Taiwan is one of the most culturally diverse and fascinating islands in all of East Asia. But did you know the country is home to numerous islands off the coast of mainland Taiwan?
While these small Taiwanese islands are far less popular than Thailand or Japan islands, they’re just as beautiful yet full of rich culture and history. In fact, I’d argue that the archipelagos of Taiwan are the most underrated in all of Asia.
Let’s explore all the main islands of Taiwan and what actually makes them special. These are the top reasons why you should visit these off-coast islands on your next trip to the “Heart of Asia.”
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Table of Contents
The Archipelagos of Taiwan
There are more islands around Taiwan than you can possibly visit. Believe it or not, there are 166 known islands surrounding Taiwan. However, most of them are very small and have no infrastructure to take in tourists.
Each Taiwan island is classified and categorized into one of the 7 geographical units.
| Name | Chinese | Nickname | # of Islands | Notable Islands |
| Taiwan | 臺灣 | Formosa | 22 | Orchid, Green, Guishan, Liuqiu. |
| Penghu | 澎湖 | Pescadores | 90 | Baisha, Cimei, Xiyu. |
| Kinmen | 金門 | Quemoy | 13+ | Lieyu, Dadan, Erdan. |
| Matsu | 馬祖 | n/a | 36 | Nangan, Beigan, Dongyin. |
| Wuqiu | 烏坵 | Ockseu | 2 | Daqiu, Xiaoqiu. |
| Dongsha | 東沙 | Pratas | 1 | All Dongsha archipelagos. |
| Nansha | 南沙 | Spratly | 2 | Taiping Island, Zhongzhou Reef. |
While “Taiwan” technically contains all 166 islands, we’re referring to Taiwan as a designated “proper region.” That being said, Taiwan proper region contains just 22 islands.
As mentioned, most of the islands surround the Asian country is too small. As a matter of fact, there are just 13 islands that have land at least 5 square kilometers. And even among the 13 islands, not all of them are popular destinations for travel.
Best Taiwan Islands
Needless to say, the country is home to way too many islands and we couldn’t possibly discuss them all in one article. So, we’ve narrowed it down to the biggest and best islands that Taiwan has to offer.
1. Kinmen Island
Main Island: Kinmen
Among all the islands of Taiwan, Kinmen Island may just be the most underrated. But the reality is, not many people even know about this island. And the few that do often mistaken Kinmen as an island belonging to China.
The confusion stems from the island’s proximity to China. It’s located just off the southeastern shore of mainland China – just a few miles away from Xiamen. Formerly known as “Quemoy,” Kinmen is actually pronounced “jin-men” and literally translates to “golden gate.”
Famous for it’s large number of traditional Min-style buildings, temples, museums and military sites containing war relics, Kinmen Island has become a popular destination for tourists. At one point, the island was nothing but a military base for Taiwan.
If you’re a war history snob, Kinmen Island is the place to be. That’s because the island is home to the Zhaishan Tunnels, which is a large underground tunnel that the military used to operate from. Fun fact: my dad (Taiwanese citizen) served his military term on Kinmen Island during his early 20s.
Today, a small section of the tunnel is opened to the public for visits. But if you wanted to do more than crawl through small tunnels during your trip to this island, not to worry. Oucuo Beach is the most unique and nicest beach on Kinmen.
It features a long stretch of flat white sand beach, but also has a sunken abandoned army tank halfway stuck in the sand. It’s one of the coolest things you’ll find on the island and many of tourists come for this unique photo opportunity.
Visiting Kinmen Island
This Taiwanese island is not hard to get to. The island has a domestic airport that offers flights from Xiamen (China), in addition to Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, Chiayi, Magong and Tainan.
Unfortunately, the only way to get to Kinmen from Taiwan is by plane. You’re only able to take ferries from mainland China. The good news is that flights are relatively cheap, and they run fairly often.
The best way to get around the island is with an electric scooter or motorbike. There are a lot of places you can rent them just outside the ferry terminal. However, you’ll need an international drivers license to rent.
