Taiwan is surrounded by the sea on all sides, and whale watching eco-tourism is most prosperous in the northeast corner of Taiwan, particularly in Wushi Port. In the waters off Yilan, there are at least 17 recorded species of whales and dolphins, constituting more than half of Taiwan's total. Going out to sea to observe whales and dolphins and enjoy the scenic beauty around Turtle Island has become one of the essential tourist activities in the northeast. As summer approaches, why not embark on a whale-watching journey to deeply experience the charms of the Yilan seas.

Travel Duration: 2-day trip
Travel Seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn
Itinerary Types: Cultural and Historical Exploration, Coastal Scenery, Unique Agriculture and Fisheries
Transportation: Train, Self-driving

Day 1
Turtle Island Whale Watching ➔ [Lunch] Seafood Feast ➔ Beiguan Tidal Park ➔ Turtle Island Fishing Village Cultural Center ➔ Daxi Fishery Port ➔ Dali Station/Coastal Erosion Platform ➔ Shicheng County Boundary Park ➔ [Dinner] Cellar Wine Winery/Beiguan Farm/Toucheng Farm ➔ Accommodation

►Turtle Island Whale Watching

The waters around Turtle Island are one of Taiwan's three major fishing grounds, rich in fisheries resources. From March to November, the waters near Turtle Island have a high incidence of whales and dolphins. There are up to 17 species of whales and dolphins, including flying dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, small killer whales, and false killer whales.

►Beiguan Tidal Park

One of the famous Eight Views of Lanyang, the coastline is known for its tofu-like rocks and steep terrain on one side. The unique and powerful landscape, combined with the romantic waves, enhances the majestic view. From here, overlooking the boundless blue sea and sky of Turtle Island, it broadens one's horizons.

►Turtle Island Fishing Village Cultural Center

The cultural center exhibits many old photos, early fishing tools, bamboo weaving, etc., allowing visitors to understand the early life of Turtle Island residents. For example, the "Sand King Stick" is a fishing tool used by Turtle Island fishermen to catch sharks. Fishermen tie a rope to a fish hook, use mullets from the Turtle Tail Pond as bait, and put it into the deep sea at 500-600 meters. Catching sand fish requires pulling them up by hand, fighting with sand fish, demonstrating the tenacity of fishermen against difficult conditions, and experiencing their indomitable will for livelihood.

►Daxi Fishery Port

Renowned throughout the province for its "fresh and affordable seafood," Daxi Fishery Port offers a delectable selection of freshly caught seafood. Around 3 PM, fishing fleets that set out in the afternoon start arriving at the port, attracting crowds of people and creating a lively atmosphere at the fish market. Visitors can experience the bustling scene of a fish port auction market, complete with fishmongers, accountants, auctioneers shouting incomprehensible professional terms, and indulge in the fresh and delicious seafood catch.

►Dali Station

One of the filming locations for the idol drama "The Happy Times of That Year." From outside the station, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Nearby attractions include the Dali Tourist Service Center, which provides travel information, the nearly two-hundred-year-old Qingyun Palace (Dali Temple), and the entrance to the Caoling Ancient Trail, among others.

►Coastal Erosion Platform

Subjected to the powerful erosion of the waves in the intertidal zone between the high and low tide lines during tidal cycles, the coastal rocks are washed and impacted, causing the removal of fallen rock blocks, forming a flat coastal erosion platform. The spectacular coastal erosion platform in Dali, as described in the "Toucheng Township Chronicle," is situated in a treacherous location, leaning against the thousand-meter peaks to the west, overlooking the Wanli Cangxi River below. With the sunrise, the sound of waves crashing, the scenery is truly magnificent. Whether watching the sunrise, enjoying the bright moon, or gazing at the ocean waves, it captivates the hearts of onlookers.

►Shicheng County Boundary Park

Located at the boundary between Toucheng Township in Yilan County and Gongliao District in New Taipei City, it holds special significance. Visitors can enjoy the vast and endless sea views, close proximity to the unique rock formations of the ocean, and the beautiful coastal scenery. The park is equipped with facilities such as a coffee leisure area and telescopes, making it an ideal place to leisurely appreciate the magnificent sea views and savor delicious coffee.

