Green Island Snorkeling and Swimming: Exploring the Underwater World Among Tropical Fish

Introduction

Green Island Township, Taitung County, a small island located 33 kilometers east of Taiwan, is renowned for its unique geothermal hot springs, spectacular coral reefs, and an astonishingly rich marine ecosystem. Every year from late spring to early autumn, divers and snorkeling enthusiasts from around the world flock here for a glimpse of this underwater paradise embraced by the Pacific Ocean. For swimming enthusiasts, Green Island offers more than just a place to swim—it provides an up-close encounter with hundreds of species of tropical marine life.

Top Snorkeling Spots on Green Island

The coral reef system surrounding Green Island nearly encircles the entire island, but each location has its own distinct characteristics. Below are the most popular snorkeling and swimming spots.

Shilang Snorkeling Area is an officially recognized snorkeling base managed by operators, with instructors leading entries into the water and equipment rental available. It is the best starting point for first-time snorkelers on Green Island. Youzi Lake features relatively well-preserved coral reefs and is a semi-enclosed rocky bay where sea turtles are highly likely to appear, making it a favorite among experienced snorkelers.

Marine Biodiversity of Green Island

Green Island is one of the most biodiverse marine areas in Taiwan, largely because it sits at the convergence of the main Kuroshio Current and Taiwan’s coastal currents, bringing abundant plankton that supports a complex marine food chain.

Common Species:

• Corals: Dozens of species including stony corals, soft corals, and sea fans, observable even in shallow waters
• Fish: Tropical species such as butterflyfish, damselfish, angelfish, lionfish, and triggerfish
• Sea Turtles: Green sea turtles (protected species, commonly seen at Shilang and Youzi Lake)
• Cephalopods: Octopuses and cuttlefish hide among reef crevices; occasionally, cuttlefish can be seen performing camouflage displays
• Echinoderms: Sea urchins (black sea urchins are commonly seen near the rocks along the trails—be careful not to step on them), starfish

Marine Conservation Guidelines and Legal Responsibilities

Green Island’s coral reefs are protected under multiple laws, including the Cultural Heritage Preservation Act and the Marine Conservation Act. Any act of collecting or damaging coral reefs is illegal. In recent years, coral bleaching on Green Island has drawn significant attention from the conservation community. As a visitor, every decision to enter the water carries ecological consequences.

Mandatory Marine Conservation Practices:

• Strictly prohibited from touching, stepping on, or breaking any coral; even dead coral skeletons must not be removed
• Do not chase, ride, or block the swimming paths of sea turtles; under the Wildlife Conservation Act, harassing sea turtles can result in a fine of up to NT$100,000
• Use reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based, free of chemical ingredients); chemical compounds in traditional sunscreens have been scientifically proven to cause coral bleaching
• Do not feed any marine life; feeding alters the natural behavior of fish and, over time, disrupts the ecological balance
• Carry all trash out of the water and away from the sea; marine debris causes the deaths of countless marine organisms every year

Practical Planning for Visiting Green Island

Transportation: Take a passenger ferry from Fugang Fishing Harbor in Taitung, approximately 50 minutes; more departures are available in summer, and tickets should be booked at least a week in advance. Small aircraft also operate between Taitung Airport and the island, with a flight time of only 20 minutes in good weather.

Best Season: April to October, when sea conditions are calm and visibility is good; from November to March, the northeast monsoon brings strong winds and rough seas, making snorkeling unsuitable.

Accommodation: The island offers various bed-and-breakfasts; during peak season (July to August), rooms are in high demand, so book at least two months in advance. Some accommodations can arrange snorkeling packages.

Equipment: Snorkeling operators all offer rentals, but if you have a preferred mask, it is recommended to bring your own (rental mask quality varies). Rash guards are more environmentally friendly than sunscreen and are recommended.

Conclusion

The underwater world of Green Island is one of the most precious parts of Taiwan’s natural heritage. Every entry into the water is a dialogue with an ancient coral reef ecosystem and a trust we hold for future generations. Dive into this blue expanse with reverence, see its beauty clearly, and recognize our responsibility to protect it.

Related Reading

• Whale Bay Swimming Challenge: A First Open-Water Swim in the Clear Waters off Yilan
• Swimming in Kenting Waters: Things to Know About the Coral Reef Areas of Nanwan and Houbihu
• Swim Travel: Taiwan’s Famous Swimming Spots and Open Water Destinations
• Taiwan’s Open-Water Swimming Meccas: A Complete Guide to Chengcing Lake, Sun Moon Lake, and Coastal Waters