Yilan Summer Water Fun Special: A Lazy Guide to 30 "Water Play Spots"!

Text & Photos／Purple Smile

Looking for water fun in summer?! Yilan boasts a unique environment and cool, clean water—hot springs, cold springs, streams, and even beachcombing~~ It’s all collected here!!

Free Attractions~1. Toucheng Township. Waiao Tourist Service Area (Click for details)

Address: No. 6, Section 2, Binhai Rd., Toucheng Township, Yilan County

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

2. Toucheng Township. Whale Watching, Island Landing & Circumnavigation at Guishan Island (Triple Combo) (Click for details)

Whale Watching Cruise Phone: 0920-522999 / 0985-064997
Boarding Point - Wushih Port Visitor Center (No. 30, Lane 15, Gangkou Rd., Port Li, Toucheng Township, Yilan County)

The whale watching, island landing, and circumnavigation combo takes about 4 hours. We set off at 9 AM and returned to Wushih Port around 1:30 PM. On a very clear day, it’s truly a spectacular journey. If you get the chance, don’t miss climbing to the 401 Highland (Guishan Island’s Hero Slope)!

Free Attraction~ 3. Toucheng Township. Daxi Honeymoon Bay (Click for details)

From the Xueshan Tunnel, take the Toucheng exit and head toward Waiao. After passing Beiguan and about 50 meters past Daxi Elementary School, turn left onto a small path next to a small temple to reach Honeymoon Bay.

Honeymoon Bay is located near Daxi in Toucheng Township, Yilan County, and is the only sandy beach north of Beiguan. The entire bay is crescent-shaped, with crystal-clear waters and soft, gently sloping sands that extend into the sea—perfect for couples and friends to stroll hand-in-hand, splash around, and enjoy the water together. From here, you can gaze at Guishan Island in the distance and relax along Honeymoon Bay’s beautiful curved shoreline, ideal for swimming, fishing, diving... and more. Another highlight of Honeymoon Bay is its rocky shores on both sides, with a soft sandy middle section where waves average 1 to 3 meters high, making it a major surfing spot in northern Taiwan.

Free Attraction~4. Jiaoxi Township. Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park + Tangwei Gully Park (Click for details)

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

Everyone knows Tangwei Gully Park, but its proximity to high-rises can feel a bit oppressive due to its closeness to Jiaoxi’s bustling area, which also makes it more convenient. In contrast, Jiaoxi Hot Spring Park spans about 5.02 hectares, set against a forested backdrop with a park-like layout that creates the perfect hot spring atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy the warmest, most blissful hot spring experience.

Free Attraction~5. Jiaoxi Township. Wufengqi Waterfall (Click for details)

Address: Wufeng Rd., Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County
Phone: 03-9880940

Wufengqi Waterfall is arguably one of Yilan County’s most famous scenic spots, featuring a three-tiered cascade. Along the short path, you can hear the soothing sound of flowing water, and with the occasional breeze carrying a hint of mist, it’s incredibly refreshing in the summer. Below the waterfall is a sediment dam, which is also quite fun—some areas are great for playing in the water, while others are suitable for swimming. But remember, this isn’t an official swimming pool, so safety comes first when enjoying the water!!

Free Attraction~6. Jiaoxi Township. Wufengqi Tourist Service Center (Click for details)

Location: Yilan County, Jiaoxi Township. Drive past the Lai Lai Hotel Jiaoxi toward Wufengqi Waterfall, and you’ll arrive here in about 1 minute. The small stream at the foot of Wufengqi Waterfall Mountain is a great spot for family water play—and the best part? It’s free!!! Near the mountain base of Wufengqi Waterfall, there’s a well-planned parking lot that can accommodate dozens of cars easily. Just park, walk a few steps, and you’re at the water play area—super convenient!!

