Your ultimate guide to Xiaoliuqiu travelWhen to visit Xiaoliuqiu? Transport, weather, food, and attractions all in one place
Xiaoliuqiu is a top choice for island getaways in Taiwan, offering convenient access and a compact size that lets you soak in its beauty in just two or three days. Twosevenths has compiled the ultimate travel guide to Xiaoliuqiu, covering everything from the best time to visit and weather information to ferry tickets, island transportation, must-try foods, popular attractions and hidden gems, exciting outdoor activities, and a two-day, one-night itinerary.
About Xiaoliuqiu
Located southwest of Donggang Township in Pingtung, Taiwan, Liuqiu Island is commonly known as "Xiaoliuqiu" and is Taiwan's only coral reef island. Its geographical location largely protects it from the northeast monsoon, giving Xiaoliuqiu spring-like weather year-round. The Kuroshio Current branch flows nearby, keeping the average seawater temperature above 25 degrees Celsius, which fosters rich marine ecosystems and makes it a premier winter diving destination. Visitors can enjoy diving with sea turtles or marvel at the island's unique coral limestone formations. It's an unmissable paradise for anyone who loves island getaways.
Xiaoliuqiu Weather and Best Travel Seasons
As a tropical island, Xiaoliuqiu is a great destination year-round. Summer is peak season, with average temperatures around 28°C and a wide array of watersports available, though you'll contend with crowds at venues and attractions, and the occasional typhoon. Winter still offers pleasant temperatures above 21°C, with cool, comfortable weather and less rain, plus more affordable accommodation than in summer. All in all, the best times to visit Xiaoliuqiu are March to May or October to December, when you can avoid the peak-season crowds while still enjoying sunny days and watersports.
✦Summer in Xiaoliuqiu
- Average air temperature: 28°C
- Average sea temperature: 29.4°C
- Typhoon season, highest rainfall
✦Winter in Xiaoliuqiu
- Average air temperature: 21°C
- Average sea temperature: 25.0°C
- Comfortable weather, minimal rainfall
Xiaoliuqiu Ferry Schedule and Ticket Prices
The only way to get to Xiaoliuqiu from mainland Taiwan is by boat, and there are currently three routes: Dongliu, Yanliu, and Pengliu. The Dongliu route is the most convenient for a two-day, one-night trip to Xiaoliuqiu because it has the most frequent sailings and offers both public and private ferry options, allowing you to choose based on ticket price. Twosevenths has compiled a comparison of all three Xiaoliuqiu ferry services and ticket prices below, so you can choose based on your location and budget. For detailed timetables, please refer to the Pingtung County Liuchiu Township Office website.
✦Dongliu Line: Public Ferry
- Full fare $200, half fare $110, military/police $150, round trip $380
- Passenger capacity 149, scooter capacity 20
- First departure from Donggang 08:00, last departure 18:45
- First departure from Liuqiu 17:00, last departure 18:00
- Limited departures, only 4 per day
- Departure point: Donggang Pier
- Arrival port: Dafu Fishing Harbor
- Travel time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
✦Dongliu Line: Private Ferries
- Full fare $230, round-trip full fare $410, half fare $120, round-trip half fare $210
- There are 3 ferry companies: Dongliu Line, Taifu, and Lanbai.
- First departure from Donggang: 07:00; last departure: 17:00
- First departure from Liuqiu: 07:40; last departure: 17:30
- Frequent sailings, approximately 10 per day
- Departure point: Donggang Pier
- Arrival port: Baishawei Port
- Travel time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
✦Pengliu Line
- Full fare $300, Round-trip full fare $550, Half fare $150, Round-trip half fare $270
- Departing Dapeng Bay 10:00
- Departing Liuqiu 16:50
- Limited service: one daily sailing, operating only Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
- Departure point: Binwan Wharf
- Arrival port: Dafu Fishing Harbor
- Travel time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Getting around Xiaoliuqiu Island
The best and most convenient way to get around Xiaoliuqiu is by scooter, as the island is only 6.8 square kilometers with an 18-kilometer環島公路 (Round-the-Island Road). If you don't ride a scooter or want to try a different way to explore the island, walking or taking the環島公車 (Round-the-Island Bus) are also good options. While car rentals are available, Xiaoliuqiu's roads are narrow, making cars less agile. For a two-day, one-night trip, scooters remain the primary recommendation.
✦Motorcycle
It takes about half an hour to ride a scooter around the island without stopping. Scooter rental venues on the island offer standard scooters, electric scooters, and even Gogoro options, so you can choose based on your preference.
Most scooter rental venues are located near the ferry terminal. If you've booked a venue further away, they will usually meet you at the harbor with a sign. It's always a good idea to check the location and instructions before renting. If you've booked accommodation in advance, in addition to two-day/one-night or three-day/two-night packages, you can also ask if your guesthouse has a partner scooter rental venue, as this often comes with extra discounts.
✦Island Tour Bus
There are currently two bus routes on Xiaoliuqiu Island, the 601 and 601A. The 601 bus travels along the island's环岛公路 (Ring Road), stopping at almost all tourist attractions. The 601A is a branch line, running along Zhongzheng Road, which cuts through the middle of the island, and the southern side of Xiaoliuqiu Island. Xiaoliuqiu buses run frequently, with a bus almost every 15 minutes during peak hours. Fares are calculated based on mileage. For detailed bus schedules and routes, please refer to the official website.
✦On Foot
Walking around the island sounds crazy, but exploring Xiaoliuqiu's 18-kilometer perimeter on foot is a perfectly feasible way to discover it, especially if you have more time or want to experience the island on your own two feet.
