Explore the mountains to see plants, forests, animals, and insects.
Venture to the seaside to discover mole crabs and explore the intertidal zone.
Nestled between beautiful mountains and the sea, the East Coast offers a rich natural experience.
As you ascend the coastal mountains, become an ecological observer of the creatures hidden within the lush broad-leaved forests at middle and low altitudes. You might encounter wild animals such as lizards and Reeves's muntjacs.
When you reach the beach, resist the urge to snap photos immediately. Instead, crouch down to closely observe the intertidal zone. Amidst the diverse reef terrain, you'll find intertidal fish and crustaceans. Keep an eye out for mysterious creatures emerging from the waves. Follow the footsteps of the coastal Amis people and try your hand at catching mole crabs on the beach. Immerse yourself in the unique tribal culture and live like a local!
A night tour of Xiaoyeliu
Seek out the tropical coastal nightlife
Xiaoyeliu at night is as fascinating as it is during the day. Follow the guide along forest trails to observe the swaying thatch screwpine and Silvery Messerschmidia under the moonlight. Take a closer look at the lovely hermit crab as it carefully selects a home among the rocks. Explore the vast tofu rock formations, where you'll find various oddly shaped rocks resembling shrimp soldiers and crab generals—serving as a coastal defense for the Sea Dragon King day and night. The wonderful enchanting 'nightlife' of Xiaoyeliu only gets better as the evening progresses!
Whale Watching
Sail out to the sea to find the 52-Hz whale
There are nearly 90 species of cetaceans in the world, among which 31 species have been documented in Taiwan, accounting for one-third of the global total. Due to the Kuroshio Current passing by, as well as its rich fishery resources, the East Coast is a popular whale-watching location.
Shiti Harbor in Hualien and Chenggong Fishing Port in Taitung serve as two major whale-watching ports on the East Coast, both situated in charming fishing villages. When you venture out to sea from the East Coast on a whale-watching boat, the chances of spotting cetaceans range from 80% to 90%. Alongside the commonly seen spinner dolphins and pantropical spotted dolphins, lucky observers may even catch glimpses of orcas and sperm whales!
Discovering the East Coast
Taking a walk around Hualien Visitor Center
Hualien Visitor Center is the northernmost tourist information center on the East Coast. Located on the hillside of Yanliao Village in Shoufeng Township, the center covers a vast area and offers great views of the blue ocean. Trails, pavilions, surrounding greenery, and beautiful artworks make the Center a great place to spend half a day escapeing the summer heat.
'Discovering the East Coast' invites schools and organizations to participate in group tours and excursions.
An adventure of Guoshan Ancient Trail
A forest trail that connects the past and present of Bonfire Island
Green Island has always been a popular tourist destination among Taiwanese people, but the Guoshan Ancient Trail, with its important historical significance, remains relatively unknown. Before the development of Huandao East Road on Green Island, this ancient trail served as a vital path connecting Nanliao and the hot spring area for local islanders. The renovated trail now provides an excellent opportunity for an in-depth exploration of Green Island. Along the way, you can observe typical Green Island plants such as Ceylon ardisia, Many Flower Melastoma, and Downy Rosemyrtle. If you pay close attention and look up or down, you might spot Taiwan japalure and paper kite butterflies. The trail is an ideal spot for escaping the heat and observing local wildlife.
A night tour of Sanxiantai
Gaze at the Milky Way, listen to the pebbles sing, and search for the shrimp soldiers and crab generals.
Sanxiantai, a well-known international scenic spot, offers more romantic ways to explore. Why not choose a clear summer or autumn night for your visit? In the cool evening breeze, step onto the beach's pebbles and listen to their healing melody as they're washed by the tide. Don't worry about darkness—the bright moonlight will guide your way, and the starry sky will keep you company. A night tour of Sanxiantai will create lasting memories of your visit to the East Coast!
Featured Diving Spots of the East Coast and Green Island
Visiting the internationally renowned underwater palace
Instead of compulsively taking pictures and posting on social media, consider exploring the world-class diving spots on the East Coast. Green Island boasts renowned diving areas such as Shilang and Dabaisha. Equipped with a scuba tank and guided by an instructor, you'll discover the fascinating marine life, including corals, parrot fish, and nudibranch. Embark on a marine ecological tour to experience the beauty and mystery of the underwater realm! And don't forget to send a unique postcard by placing it in the underwater postbox, sharing the ocean's beauty with people worldwide.
Adventures in the Intertidal Zone – Shitiping/ Fushan Fishery Resource Consavertion Area
Shitiping, known for its pothole tide pools, and the Fushan Fishery Resource Conservation Area, with its coral reefs and tide pools, are excellent spots for exploring the intertidal zone. Here, you can search for brittle stars and sea urchins, becoming a keen observer of this unique coastal ecosystem.
Green Island – Guardians of the Crabs/ Hermit Crab Housing Agency
From June to September each year, Green Island experiences the breeding season for land crabs. Visitors are invited to participate in the Crab Protection Escort campaign, where they assist female land crabs carrying eggs to safely cross the streets. Additionally, you can become a hermit crab housing agent, helping these fascinating creatures find new homes!
A Night Exploration of Green Island
After the sun goes down, Green Island's wonderful nightlife comes alive! Consider joining the night exploration activity, where you'll learn to see through protective colors and search for protected species such as the big-headed stick insect (Megacrania tsudai) and Green Island's endemic weevil (Eupyrgops waltonianus). It’s a unique way to experience the island's nocturnal beauty!
Image source: Smiling Fish Studio
