t miss popping by the Old Fort and taking a selfie at Rainbow Church. At sunset, head to the best beach bar in town, Sunset Bar, where you can enjoy an ice-cold beer right on the beach!  

Getting there: Take the ferry from Gushan Pier Ferry Terminal in Kaohsiung to access the island. The ride takes less than 10 minutes and costs roughly NT$40. Not sure how to get to Kaohsiung? Read my guide on getting from Taipei to Kaohsiung.

Zhongao Beach

Xiaoliuqiu Island is absolutely littered with gorgeous beaches, and Zhongao Beach (中澳沙灘) right next to the Baisha Tourist Harbor is one of them. 

Zhongao Beach is the biggest beach on Liuqiu Island and boasts a pristine stretch of soft white sand and crystal clear water. If you didn’t know this yet, Liuqui is also one of the few places in Taiwan where you can see green sea turtles up close. And every year, from May to October, parts of this beach have dedicated conservation zones so that these endangered animals can lay their eggs and hunt for forage freely here. 

In addition, the beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and fun beach activities like kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. If you’re not a strong swimmer, this is the beach for you since the currents aren’t that strong on this side of the island. While it’s a cool snorkeling spot, it’s not the best on the island. However, you’re still bound to see some turtles, beautiful coral, and colorful fish. 

If you’re not spending a few days in Xiaoliuqiu, be sure to also stop by Vase Rock (花瓶石). This peculiar rock formation resembling a mushroom is Xiaoliuqiu’s most famous attraction! The beach is not very big, but there are some nice shallow tidal pools where you can snorkel or relax.

Getting there: Take the ferry from Donggang Ferry Terminal to Baisha Tourist Harbor. Once you exit the harbor, turn left. Then walk along the road to the top of the hill, where you’ll see a dirt trail leading to the beach.

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Secret Beach

Another beach on Xiaoliuqiu that you don’t want to miss is Secret Beach (厚石魚澳).

Despite its name, Secret Beach is not really a hidden gem anymore, but it is incredibly beautiful and definitely deserves a spot on your list of must-see Taiwan beaches. Part of Secret Beach’s charm lies in its unique landscape. The crescent-shaped beach might not be the best sunbathing spot on the island, but it is what lies beneath its waters that makes it so special!

The underwater world is simply mind-blowing here and chock-full with colorful fish, vibrant coral, and gentle sea turtles! And if you’re looking for the BEST snorkeling spot in Liuqiu, this is it! Just a word of warning, you should only swim or snorkel here if you are a strong swimmer. The currents are quite intense on this side of the island, and there aren’t any lifeguards here. 

The inlet lies just past the Houshi Fringing Reef, and you’ll need to take a bus or drive a scooter to get here. It’s not marked properly either, so remember to slow down, or else you’ll miss the turnoff point. 

Getting there: Secret Beach is located on the eastern side of Xiaoliuqiu. Buses are complicated and not as frequent, so it’s best to rent a scooter near the tourist harbor. Make sure you bookmark the location on Google Maps. 

South Bay

Southern Taiwan’s coastline is home to so many beautiful beaches that it’s hard to keep track of them all. But if you’re looking for a pristine stretch of powdery soft golden sand and warm turquoise-colored water, then South Bay (南灣遊憩區) is the place for you. 

More commonly known as Nanwan, South Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Kenting National Park. It’s best known for its great swimming conditions and array of fun water activities on offer. If that’s your scene, don’t miss the banana boat- and jetski rides! But if you simply want to relax, there’s loads of room to bake in the sun or play in the sand. 

You can also rent a beach umbrella for a few dollars right on the beach. And just across the road, you’ll find a strip of bars and cafes ready to serve you a cold beer or boozy cocktail. 

Getting there: Take the Kenting Express Bus from Zuoying THSR Station and alight at Nanwan. The ride takes about 2.5 hours, and it’s best to prebook a bus ticket here. Also read my guide on getting to Kenting from Kaohsiung for more tips.

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Little Bay

Little Bay Beach or Xiaowan (小灣海水浴場) might be Kenting’s smallest beach but its unquestionably one of the best! 

This secluded cove wedged between hilly slopes is located right in front of Caesar Park Hotel and is actually one of the safest beaches in Taiwan, thanks to its underwater coastal net. 

The beach boasts soft powder sand, gentle waves, and stunning surrounding scenery making it a great place for sun-baking and swimming. What’s more, it’s also fully equipped with a swanky beach bar, showers, restroom and lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent.  

If you can, stick around until sunset to see the sun melt away over the horizon! The best part? You can have front row seats right on the beach with your toes in the sand or at the beach bar with a cocktail in hand! 

Getting there: Take the Kenting Express bus from Zuoying THSR Station and alight at Xiaowan. Keep an eye out for the wooden staircase leading to the beach. 

Lintou Beach

Lintou Beach (林投海灘) is a gorgeous white sand beach located in the eastern corners of Magong, the main gateway to Taiwan’s stunning Penghu archipelago. To get here, though, requires quite a bit of planning! The good news is, Penghu is one of Taiwan’s most popular offshore destinations, so there are several ways to get there. In fact, I’ve written a complete guide on getting to Penghu. But in short, you’ll need to either take a 1.5-hour ferry from Chiayi or a quick flight from Taichung or Taipei. 

While it’s not the easiest Taiwan beach to access, it shouldn’t stop you from visiting because the effort will be MORE than worth it! What really makes this beach so special is that it is the longest white sand beach on the island, offering killer coastal views and warm waters to swim in! Added to that, you’re likely to have the beach all to yourself as most people head to neighboring Aimen Beach (隘門沙灘) to take part in all the water sports on offer there. 