Xiaoliuqiu Food Recommendations
Xiaoliuqiu offers not only breathtaking natural scenery but also a rich and diverse culinary culture. Here, you can savor fresh and delicious seafood, distinctive local snacks, and a variety of unique desserts and beverages. Twosevenths introduces several unmissable dining experiences below, ensuring you taste authentic flavors and enjoy the delightful island life during your trip to Xiaoliuqiu.
✦CHILL HIGH HIGH
CHILL HIGH HIGH is one of the hottest pool bars in Xiaoliuqiu right now, offering a Bali-like escape without leaving Taiwan. Its expansive lawn, spacious pool, and resort-style decor create a perfect vacation vibe. For those who love a good drink, there are all-you-can-drink options and monthly Songkran-themed events, so you can splash around with friends, gaze at the stars, and sip delicious cocktails. Island happiness is truly that simple! Plus, there are various discounts for locals, instructors, helpers, and women wearing bikinis — so be sure to follow their Instagram for details!
✦Yuen Tang Bing Sut
Yuan Deng Bing Shi, located on Zhongshan Road in Xiaoliuqiu, offers a clean, fresh, and comfortable space, serving unique and delicious shaved ice. Each flavor features a distinct base, such as yogurt, tiramisu, or matcha, complemented by delightful additions like Wandan red beans, coffee beans, and sweet potato, resulting in a refreshing and light treat. They also periodically introduce seasonal limited-edition flavors like strawberry and mango. These generously sized, layered shaved ice creations are reasonably priced, making Yuan Deng Bing Shi a must-visit when you're in Xiaoliuqiu.
Xiaoliuqiu Attractions Guide
Xiaoliuqiu has always been a popular travel destination in Taiwan, thanks to its unique coral reef island topography that creates numerous hidden natural wonders. Combined with crystal-clear waters, every corner of the island reveals its distinctive charm. Here are 10 Instagrammable spots in Xiaoliuqiu, offering new ways to explore for first-time visitors or those looking for different experiences.
✦Habanwan Beach
Habanwan Beach is Xiaoliuqiu's largest beach, a shell-sand beach composed of coral fragments and rich in intertidal creatures, making it ideal for an ecological trip with children. With its pristine white sands and azure waters, it's known as "Venice Beach." However, due to strong currents, swimming is officially prohibited here for safety reasons.
✦Lobster Cave
Lobster Cave, as its name suggests, was once abundant with lobsters. While overfishing and climate change have diminished lobster populations, the area remains a treasure trove of unique natural landscapes sculpted by sea erosion, including sea grooves, sea caves, and sea potholes. It's a prime spot for diving with green sea turtles and catching the sunrise in Xiaoliuqiu.
✦Wangmei Laomu
Wangmei Laomu is located on the coast next to Xuriting. Once a secret local spot for relaxation, it's now a popular choice among Xiaoliuqiu's attractions due to its photogenic scenery. The driftwood suspended between two rocks, gazing out at the distant sea, creates a postcard-perfect scene. Visitors can navigate to "Taiwan Power Company Liuqiu Service Office" and then walk along the adjacent embankment for about 10 minutes to reach it.
✦Lùlín Sika Deer Park
Xiaoliuqiu Water Activities Guide
You can't visit Xiaoliuqiu without enjoying some water activities! With its signature clear waters and pleasant climate, Xiaoliuqiu is an excellent choice for water fun year-round, and this unique environment has fostered a wide variety of water activities. Twosevenths has compiled a list of four types of Xiaoliuqiu water activities; let's see which one is right for you. And if you can't swim or are afraid of the water, don't worry! There are plenty of water activities for landlubbers too.
✦Xiaoliuqiu Diving (Scuba, Freediving, Snorkeling)
With year-round ocean temperatures above 25°C and abundant marine life, including sea turtles and unique coral reef formations, Xiaoliuqiu is a diver's paradise. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, or looking to try freediving, scuba diving, or snorkeling, you'll find a suitable venue here.
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✦Water Bikes
If you're tired of stationary bikes at the gym, try Taiwan's only water bikes, located in Xiaoliuqiu. It's a fantastic way to exercise and enjoy the scenery at the same time. The unique design of the Xiaoliuqiu water bikes makes them incredibly stable, so even if you can't swim, you don't have to worry about tipping over. You can fully enjoy the fun of being on the water, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle surfacing for air!
✦Sea Kayaking / SUP Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Xiaoliuqiu Itinerary Recommendations
For first-time visitors to Xiaoliuqiu, a two-day, one-night trip is plenty of time to explore the island's popular attractions and enjoy fun water activities. While two days and one night offers a good introduction, those who love water sports should plan for at least three days and two nights to fully experience SUP, surfing, snorkeling, water biking, and more. With all the delicious local food, diverse marine activities, or even just the simple pleasure of relaxing on the beach, a month on Xiaoliuqiu still wouldn't be enough!
✦A Two-Day, One-Night Itinerary for Xiaoliuqiu
Final Thoughts
This concludes our Two-Day, One-Night Xiaoliuqiu travel guide. Twosevenths has compiled all the essential information you need for an independent trip to Xiaoliuqiu.
We're incredibly fortunate to have such a beautiful destination less than 30 minutes by ferry from Taiwan proper. With its unique natural landscapes, year-round water activities, distinctive local cuisine, abundant outdoor adventures, and a variety of resorts with a South Seas vibe, we're confident that anyone who visits will not be disappointed.
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