The Coolest Summer Spots: A Special Guide to 27 Water Play Areas in Yilan

Photos & Text /Purple Smile

Looking for water fun in summer?! Yilan boasts a unique environment and clean, refreshing water—hot springs, cold springs, streams, and even beachcombing~~ We've gathered them all here!!

Free Spot ~ 1. Toucheng Township. Waiao Tourism Service Area
Address: No. 6, Sec. 2, Binhai Rd., Toucheng Township, Yilan County

It houses a Barista Café and serves as the mountain entrance to the first and second floors of Barista Café Castle. Here, you can not only play in the water, build sandcastles, and catch crabs, but also enjoy thrilling activities like powered paragliding, parasailing, surfing, and ATV rides. The beach’s advantages: flat, clean sand and a long shoreline, with no dangerous freak waves—truly a paradise for family fun.

2. Toucheng Township. Whale Watching, Island Landing, and Island Circumnavigation Combo at Guishan Island
Whale-Watching Cruise Phone: 0920-522999 / 0985-064997
Boarding Point – Wushih Port Visitor Center (No. 30, Lane 15, Gangkou Rd., Gangkou Li, Toucheng Township, Yilan County)

This combined whale-watching, island landing, and circumnavigation tour takes about four hours. We departed at 9 AM and returned to Wushih Port around 1:30 PM. On a clear day, it’s truly an amazing journey—don’t miss the chance to hike up to 401 Highland (Guishan Island's Hero Slope)!

Free Spot ~ 3. Toucheng Township. Daxi Honeymoon Bay

Exit from the Toucheng Interchange of the Xueshan Tunnel, head toward Waiao. After passing Beiguan and about 50 meters past Daxi Elementary School, take the small path next to a small temple on the left to reach Honeymoon Bay.Located near Daxi in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, Honeymoon Bay is the only sandy shore north of Beiguan. The bay is crescent-shaped, with crystal-clear waters and soft, gently sloping sands extending into the sea—perfect for couples and friends to stroll hand-in-hand or play in the water together. From here, you can gaze at Guishan Island in the distance and enjoy swimming, fishing, diving, and more along the scenic curved shoreline. Another highlight of Honeymoon Bay is that it features reefs on both sides and fine, soft sand in the middle. With average wave heights of 1 to 3 meters, it has become one of the main surfing spots in northern Taiwan.

Free Spot ~ 4. Jiaoxi Township. Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park + Tangwei Gully Park
Hot Spring Park Address: No. 16, Gongyuan Rd., Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County
Tangwei Gully Address: No. 99-11, Deyang Rd., Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County

Most people are familiar with Tangwei Gully Park, but its proximity to high-rises nearby can feel somewhat oppressive. Being closer to Jiaoxi’s bustling area, it’s more convenient. Meanwhile, Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park spans approximately 5.02 hectares, set against a forested backdrop with a park-like layout that offers the best hot spring soaking atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy the warmest, most blissful hot spring experience.

Free Spot ~ 5. Jiaoxi Township. Wufengqi Waterfall
Address: Wufeng Rd., Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County
Phone: 03-9880940

Wufengqi Waterfall is one of Yilan County’s most famous scenic spots, featuring three tiers of cascading water. Along the short path, you can hear the soothing sound of flowing water, accompanied by a cool breeze and sometimes a light mist—perfect for cooling off in summer. Below the waterfall is a sediment dam, which is quite fun. Some areas are great for playing in the water, others for swimming, but remember this is not an official pool—safety first when enjoying the water!!

Free Spot ~ 6. Jiaoxi Township. Wufengqi Tourism Service Center
Location: Yilan County, Jiaoxi Township. Drive past the L’Amitié Hotel and head toward Wufengqi Waterfall—you’ll arrive here in about a minute.

The small stream at the foot of Wufengqi Waterfall is a great spot for families to enjoy the water, and the best part is—it’s free!!! Near the base of Wufengqi Waterfall, there’s a well-planned parking lot that can accommodate dozens of cars. Just park and walk a few steps to the water play area—super convenient, right?

