Summer water fun is here – hop on a transparent canoe to admire the stunning marine views!

Tripbaa Fun Ba!, Asia’s Free Travel Expert

It’s that time of year again when you can embrace the sea and blue skies. In Taiwan, an island nation surrounded by water...

SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) has become one of the most popular water activities in recent years—not only because it’s easy to learn, but also due to its flexible and diverse ways to play. You can stand, sit, or even lie down while paddling. Not only can you experience the feeling of gliding across the water, but you’ll also enjoy the thrill of surfing, sailing with the wind over the sea. It’s definitely the top water activity choice for your summer vacation!

As SUP has rapidly gained popularity in recent years, you can find SUP experiences almost everywhere among the top water activities. The most unique option might be the “Giant SUP” at Wuyan Cape in Yilan, where families can paddle together or friends can form teams to compete in what’s known as the “Blue Beer Sea,” feeling the youthful energy of summer.

On your way to the hidden gem of Wuyan Cape in Yilan, you’ll also pass through Zéizǎi’ào and Nèipí Azure Coast, exploring the area’s unique gravel beaches—making it a must-do water activity this summer.

If you’re looking for a serene, undisturbed experience, head to Donghe in Taitung. Paddle along the river, weaving through the gaps between emperor rocks, and enjoy the thrill of flowing with the stream. By morning, reach the estuary and paddle your SUP while watching the beautiful sunrise on the east coast. And don’t worry about getting hungry—the outdoor wilderness breakfast is already prepared for you. It’s a perfect summer water activity for the whole family to relax and enjoy.

Speaking of Kenting, besides Qieding and Eluanbi, can’t think of any new spots or activities? Why not take a turn to Kenting’s Xia[obscured] area? There’s a fantastic SUP experience here that not only helps relieve stress but also lets you admire coral reefs up close in the simplest and closest way possible, enjoying the beauty of summer with the sea.

Yuguang Island, with its romantic name, is a small island located off the southwest coast of Anping in Tainan, historically known as the Sānkūn[obscured] area during the Qing Dynasty. Fishermen used to come here to fish and rest briefly before gradually settling down and cultivating oysters. The lights from these nighttime fishing activities slowly transformed this abandoned little island into what we now know as “Yuguang Island.”

Thanks to its lagoon and sandbar terrain, the waters here are especially calm, making it ideal for beginner SUP enthusiasts. Enjoy the beach and the fine-sand oyster shed scenery of Yuguang Island from the water. After your SUP session, you can also stroll through the expansive casuarina forests on the island and experience the diverse charm of Tainan.

In Sun Moon Lake, you can take the cable car or ride a bike, but you should also try a novel water activity to truly appreciate the beauty of summer. That’s why we especially recommend the Sun Moon Lake SUP experience. Paddle your SUP stand-up board at one of Taiwan’s top ten must-visit attractions, taking a close-up look at the beautiful hidden corners of Sun Moon Lake and admiring its splendor from a different perspective—offering a unique water activity experience unlike anyone else’s!

Beyond swimming, surfing, and river tracing, canoeing has long been a favorite challenge for many water sports enthusiasts. Canoeing not only allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience nature from a different angle, but it’s also a great opportunity for self-reflection. After a canoeing trip, you might gain more scenery than you ever imagined!

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If you think Xiao Liuqiu is only good for snorkeling, you’re wrong. With the highest average annual sea temperature in Taiwan, Xiao Liuqiu boasts a rich coral reef ecosystem and gatherings of sea turtles. The crystal-clear waters make it perfect for canoeing to explore its popular sea spots. And we highly recommend trying out a “transparent canoe” to fully appreciate the astonishingly blue beauty of Xiao Liuqiu.

Moreover, the waves in Xiao Liuqiu are gentle—even if you’ve never canoed before, there’s no need to worry. Before heading out, instructors will teach you the basics of paddling and safety precautions, and they’ll personally assist you as you launch. You’ll cruise along the coastline, seeing Xiao Liuqiu’s seascape from a fresh perspective.

Besides Xiao Liuqiu, you can also enjoy transparent canoeing in Matsu—and right now is the season for the Blue Tears phenomenon. Paddling out in a transparent canoe, you can see the marine life beneath the clear waters up close and even catch a glimpse of the sparkling Blue Tears. With a starry sky free of light pollution, set off on a romantic voyage.

Located on the eastern side, Taitung’s Meilibay is the only non-gravel beach in the area, with soft and fine sand, and occasional natural coral sand. Travelers who have visited here surely hope to swim, explore by boat, and find a way to coexist sustainably with this beach—and canoeing is one such experience.

Paddle through the azure waters and earthy cliff walls on a canoeing adventure along the ancestral coast, discovering the true beauty of Meilibay. Look back at the lush shore and mountains. On this canoeing journey, you bring out surfboards and food, but return with memories.

Houwan is a hidden gem located behind the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium in Pingtung. It not only boasts a rich intertidal zone but is also a stunning spot to watch the sunset. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or a cold beer while quietly sitting by the shore, taking in the undisturbed view. Of course, for a more unique experience, you can join a local canoeing activity and sail across the calm waters, soaking in the breathtaking 360-degree seascape.

