| Water activity type | Stand up paddle board (SUP), Snorkeling |
| Minimum participant requirement | 1 traveler |
NT$ 50/person (payable on site)
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 21:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Visitors with high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, pregnant women, epilepsy or other conditions that are not suitable for overstimulation should not participate in this activity
Please arrive at the meeting point 10-15 minutes early to avoid missing time for the activity
SUP: If you wear glasses, please wear contact lenses or glasses straps by yourself
Please wear light clothing during the tour. For personal hygiene, please wear a swimsuit or underwear/pants. Please prepare a change of dry clothes after the activity.
If you are prone to seasickness or motion sickness, it is recommended that you take seasickness or motion sickness medicine 30 minutes before the activity.
Please do not bring valuables such as wallets, gold jewelry, 3C products, etc. to the event
SUP: If you are traveling with a pet, please bring a pet life jacket and trim the pet's nails.
You need to bring your own transportation, ride an electric bike, motorcycle, or bicycle to the meeting point, change clothes, and then be led by the instructor to the suitable snorkeling area for the day
If you have no experience driving a motorcycle, you can book a paid vehicle to the dive site on the Little Turtle fan page.
The primary way to explore Xiaoliuqiu is by renting a scooter, which offers flexibility to visit various attractions like Vase Rock and Beauty Cave. Alternatively, electric bikes are available for rent. Some visitors also opt for golf carts for short distances, while local taxis and tour vans can be arranged for convenience, especially for larger groups or those preferring not to drive.
Scooter rentals are widely available near the ferry terminal and around Xiaoliuqiu. To rent a scooter, you typically need a valid Taiwanese scooter license or an international driving permit. Some shops might offer electric scooters which do not always require a license, but it's best to confirm requirements directly with the rental shop. Always inquire about helmet provision.
From Taipei, the most efficient way is to take a High-Speed Rail (HSR) train to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung. From Zuoying, you can take a shuttle bus or taxi directly to Donggang Ferry Terminal. At Donggang, board a ferry to Xiaoliuqiu. The entire journey typically takes around 3-4 hours, including transfers and the approximately 20-30 minute ferry ride.
From HSR Zuoying Station, you have several options to reach Donggang Ferry Terminal, which is the gateway to Xiaoliuqiu. You can take a shuttle bus (e.g., Kuo-Kuang bus) directly from the station, a taxi, or ride-sharing services. The bus ride to Donggang takes about 40-60 minutes. From Donggang, ferries regularly depart for Xiaoliuqiu, offering a swift passage.
Xiaoliuqiu is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, especially green sea turtles, which are frequently spotted during snorkeling and SUP activities. You can also expect to see a vibrant array of tropical fish, various species of colorful corals, and sometimes other marine creatures like clownfish. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for observing this underwater world.
For SUP and snorkeling in Xiaoliuqiu, it's essential to bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life, a hat, sunglasses, and a towel. Reusable water bottles are recommended to stay hydrated. If you have your own snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins), you may bring it, although rental equipment is usually provided with tours. A waterproof bag for valuables is also useful.
The ideal season for water activities in Xiaoliuqiu is generally from April to October. During these months, the weather is warmer, and the waters are calmer and clearer, providing excellent conditions for SUP, snorkeling, and observing marine life. Even during the off-peak season, the weather remains pleasant enough for some activities, but water conditions might vary.
Ferries to Xiaoliuqiu depart from Donggang Ferry Terminal. There are usually two types of ferries: public and private, with private ones typically being faster. It's advisable to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, as they can fill up quickly. Arrive early to purchase tickets, or consider booking online if available, to ensure your spot.