Free Attractions~7. Diaoxi Township. Monkey Cave Gorge Waterfall (Click here to read more)

Location: After exiting the Toucheng-Diaoxi Interchange on the Beiyi Expressway, drive toward Diaoxi. Turn right into the alley next to No. 17, Section 7, Diaoxi Road, go straight to the end, then turn right again and continue walking. You’ll see the Nansing Temple; the small mountain path beside it is the entrance to the trail.
GPS Coordinates: E121.7827 (121°46'57.7"E), N24.8415 (24°50'29.4"N)

During the rainy season, you can witness the spectacular waterfall, which is about 6 meters wide and 25 meters high. The rocks on both sides of the stream bed have been eroded by the water, resulting in a landscape of massive boulders. The splashing water forms a waterfall with a drop of over ten meters. The surrounding forest is lush and dense, offering a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Couples who visit the Monkey Cave Waterfall together are said to be destined for a happy life—those with love in their hearts might want to check it out and see the scenery for themselves.

Free Attractions~8. Diaoxi Township. Linmei Shiban Trail (Click here to read more)

Address: Linmei Village, Diaoxi Township, Yilan County (GPS: E121.7357, N24.8225)
Exit at the Toucheng Interchange on the Beiyi Expressway, follow Highway 9 south toward Diaoxi, pass Deyang Road (Yi 5 Township Road) to Dafeng Bridge, then turn right onto Yi 6 Township Road up the mountain. There are signs for Diaoxi Golf Course along the way. Do not enter the golf course but continue a short distance until you reach the fork for the Linmei Shiban Trail.

As soon as you step onto the trail, you’ll feel the atmosphere of a primeval forest—lush greenery and thick shade that blocks out the sun, bringing an immediate wave of coolness. The trail is fairly flat and easy to walk, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the scenery without much effort. Small wooden stakes are placed every 100 meters to mark the distance, so you won’t get lost. The views along the way are captivating—you’ll constantly hear the sound of streams and see numerous waterfalls. The abundance of waterfall clusters is truly eye-opening. The subtropical plants in the corridor release rich phytoncides, and the Shiban Waterfall generates a high concentration of negative ions. Walking through this area, you’ll breathe in the “vitamin of the air,” feeling refreshed and invigorated. The entire hike takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Free Attractions~ 9. Yilan City. Longtan Lake Scenic Area (Click here to read more)

Address: No. 1, Huanchi Road, Longtan Village, Diaoxi Township, Yilan County
GPS:E 121°44'22" ( 121.7396) N 24°47'33" ( 24.7925)

Longtan, formerly known as Dapi and commonly called “Dabei Lake,” is one of the “Twelve Scenic Spots of LanYang.” Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the lake covers an area of about 17 hectares and is the largest of Yilan’s five famous lakes. Strolling along the lakeside path, you’ll be surrounded by shady trees that enhance the tranquility of the mountain-water scenery. The night view here is also quite impressive—if you have time, come and see it for yourself. The popular new giant slide is also a favorite spot for family outings.

10. Yuanshan Township. Huayuan Farm (Click here to read more)

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

Admission is NT$50, which can also be used as credit toward food or drinks (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 wild ginger flower 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. Leigongpi Pond

Address: No. 28, Section 3, Yongtong Road, Yuanshan Township, Yilan County

Leigongpi Pond is a natural spring-fed irrigation lake, mainly divided into upper and lower sections, with the lower section being larger. The water is clear, making it a haven for fish and a favorite spot for anglers. Common catches include needlefish, big-bellied fish, tilapia, and crucian carp. To provide a better leisure environment for anglers and visitors, the Yuanshan Township Office has built walking paths, revetments, plantings, fishing platforms, and nighttime lighting around the pond.

