Discover Taiwan’s Offshore Islands
Just a short trip from Taiwan are 10 eclectic and jaw-droppingly scenic offshore islands ripe for exploring. From natural rock formations and infinity pools to abandoned military facilities and indigenous culture, there’s something special to experience on each of these islands.
Yuweng Island
Geology enthusiasts will marvel at some of the main islands’ most impressive basalt-column formations – the Daguoye Columnar Basalt, Secret Three Stone Walls, and Chixi Rock Waterfall.
Qimei Island
Qimei’s claim to fame is the iconic Twin Hearts Stone Weir. Resembling two hearts stacked on top of each other, this massive ancient fishing trap today lures a steady stream of couples in search of a romantic backdrop.
Jibei Island
Known for a sandspit that stretches nearly a mile into the ocean, Jibei is a sun and sport paradise.
Beigan Island
The Luoshan Nature Trail is popular for its breathtaking coastal scenery and migratory bird viewings. Along the way, visitors pass an abandoned military facility and the War and Peace Memorial Park Exhibition Center.
Dongju Island
Dongju Island is a photographer’s dream. It is one of the best places in Matsu to witness the “Blue Tear” phenomenon, when clusters of marine plankton, disturbed by the crashing waves, glow a bioluminescent blue.
Greater Kinmen and Lesser Kinmen
Though the military maintains a large presence on the Kinmen Islands, today tourism is king. The Qing Dynasty Military Headquarters houses a museum documenting the islands’ history. The Zhaishan Tunnel, an engineering marvel hand-hewn from solid granite in the 1960s, was designed to shelter 40 gunboats used to defend the island.
Little Liuqiu
Visit on scooters or bikes to travel between Instagram-worthy rock formations including Wild Boar Trench, Vase Rock, Beauty Cave, and Black Devil Cave in this coral paradise.
Green Island
This volcanic island is a favorite of cyclists for its coastal roads overlooking lush, craggy shorelines. Brightly colored reefs attract snorkelers and divers, and hikers are drawn to scenic inland trails.
Orchid Island
Orchid Island is a scenic volcanic island covered in rain forest that the Yami (Tao) people call home. A coastal loop road takes visitors past six villages, featuring the Yami’s brightly painted canoes and traditional stone-and-wood dwellings, built partially underground. The island boasts some of East Asia’s best snorkeling and diving, and a guided flying fish boat tour is a must.
Guishan (Turtle) Island
Seen from afar, Turtle Island resembles a turtle poking its head out of the water. Once home to a fishing community, today the island is an eco-preserve park. Visitors can hike to the main summit for sweeping views of the island, including its abandoned villages and military facilities.