If you get sick of lounging on the beach, slip into White Bay Restaurant. It’s one of the few restaurants in Penghu offering stunning beachfront views! 

Getting there: The best way to get to Lintou Beach is to rent a scooter. Alternatively, take the Jianshan Circular Line bus to Lintou Stop.  

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Kenting Baishawan

If you thought Taipei was the only place with an aptly named White Sand Beach, you’re wrong. Located just around the corner of Maobitou Park in Hengchun Township is one of Taiwan’s most spectacular beaches – Kenting Baishawan (墾丁白沙灣).

Baishawan isn’t exactly a secret beach and rose to fame after scenes of Ang Lee’s acclaimed film, Life of Pi, were shot here. But since it’s so removed from Kenting’s main hub, it’s completely off the main tourist track, making it the perfect tropical escape. 

Here you’ll find a stunning strip of soft powdery white sand with crystal clear water and swaying coconut trees – absolute paradise. Both the northern and southern parts of the beach have loads of rock pools perfect for snorkeling and exploring. But if you want to swim, you’ll find the best spot right in the middle of the two. Come early to skip the heat and have the beach all to yourself! 

Several vendors rent out umbrellas and beach chairs for as little as NT$300 a day along the beach. And if you’re up to it, you can even do some watersports like banana boat rides or jet skiing here. If the sun gets too much for you, pop into the mellow beach bar located at the northern part of the beach. Order yourself an ice-cold Taiwan beer or a freshly cracked coconut and enjoy paradise at its best! 

The beach has several access points, but keep an eye out for the No.3 entry point. If you enter anywhere else, you’ll need to pay for parking. Also, bring cash because you’ll need to pay for using the showers, bathroom, and even washing your feet!

Getting there: The best way to get here is with your own set of wheels. Rent a scooter along Kenting Street so that you can explore this part of the Kenting National Park at your own pace.   

Gangkou Beach

Roughly 12km past the Southernmost Point of Taiwan lies Taiwan’s premier surf spot, Jialeshui – a tiny surfing village home to yet another incredible Taiwan beach, Gangkou Beach ( 港口海灘).

Gangkou Beach boasts a long wide strip of black sand facing the Pacific Ocean. And while it’s not as picturesque as other beaches in Kenting, the breaks here are perfect for surfing. The vibe is Jialeshui is super laidback, making it a great place to chill, watch the waves or even try surfing for yourself! If you don’t have a board, you can rent one at one of the many surf shops in town. 

To get to the beach, you can either cross the Gangkou River Suspension Bridge or drive towards the Jialeshuei Scenic Park via Chashan Road. Yucan Park, in particular, has ample parking space and offers easy access to the beach. 

If surfing is not for you, rent a kayak near the suspension bridge. The jungle scenery along the Gangkou River is something really special, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a few monkeys along the way! 

Nearby don’t miss the delicious pizza at Rock Garden Pizza and the boozy cocktails at Instagrammable YagouBlue Rooftop! 

Getting there: The best way to explore the Hengchun peninsula is by scooter. You can rent one in Kenting village for as little as NT$450 a day. 

Kenting Beach

Kenting Beach (墾丁海水浴場) is another example of a picture-perfect beach in Taiwan. Running along Dawan Road, just one road down from the famous Kenting Street, this long strip of golden sand is a great place for sunbathing, gentle strolls on the beach, and sunset watching. 

Sadly the currents are quite strong here, and you’ll spot several no swimming signs leading to the beach. Even so, many locals come here to play beachside and in the water. Although the water isn’t as clear as elsewhere in Kenting, the scenery is amazing, and the water is the perfect temperature! If you can, stick around until sunset to watch the sun dwindle under the waves! 

Getting there: Take the Kenting Express Bus at Kaohsiung HSR Station. Alight at the Kenting Arch bus stop. Follow Dawan Road until you see the wooden bridge leading to the beach on the right. 

Taiwan Beach Essentials

Before hitting any of these Taiwan beaches, here are a few things to bring along for a stress-free beach day. 

• Eco-friendly sunscreen: Some beaches in Taiwan are protected areas, meaning regular sunscreen won’t do. Pack a reef-safe sunscreen so that you can help safeguard the environment. 

• Microfibre towel: Pack a lightweight towel, like this Dock & Bay beach towel that dries quickly and won’t weigh you down. 

• Waterproof cellphone case & drybag: If you’re going to spend lots of time near the water, it’s best to pack a decent waterproof cellphone case and a dry bag to keep your belongings dry. 

• Snorkeling gear: If you’re an independent snorkeler, don’t forget to bring along your snorkeling equipment. 

• Beach umbrella: Most of the beaches on this list don’t offer much shade. If you have space, pack a sturdy beach umbrella or this super lightweight, portable pop-up beach tent to protect you from the sun. 

• Camera: Taiwan’s coastlines are really beautiful, so don’t forget your camera! I never go anywhere without my Olympus Mirrorless Camera, but if you prefer something more lightweight, you can’t go wrong with a waterproof Go Pro or this DJI Mavic Mini Drone that fits in your pocket! 

• Mosquito repellant: No matter where you go in Taiwan, it’s always a good idea to have bug spray handy. Here’s a deet-free bug repellant to steer clear of any pesky bites! 

Taiwan Beaches in Conclusion

Taiwan has a whole host of amazing beaches! And while this post only covers a few, it is definitely a good starting point!

Well, there you have it – my top picks for best Taiwan beaches! If you think I’ve omitted any must-visit spots, let me know in the comments below!

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