Limited-Time Algae Spectacle: A Newly Discovered Coastal Gem

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

The Shimen Laomei Green Stone Troughs on the North Coast are Taiwan’s only unique landscape, where vast green algae blankets the volcanic reef rocks every April and May, attracting many visitors and photography enthusiasts. Yuanli Beach in Miaoli also boasts a similarly stunning scene, with large patches of green algae covering rocks of all sizes, creating a breathtaking view under the sunlight.

Yuanli Beach is a typical west coast beach, with minimal human impact in this stretch, making it a rare coastal attraction. The beach has a significant tidal range, with a wide and deep intertidal zone, resulting in abundant local marine catch.

The large tidal variation also creates a unique algae spectacle. Every April and May, when the tide recedes, large areas of green algae covering the rocks are exposed, resembling the scenery of Laomei Green Stone Troughs on the North Coast. Additionally, similar green algae landscapes can be found at Tainan’s Golden Coast and Yiguang Island.