Taiwan's Open Water Swimming Destinations: A Complete Guide to Chengcing Lake, Sun Moon Lake, and Coastal Waters

Introduction

Surrounded by ocean on all sides, and with numerous lakes and reservoirs across the island, Taiwan boasts one of the highest densities of open-water swimming resources in the world. Whether you are a beginner who enjoys calm lake surfaces or an advanced swimmer seeking a challenge, Taiwan has a location for you.

This article compiles the most representative open-water swimming locations in Taiwan, covering lakes and sea areas, along with the unique features of each, suitable swimmer profiles, and safety notes to help you make the best choice.

Lakes: Taiwan’s Best Open-Water Swimming Lakes

Sun Moon Lake (Yuchi Township, Nantou County)

An alpine lake at 748 meters above sea level, it is Taiwan’s most famous open-water swimming destination.

The Sun Moon Lake Swim is Taiwan’s largest open-water swimming event, covering a crossing distance of approximately 3.3 kilometers. It tops many people’s “open-water bucket list.”

Chengcing Lake (Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City)

An urban lake and one of the few enclosed bodies of water in Taiwan that regularly hosts swimming events.

• Water Quality: Relatively clear, with regular monitoring; visibility can reach 2–4 meters
• Water Temperature: 25–30°C year-round; no wetsuit required
• Regular Events: The swim leg of multiple triathlon races is held here, including the Kaohsiung City Triathlon
• Suitable For: Beginners to intermediate swimmers; ideal for a first open-water experience
• Notes: Regulations apply within the scenic area; participation must be through sanctioned events

Carp Lake (Shoufeng Township, Hualien County)

One of the most beautiful lakes in the East Rift Valley, backed by the Central Mountain Range, with crystal-clear water.

• Clear water with visibility of 3–5 meters
• Suitable for summer swim training
• Lifeguard facilities nearby, offering relative safety
• Recommended to combine with the surrounding bike paths, making it a perfect base for triathlon training

Bitan (Xindian District, New Taipei City)

A water recreation area close to Taipei, with convenient access as its biggest advantage.

• Currents may strengthen after rainfall; water conditions require attention
• Swimming is permitted in non-restricted areas, but you should carefully check the day’s current conditions
• A training option for residents of the Taipei metropolitan area

Sea Areas: Taiwan’s Distinctive Open-Water Swimming Locations

Taitung City Coast (near Nanwang Beach)

The traditional race venue for the Taitung Triathlon, the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean represent Taiwan’s quintessential sea swimming experience.

• Summer water temperature of 27–30°C, very comfortable
• Good visibility (over 5 meters in good weather)
• Regular wave patterns, ideal for practicing sea swimming techniques
• Challenge Taiwan is held here, a sea swimming venue recognized by world-class events

Penghu Islands

One of Taiwan’s best offshore islands for sea swimming, with water clarity comparable to Southeast Asia.

• Coral reef environment with extremely high visibility (over 10 meters on clear days)
• Summer water temperature of 28–31°C
• Challenge Taiwan Penghu hosts a triathlon event here
• Note: Confirm designated safe swimming areas; reefs and currents require caution

Fulong Beach (Gongliao District, New Taipei City)

The most convenient sea swimming venue in northern Taiwan, with formal swimming facilities and lifeguards every summer.

• Sandy bottom, safe entry into the water
• Official swimming hours available during summer
• Approximately 1.5 hours from Taipei, with convenient transportation

Xiao Liuqiu (Liuqiu Township, Pingtung County)

A paradise for snorkeling and sea swimming, with excellent water quality thanks to coral reef conservation.

• Clear seawater, ideal for a relaxed swimming experience combined with snorkeling
• Reefs and currents require caution; not suitable for long-distance training swims

Essential Safety Information to Check Before Swimming

Open-water swimming in Taiwan is subject to several regulations and safety restrictions:

• Most beaches prohibit swimming outside designated hours
• Tourist lakes such as Sun Moon Lake are generally off-limits for swimming at other times
• Check swimming permit information from the Coast Guard Administration or local city/county governments before swimming
• Confirm the day’s weather forecast and wave height forecast before entering the water (refer to the Central Weather Administration’s “Sea State Observation”)

Practical Advice

• Join local swimming communities: Triathlon associations in various cities and counties typically organize regular open-water training sessions
• Choose locations with official events: Such as the Sun Moon Lake Swim or the Chengcing Lake City Triathlon, where safety measures are more comprehensive
• Taitung is the best sea swimming training base: If you plan serious sea swimming training, Taitung combines favorable climate, water quality, and race resources

Conclusion

Taiwan’s open-water swimming resources are rich and diverse—from urban lakeshores to offshore coral reefs, each location offers its own unique charm and challenges. As open-water swimming culture becomes increasingly popular in Taiwan, more legal and safe swimming opportunities are emerging. With the right safety knowledge, explore the beauty of this island’s waters.

Related Reading

• Swim Travel: Famous Swimming Spots and Open Water in Taiwan
• Introduction to Taiwan’s Open-Water Swimming Events: Sun Moon Lake Mass Swim and More
• Open-Water Training Venues: Lakes, Reservoirs, and Sea Areas Suitable for Practice in Taiwan
• Taiwan Open-Water Race Guide: The Complete Guide to the Sun Moon Lake Swim and Triathlon Swim Legs