Free Attractions~12. Yuanshan Township. Wanglongpi Pond (Click here to read more)

Address: No. 54, Pocheng Road, Yuanshan Township, Yilan County (behind Hushan Elementary School)

Here, you can walk along the lake’s central path and then follow the lakeside trail to slowly soak in the beauty of the landscape. Especially when standing in the middle of the lake, looking into the distance with a gentle breeze blowing and birds chirping now and then, you’ll feel nature 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~13. Yuanshan Township. Crab Bubbles (Click here to read more)

Location: No. 23-2, Da’hu Road, Yuanshan Township (beside Highway 9A heading toward Zhentou and Shuanglianpi)

This is a natural pool formed in a depression by the roadside of Highway 9A, where numerous streams and springs converge. When groundwater bubbles up from the bottom, tiny bubbles emerge, and the fine sand on the pond bed stirs with the bubbles—resembling a crab blowing bubbles—hence the name “Crab Bubbles.”

Free Attractions~14. Yuanshan Township. Zhentou Mandarin Duck Stream (Click here to read more)

Head along Provincial Highway 9A toward Shuanglianpi, and you’ll find many cars parked by the roadside, with two spots where you can descend into the stream for barbecues and playing in the water.

Back in the day, Jean’s dad often brought us here to catch fish and play in the water—damselflies would even land gently on your hands. Zhentou Mandarin Duck Stream is located by Provincial Highway 9A in Yuanshan, on the way to Shuanglianpi and Fushan Botanical Garden. The cool, crystal-clear waters are a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The nearby area is called Benshan Lake because heavy annual rainfall causes landslides that alter the river’s course. After cooling off in the icy stream, continue upstream toward Shuanglianpi.

Free Attractions~15. Yuanshan Township. Shuanglianpi (Click here to read more)

Address: Shuangpi Road, Yuanshan Township, Yilan County
GPS: E121.6377 (121°38'15.7"E), N24.7494 (24°44'57.8"N)
Shuanglianpi in the Mist

The low-altitude Shuanglianpi Wetland is a treasure of Yilan and of Taiwan. It boasts rich natural scenery, especially with its unique aquatic plants—perfect for nature lovers. In the middle of the lake is a floating island covered in lush vegetation, resembling a moving carpet, which is a truly unique sight. I love how this place gives off a little Swiss vibe—relaxed and carefree. Driving along the lakeside is incredibly soothing. When the season is right, with a hint of floral scent and a gentle breeze... it’s paradise.

Free Attractions~16. Zhuangwei Township. Yongzhen Coastal Park

Address: No. 382, Section 4, Zhuangbin Road, 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. Endless sandy beaches showcase diverse beauty with the lapping waves. Though not as picturesque as Neipi in Nanfangao, the fine black sand here is much more comfortable to walk on. The beach has a gentle slope, making it safe to wade into the waves. The park features boardwalks and viewing pavilions by the sea. Back in school, my friends and I loved coming here to see Turtle Island. The beach stretches for over ten kilometers, from Zhuan’Anxi Estuary in the north to LanYangxi Estuary in the south. It’s the perfect spot for strolling, playing in the sand, splashing in the water, and enjoying the waves.

Free Attractions~17. Sanyi Township. Kelin Spring (Click here to read more)

Address: Kelin Road, Dayin Village, Sanyi Township, Yilan County
GPS:E:121:43'43" N:24:40'47.59"

Using abundant natural spring water, an eco-friendly waterway has been created along with diverse family-friendly activity facilities, offering a recreational destination. Natural engineering methods have been applied to restore riverbanks, creating water-friendly spaces and habitats for aquatic life, reviving native species such as freshwater clams, crabs, minnows, as well as aquatic plants and wild ginger flowers. Greenery has been added along the water channels to restore the land’s vitality, improve the rural landscape, and enhance the living environment. This project also helps modern individuals relax emotionally and physically, promotes public health, and expands the “production, living, and ecology” functions of farmland water conservancy facilities.

Free Attractions~18. Sanyi Township. Annongxi Flood Diversion Weir Scenic Area (Click here to read more)

Ludong Sports Park → Beicheng Bridge → Wanchangchun Bridge → Kezilin Bridge → Go under Dazhou Bridge → Turn left onto Annong 9th Road → Annongxi Flood Diversion Weir.

