[Family Travel] Sunset Strolls and Sandy Secrets: Yiguang Island in Tainan

When people talk about offshore islands, they might think of Green Island or Orchid Island, but there’s actually another island near the southwestern tip of Anping Fort called Yiguang Island. In ancient times, many fishermen fished at night, and the sea was covered with the lights of fishing boats, which gave this poetic name to the island.

Once known as Sankun Islet, Yiguang Island was originally an island. Over three hundred years, sediment from the Taiwan Strait gradually connected it to the main island of Taiwan. It became an independent island again only three years ago after the opening of the Anping Fishing Port.The Yiguang Bridge is the only access road to the island. Turn left after crossing the bridge to reach Yiguang Branch of Yidai Elementary School, which features a captivating elephant-shaped slide. Turn right after crossing the bridge to get to Qiumaoyuan. Speaking of Qiumaoyuan, a colleague said, “I haven’t heard that name in ages…” Thinking back ten years, Qiumaoyuan was once one of the popular dating spots for couples. The island is covered with shady casuarina trees, which carry a sense of weathered beauty from the sea breeze. The long coastline, scattered visitors, gentle waves, and soft sea winds instantly wash away the stress and worries of daily life. Children carry small buckets, playing in the water and stepping on the waves.

If you visit Yiguang Island after a typhoon, you might see shells scattered everywhere—many spiral-shaped ones. It reminds me of a recent news story where hermit crabs on Green Island, unable to find shells, had resorted to using discarded ghost dolls as their homes. That news was truly heartbreaking. So after playing in the sand or collecting shells, remember to put them back so hermit crabs can find suitable homes. Unfortunately, some washed-up oyster racks and chunks of Styrofoam still litter the shore, polluting this pristine land and spoiling its beautiful scenery.

In Tainan, it’s no longer too hot after four in the afternoon, and the cool sea breeze makes it perfect for family and couple outings, especially around sunset when the sky turns vibrant orange-red. The faded charm of Yiguang Island gives off a sense of desolation, mystery, and being a world apart. 1. There are no restroom facilities here, so it’s recommended to bring a bucket of tap water (like the kind used for bottled water) and a towel.
2. Although there are surfers here, there are no lifeguards, so swimming is not advised. It’s great just to play in the waves, build sandcastles, and enjoy the view.
3. Do not visit during typhoons or bad sea conditions. Safety first, safety first, safety first!(It’s that important, so we’ll say it three times!)

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