Free Spot ~ 7. Jiaoxi Township. Houkengkeng Waterfall
Location: After exiting the Toucheng-Jiaoxi Interchange on the Beiyi Expressway, drive toward Jiaoxi. Turn right into the alley beside No. 17, Section 7, Jiaoxi Rd., then go straight to the end, turn right again, and you’ll see Nansing Temple. The small mountain path next to it is the entrance.
GPS Coordinates: E121.7827 (121°46'57.7"E), N24.8415 (24°50'29.4"N)

The waterfall is at its most spectacular during the rainy season, reaching about 6 meters wide and 25 meters high. The rocks along the streambed have been eroded by the current, creating a landscape of large boulders. Water sprays from the over ten-meter drop, surrounded by lush, dense forests offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Couples who climb Houkengkeng Waterfall together are said to be destined for a happy life—those feeling romantic should check it out and test the legend.

Free Attractions ~ 8. Dali Township. Linmei Shiban Trail
As soon as you step onto the trail, you’re greeted by the atmosphere of a pristine forest—lush greenery and dense canopies block out the sun, bringing an instant coolness. The path is fairly flat and easy to walk, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the scenery without effort. Small wooden stakes mark every 100 meters along the way, so you won’t get lost. The scenery along the trail is captivating, with the sound of babbling creeks and waterfalls around every corner. The abundance of waterfall clusters is truly eye-opening. The subtropical plants in the corridor release rich phytoncides, while the Shiban Waterfall generates an abundance of negative ions. Walking here, you breathe in these “air vitamins,” feeling refreshed and invigorated. The entire hike takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

 

Free Attractions ~ 9. Yilan City. Longtan Lake Scenic Area
Address: No. 1, Huandao Rd., Longtan Village, Dali Township, Yilan County
GPS:E 121°44'22" ( 121.7396) N 24°47'33" ( 24.7925)
DSCF6923

Longtan. Formerly known as Dapi and commonly called “Dapi Lake,” it was once one of the “Twelve Scenic Spots of Lan Yang.” Surrounded by mountains on three sides, this lake covers an area of about 17 hectares and is the largest among Yilan’s five famous lakes. Strolling leisurely along the lakeside road, you’ll find shady trees lining both sides, adding beauty to the tranquil mountain and water views. The night scenery here is also quite impressive—be sure to check it out if you have time. The popular new giant slide is also a favorite spot for family outings.

10. Yuanshan Township. Huayuan Farm
Address: No. 15-1, Bajia Rd., Shangde Village, Yuanshan Township, Yilan County (near Shengyang Aquatic Plants)
Phone: 0919221506

The entrance fee is NT$50, which can also be used as credit toward purchases (though the owner is kind-hearted and doesn’t strictly enforce it). The water swing here is undoubtedly a hit with both kids and adults, and there are also homemade treats like ginger lily drinks and zongzi. There’s even a DIY fish tank activity—you could easily spend the whole day here. On a hot summer afternoon, sitting on the swing with cool water splashing beneath your feet is the perfect way to beat the heat!!

Free Attractions ~ 11. Yuanshan Township. Wanglong Pi
Address: No. 54, Pocheng Rd., Yuanshan Township, Yilan County (behind Hushan Elementary School)

Here, you can walk along the lake’s central pathway and then follow the lakeside trail to slowly appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Especially when standing in the middle of the lake and looking into the distance, with a gentle breeze blowing and birds chirping now and then, it feels like nature is embracing you. There’s also a hiking trail uphill where the whole family can take a stroll. The flower fields made famous by the idol drama “Autumn’s Concerto” are also located here!!

Free Attractions ~ 12. Yuanshan Township. Crabs Bubbling
Location: No. 18-23, Dahu Rd., Yuanshan Township (beside Provincial Highway 9A, en route to Zhentou and Shuanglianpi)

This is a natural pool formed in a depression beside Provincial Highway 9A, where numerous streams and springs are found. When groundwater bubbles up from beneath, small bubbles emerge from the bottom of the pool, and the fine sand stirs along with them—resembling crabs blowing bubbles, hence the name.

