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Taiwan’s northernmost zone comprises the North Coast Coastal Reserve (北海岸沿海保護區), a strip of land bordering the South China Sea. In an area rich in biodiversity, 15 small hills scatter the landscape. Xishihu (西勢湖) is the tallest and most prominent peak at 379 meters (1,243 ft).
New Taipei City’s (新北市) northern districts of Sanzhi (三芝區), Shimen (石門區), and Jinshan (金山區) form the North Coast Coastal Reserve. From the western Sanzhi District, the coastal conservation stretches eastwards. It stops short of Keelung City (基隆市), holding 9,667 ha (23,888 ac) of land.
Strong winds batter the shoreline like all coastal areas, spreading their forceful blow inland. This is especially true when summer typhoons and the winterly northeast monsoon make their intimidating appearance.
Thus, the high rainfall irrigates the fertile soil and nurtures plant growth in the wild, rampant land. The higher hills of Yangmingshan National Park’s (陽明山國家公園) Zhulishan (竹里山), Zhuzishan (竹子山), and Zhumupingshan (豬母屏山) create barriers against the low-lying coastal region. This coastal bowl creates the perfect setting for agricultural farming.
Areas of significant interest in the North Coast Coastal Reserve are the Laomei Green Reef (老梅綠石槽), Shimendong (石門洞), and Baishawan’s (白沙灣) white sand beach.
Some other prominent hills of the North Coast Coastal Reserve are Jianshanzhishan (尖山子山), Alilaoshan (阿里荖山), and Bengshan (崩山).
While the South China Sea washes the reserve’s shores, below in the south is Taipei’s (台北市) backyard, Yangmingshan National Park. To the southwest is Tamsui (淡水區), a significant and busy harbor, and Juifen (九份) is a former gold mining village that overlooks the sea in the southeast.
While the North Coast Coastal Reserve is mostly flatlands, the hills are small and gentle, decreasing in size towards the shore. These peaks are a northern extension of the Datun Volcano Group (大屯火山群) that exploded some 1 million to 200,000 years ago. The hill’s geological composition is a mix of sedimentary and magmatic rock.
Beaches west of Linshanbi consist of fine sand, while the bays to the east feature rocky shores with eroded cliffs and terraces. Along the eastern seaboard, pyroclastic rocks dot the landscape, further evidence of Taiwan’s volcanic past.
Coastal shrubbery like the pittosporum and perennial chrysanthemums, hibiscus and moon peach thrive on the rocky shore where the soil layer is thin and shallow. The intense sea winds bolster the foliage in an asymmetrical shape.
The hardy saddle vine thrives in the dry and blustering environment along the sandy bay. Various types of algae flourish in the intertidal zone
The North Coast Coastal Reserve’s first inhabitants were the plains Ketagalan people. Much like the rest of northern Taiwan, the first influx of Han Chinese settlers descended upon the Sanzhi, Shimen, and Jinshan districts in 1620.
Setting foot from nearby Tamsui Harbor, these immigrants established farms in the flat, fertile lands that received necessary irrigation from the heavy rains. The agricultural produce of Sanzhi and Shimen is mainly tea and sweet potato.
The quaint and quiet Sanzhi District is most well-known as being the birthplace of Taiwan’s former president, Lee Teng-hui.
A plethora of verdant, open spaces await you on the North Coast Coastal Reserve. The most desirable areas and hiking trails are:
Sanzhi’s shore features Laomei Green Reef’s elongated furry fingers. Enveloped in algae, the vibrant color injects life into the rocky reef, creating a stirring sight. Visit in March and April when the seaweed is the most fertile.
The explosions of the Datun Volcano Group formed Laomei’s coastal magmatic reef. Every year, the algae hardens and produces a limestone layer. The following year, new algae attaches to the top rocky layer.
Laomei Green Reef attracts many visitors wishing to see its bewitching emerald fuzz. Listen to the acoustics of the crashing waves mixed with the howling sea winds. At dusk, the warm glow of the sunset tinges the sky with a watercolor of amber hues.
Taiwan’s northernmost point is the rocky coastline of Fugui Cape (富貴角). Situated at the very tip of the land is Fugui Lighthouse.
Fugui Cape’s appetising and abundance of seafood is its biggest drawcard. Fuji Fishing Harbor (富基漁港) is where you will find the freshest catch with the lingering smell of sea salt infused in the air.
The trail to Fugui Cape is picturesque with its endless cerulean sea. Witness the tumultuous effect of the vicious winds on the banyan trees. Their windswept form looks uprooted and contorted.
As you head northwards, you will spot the first lighthouse in Taiwan built by the Japanese. Fugui Lighthouse stands 14 meters (46 ft) tall, and from here, you can take in the panoramic view of coastal land and a rippling large body of water.
One of northern Taiwan’s much-loved beaches, Baisha Bay’s white sandy shore lies between Linshanbi (麟山鼻) and Fugui Cape. As Taiwan enjoys year-round warm weather, deck chairs are a permanent fixture on the scenic bay.
A haven for watersports, you can windsurf the crashing waves or dive underwater for an aquatic adventure. As you stroll along the 1km (0.6 mi) golden bay, feel the soft sand sneak between your toes. Observe the surrounding palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze while your hair dances to the wind’s touch.
Shimendong's Cave attracts geology enthusiasts and those wishing to witness this surprising find. Composed of volcanic debris that north Taiwan's heavy rains swept to the coast, Shimendong's natural weathered arch is both fascinating and scenic.
Observe the interlaying mixture of volcanic gravel, debris, and fine sand of Shimendong's stacked wall. Covered in coastal vines and shrubbery, Shimengdong is particularly pretty in springtime. Milky bursts of lilies bloom between the green shoots on the cave wall.
