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Xiaoliuqiu ( Liuqiu Township ), located south of the main Ping River estuary and approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Donggang, is the only coral reef island near Taiwan. Wide in the north and narrow in the south, Xiaoliuqiu appears like a flat plate from the Gaoping River estuary. As you approach, you'll discover towering cliffs dotting the shore. The reefs, eroded by the waves, have become jagged and rugged, with only a few small areas offering sandy beaches.
Xiaoliuqiu is surrounded by fringing reefs, and there are beautiful sights almost everywhere on the coastline. Among them, Beauty Cave and Black Devil Cave are the two major scenic spots on the island, both famous for their strange shores and reefs. In the shallow sea beneath the blue waves, there are clusters of beautiful corals, and colorful tropical fish swim among them. Together with starfish, sea urchins, shells, luminous snails, etc., it is lively and colorful and dazzling.
There are many temples on this small island, among which Lingshan Temple, Sanlong Temple and Biyun Temple are the most famous; and the King Boat Festival held every three years at Sanlong Temple is the most important festival on the island.
The sunset scenery of Xiaoliuqiu was listed as one of the eight scenic spots in southern Taiwan during the Qing Dynasty.
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Xiaoliuqiu, also known as Little Liuqiu, is a small island off the southwest coast of Taiwan. The island is known for its rich marine biodiversity and pristine beaches. It has a long history of being a fishing community and has become a popular destination for eco-tourism, offering activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking. The island is also culturally significant to locals, with several temples and historical sites scattered throughout.
Xiaoliuqiu is located off the southwest coast of Taiwan, near the Hengchun Peninsula in Pingtung County. To get there, visitors typically take a ferry from the Donggang Ferry Terminal to the island. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes. You can reach the terminal by bus or taxi from Hengchun or other parts of Pingtung County.
The island is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March to May, September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be quite hot, and the island can get crowded, especially during national holidays. It's advisable to visit on weekdays for a quieter experience.
There is no entrance fee to visit the island itself. However, certain attractions like the boat tours, snorkeling, and diving activities have their own fees. Tickets for these activities can be bought on-site or through local operators. It's also recommended to book boat tours or diving trips in advance, especially during the high season.
For activities like boat tours, diving, or snorkeling, it’s recommended to book tickets at least a day in advance, particularly during the peak seasons. Accommodation on the island may also require advance booking, especially during holidays.
To fully explore Xiaoliuqiu, including its main attractions like the Black Dwarf Cave, Beauty Peak, and snorkeling spots, you’ll need about 1 to 2 days. A day trip is also possible if you focus on a few key activities.
Guided tours are available, especially for boat tours, snorkeling, and diving. The tours are usually conducted in Mandarin, but some operators may offer services in English. It’s best to check in advance.
Night visits are not common on the island, as most activities are centered around daytime exploration. However, some boat tours offer sunset views. There are no light shows, but the island’s calm atmosphere at night is perfect for stargazing.
The island is relatively quiet during weekdays, especially outside of the peak summer months. Weekends and public holidays, particularly during summer, can get crowded with both locals and tourists.
There are basic facilities on the island, including restrooms, small food vendors, and shops selling snacks, water, and souvenirs. There are a few cafes and restaurants that serve local dishes. However, the island is relatively undeveloped, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
The island has some accessibility challenges, with uneven terrain, especially on hikes and at beaches. It may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues, but children should enjoy the activities like snorkeling and boat tours. Some areas, like the main town and certain beaches, are more accessible.
Cash is commonly used on Xiaoliuqiu, but many vendors and some accommodations accept mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s advisable to carry enough cash for your trip.
There are several small cafes and local eateries on the island serving fresh seafood, Taiwanese snacks, and local specialties. Popular options include those near the main port and in the village area.
Vegetarian options are available at most local eateries, especially in vegetarian-friendly Taiwanese dishes. Halal options are limited, so it's best to check with restaurants in advance.
There are a variety of accommodations, including guesthouses, small hotels, and homestays. Popular options are near the main port and along the island’s coastline. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, there are souvenir shops on the island selling locally made products, including shell jewelry, local snacks, and handicrafts. Popular souvenirs include coral and shell items, and small items featuring the island’s wildlife.
The best transportation options to continue the trip include taking a ferry back to the mainland and then continuing by taxi, bus, or rental car. You can also visit nearby attractions on the Hengchun Peninsula via bus or car.