★Recommended Lunch: Fresh seafood at Wushi Port / Red crab seafood
★Recommended Dinner: Cellar Wine Winery / Beiguan Farm / Toucheng Farm
★Recommended Accommodation: Lio Ocean Hot Spring Hotel, Yunxin Hai Homestay, Lanqun Ocean Homestay, Tianwaitian Ocean Leisure Hotel, Zhenqing Nonpareil Hall, Dragonfly Stone Homestay, Danny Resort Estate

Choose a means of transport according to your departure point

Day 2
Turtle Mountain Sunrise ➔ Lanyang Museum ➔ [Lunch] Local Food Tour ➔ Toucheng Old Street ➔ Tasting Unique Ice Cream ➔ Wai’ao Service Area & Wai’ao Beach ➔ Recommended Specialty Souvenirs ➔ Return

►Turtle Mountain Sunrise

Along the coastal line of Yilan Toucheng, it is an excellent spot to admire the unique landscape of Turtle Island and, of course, an ideal location to watch the sunrise. The coastal areas, including Wushan Port, Toucheng Seawater Bathing Area, Outer Ao, and the mouth of the Zhuanan River, are convenient and safe viewing locations.

►Lanyang Museum

The museum's architectural structure is based on the common single-sided mountain seen in the North Guan Coast area, conveying a sense of growth and vitality from the land. The variation in building materials reflects the transparency of the interior space, and the resulting gaps from misalignment provide penetration for both light and vision, echoing the Wushih Islet in the water. The permanent exhibition at Lanyang Museum is designed across four floors, representing the mountain, sea, and plain to showcase Yilan's geographical and cultural environment. The museum embodies the spirit of "symbiosis with the environment" and "integration with nature," making it a cultural and tourist hotspot in Taiwan, offering in-depth insights into Yilan's history and culture.

►Local Food Journey

Toucheng boasts a variety of popular local snacks and specialty dishes, such as Ah-An Scallion Pancake, Lok-U Japanese Cuisine, Dragon Beef Noodle, Sesame Noodles, Clam Soup, Cai Chen Snack Shop, and Jiahong Beef Noodle. Each delicacy tantalizes the taste buds. Seafood dishes are also a highlight, allowing you to savor fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, fish, and shellfish from the ocean, prepared in various cooking styles. Whether you're a food enthusiast or a seafood lover, Toucheng is undoubtedly a fantastic destination to satisfy your culinary cravings.

►Toucheng Old Street

Visit the first planned city in Taiwan, known as "Kailan's First City," and explore the historical Peace Street, also called "Dongtai's First Street," where many precious cultural assets are preserved in their original state. These include intact local temples at the beginning and end of the street, the three-arch structure of Chen Chun-ji House, the residences of the Lu family and Shih Yun Lake, the Kangle Ancient House of the Thirteen Rows, and the Li Rong-chun Literary Museum (Town History Museum). It's an ideal place for a leisurely stroll to immerse yourself in the town's historical atmosphere.

►Tasting Unique Ice Cream

Along Qingyun Road in Toucheng, you'll encounter numerous taro ice cream shops, offering a delightful start to your trip. Recommended stops on Qingyun Road include Ah Zhong Taro Ice City and Lianfa Taro Ice Old Shop. Additionally, you can visit Xiao Liangyuan Ice Shop in town for summer treats like their signature Eight-Treasure Ice or Red Bean Milk Ice to beat the heat.

►Wai’ao Service Area

A distinctive bright yellow building with an asymmetrical design, making a lasting impression on passersby. During weekends and holidays, it attracts many visitors. Adjacent to the nearby Gangao Beach, you can engage in activities like surfing, paragliding, and water play. Facing the Pacific Ocean and Turtle Island, the large windows provide a relaxing space for visitors to enjoy the coastal scenery while sipping a cup of coffee.

►Wai’ao Beach

With its expansive sandy beach and crystal-clear blue waters, Wai’ao Beach is a haven for surfers and offers various land, sea, and air activities, including paragliding and extreme sports. Visitors can challenge themselves and enjoy the romantic coastal scenery. In addition to surfing, you can catch crabs, build sandcastles, or admire the magnificent views of Turtle Island and the Pacific Ocean. Wai’ao Beach is a versatile coastal destination where you can bask in the sun, push your limits, or enjoy panoramic views from above – finding your own moments of happiness.

►Recommended Specialty Souvenirs

Before leaving Toucheng, don't forget to grab a box of delicious General's Tea Eggs near the interchange. Originating from the Beiyi Highway and passed down through three generations, these tea eggs have a unique flavor and are renowned for their excellent taste. After the completion of the Snow Tunnel, the production moved to the town, ensuring the continuation of the delectable aroma. General's Tea Eggs have become a must-try specialty delicacy and a recommended souvenir.

Choose a means of transport according to your departure point