Free Attractions ~ 13. Yuanshan Township. Shuanglianpi
Address: Shuangpi Rd., Yuanshan Township, Yilan County
GPS: E121.6377 (121°38'15.7"E), N24.7494 (24°44'57.8"N)

The low-altitude Shuanglianpi Wetland is a treasure of Yilan and of Taiwan. It boasts incredibly rich natural landscapes, especially with many unique aquatic plants—nature lovers shouldn’t miss this fantastic spot!! In the middle of the lake is a floating island covered with aquatic vegetation, resembling a carpet that drifts with the waves, creating a very special sight. I love how this place has a little Swiss vibe—relaxed and carefree. Driving along the lakeside is incredibly soothing. When the season is right, the scent of flowers mixed with the breeze is simply heavenly.

Free Attractions ~ 14. Zhuangwei Township. Yongzhen Coastal Park
Address: No. 382, Section 4, Zhuangbin Rd., Yongzhen Village, Zhuangwei Township, Yilan County
Phone: 03-9301241

Climb the slope next to Yongzhen Temple for about three or four minutes to reach Yongzhen Coastal Park, which has a small parking lot at the entrance. The endless sandy beach displays a variety of moods with the crashing waves. Though the sand is black and not as picturesque as Neipi in Nanshanhou, the fine grains feel much more comfortable underfoot. The beach slopes gently, making it safe to wade into the waves. The park features boardwalks and viewing pavilions by the shore. Back in school days, my friends and I loved coming here to see Guishan Island. The beach stretches for over ten kilometers—from Zhuan’anxi Estuary in the north to Lanyangxi Estuary in the south. Strolling along the sand, playing in it, splashing in the water, and watching the waves is a truly relaxing experience.

Free Attractions ~ 15. Sanxing Township. Kelin Spring
Address: Kelin Rd., Dayin Village, Sanxing Township, Yilan County
GPS:E:121:43'43" N:24:40'47.59"

Using abundant natural spring water, an ecologically functional waterway has been constructed to provide diverse recreational facilities for families. The riverbanks have been restored using near-natural engineering methods to create water-friendly spaces and habitats for aquatic life, bringing back native species such as river clams, crayfish, freshwater fish, as well as aquatic plants and ginger lilies. Greenery has been planted along the canals to restore the vitality of the land, improve the rural landscape, and beautify the countryside. This enhances modern people’s physical and mental wellbeing, promotes health, and expands the agricultural water conservancy facilities’ production, living, and ecological functions.

Free Attractions ~ 16. Sanxing Township. Annongxi Flood Diversion Weir Scenic Area
Ludong Sports Park → Beicheng Bridge → Wanchangchun Bridge → Kezilin Bridge → Go straight on the road under Dazhou Bridge → Turn left onto Annong 9th Rd. → Annongxi Flood Diversion Weir.

The flood diversion weir scenic area is located in the northeast of Sanxing Township, near Ludong Sports Park. Developed over four years with an investment of nearly NT$20 million, this scenic area, also known as the “Spring Water Park,” features a spring water swimming pool, a play pool, pavilions, pathways, a management center, parking lots, landscaping, multiple pavilions, and seating. It serves as both a scenic spot for enjoying nature and a natural park for ecological study.

17. Sanxing Township. Annongxi Rafting
GPS: Latitude 24° 40' 07.32'' N / Longitude 121° 41' 55.05'' E
Registration Hotline: (03)989-5566

The Annongxi River is approximately twenty kilometers long, with an average annual water discharge of about twenty cubic meters per second. The rafting route runs from Tian Shan Village’s Xiahu Bridge to Zhanggongwei Riverside Park, spanning around ten kilometers and taking about two hours. The river varies between narrow and wide sections; there are fast-flowing, thrilling rapids as well as calm gravel shoals, green fields, flower-lined paths, and rural homes… all offering diverse scenery that changes with the seasons.

