Worth waking up early for this view: Sunrise kayaking experience at Fenqinlin (Pink Bird Forest)

Reported and photographed by Peng Huaiyu / Yilan

What to do in summer besides swimming and surfing at the beach? Kayaking—paddling across the sea—is becoming increasingly popular, especially around Fenqinlin in Dong’ao, Yilan, and at Qingshui Cliffs in Hualien. To avoid getting sunburned, sunrise tours are highly recommended. Watching the sun rise over the azure sea feels like a scene from Life of Pi, with breathtaking views you’ll never forget.

▲ To avoid being exposed to the scorching sun, it’s advised to choose a sunrise kayaking tour.

▲ Watching the sun rise over the azure sea feels like a scene from Life of Pi, with breathtaking views you’ll never forget.

Kayaking tours have been growing steadily in Taiwan, with many operators now offering a variety of options. Tours range from predawn 4 AM sessions to sunset tours at 2 PM. The reporter joined a 5 AM sunrise tour at Fenqinlin. The itinerary was simple: first, meet at Dong’ao Station to rent shoes, helmets, life vests, and kayaks, then head to the sea for about half an hour of instruction, including how to self-rescue if you capsize. By then, golden morning light began to peek through the clouds, marking the start of a beautiful day.

▲ %The reporter described how the calm sea made beginners feel at ease, kicking off the adventure smoothly.

The sea conditions around Dong’ao are stable, with minimal waves, making it quite suitable for beginners. Though slightly more challenging than kayaking on a lake, the sea offers even more stunning scenery. Typically, the person in the back controls the direction. Remember this rule: if the boat drifts right, paddle left; if it leans left, paddle right harder. Constant minor adjustments are needed to keep the boat balanced and moving forward. Kayaking is an activity that tests teamwork—whether you’re with a partner or friends and family, you can enjoy the fun together.

▲ Though slightly more challenging than kayaking on a lake, the sea offers even more stunning scenery.

▲ The coach leads the group to explore the “Bat Cave,” one of the highlights of the tour.

Besides paddling across the endless sea, the coach also takes you to sea caves like the “Bat Cave” and “Grand Canyon.” Entering pitch-dark caves while listening to the waves crashing against rocks is quite thrilling. Along the way, the unique rock formations are a must-see—let your imagination run wild as the rocks resemble a “Queen’s Head,” “rabbits,” and other creatures, coming to life before your eyes.

▲ %The journalist noted how the guide’s humorous commentary added fun to the exploration of the dark caves.

During the 4.5-hour tour, you’ll also get to swim in the sea. It’s recommended to bring your own snorkeling mask to explore this marine treasure trove. Blue and yellow tropical fish swim by—not a huge variety, but enough to keep you entertained. Finally, you’ll paddle to the hidden gem “Fenqinlin Beach,” where the sea view and the rocks rising from the water form a picturesque scene. Standing in the sea, you can take filter-free photos with incredible artistic vibes, experiencing summer’s charm in diverse ways.

▲ Finally, you’ll paddle to the hidden gem “Fenqinlin Beach,” where the sea view and the rocks rising from the water form a picturesque scene.

A quick reminder: as Fenqinlin has become a viral spot, increased visitor traffic has also put a strain on the local environment, with litter scattered around. Let’s all do our part—practice good public spirit and, if possible, help carry out some of the trash that doesn’t belong here, to preserve this hidden paradise together.

▲ If possible, help carry out some of the trash that doesn’t belong here, to preserve this hidden paradise together.

Accordingto United Daily Newsreported on September 3, the Yilan County Government announced on January 5 this year that kayaking operators must have legal registration for water recreation activities. However, out of the seven existing operators, only one has applied—and has not yet been approved. Emergency inspections will be carried out to guide them toward legalization and ensure visitor safety.

As for Hualien County, Acting Director of the Tourism Department Peng Weizu said that all 26 kayaking operators are legal, but there are currently no specific management regulations. Guidelines have been drafted and will be announced soon. Once in place, any activity that complies with the guidelines and takes place in approved waters will be permitted.