The Annongxi Flood Diversion Weir Scenic Area is located in the northeast of Sanyi Township, near Ludong Sports Park. Developed over four years with nearly NT$20 million in investment, this scenic area is also known as the “Spring Water Park.” It features a spring-fed swimming pool, a splash pool, pavilions, pathways, a management center, parking, landscaping, and multiple seating areas—a natural park ideal for sightseeing and ecological studies.

 

Free Attractions~19. Sanyi Township. Changpi Lake (Click here to read more)

Address: Section 8, Sanxing Road, Yuanshan Village, Sanyi Township, Yilan County (beside Provincial Highway 7C)
Phone: 03-9892018

Changpi Lake is a natural lake covering about 5 hectares, named for its elongated shape. The lakeside park is filled with flowers and trees, and includes amenities such as pavilions, a camping and barbecue area, and a children’s play zone. A row of wooden benches has been added by the lake, making it a great spot for relaxation—whether you want to just veg out or feed the ducks and fish below. There’s also a mini car track suitable for kids, and about 200 meters away, there’s a go-kart track for adults. Aside from feeding fish, Changpi Lake isn’t super engaging for children—but with the go-kart track nearby, they’re guaranteed to have a blast.

20.Sanyi Township. Annongxi Rafting (Click here to read more)

GPS: Latitude (24° 40' 07.32'') / Longitude (121° 41' 55.05'')
Registration hotline: (03)989-5566

The Anlong River is approximately twenty kilometers long, with an average annual water discharge of about twenty cubic meters per second. The rafting route runs from Xiashu Bridge in Tianshan Village to Zhanggongwei Water Park, spanning around ten kilometers and taking about two hours. The river channel varies from narrow to wide; there are fast-flowing, thrilling sections as well as calm gravel banks, verdant fields, flower-lined paths, and rural homes... all offering diverse features according to the season.

Free attraction~21. Dongshan Township. Meihua Lake (click for details)

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 southern part of Yilan County and boasts beautiful scenery, making it a renowned local scenic spot. On the hour, music plays by the lake, and water fountains dance to the rhythm. There are many casual eateries and cafes near the lakeside. As the lake area roads are entirely closed off, cycling, jogging, and walking are very safe. Options such as tandem bikes and family bikes are readily available, so visitors don’t need to bring their own bikes—it’s really convenient. Moreover, the lakeside paths are picturesque, and a stroll along the shore is truly romantic.

Free attraction~22. Dongshan Township. Xinliao Waterfall Trail (click for details)

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM daily
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, accompanied by babbling brooks and forest spa experiences that are truly unforgettable. Even though Yilan has developed many forest trails and waterfalls, some have become overly commercialized or damaged, losing their natural charm. Therefore, a control station has been set up at the entrance to protect the natural ecology of the trail. Although 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 advisable to call ahead before planning your trip.

23. Su’ao Town. Wushikan Scenic Area (click for details)

Address: No. 75, Wushikan Road, Su’ao Town, Yilan County　
Phone: (03)995-2852
Ticket information

The waters of the Wushikan Stream are gentle and not deep, making it perfect for playing in the water, catching shrimp, and rafting. The deeper pools are rich in freshwater fish such as mountain stream trout and stone loach, making it an ideal spot. There are campgrounds available by reservation, but please avoid visiting during the summer when Yilan County junior high school summer camp activities are held. Every year,the Yilan Green Expois held here, making this a widely known scenic destination.

24. Su’ao Town. Su’ao Cold Spring (click for details)

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

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 formations capable of producing large amounts of carbon dioxide. The Su’ao region’s plentiful rainfall, combined with thick limestone layers in the strata, provides both. As carbon dioxide gas rises and the pressure decreases, it expands and absorbs heat, eventually reaching the surface where the temperature of the cold spring drops to 22°C. After soaking in the cold spring, enjoy a bottle of Ramune soda for the ultimate treat.