Free Attraction ~ 18. Dongshan Township. Meihua Lake
No. 1, Dapi Road, De’an Village, Dongshan Township, Yilan County
Phone: 03-9615576

Located at the foot of Sanqing Temple in Dongshan Township, Meihua Lake is surrounded by mountains on three sides and is shaped like a plum blossom—hence its name. It is the largest natural lake in the Xinan area of Yilan County, boasting beautiful scenery and making it a well-known local attraction. On the hour, music plays by the lake, and water fountains dance to the rhythm. Nearby the lakeshore, there are many casual eateries and cafes. Since the lake area roads are completely closed off, cycling, jogging, and walking are very safe. Options like tandem bikes and family bikes are readily available—you don’t even need to bring your own bike, which is very convenient. The lakeside paths are picturesque, and a stroll along the shore is truly romantic.

Free Attraction ~ 19. Dongshan Township. Xinliao Waterfall Trail
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Address: End of Xinliao Second Road, Zhongshan Village, Dongshan Township, Yilan County (GPS: E.121 44 49.1 N.24 36 24.3)
Phone: 03-958-0169 (Forestry Bureau Dongshan Work Station)

Xinliao Waterfall is the source of the Dongshan River. Starting from the Dongshan Work Station of the Lanyang Forest Management Office and leading to the waterfall viewing platform (the first tier), the trail is 900 meters long and constructed entirely using ecological engineering methods. It features suspension bridges and pathways, with small bridges and flowing water complemented by a forest spa experience that is truly unforgettable. Although Yilan has developed many forest trails and waterfalls, some areas have been overly developed or damaged, losing their natural charm. Therefore, the trail entrance has a control station to protect its natural ecology. While the previous limit of 300 visitors per holiday has been lifted, entry and exit controls are still in place to maintain the best possible eco-tourism experience. Please note that the trail may be damaged and closed after typhoons, so it’s best to call ahead before planning your trip.

20. Su’ao Town. Wulikeng Scenic Area
Address: No. 75, Wulikeng Road, Su’ao Town, Yilan County　
Phone: (03)995-2852

The Wulikeng Stream has gentle currents and shallow waters, making it perfect for playing in the water, catching shrimp, and rafting. The deeper pools are rich in fish such as mountain stream trout and stone loach, making it an ideal spot for fishing. The area includes campgrounds that require reservations, and it’s best to avoid visiting during the summer when Yilan County junior high school summer camping activities are held. The annual Yilan Green Expo is also hosted here, making it a widely recognized scenic destination.

21. Su’ao Town. Su’ao Cold Spring
Address: No. 6-4, Cold Spring Road, Su’ao Town, Yilan County
Phone: 03-9960645
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

This rare mineral spring can only be found in Italy and, in Southeast Asia, exclusively in the Su’ao area. The formation of cold springs requires two main conditions: abundant groundwater and rock layers capable of producing large amounts of carbon dioxide. Su’ao benefits from plentiful rainfall and thick limestone layers in the strata, providing both essential elements. As carbon dioxide gas rises and pressure decreases, it expands, absorbs heat, and eventually surfaces at a cool temperature of 22°C. After soaking in the cold spring, enjoy a bottle of Ramune soda for the ultimate treat.

Free Attraction ~ 22. Su’ao Town. Nanfang’ao Neipi Bay
Address: Neipi Road, Su’ao Town (Opposite Nan’an Junior High School, 117 Xuefu Road, Nanjian Li, Su’ao Town, Yilan County)

Nanfang’ao Neipi Bay, also known as Lovers’ Bay, offers slides, ice cream, sand play, and wave stepping—perfect for spending half a day here. But remember, beyond the beach lies a deep trench, so keep a close eye on children’s safety. Both Nanfang’ao and Neipi Bay are areas full of untapped potential—with the sea, fish, culture, and delicious food. Once a hidden gem known only to locals, this crescent-shaped bay and its pebble beach have become a favorite among tourists. Nearby, you’ll also find Tofu Hero, another fun spot to explore.

