Hualien(花蓮), a gem on Taiwan’s east coast, boasts a diverse array of natural beauty and cultural charm that captivates countless travel enthusiasts.
Whether you are an adventurous explorer seeking to venture into the wilderness, a fearless adventurer in search of hidden gems, or a soul seeking tranquility through hiking, Hualien has an abundance of surprises in store for you.
Today, let’s embark on a journey together to explore this beautiful place, uncover the mysteries of Hualien, and introduce 13 must-visit attractions that will make you fall in love with the beauty of Taiwan’s east coast.
*Cover image credit: @little.xeno
Before You Go
You should consider purchasing the Klook PASS Hualien because it can help you save up to 40% on your expenses and allows you to customize your adventure by selecting 2 to 4 experience itineraries.
I strongly recommend that you get a useful tool to make your travel go smoothly: 4G SIM Card.
With the local 4G SIM card, you will find your destination easily, check the latest public transport schedules immediately, and share your vacation photos or videos with your family and friends anytime, anywhere.
Hualien Attractions
1. Taroko National Park（太魯閣國家公園）
Taroko National Park in Hualien is renowned for its magnificent marble canyon landscapes, attracting numerous tourists.
The scenic Liwu River Gorge within the park is awe-inspiring, offering breathtaking views of cliffs, precipices, gorges, as well as enchanting features like mountain caves, marble formations, and streams.
Yanzikou (Swallow Grotto) and Jiuqudong (Tunnel of Nine Turns) are the most captivating wonders of Taroko National Park.
Yanzikou boasts many caves where one can often see swifts and swallows darting around, especially during the spring and summer seasons.
Jiuqudong’s winding tunnel scenery is truly astonishing.
With its stunning landscapes and unique natural wonders, Taroko National Park captivates visitors and stands as the ultimate destination for exploring nature.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
If you want to visit the attractions but don’t have transportation, you can consider the following solution:
Hualien: Taroko Gorge One-Day Tour from Taipei
- Including transportation from Taipei to Hualien, allowing you to travel easily.
- Chinese / English / Japanese / Korean-speaking guide
- Comprehensive insurance coverage is also included in this package.
Photo Source: Klook
Hualien Taroko National Park Private Car Charter
- Choose a half day(4 hrs) or full day(8 hrs) tour based on your personal preference and tailor as you like.
- Choose a car, van or minibus for the ultimate comfort, for whatever fits your group size.
- Visit parts of Taroko National Park that are too difficult to access via public transport.
Photo Source: Klook
2. Qingshui Cliff （清水斷崖）
Qingshui Cliff in Hualien is one of the most famous natural wonders in the area.
Located on the eastern side of Qingshui Mountain, it stretches approximately 21 kilometers in length.
The spectacular sight of Qingshui Cliff is awe-inspiring, with steep cliffs that almost vertically extend to the coastline, creating a breathtaking view.
As you drive along the Suhua Highway on Qingshui Cliff, you will be surrounded by towering mountains while enjoying the magnificent cliff walls.
This unique road scenery is unforgettable.
Furthermore, from Qingshui Cliff, you can overlook the azure Pacific Ocean and the visually stunning layers of blue hues along the Hualien coastline, providing a visually stunning and awe-inspiring experience.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
Want to experience the majestic Qingshui Cliff from sea level and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Hualien’s coastline?
Qingshui Cliff Kayaking Experience
- Easy for beginners to get started and enjoy the stunning sunrise view of Qingshui Cliff.
- Professional instructors will provide on-shore guidance before taking you out to explore hidden spots inaccessible by car.
- Accompanied by skilled coaches and complimentary photography service to capture your most beautiful memories.
Photo Source: Klook
Qingshui Cliff Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Experience
- Experience the hottest trend of Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)!
- Play SUP at one of Taiwan’s top ten scenic spots, and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
- Guided by professional instructors, with complimentary photography service to capture your most beautiful memories.
Photo Source: Klook
3. Qixingtan （七星潭）
Qixingtan is one of the most beautiful beaches in Hualien, boasting a charming crescent-shaped bay and crystal-clear blue waters.
The beach’s black pebbles shimmer with a translucent glow, while green mountains embrace the surroundings, creating a captivating scenery.
The name Qixingtan, which means “Seven Star Bay,” has poetic origins. It is said that there used to be seven lakes scattered in this area, but they were eventually filled.
On clear days, you can enjoy a distant view of Qingshui Cliff from Qixingtan, and at night, you can marvel at the twinkling lights of the urban areas.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
Want to visit Taroko Gorge, Qingshui Cliff, and Seven Star Lake all in one trip?
Hualien Private Day Trips
- Taroko Scenic Trail Exploration – One-day tour with bilingual guide (Chinese/English)
- Departing from Hualien City, embark on the journey comfortably in a cozy vehicle.
- Insurance provided by the supplier.
Photo Source: Klook
4. Manbo Beach（曼波海灘）
Besides Qixingtan, Manbo Beach is another hidden gem by the sea that is definitely worth a visit!
Located at the northern end of Qixingtan, Manbo Beach attracts fewer tourists, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the sea and the waves.