Free attraction~ 25. Su’ao Town. Nanfang’ao Neipi Bay (click for details)

Address: Neipi Road, Su’ao Town (opposite Nan’an Junior High School, 117 Xuefu Road, Nanjianli, Su’ao Town, Yilan County)

Nanfang’ao Neipi Bay, also known as Lovers’ Bay, offers slides, ice cream, sand play, and wave-treading fun—you could easily spend half a day here. But remember, just 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, fresh fish, cultural heritage, and delicious food, this once-hidden gem known only to locals has become a favorite among tourists. Nearby, you’ll also find Tofu Man, which is worth a visit too.

Free attractions~26. Su'ao Township. Tofu Cape

Route: After entering Su'ao, head in the direction of Nanfang'ao. Cross the Su'ao Port area, turn left and go over the harbor-crossing bridge to reach it.

Tofu Cape is located on the east side of Nanfang'ao and the fishing harbor. It is a scenic small bay formed by a land-tied island and sandbars, also known as a sand-neck cape. The landscape is unique, with the cape's rocky reefs resembling tofu, hence the name "Tofu Cape." The area of Tofu Cape is relatively large, with planned facilities already in place. Its terrain is arc-shaped, with a recessed area facing the ocean. The coastal walkway runs from northwest to southeast and is designed to connect various zones including the stair-access area, long pavilion viewing and resting area, entrance plaza area, beach activity area, and breakwater area. The bay entrance is equipped with a net to keep the water clean. With gentle waves in summer, it’s suitable for swimming, snorkeling, morning swims, and other activities.

Free attraction~27. Datong Township. Songluo National Trail (click here for details)

Address: Songluo Village, Datong Township, Yilan County
(From Provincial Highway 7 heading toward Taiping Mountain, turn right just before the 97.7 km mark, right in front of the bridge. Go straight until you reach the checkpoint, then park your car in the parking lot and walk in to get there.)

It’s about 1.5 km from the parking lot to the trail entrance. The full trail length is 2 km, and the round trip takes about 2–3 hours. Along the way, you’ll see rice ball rocks, bamboo bridges, and giant rock waterfalls... I think although the trail is long, it has far fewer visitors compared to the Linmei Trail and Xinliao Waterfall, offering a more relaxing experience. But it’s not suitable for the elderly or young children!!

Free attraction~28. Datong Township. Jiuliaoxi Nature Ecological Park (click here for details)

Address: Next to CPC Datong Gas Station, Datong Township, Yilan County (slightly left in front of the Tayal Bridge)

Since 1997 (the 86th year of the Republic of China), the Datong Township Office has planned the river section of Jiuliaoxi from the aquaculture area downstream to the high flatland. They have built simple facilities such as a barbecue area, scenic pavilions, and a large parking lot, preparing it to be developed as a leisure and recreation area. Those who are physically fit can venture further inside to find beautiful waterfalls. With year-round abundant and crystal-clear water flow, and multiple fault lines along its course, the stream forms spectacular and majestic waterfalls, among which the first and second waterfalls are especially breathtaking.

Free attraction~29. Nanao Township. Dongyue Spring (click here for details)

Next to Dong’ao Elementary School, Address: No. 209, Section 3, Su-Hua Road, Nanao Township, Yilan County

Enter from the small path 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 year-round temperature of around 15–16°C. The shallow water is perfect for kids to play in. There are three pools — one at 50 cm deep, another at 60 cm, and the third not much deeper — so everyone can sit by the edge and splash around or catch little fish and shrimp. Another fun thing about this place is watching trains pass overhead, which is quite amusing.

Free attraction~30. Nanao Township. Bidanxi Creek Canyoning (click here for details)

Originating from Danan’ao Ridge at an elevation of 1,170 meters, it winds through Jinyang Village in Nanao Township, Yilan, as a tributary of the Nanxi South River. Flanked by cliffs about 20 meters high, it’s known as the “Little Golden Canyon.” With numerous huge rocks and crystal-clear water, 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 super fun!!

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