Hidden waterfalls for splashing fun & cycling on ancient trails: 9 recommended summer getaways in New Taipei

▲ Sunset at Fisherman’s Wharf. (Photo / Provided by New Taipei City Government)

Reported by Yu Jiayun / Comprehensive Report

A hot summer calls for wild celebrations. The New Taipei City Government’s Tourism Bureau has curated three themed travel routes: Waterfront Music Light Shows, Cool Mountain Waterfalls, and Family-Friendly Riverside Parks — totaling nine routes. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic bay vibe, escape the hustle to mountain waterfalls for a cool retreat, or entertain kids during the long summer break while soaking up sea breezes on a water bus, it’s all here in New Taipei.

Theme 1: Summer Exclusive – Cool Off in New Taipei This Season

Summer is made for water fun — what else? Coastal New Taipei boasts naturally stunning waterfront scenery, with attractions like Tamsui-Bali and Fulong Beach renowned worldwide.
This summer, the left bank of the Tamsui River will offer a fresh experience. From July 1 to August 31, the riverside will be transformed into the “Bali Romantic Lights” shoreline, decorated with LED lights on the existing landscape. Experience the touching blend of summer evening breezes and romantic lighting along the water.

▲ The Old Caoling Trail is great for cycling. (Photo / By Reporter Chen Ziying)

Route 1: Tamsui Golden Waterfront / Tamsui Old Street → Tamsui Art Workshop → Tamsui Customs Wharf → Tamsui Fort San Domingo → Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf → Fisherman’s Stage

Route 2: Tamsui → Bali Wazihwei Nature Reserve → Sanxia History Museum → Bali Old Street

Route 3: Fulong Station → Yuanwangkeng Water Park → Lingjiushan WuSheng Monastery → Old Caoling Tunnel / Old Caoling Cycling Loop → Maokao Fishing Village → Sijiaokou Viewpoint → Fulong Beach (New Taipei City Gongliao Ocean Music Festival)

Theme 2: Summer Exclusive – Secret Waterfall Trails

New Taipei is home to many waterfall trails that feel like stepping abroad. For example, the Lingjiaoliao Trail lets you stand before the Wanggu Waterfall, watch the cascade, cross streams, and immerse yourself in serene mountain vibes. The famed Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Niagara of Taiwan,” offers an abundance of negative ions in a fairy-tale setting. The Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail features a series of falls, cliffs, potholes, and caves, exuding raw wilderness. Meanwhile, Shuangxi’s Hupotan boasts crystal-clear waters in a tranquil, secluded environment.

▲ Wanggu Waterfall is a hidden summer retreat in New Taipei. (Photo / Provided by New Taipei City Government)

Route 1 (Taiwan Tourist Shuttle – Muzha Pingxi Line): Jingting Old Street → Pingxi Old Street → Lingjiaoliao Trail → Wanggu Waterfall → Shifen Waterfall

Route 2: Shuangxi Old Street → Hupotan → Houzidong Cat Village → Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail

Route 3: Pinglin Fish & Fern Trail → Tea Museum → Wulai Old Street → Wulai Waterfall → Bitan Scenic Area

▲ Hupotan is perfect for summer water play. (Photo / Provided by New Taipei Tourism Website)

Theme 3: Must-Visit in Summer – Fun for Families by the Riverside

Kids’ most anticipated summer vacation is here. Still wondering where to take the little ones to burn off energy? Riverside parks on the city outskirts have always been popular spots for family outings. With vast green spaces by the river, a full range of recreational facilities, and bike paths connecting the entire park, they’re ideal for summer family trips — giving urban kids a refreshing change of scenery.

▲ Bitan is a great place for family strolls. (Photo /Purple Smile)

Route 1: Bitan Scenic Area → Sunshine Sports Park → Sunshine Bridge

Route 2: Yonghe Soy Milk → Yang Sanlang Art Museum → Green Light Riverside Park → Yonghe Korean Street

Route 3: Greater Taipei Metropolitan Park → Zhongxiao Wharf → Duck/Dragonfly Landscape Park → Sanhe Night Market