In Hualien, if you only stay in the city or at Qixingtan, it might be a bit too conservative. Step out of your comfort zone and head to the majestic Qingshui Cliffs to try camping in a pristine natural environment. You can stargaze and moonwatch in a light-pollution-free setting, and even paddle a canoe to experience watching the sunrise alongside the Qingshui Cliffs—a unique sea adventure. Who says summer water activities have to be limited to just one style?

The sunrise over the eastern sea of Taitung, where the first rays of light paint the white cliffs in golden hues, offers an incredibly majestic spectacle. The vastness of the ocean and the purity of the rising sun create an atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring. The contrast between the deep blue sea and the bright morning light stirs a feeling of connection with nature, while the gentle sea breeze invigorates the spirit. It's an experience that fills one with vitality, as if embraced by the morning sun itself, making it a must-do for anyone seeking a fresh start to the day.

Located in southern Penghu, Jiuru Beach has gradually become less frequented since businesses withdrew years ago, resulting in fewer visitors on regular days. This has instead gifted the beach a tranquil and leisurely environment. The sea remains as blue as ever, and the sand as white as before, making it one of the cleanest beaches in Penghu. It even offers novel underwater mail and snorkeling experiences. Moreover, summer is the best season to visit Penghu for independent travel and water activities. Take a holiday to admire the azure sea and vibrant tropical fish!

When visiting Qimei Island in Penghu, besides seeing the iconic Double-Heart Stone Weir, you must also go snorkeling at Qimei Moon Carp Bay. The coral and fish species here differ from those on the main island, and the surrounding waters are exceptionally calm and peaceful—perfect for travelers seeking undisturbed water fun. After snorkeling, you can explore Qimei Island and even play with the local sheep you might encounter!

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Hearing about the Marine God Temple in Pingtung for the first time, you might assume it’s a temple attraction. But actually, it’s a fascinating stream named after an ancient Paiwan legend. It features canyon landscapes such as deep gullies, steep cliffs, pools, and centuries-old banyan trees. This rich natural resource is not only refreshing but also an ideal spot for summer water activities.

Among the most famous streams in Hualien is Mugumuyu, but due to ecological conservation, it is currently closed to the public. However, travelers need not be disappointed, as the nearby Jade Valley also boasts abundant natural scenery—such as emerald-green waters, giant rocks, waterfalls, and deep pools—all unique to Hualien’s Jade Valley. If you want to feel the pulse of flowing water, consider joining a canyoning activity for a challenging and refreshing summer water adventure.

Besides the more common water activities like canoeing, SUP, snorkeling, and canyoning, Taiwan’s diverse geography and island environment have given rise to many unique water-based activities. These include water trampolines, sea swings, and immersive fishing experiences—all excellent choices for summer fun on the water.

Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung is not only a well-known local landmark but also, with its wide and calm waters, perfect for water activities. It even hosts many international water sports competitions. If you don’t want to travel far on weekends, come here to try exciting water trampoline jumps, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), water sumo games, and free-fall cubes. It’s great for groups of friends or family trips, making it one of the best spots for popular summer water activities!

Waterskiing is quite similar to surfing, but it's a water activity where you're pulled along by an instructor. Initially, the skier lies on the surfboard, and as the boat pulls the board forward, they must find their balance to stand up. The challenge of repeatedly falling and getting back up makes for a thrilling and exhilarating experience.

There are also many adorable small islands in the eastern sea area of Penghu: Yuanbei Islet, Dinggou Islet, Bird Islet, and Pengpeng Shoal. Each has its own unique scenery and can be accessed by sightseeing or passenger ferries.

Recently, cruising in the East Sea isn’t just about island-hopping—it also lets you try the latest sea activity: the “sea swing.” The captain will steer the boat to a safe area, then let passengers take turns grabbing the swing and giving it a big swing, fully experiencing the thrill of gravitational acceleration. The moment you splash into the water, you’ll feel ultimate satisfaction from the water activity!

If you’re a traveler who loves the sea more than the mountains, this cooling water spot is perfect for you. Join a guide across the most beautiful coastline to Keelung Bisha Fishing Port, board the all-white “Jade Dragon No. 8,” and head out onto the dark sea. Along the way, enjoy sea fishing, karaoke, and delicious fresh sashimi, seafood rice noodles, and sea-land barbecue—a fantastic way to experience summer water fun and beat the heat!

Qitou Fishing Port in Penghu, besides being the gateway to the East Sea, is also the top spot for night fishing. Since squid are seasonal migratory creatures, they return to the waters around Penghu every summer from June to September. Going out to sea with professional captains and instructors to fish for squid offers an authentic Penghu fishing experience—the best water activity for summer!

Shiti Ping in Hualien is a must-visit spot along Provincial Highway 11. Not only does it offer beautiful coastal scenery and rich tribal culture, but it’s also a key local fishing hub. This has led to unique night fishing activities. From May to June, you might even catch the flying fish season, while July to September is the peak for squid. It's not only a top choice for summer water activities but also a great way to experience the nighttime maritime life and fishing culture of the east coast.

[Tripbaa Funbaa!] Authorized Repost | Original Source: [Summer Search: Transparent Canoes, 20 New Water Activities Across Taiwan]

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