If riding is not your thing, the island has decent public transportation options. For example, there are many buses that you can take around the island. Check the official site here for more information on routes, fares and schedules.
2. Orchid Island
Main Island: Taiwan
Orchid Island is Taiwan’s 4th largest island governed by Taitung County. Located just off the coast of southeastern Taiwan, the island was previously known as the “Red Head Island” by the Chinese.
Though the island is native to the indigenous Tao people, many tourists flock to the island for the amazing natural attractions today. In fact, the island is home to a plethora of tropical plant species. Many of which, can only be found on Orchid Island.
This tropical island is also one of the best places to dive in Taiwan. It’s surrounded by colorful coral reefs and has become a popular spot for seeing humpback whales and green sea turtles. While whale sightings are reported nearly every year, they don’t usually stay around the island for long.
If you don’t want to get wet, there are also interesting land attractions you can check out. The Lanyu Fly Fish Cultural Museum is first that comes to mind. It’s a popular sport among the Tao people and the island holds the Fly Fishing Festival every year!
All along the coast of the island, you’ll likely spot the traditional canoes of the Tao. They’re one of the most iconic sights from the island and you can even take one out for a ride!
Visiting Orchid Island
Due to the island’s close proximity to Taitung County, it’s relatively easy to get there. Unlike Kinmen, Orchid Island is accessible by both air and sea.
You have the option of flying to Lanyu Airport, or you can take the ferry from Taitung’s Fugang Fishery Harbor. And if you’re trying to visit Orchid Island during the summer, you’ll have ferry options from Houbihu port down south in Kenting.
Safety is not a big issue on Orchid Island. The local community is small, well-connected and extremely friendly. They take a lot of pride in sharing their home and culture with foreign tourists. Just make sure to respect their home.
The best way to get around Orchid Island is by motorbike. Again, you’ll need an international license, but the roads are small and it’s fairly easy to ride in the city. For more information on public transportation, check out the tourism site.
3. Green Island
Main Island: Taiwan
Green Island is a small volcanic island situated off the eastern coast of Taiwan. Like Orchid Island, Green Island is governed by Taitung County and is one of the largest islands of Taiwan.
When Taiwan was under martial law back in the mid 20th century, Green Island served as a penal colony. In other words, it was a prison for political figures. However, the island has come a long way since. Today, it’s one of the most popular Taiwan destinations, especially for divers.
The secret’s out. Green Island has become a hot spot for having some of Taiwan’s most well-preserved corals. And when you’re not diving, take some time to enjoy a relaxing bath in the Chaojih Hot Springs.
While Green Island isn’t known for tropical beaches and coconuts, the humble island is known for stunning scenery all around the island. Rent a motorbike and take the road that runs adjacent to the coastline. It’ll be one of the most memorable experiences on your trip!
Green Island is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Though just the 6th largest Taiwanese island, the land is well developed with hotels, restaurants, convenience stores and everything you’ll need.
Visiting Green Island
As one of the most visited islands of Taiwan, Green Island has a few convenient options for getting there. The island has a domestic airport, and flights from major Taiwanese cities occur every day. From Taitung Airport, it’ll take no more than 15 minutes to fly.
Travelers that want to take the ferry will have to get to Taitung City first. Head over to Fugang Fishery Harbor (same place for ferries to Orchid) in the city and the ferry will take you to the island in less than an hour.
There are few roads on Green Island. The main road takes you around the island with few cross streets in between. So, it makes it super easy and convenient for those that want to rent a motorbike.
If you’re active and up for it, I suggest renting a bike (or electric bike) to get around the island. However, there are sight-seeing buses that run from Nanliao Harbor every hour. It circles around the island and will bring you to all the popular attractions.
4. Penghu Island
Main Island: Penghu
One of my favorite Taiwanese islands, Penghu Island has it all. From water sports to museums and lavish temples, there’s just so much to do and see on the island. Plus, Penghu is home to some of Taiwan’s best beaches.
