Wind & Waves: The Northeast Coast Day Trip
From the alien rocks of Yehliu to the golden sands of Fulong. Exploring Taiwan’s dramatic Pacific coastline.
TL;DR / Quick Summary
From the alien rocks of Yehliu to the golden sands of Fulong. Exploring Taiwan’s dramatic Pacific coastline.
Dialogue Between Wind and Waves: A Northeast Coast Day Trip
Want to see the magnificent scenery where the mountains meet the sea? Just one hour away from downtown Taipei, you can reach the Northeast Coast. With a 102-kilometer coastline, it is filled with fantastic rock formations and charming bays.
1. Yehliu Geopark: Rocks from Another Planet
Yehliu is a long, narrow cape stretching into the ocean. After millions of years of seawater erosion and weathering, various strangely shaped rocks have formed.
Must-See Wonders
- Queen’s Head: The symbol of Yehliu. This mushroom rock's neck is becoming thinner due to long-term weathering, making it look like a queen gazing into the distance. Experts predict it may break in the coming years, so see it while you can!
- Candlestick Rocks: Rocks shaped like candle holders, witnessing the miraculous evolution of geology.
- Yehliu Ocean World: Located next to the geopark, it's Taiwan's first ocean animal performance hall, perfect for families.
Real User Insights
Based on recent traveler reviews from Google Maps:
- Queen’s Head Queue Truth: The average wait time for a photo with the "real" Queen’s Head is about 30-60 minutes.
- Alternative: If you don't want to wait, there is a 1:1 high-fidelity replica (Queen’s Head II) in the entrance garden area with no queue at all. The photos look almost the same.
- Avoiding Crowds: There are only two time slots to avoid the tour bus masses: at 8:00 AM opening or after 4:30 PM. The evening light is golden and best for photographing the rocks.
- Safety Gear: The wind by the sea is very strong. If you wear a hat, make sure it has a wind cord. Also, the ground is sandstone and can be slippery in parts, so wear non-slip, comfortable walking shoes.
2. Baishawan: Pure White Shell Beach
Located in Shimen District, Baishawan is a half-moon-shaped natural bay embraced by Fugui Cape and Linshanbi.
- Shell Sand: The beach here is composed of shell sand, pure white and fine, feeling very comfortable underfoot.
- Water Activities: This is a paradise for summer water sports, suitable for swimming, surfing, and windsurfing.
3. Fulong: Golden Sands and Lunchboxes
Continuing east, you will arrive at Fulong in Gongliao District.
- Fulong Beach: Featuring rare golden quartz sand, it is the famous venue for Taiwan's summer music festivals.
- Old Caoling Tunnel: Ride a bicycle through this Japanese-colonial-era former railway tunnel to enjoy natural air conditioning. The exit opens to a magnificent view of Turtle Island.
- Fulong Bento: When you come to Fulong, you absolutely cannot miss the platform lunchboxes. Simple soy-braised pork, sausage, and a braised egg—it's the most delicious meal in travel memories.
Northeast Coast is more than just looking at the sea; it's a vivid geology lesson. Here, you can feel the power of nature's craftsmanship.
