Green Island Snorkelling in Taitung and Green Island

Part of the Taitung and Green Island travel guide — see every topic in All Taitung and Green Island Guides.

Green Island is a small volcanic island about 33 kilometres east of Taitung, with only about 15 square kilometres of land. Coral reefs surround it, and the water is warm and clear for much of the year. That makes it one of the best and easiest places in Taiwan for snorkelling. One road runs around the whole island, so a scooter is the simple way to see it. Many visitors stay two nights.

Snorkelling spots

The reefs start close to the shore, so you can see coral and fish in shallow water. Popular snorkelling areas include Shilang, on the southwest coast, and Chaikou, in the north near the harbour and airport. Dabaisha, a beach of white coral sand, is also known for its clear water, though the walk in over rocks needs care. You may see clownfish, parrotfish, colourful corals and sometimes sea turtles. Most snorkel shops offer guided tours with a wetsuit, mask, snorkel and life ring. Going with a guide is safer, because currents can be strong around the island.

The Big Mushroom coral

Divers come to Green Island to see a famous coral called the Big Mushroom. It is a huge single coral, about 12 metres tall and over 30 metres wide, shaped like a giant mushroom on the sea floor. It is believed to be very old. It is too deep for snorkellers, so you need to join a scuba dive with a licensed dive shop. Beginners can sometimes join a try dive with an instructor, but conditions decide this. Many other dive sites around the island have walls of coral and large schools of fish.

Riding the ring road

The ring road around Green Island is about 17 to 20 kilometres long. By scooter you can go round in under an hour, but most people take half a day with stops. Along the way you pass black volcanic rocks, sea caves and rock shapes with fun names, such as the Sleeping Beauty. On the east side, short trails lead to grassland and viewpoints over the Pacific Ocean. The Green Island Lighthouse in the northwest is a pleasant sunset stop. Formosan sika deer live on the island, and you may see some grazing near the road.

Scooter rules on the island

Scooter rental shops wait near the harbour and the airport, and many guesthouses include a scooter with your room. You still need a valid motorcycle licence, and visitors need an international driving permit with their home licence. Helmets are required. There is only one petrol station on the island, near the harbour, and it closes in the early evening, so fill up during the day. Electric scooters are also common. The road is narrow in places, with blind bends and loose sand, so ride slowly and watch for deer and other drivers.

Reef care and season

The best season for snorkelling is from about April to October, when the sea is calmer and the water is warm. July and August are the busiest months, and rooms sell out on weekends. From about November to March, the northeast wind can make the sea rough and boats are often cancelled, and many shops close for the winter. Use reef-safe sunscreen or wear a long-sleeve rash guard. Do not stand on, touch or take coral, shells or animals. Rubbish has to leave the island by boat, so carry less and take your waste back.

Green Island Snorkelling at a glance

More in Taitung and Green Island

All 6 Taitung and Green Island guides·Taiwan tourist maps

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