While Penghu Island is broken down to many islands, the biggest and most populous city is Magong City on the main island. However, the Penghu Great Bridge connects the major islands together. It’s one of the longest Taiwan bridges and makes for a beautiful drive.
This western Taiwanese island has both great man-made and natural attractions which have made the island so famous. The most famous of them all is the Twin Heart Stone Weir.
This stone weir was made by ancient fisherman and resembles, well, two hearts. What’s impressive is that it’s remained in such good condition for all these years. A few minutes away sits a natural platform in the shape of Taiwan. As a result, we call it “Little Taiwan.”
And if you’re looking to relax, you can enjoy some sun bathing, meditation or yoga on some of the least-crowded tropical beaches you can find. Shan Shui Local Beach is a great one, especially if you go early.
Visiting Penghu Island
Also with a domestic airport, Penghu Island has the most options for travelers. Planes will leave daily from all major cities in Taiwan. It should take between 30 to 50 minutes to get to the island.
As for ferries, you can head to Penghu from two cities. The first one will leave from Chiayi at 10 AM daily. From Kaohsiung, you’ll need to catch the ferry that leaves at 8:30 AM. If not, Wednesday and Fridays have night ferries that leave at 11 PM.
Make sure to stay in Magong City, where the island is the liveliest. And if you can, head to Penghu Island during the spring and early summer months (April to June). In these months, Penghu holds the Fireworks Festival at Guanyin Temple (in Magong).
For more information on public transportation on the island, check out the official site. Otherwise, I recommend renting a motorbike for the best experience.
READ MORE: PENGHU ISLAND GUIDE
5. Nangan Island
Main Island: Matsu
Part of the Matsu Islands, Nangan Island is the largest island of the archipelago. Not only are these islands are spread apart, but they’re far from mainland Taiwan. For these reasons, they’re not the most famous or popular islands for travel in Taiwan.
However, this doesn’t mean these islands aren’t worth visiting – they are! What makes this island unique is the stone home villages built by island inhabitants of the stone age. The local cuisine is fantastic and there are a few military museums worth checking out.
Expect to see a lot of history and rich culture, perfectly preserved on this island. If you’re up for beautiful nature, there are hikes up Mount Yuntai (814 FT elevation) for the best view of the island.
The best part is exploring the island by foot. You’ll find so many tiny villages of stone homes scattered throughout the green lush wilderness. People are extremely friendly and the infrastructure is surprisingly developed.
Visiting Nangan Island
Located on the northwestern side of Taiwan, you can take the daily ferry from Keelung Harbor with little ease. However, this is an overnight ferry and passes through Dongyin Island first.
But if you can’t spend a night getting to the island, you can always take a flight to the Matsu Nangan Airport. Flights leave daily from most of the main Taiwanese cities. Finding a flight from Taipei shouldn’t be a problem at all.
While Nangan is smaller than the other islands, we still recommend getting around by motorbike. You can rent one for cheap and the traffic is very minimal. If not, taxis are around and you can negotiate deals with drivers for the whole day.
There is a bus line that operates on the island. However, you can sometimes wait up to over 30 minutes for the bus to arrive. For better efficiency, check out the schedules and routes on the Matsu official bus website.
6. Liuqiu Island
Main Island: Taiwan
Xiao Liuqiu is one of the most famous and beautiful islands of Taiwan. Commonly referred to as Lambai Island, Liuqiu is located off the southwestern coast of Taiwan. And despite it’s relatively small size, the island is home to over 13,000 local residents.
Known for its unique boot-shape, Liuqiu Island is home to some of the most stunning coral reefs you can find in Taiwan. In fact, the whole island is surrounded by coral. Consequently, tourists from all over the world come to this island to dive.
However, the most famous attraction on the island is undoubtedly the Liuqiu Vase Rock, as seen in the picture above. It’s exactly what it sounds like, a rock in the shape of a flower vase. Over many years, the waves and erosion created this unique appearance.
