A short distance offshore from Taitung, Green Island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs that make it a snorkelers’ paradise. On the island itself, most of the scenic spots are linked by the 16.3-kilometre round-island concrete highway. These include the Green Island Lighthouse, Green Island Park, General Rock, Gateway Rock, Guanyin Cave, Youzi Lake, Pekingese Dog Rocks, Sleeping Beauty Rock, Sail Cape, Black Ghost Cave, and the rare Zhaori Saltwater hot spring. Bathing in the spring under the stars at night is especially popular with visitors.

1. Navigate the island by scooter

1. • The best way to explore Green Island’s picturesque coastline is by renting a scooter. The 20-kilometer coastal road offers scenic views of rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and lush greenery. Stop at scenic spots like the Sleeping Beauty Rock, Pekingese Dog, and Haishenping, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramas.
   • However, for foreigners, you would need a bike license in order to rent a motorised scooter. If you do not have one, then you are only able to rent an electric scooter which goes at a maximum speed of 40km/hr.
   • Pro Tip: Remember to fill up your gas tank before you head out; there is only one gas station on the island.

2. Visit Green Island human rights memorial park

For history buffs, the Green Island Human Rights Memorial Park is a must-visit. The site was once a prison for political prisoners during Taiwan’s White Terror period. Today, it serves as a museum and memorial, highlighting the island’s darker history. A visit here offers a poignant reminder of the struggles for freedom and democracy in Taiwan. Entrance is free.

After their release, many of the prisoners jailed between the late 1940s and the late 1980s went on to establish the Democratic Progressive Party, most notably Shih Ming-teh. Writer and political dissident Bo Yang served his prison terms there.

3. Explore the underwater world

Green Island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Head to popular diving spots like Shilang Diving Area and Dabaisha Beach, where you can encounter colourful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even sea turtles.

• Pro Tip: Consider booking a night dive to witness the nocturnal creatures of the ocean, or take a glass-bottom boat tour for a dry view of the underwater wonderland.

4. Catch the sunrise at Zhaori Hot Springs

Green Island boasts one of the world’s only three saltwater hot springs—Zhaori Hot Springs. Imagine soaking in warm seawater while gazing at the vast Pacific Ocean. The hot spring pools are built right next to the coast, offering an incredible sunrise view. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. For those who are not early birds, you can also visit the hot springs at night when it is cooler and you can stargaze. Note that pools nearer to the coast are closed from 7.30am to 11am daily for maintenance and cleaning.

• Pro Tip: Visit during the early morning to catch the sunrise or in the evening for a tranquil atmosphere under the stars.

5. Hike the Guanyin Cave and Old Trail

For hiking enthusiasts, the Guanyin Cave and the Old Trail offer scenic routes with a touch of spirituality. The Guanyin Cave is a unique temple built into a cave, dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. The surrounding trails provide stunning views of the island’s rugged coastline and lush forests.

The highest point on Green Island is Mt. Huoshao, a 281m high extinct volcano. You can’t reach the top because it’s occupied by a military post, but there are some trails which surround it.

6. Watch the sunset at Swallow Cave or Lyudao Lighthouse

Green Island’s sunsets are legendary, and one of the best spots to catch a stunning sunset is at the Swallow Cave. This natural formation along the coast is a favorite perch for swallows and a picturesque location to end your day. Watch as the sky transforms into shades of pink and orange, with waves crashing against the rocky shore.

The 33m-high Lyudao Lighthouse is the most beautiful landmark on Green Island. The American government funded the lighthouse’s construction in 1938, a year after a US cruise liner (the SS President Hoover) struck a nearby reef and sank. The whole area around the lighthouse is very photogenic. 

7. Try local delicacies

Don’t miss out on the local food scene. Green Island is known for its fresh seafood, and you’ll find plenty of small eateries offering grilled fish, seafood noodles, and other island specialties. Visit the night market for a taste of Green Island’s Flying Fish, a local delicacy that’s both unique and delicious.

There is a wide range of food to try on Green Island, from restaurants, cafe food to roadside stalls selling smelly tofu. Some of the nicer places that we have tried:

📍Five minutes to the sea 離海五分鐘 • (nice place beside our hotel, for breakfast and coffee)

📍Chao Nan Chi beef noodle restaurant 超難吃牛肉麵 (it is a word pun, the beef noodles here are actually very tasty)

📍鬍鬚的店 (below average bento sets, good for a quick bite)

📍流浪‧綠境 OASIS We ordered takeout here, including a saba fish bento and some gyozas which was nice.

📍 Dingo bubble tea store (one of the best bubble tea stores, especially since there are not many choices; the red bean milk tea was so good)

Best Time to Visit Green Island

The best time to visit Green Island is from April to October when the weather is warm, and the seas are calm, making it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and other outdoor activities. However, the island is beautiful year-round, and the off-season from November to March offers fewer crowds and a more relaxed vibe.

Transportation

Nat’l Fwy 5 → Exit at the Su’ao Interchange → Prov. Hwy 9 → Prov. Hwy 11 → take the ferry from Fugang Fishing Harbor to Green Island

There are fixed timings public buses from Taitung train station to Fugang Harbour. We did not reserve our ferry tickets in advance, but managed to secure them for the next departing ferry at 13:30. There are a few ferry companies, and the one that we took was Uranus.

For those who are pressed for time, they can take a short flight from Taitung which is a quick 15-minute journey. However, due to bad weather, the flights may be cancelled at the last minute.

Stay

Address: 綠島涵館TUBE18 951, Taiwan, Taitung County, Lvdao Township

We booked 3 nights at Tube18 on booking.com, a boutique hotel facing the sea. The room was nice, with good air conditioning, a strong shower, and also free washing machines for use in the common area. The rooms are furnished from old disused barrels, which blends in nicely with the surrounding mountains. There is also a shared 6-bed dormitory for larger groups or solo travelers who are on a budget. It is good to rent an electric scooter if you are staying here, as there are not many food options nearby.

Green Island is a tropical paradise that offers a little bit of everything—breathtaking landscapes, rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re diving into the deep blue, soaking in a hot spring, or riding along its scenic coastal road, Green Island promises an experience you won’t forget.

Pack your bags and get ready for an island getaway that’s as unique as it is enchanting!