Free Attraction ~ 23. Su’ao Town. Tofu Cape
Route: After entering Su’ao, head toward Nanfang’ao, pass the port area, turn left over the harbor bridge, and you’ll arrive.

Tofu Cape is located east of Nanfang’ao and the fishing harbor, formed by a land-tied island and sandbars, creating a scenic small bay also known as a sand neck cape. With its unique landscape, the cape’s rocky reefs resemble tofu slices, hence the name “Tofu Cape.” The area is expansive, with planned facilities. Its arc-shaped terrain features a recessed shoreline. The coastal pathway stretches from northwest to southeast, designed to connect various zones including the ladder access area, pavilion viewing rest area, entrance plaza, beach activity zone, and breakwater zone. The bay entrance is equipped with nets to keep the waters clean. In summer, the waves are small and calm, making it great for swimming, snorkeling, morning swims, and more.

Free Attraction ~ 24. Datong Township. Songluo National Trail
Address: Songluo Village, Datong Township, Yilan County
(From Provincial Highway 7 heading toward Taipingshan, turn right just before the 97.7 km marker, right before the bridge. Walk straight in until you reach the control station, then park in the lot and proceed on foot to enter.)

The parking lot to the trailhead is about 1.5 km, the entire trail is 2 km long, and the round trip takes approximately 2–3 hours. Along the way, you’ll see the Rice Ball Stone, Osmanthus Bamboo Bridge, and Giant Rock Waterfall... I think although the trail is long, it has far fewer visitors compared to Linmei Trail and Xinxiao Waterfall, giving it a more relaxing vibe. However, it’s not suitable for the elderly or young children!!

Free Attraction ~ 25. Datong Township. Jiuliaoxi Nature Ecological Park
Address: Next to CPC Datong Gas Station, Datong Township, Yilan County (slightly left in front of Tayal Bridge)

Since 1997 (the 86th year of the Republic of China), the Datong Township Office has planned the section of Jiuliaoxi River from the aquaculture area downstream to the high riverbank, constructing simple facilities such as a barbecue area, scenic pavilions, and a large parking lot, in preparation for developing it into a leisure and recreational area. Those who are physically fit can venture further in to find beautiful waterfalls. With year-round abundant and crystal-clear water flow, and multiple fault lines along its course, the river forms spectacular and majestic waterfalls. Among them, the first and second waterfalls are especially breathtaking.

Free Attraction ~ 26. Nan’ao Township. Dongyue Spring
Next to Dong’ao Elementary School, Address: No. 209, Section 3, Su-Hua Road, Nan’ao Township, Yilan County

Enter via the small road next to Dong’ao Elementary School, drive in for about 5–6 minutes to reach under the railway bridge. Beneath the tracks is a great sheltered spot with camping areas. The water here is clear and very cold, maintaining a temperature of around 15–16 degrees Celsius year-round. The shallow water is perfect for kids to play in. There are three pools: one is 50 cm deep, another 60 cm, and the third isn’t much deeper, so everyone can sit by the edge, splash around, and catch fish and shrimp. Another fun thing about this spot is watching trains pass overhead — it’s quite amusing.

Free Attraction ~ 27. Nan’ao Township. Bidanxi Creek Canyoning

Originating from Danan’ao Ridge at an elevation of 1,170 meters, it winds through Jinyang Village in Nan’ao Township, Yilan, and is a tributary of the Nanxi River in Nan’ao. Flanked by cliffs about 20 meters high, it’s known as the “Little Golden Gorge.” With numerous huge rocks and crystal-clear waters, the scenery is dreamlike. Along the way, you can enjoy cliff-jumping into deep pools, cool SPA-like dips, and natural water slides... thrilling and fun!!

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