As you pass through the stone archway, an idyllic beachfront of fine sand and the aquamarine ocean stretches before you. Take a dip into the refreshing sea that awakens your senses with its cool, salty water.
For a picture-perfect setting amidst pastel pink cherry blossoms, visit the Sansheng Trail from late winter into spring. Pack your camera to capture the transfixing scene of blushing blooms against the setting of rolling hills.
Located in Sanzhi’s remote region, enjoy the peace and solitude of the Sansheng Trail. The Dakeng River’s bubbling passage flows alongside the path where you can spot freshwater fish in the clear stream. Pay attention to dragonflies and butterflies flying from the aromatic flowers.
Besides cherry blossoms, the Sansheng Hiking Trail (三生步道) boasts a variety of flowering species. Rhododendron, wisteria, and tung blossoms embellish the scenery with their floral pops of color. In the nearby farming communities, you can gaze onto bamboo forests and sweet potato fields.
One of Taiwan’s most appealing and attractive rocky outcrops, Yehliu Geopark (野柳地質公園), is a geological wonder. The fierce coastal winds have shaped Yehliu’s 180 stark stone columns, featuring various peculiar shapes of all sizes.
Of particular importance is Yehliu’s centrepiece, the Queen’s Head. A massive boulder forms the profile of a regal figure; a royal crown rests on the stately, stoic head, which balances on the long slender neck.
Stroll along the 1.7 km (1 mi) long rocky peninsula where you can uncover other fascinating crags. Guitou Shan (龜頭山) rises on the cape’s point, where you can take in a 360° of vision. Yehliu Lighthouse stands within view, featuring an extraterrestrial design looking like a candle stick holder.
New Taipei City’s Tamsui District and Keelung City border either side of the North Coast Coastal Reserve. Both places offer endless attractions amongst idyllic nature on northern Taiwan’s coastline.
Taiwan's birthplace of migration, Tamsui District, is most renowned for its iconic port. Millions of settlers first touched foot on Taiwan soil in Tamsui's docks. Its long history is displayed in its ancient architecture and established communities. Tamsui brims with stories of the past through its people and sites, waiting for you to uncover its tales.
Follow the lingering salty aroma of seafood that leads you to Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf (淡水漁人碼頭). Whet your appetite with the finest choice of calamari, oysters, and prawns from the highly-rated restaurants. To walk off your fulfilling meal, take a stroll across the pier towards Lovers Bridge. Straddling the river, catch the glistening last rays of amber sunlight.
Northern Taiwan's botanical gem, Yangmingshan National Park, spans six districts. Its western zone falls into Tamsui's land. Datunshan (大屯山), one of the highest hills, straddles the border between Tamsui and Beitou (北投區). From its lofty pinnacle, look out onto the enchanting view of the Taipei basin and feel like you're on top of the world.
One of Tamsui's most attractive spots is Wuji Tian Yuan Temple (淡水無極天元宮). The five-story, circular Taoist pagoda is set in Yangmingshan's foothills. Thus, it offers views of the park's mountainous backdrop and the nearby blue sea. In late February, cherry blossoms season begins as eruptions of spellbinding sakura paint the area pink.
Finally, marvel at Tamsui Red Castle (淡水紅樓), a red-brick Victorian building set beside the Tamsui River. A beautiful oddity, the grand Western-style structure stands out amongst the typical Taiwanese winged architecture. Head to the cafe on the top floor to refuel and enjoy the seaside view of crashing waves dotted with fishing trawlers.
Compact yet captivating, Keelung City rests on Taiwan’s northeastern coast, wedged between New Taipei City. A short journey from the capital, Keelung is a much-desired location for Taipei residents wishing for some tranquility, rest, and outdoor activities on the weekend.
A site not to be missed, Zhongzheng Park (基隆中正公園) offers the most mesmerizing views over Keelung. Follow the trail up the hill, passing several shrines on the way. A stately gate announces your arrival at the hillside park. For unbeatable outlooks onto Keelung, head to the top floor of Zhuputan Temple, where you can spot the offshore Keelung Islet.
Lover’s Lake (情人湖) is the perfect answer for a wander in nature. Keelung’s sole alpine pool lies on Dawulan Shan’s (大武崙山) slope, so first make your way up the mountain. Lover’s Lake is pristine, with a lush, emerald grove surrounding the bottle-green waters. A 1.4 (0.8 mi) path traces Lover’s Lake’s parameters through a leafy Japanese bay and sandalwood forest.
Next, get close to the sea at Heping Island (和平島). Featuring weathered rock of various formations, the fierce waves crash on the craggy coastline, causing further erosion. To the north, you can distinguish Yehliu’s rocky peninsula. Straight ahead in the ocean, Keelung Islet rises like a turtle retreating from the water.
Finally, make your way to the little-known wonder of Keelung’s Fairy Cave (仙洞巖). Carved into a seaside cliff is a Buddhist shrine. A fabulous find, the stone temple is dimly lit and teetering on chilly from the humid coastal winds. Admire the calligraphy inscriptions and chiseled Buddhist statues on the solid rock walls.
To get to the North Coast Coastal Reserve:
These two routes stop at the main attractions of the North Coast Coastal Reserve, beginning at Sanzhi, and then heading to Shimen and Jinshan districts.
If you prefer to head to Jinshan area first, board the 1815 KuoKuang bus from Taipei West Bus Station that will take you to Yehliu.
Alternatively, you can hire a car or scooter in Tamsui, Taipei, or Keelung.
Explore North Coast Coastal Reserve with the PeakVisor 3D Map and identify its summits.