The island is known for having many sea turtles that inhabit the coastline. You don’t even need to go far to see some. Plus, there are plenty of boat operators that’ll take you a little further out to see the amazing corals that this island has to offer.
Visiting Xiao Liuqiu
The only way to get to this island if by ferry from Pingtung County. You’ll need to get to Kaohsiung first, whether by bus, high speed rail or train. From there, take a bus from Kaohsiung Train Station directly to Pingtung.
Ferries that depart to Liuqiu Island will leave from Donggang Ferry Harbor in Pingtung. They leave every day starting from the morning and the last ferry leaves at 5:30 PM. So, plan accordingly. A one way ferry trip won’t cost you more than a few hundred NTD.
The island is relatively small. In fact, it was a lot smaller than I had imagined. You could easily conquer the whole island in a single day if you wanted. Still, I’d suggest at least spending a night, especially if you plan to go diving.
The best way to travel around the island is by motorbike (or scooter), which you can rent for cheap. While there is a bus that goes around the island, you may have to wait a while for the bus to arrive.
7. Baisha Island
Main Island: Penghu
Baisha Island is part of the Penghu archipelago. And in my opinion, it’s one of the nicest larger islands of the group. It’s situated just north of Penghu Main Island and is linked to the other islands by the Trans-Oceanic Bridge. So, getting there is not as difficult as you’d think.
Though it’s not as big nor popular as Magong township on the main island, Baisha still has a lot to offer. From the island, you can take many boat tours to nearby smaller islands and check out Penghu’s famous basalt columns.
If you’re traveling with children, the Penghu Aquarium is a great place to kill a few hours (or even half a day depending on your kids). Although it’s not huge, the world-class aquarium does offer plenty of sea life. For more information, you can check out their official site here.
The most iconic landmark is the Mudouyu Lighthouse. It may not be the most extravagant lighthouse in the world, but the surrounding area makes for a nice stroll. Plus, the views are incredible from this viewpoint.
Visiting Baisha Island
You cannot fly directly to this island. However, you’re able to fly to Penghu Main Island, which is right next door. After arriving at Penghu Airport, you can take a 20-minute taxi or shuttle ride to the adjacent island. Make sure to get a window seat because the views are spectacular!
Like with most small islands, I highly recommend renting a motorbike. But for Baisha Island, taking the motorbike is highly recommended. Feeling the island breeze rush through your hair while enjoying the surreal views is an experience you won’t forget.
The island is small, especially if you’re traveling by some type of motor transportation. You can easily see the whole island in one day. However, if you’re going to Baisha Island, you might as well check out the surrounding islands.
And if you can, take the ferry to Bird Island – just off the northern coast of Baisha Island. The white-sand beaches are some of the best in the country and you won’t want to miss seeing it.
8. Sanxiantai Island
Main Island: Taiwan
This Taiwanese island is a bit of a curveball. Sanxiantai Island isn’t what most people would expect, given it’s small size and location. However, it’s still one of my favorite islands off Taiwan main island. Let me explain why.
Governed by Taitung County, Sanxiantai is a small rocky island that’s been converted to one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Taiwan. What makes it even more unique is the Sanxiantai bridge that takes you straight to the offshore island.
The bridge was built in the shape of a sea dragon. Most tourists come here to see the fascinating long footbridge. But on the other side is an island that offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. If you have a drone, take it for a spin around the island and you’ll see why I love it so much.
The name Sanxiantai can be translated to “three immortal platforms.” The platforms refer to the three large standing rocks on Sanxiantai island, which you can conveniently hike to on a nice walkway.
Visiting Sanxiantai Island
The easiest way to get to Sanxiantai Island is by traveling from Taitung City. The island and bridge are between Taitung and Hualien County, though much closer to Taitung.
That being said, I would recommend heading to Hualien first – either by bus or train. From there, you can rent a car to drive down the eastern coast of Taiwan. Because the island is between the two counties, you’ll pass by Sanxiantai anyway.
