Exploring the North | The Best Scuba Diving Spots Near Taipei

Longdong Bay: The Ultimate Guide to Taiwan’s Premier Diving and Climbing Destination

Located on the ruggedly beautiful Northeast Coast of Taiwan, Longdong Bay (Dragon Caves) is a world-class playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Named for the way the coastline curls like a sleeping dragon, this geological marvel is famous for two things: its crystal-clear scuba diving and its premier seaside rock climbing.

If you are looking for an adventurous day trip from Taipei, Longdong offers the perfect blend of adrenaline and natural beauty.

Why Longdong Bay is the "Crown Jewel" of the Northeast Coast

Longdong is widely considered the best diving spot in Northern Taiwan. Unlike the sandy beaches of the west, the rocky terrain here provides a stable environment for a thriving marine ecosystem.

• Underwater Biodiversity: The bay is home to over 300 species of coral and a vibrant array of marine life, including nudibranchs, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle.
• Accessible Adventure: Whether you are a beginner looking for shore diving or an experienced pro hunting for underwater shipwrecks, Longdong has spots ranging from shallow 5-meter lagoons to 30-meter deep-sea walls.
• Visibility: During the peak summer months (May to September), the water visibility can reach an impressive 15 meters, offering some of the clearest conditions in the region.

The Mecca of Rock Climbing in Asia

Beyond the water, Longdong is home to the most iconic natural rock climbing site in Northeast Asia. The 35-meter-high sandstone cliffs stretch for over two kilometers, offering more than 600 climbing routes.

• World-Class Sandstone: The rock here is incredibly solid and offers amazing grip, making it a favorite for both trad (traditional) climbing and sport climbing.
• Dramatic Scenery: There is nothing quite like belaying with the sound of the Pacific crashing against the rocks below you. The "Backdoor" and "Grand Auditorium" sections offer some of the most photogenic climbing vistas in the world.

Top Things to Do at Longdong Bay

1. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Join a local dive shop for a guided tour of the "Dragon's" underwater gardens.
2. Coastal Trekking: Walk the Longdong Bay Cape Trail, an easy 1.5-hour hike that connects Bitou Cape to Longdong, offering panoramic views of the ocean.
3. Cliff Jumping: For the brave, certain sections of the rocky coast offer safe spots to leap into the deep blue (always check water depth with a local guide first!).
4. Photography: Capture the unique sea-eroded rock formations and the "Music Hall"—a massive natural rock cavern.

Plan Your Visit: Essential Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: May to September is the prime season for water activities when the sea is calm. For rock climbing, the cooler months of October to April are preferred, provided it isn't raining.
• Getting There: Longdong is approximately a 60–70 minute drive from Taipei. You can take the Kuo-Kuang Bus 1811 from Taipei Main Station or the 856 Golden Island Shuttle Bus from Ruifang Station.
• What to Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, sturdy hiking or climbing shoes, and plenty of water. There are several equipment rental shops in the nearby Longdong village.

Safety & Conservation

Longdong is a protected area. To help preserve this "Dragon's" beauty:

• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the delicate coral reefs from harmful chemicals.
• Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash to keep the cliffs and waters pristine.
• Hire a Guide: Especially for rock climbing or diving, local expertise is essential to navigating the tides and rock conditions safely.

Bitou Cape: The "Mini Great Wall" of Taiwan’s Northeast Coast

A Hiker’s Paradise of Sea-Eroded Cliffs and Panoramic Pacific Views

Often referred to as one of the "Three Capes of Northern Taiwan," Bitou Cape (鼻頭角) is a dramatic headland that offers some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in Asia. Located just an hour from Taipei, this destination is famous for its "Mini Great Wall" hiking trail, which snakes along a ridgeline trapped between lush green mountains and the deep blue Pacific Ocean.

Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a weekend hiker, or a traveler looking for the best Northeast Coast day trip, Bitou Cape is a must-visit landmark.

Top Highlights of Bitou Cape

1. The Bitou Cape Recreation Trail (The Mini Great Wall)

The star attraction is the wooden boardwalk and stone path that climbs the ridge. The undulating shape of the trail against the mountain backdrop has earned it the nickname "The Great Wall of the Sea."

• The View: At the highest point, you have a 360-degree unobstructed view of the Keelung Coast, Longdong Bay, and the infinite horizon.
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. The trail is well-maintained with plenty of stairs, making it accessible for families and casual hikers.

2. Dramatic Geological Wonders

Bitou Cape is a living textbook of geomorphology. Over millions of years, the relentless Pacific waves and wind have carved the sandstone into fascinating shapes.

• Mushroom Rocks & Honeycomb Rocks: Look down from the cliffs to see unique rock formations created by differential erosion.
• Sea-Eroded Platforms: Large, flat stone "benches" at the water's edge are popular spots for local anglers and eco-explorers.

3. The Bitou Cape Lighthouse

While the original lighthouse trail is sometimes closed due to rockfall concerns, the silhouette of the white lighthouse against the rugged cliffs remains an iconic symbol of the area. It serves as a vital beacon for ships entering the northern waters of Taiwan.

Plan Your Visit: Logistics & Tips

How to Get There from Taipei

• By Bus: Take the Kuo-Kuang Bus 1811 from Taipei Main Station or the 856 Golden Island Shuttle Bus from Ruifang Station. Alight at the "Bitoujiao" stop.
• By Car: Follow the Coastal Highway (Route 2). There is a small parking lot near the Bitou Primary School entrance.

