8 Amazing Reasons to Visit Taiwan’s East Coast

While Taiwan's west coast is bustling with major cities nestled alongside the central mountain range, the east coast offers a captivating contrast. Here, you'll discover a stunning stretch of coastline, pristine beaches, and a laid-back island lifestyle that feels worlds apart from the hectic metropolises to the west.

Taroko Gorge in Hualien has gained popularity as a must-see destination in recent years, but there's a wealth of breathtaking scenery waiting to be explored beyond this famous landmark. If you're curious about what makes Taiwan's east coast so enchanting, here are some stunning spots that showcase the region's hidden beauty.

Qingshui Cliffs, Hualien

Epic coastal roads with dramatic mountains rising by the side of the island, driving down Taiwan's east coast is sure to result in a trip to remember. The incredible cliff scenery here is stunning, with the highest peak Qingshui Mountain, rising 2408 meters straight up from the Pacific Ocean. Along the coastline of Hualien you'll find a number of beautiful beaches, next to the bright azure Pacific Ocean with a beauty that's simply hard to express in words.

Luye Township, Taitung

Nestled between Taiwan's breathtaking central mountain range and the scenic mountains of the east coast, Luye is a picturesque valley in Taitung known for its stunning landscapes. This area is a popular destination for watching the sunrise and sunset, as the sun casts its warm glow over the mountains flanking the valley.

In summer, Luye hosts the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival, offering visitors a chance to soar above the picturesque scenery. If you're interested in participating, be sure to book your tickets well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. Even if you don’t get to experience a hot air balloon ride, attending the festival is still a worthwhile experience to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking views.

Taitung Brown Boulevard

One of Taitung's most iconic attractions, the Brown Boulevard showcases the breathtaking photogenic scenery that Taiwan's east coast is known for. This picturesque area features golden rice fields framed by dramatic mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for nature lovers. It's an ideal spot to rent a bike and explore the countryside, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape as you cycle through this serene environment.

Qixingtan Beach, Hualien

If you're in search of the ideal beach in Taiwan, Qixingtan Beach is a top contender. This stunning destination offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with beautiful stretches of sand set against the backdrop of dramatic rising peaks—an iconic sight that Hualien is renowned for. If you're visiting Taitung and don't venture further up the coast, Shanyuan Beach is an excellent alternative, featuring similar awe-inspiring scenery that captivates visitors.

Taroko Gorge, Hualien

Taroko National Park is renowned for a reason, showcasing some of Taiwan's most breathtaking scenery with its dramatic valleys and deep gorges that weave through expansive mountains leading to the coastline. Best explored by car or motorcycle, this national park offers a stunning backdrop perfect for a day or two of adventure. Whether you're hiking its trails or simply taking in the views, Taroko is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas in Taiwan.

Lisong Hot Spring, Taitung

Lined with stunning multi-colored cave walls, this narrow valley provides visitors with breathtaking scenery and the unique opportunity to bathe in a natural hot spring while soaking in the views. Best of all, this hidden gem is completely free, untouched by human alteration. However, reaching this beautiful spot requires a bit of effort, as it involves an hour-long hike down the valley.

Sanxiantai, Taitung

Another popular landscape in Taitung, Sanxiantai is a series of small islands off the east coast, renowned for its stunning coastal scenery. The highlight here is the intriguing wavy arched bridge that connects the mainland to the islands, offering picturesque views. This area is steeped in various legends, including tales that the three prominent rocks represent three of the eight immortals from ancient Chinese mythology. Regardless of the stories, Sanxiantai remains one of Taitung's most beautiful destinations to explore.

Wai'ao Beach, Yilan

Wai'ao Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Taiwan, especially picturesque during the sunrise due to Yilan's eastward pointing location. One of the few sandy beaches along the east coast of Taiwan, Wai'ao Beach also has stunning views out towards Guishan Island, an offshore island a few miles from the coast. There's plenty of other great things to do around Yilan too.

Taiwan East Coast Conclusion

Although few travelers tend to make it to Taiwan's beautiful east coast, if you're looking for the best scenery on the island, there's no place better than this incredible stretch of coastline. Head slightly further inland from the coast and you'll come across some of the aboriginal tribes from Taiwan, which allow for a fascinating window into the original culture of Taiwan and its people. If you're looking to see more of Taiwan outside of the capital, then make sure to head to this incredible area.