This east-coast scenic drive is one of the best you can find in Taiwan. And if it means you get to check out this wonderful small island on the way, then it’s well worth the drive in my opinion.
Sanxiantai also has an interesting beach next to the bridge and island. It’s not really intended for swimming, but the views are great. We ranked it as one of our favorite beaches, primarily because of the smooth colored rocks (instead of sand) that fill the shoreline.
9. Beigan Island
Main Island: Matsu
Along with Nangan, Beigan Island is one of the two largest islands of the Matsu archipelago. And like the larger neighboring island, Beigan is home to some of the most well-preserved traditional stone villages.
When it comes to Chinese history, there are few places as cool as Beigan Island. This small island, just miles away from mainland China, played a significant role during the Chinese Civil War. As a result, there are many historical and military sites all throughout Beigan.
There are two famous stone villages on this island. The biggest is Qiaozi Village, which is a bit more modernized. However, the next-door Qinbi Village is undeniably the most beautiful. Many tourists say this sea-side village feels Mediterranean-like.
There’s also a small pier and beach next to the village, where locals and tourists can go for kayak tours. It’s not a great place to swim, but the views of the ocean are breathtaking. The best part is exploring stairs of the stone village. Just think of it as a Fujian Santorini!
Visiting Beigan Island
The most convenient way of getting to Beigan Island is by ferry. However, you’ll need to head to Nangan Island first by taking the Keelung Harbor ferry. Keep in mind, there’s also an overnight ferry option.
If you want to fly, you’ll only be able to fly to Matsu Nangan Airport, as there are no direct flights to Beigan Island. Once you get to Nangan, take the ferry from Nangan Fu Ao Harbor to the Beigan Baisha Harbor. This ferry operates daily from 7 AM to 5 PM.
Thanks to the hilly composition of Beigan Island, it’ll be fairly difficult (or very tiring) to travel by foot. Even though the island is small, I recommend renting a motorbike. It’s quick, convenient and cheap. Plus, traffic isn’t so congested or confusing here.
There is a bus that operates on the island, but there aren’t too many. If you miss the bus, you’ll need to wait over 30 minutes for the next one to arrive. Another option is to rent a driver for the whole day (prices can be negotiated).
10. Guishan Island
Main Island: Taiwan
Guishan Island can be directly translated into “turtle mountain island.” And if you get a chance to see it from afar, you’ll know why it was given such a name (hint: it looks like a turtle!).
The best place to see the turtle shape is from one of my favorite Taiwanese beaches – Waiao Beach in Yilan County. In fact, the island has become an iconic natural landmark for the east coast beach. But did you know that you can actually go on this island?
The island is uninhabited, but many boats tour the island every day. There’s minor infrastructure built on the island for the sole purpose of tourists. And, it’s not hard finding a tour to Guishan Island – you can probably even book one at your hotel in Yilan.
Tours operate around the island first, where there’s a very high chance you get to see wild dolphins up close. After docking on the north side of the island, the tour takes you through lush greens to see abandoned villages, military tunnels, temples, museums and viewpoints. It’s an interesting Taiwanese island worth visiting!
Visiting Guishan Island
Although Guishan Island has been abandoned since the Qing Dynasty, it’s become a popular tourist spot. As such, it’s not very difficult getting there. However, you’ll need to get to Yilan County first.
Take the train, bus or a taxi to Yilan from Taipei. It shouldn’t take more than an hour to get there. If you don’t have a tour already booked, you can head to Wushih Harbor in Yilan. Operating tour boats are the only way to get there, so consider booking in advance at KK Day.
You don’t have to go onto Guishan, you can just tour around it. Many boats will take you around the island to see the 8 famous sceneries of the island, such as “Turtle God Wearing a Hat.” Yes, that’s a real thing.
These are our favorites islands of Taiwan. Did we miss any that deserves to be on the list? Let us know in the comments section below. And if you’ve been to one of these spectacular islands, let us know what you thought!
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