Tips for an Unforgettable Trip

• Check the Weather: The Northeast Coast can be windy. Avoid the trails during heavy rain or typhoon warnings as the coastal gusts can be very strong.
• Sun Protection: There is very little shade on the ridgeline. Wear a hat and apply high-SPF sunscreen.
• Visit the Primary School: The trail often begins near Bitou Primary School, which is famous for being one of the most beautiful "oceanside schools" in Taiwan. Please be quiet and respectful if classes are in session.
• Combine Your Trip: Bitou Cape is located right next to Longdong Bay. You can hike Bitou in the morning and head to Longdong for snorkeling or rock climbing in the afternoon.

Chaojing Park: Keelung’s Premier Marine Sanctuary and Eco-Adventure Destination

Located on the edge of the Badouzi Peninsula in Keelung, Chaojing Park (潮境公園) has transformed from a former landfill into one of Northern Taiwan’s most beautiful coastal parks. Known for its quirky "Flying Broomstick" art installations, breathtaking views of Keelung Mountain, and its status as a protected Marine Resource Conservation Area, it is a top destination for eco-tourists, divers, and families alike.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing seaside stroll or a deep dive into Taiwan’s underwater biodiversity, Chaojing Park offers a unique blend of art, science, and nature.

Top Highlights of Chaojing Park

1. A Haven for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Chaojing is widely regarded as the best beginner-friendly dive site in Northern Taiwan.

• Marine Biodiversity: Since becoming a protected sanctuary, the fish populations have boomed. You can expect to see schools of damselfish, colorful nudibranchs, and even the occasional seahorse.
• Easy Entry: The park features a designated entry point with a flat, rocky seabed, making it perfect for shore diving and open-water training courses.

2. The "Harry Potter" Flying Brooms

The park is famous for its large-scale environmental art. The most iconic are the giant Bamboo Brooms that stand against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

• Photography Tip: Visit during the "Golden Hour" (just before sunset) to capture the brooms silhouetted against the sky with Keelung Islet in the distance.

3. i-OCEAN (Intelligent Ocean) Museum

Adjacent to the park is the cutting-edge Chaojing Intelligent Ocean, a branch of the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium.

• What to See: It features 5G-powered live broadcasts of the local seabed, immersive VR experiences, and high-tech tanks showcasing local marine species. It’s the perfect rainy-day activity for families.

Plan Your Visit: Logistics & Tips

How to Get There from Taipei

• By Train: Take the train to Keelung Station, then transfer to Bus 103 or 105 to "Badouzi." Alternatively, take the local train to the scenic Badouzi Station (the most beautiful station in North Taiwan) and walk 15 minutes.
• By Bus: Take the 2088 Express Bus from Taipei City Hall Bus Station directly to the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMMST).

Tips for the Ultimate Chaojing Experience

• Fly a Kite: The "Sunset Grassland" in the park is famous for its steady coastal winds. It is one of the most popular spots in the north for kite enthusiasts.
• Eco-Respect: Because this is a Marine Conservation Area, fishing and collecting any marine organisms (including shells and seaweed) is strictly prohibited. Use reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to enter the water.
• The Coastal Boardwalk: Walk the path connecting Chaojing to Wangyou Valley (Forget-Sorrow Valley) for some of the best cliffside hiking views in Keelung.

Guihou: The Ultimate Seafood Escape and Hidden Coastal Gem

Located on the rugged North Coast of Taiwan, Guihou (龜吼) is a charming seaside village that has evolved from a quiet fishing port into a world-class destination for foodies and nature lovers. Famous for the Wanli Crab, its vibrant seafood market, and its proximity to surreal geological formations, Guihou offers the perfect weekend retreat for those looking to escape the bustle of Taipei.

Whether you're visiting for a fresh ocean-to-table feast or a scenic stroll along the Pacific, Guihou is a "must-stop" on any Northern Coast Taiwan itinerary.

 Top Highlights of Guihou

1. Guihou Fishermen’s Market (龜吼漁夫市集)

This is the heart of the village. Unlike larger, more commercial markets, Guihou offers a rustic and authentic experience.

• The Specialty: The legendary Wanli Crab (including Flower Crab, Three-Spot Crab, and Stone Crab). The peak season is during autumn, but fresh catches are available year-round.
• Dining Style: Pick your live seafood directly from the tanks and have one of the neighboring restaurants prepare it to your liking for a small service fee.

2. The Venus Coast (維納斯海岸)

Once voted the "Most Beautiful Coastline in Taiwan," the stretch of road between Guihou and Yehliu is known as the Venus Coast.

• The View: The shoreline is decorated with unique, honey-colored rock formations and deep blue tide pools.
• Activity: It is an easy, flat walk perfect for sunset photography, offering panoramic views of Keelung Islet on the horizon.

3. Secret Shore Diving & Snorkeling

For adventure seekers, the rocky outcrops near the Venus Coast provide excellent spots for shore diving.

• Marine Life: The water here is surprisingly clear, hosting a variety of tropical fish, colorful sea anemones, and crustaceans hiding in the crevices.
• Beginner-Friendly: The natural bays provide some protection from the open sea, making it a popular spot for local dive instructors to lead guided snorkeling tours.

Plan Your Visit: Logistics & Tips

How to Get There from Taipei

• By Bus: Take the Kuo-Kuang Bus 1815 from Taipei Main Station or Taipei City Hall Bus Station toward Jinshan. Alight at the "Guihou" stop.
• By Shuttle: Use the Crown North Coast Shuttle Bus (716) which connects major tourist spots along the coastline.

Tips for the Ultimate Guihou Experience

• Arrive Early: On weekends, the market and local restaurants get incredibly busy by noon. Aim to arrive by 10:30 AM to secure a table with an ocean view.
• Transparent Pricing: Most stalls clearly list prices by weight. Don't be afraid to ask for a "total price" including the cooking fee before you commit.
• Walk to Yehliu: Guihou is only about a 15-minute scenic walk from the famous Yehliu Geopark. Visiting both on the same day is the best way to maximize your trip.