You can also have fun stacking stones and, on clear days, capture stunning photos that reflect a mirror image of the sky.
Apart from taking beautiful pictures, you can experience the thrilling adventure of riding a beach buggy.
It’s undoubtedly one of the must-try activities when visiting Hualien!
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
Have you never tried beach buggy before? Now you can do it!
Sky Mirror ATV Experience by Manbo Beach Buggy
- Professional instructors lead the practice.
- Complimentary photography service provided throughout the journey.
- Insurance provided by the supplier.
Photo Source: Klook
5. Mugu Muyu（慕谷慕魚）
Mugu Muyu in Hualien derives its name from the Taroko tribe’s term “MukuMugi”, which means “people who come from a place covered with vines.”
This hidden gem nestled in the Hualien valley is a secluded paradise.
As you look up, you’ll gaze upon a serene blue sky, while beneath your feet flows a stream composed of stones of various sizes.
The crystal-clear water and vibrant green hue of the stream allow you to see the rocks at the bottom.
Here, you will be surrounded by the murmuring sound of the stream and the chirping of birds, like a symphony of nature, providing moments of tranquility and bliss.
Mugu Muyu offers an unforgettable and enchanting experience, allowing you to immerse themselves in the wonders and mysteries of nature.
6. Feicui Gu（翡翠谷）
Feicui Gu is located within the mountains and forests in Hualien, serving as a hidden sanctuary.
To reach the Water Curtain Waterfall in Feicui Gu, one must first traverse a 200-meter-long ancient tunnel.
The tunnel exudes a mysterious ambiance, dim and silent, so it is advisable to carry a flashlight to illuminate the path ahead.
Additionally, be sure to observe the bats hanging from the tunnel’s ceiling, adding a unique sense of wonder to the entire journey.
On the other side of the tunnel, just a 20-minute walk away, you will witness the magnificent natural waterfall, one of Hualien’s most representative and captivating waterfalls.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
Let’s embrace nature and try stream crossing in the Hualien mountains, exploring the pristine beauty of Taiwan’s eastern wilderness:
Rift Valley Secret Ecological Trekking Experience
- Experience the ecological wonders of Hualien.
- Basic equipment for stream tracing provided.
- Professional coaches accompany and offer photography service throughout the activity.
Photo Source: Klook
7. Liyu Lake（鯉魚潭）
Liyu Lake is the largest inland lake in Hualien, covering approximately 104 hectares.
It has an elliptical shape, longer in the north-south direction and narrower in the east-west direction.
Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and boating on the lake, along with various exciting activities.
Liyu Lake is a charming place where you can fully indulge in the beauty of nature and leisurely moments.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
8. Shitiping（石梯坪）
Shitiping is one of the must-visit attractions in Hualien.
It features irregular bays and coves formed by rocks extending into the sea, earning it the name “Shitiping.”
Here, you can observe raised coral reefs, coastal erosion platforms, and explore the intertidal zone’s marine life.
Moreover, Dangmian Mountain is a popular spot for taking photos.
Climbing to the highest point on the rocks, you can witness the spectacular crashing waves, creating a breathtaking sight.
Shitiping showcases Hualien’s unique geological wonders and beautiful coastal scenery, providing you with an unforgettable experience.
Let’s explore this natural treasure together!
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
Do you want to explore the underwater world of Shitiping?
Shitiping Snorkeling Experience
- Complete snorkeling equipment provided.
- Snorkeling experience includes professional coaching and photography service.
- Complimentary tribal-style snacks and beverages included.
Photo Source: Klook
9. March Cave（麻糬洞）
March Cavee and Shitiping are two must-visit attractions near Fengbin Township in Hualien.
They are just a short drive apart and create an unbeatable combination for travelers planning to visit Hualien!
March Cave is renowned for its dreamy coastal erosion landscape and Instagrammable spots.
There is even a perfect rock for visitors to stand on and take stunning photos, leaving them in awe.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 24hrs
- Get Location
10. Liushishi Mountain（花蓮六十石山）
Liushishi Mountain is one of the most famous spots in Hualien for viewing the Orange Daylily.
At an altitude of 800 meters, you can witness the magnificent Orange Daylily fields surrounded by lush mountains and a beautiful blue sky.
It’s a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe.
Enjoy the beauty of nature and create unforgettable memories here!
- Hours：24hrs (Aug – Sept)
- Get Location
Admiring the blooming Orange Daylily fields is beautiful, but public transportation is inconvenient, and it’s quite far from Hualien city center. There’s also a steep mountain road that tests driving skills, so chartering a car is the best choice:
Hualien Private Car Charter for Liushishi Mountain
- Private Car Charter taking you to natural wonders, and admiring the vast fields of golden needle flowers.
- The itinerary includes pick-up and drop-off service from hotels or Hualien city center.
- Plan your own itinerary for a relaxed and effortless travel experience.
Photo Source: Klook
11. Xiuguluan River Rafting Experience（秀姑巒溪泛舟）
The Xiuguluan River is a famous rafting destination in Hualien, with steep and ever-changing river currents.
The best rafting season is from May to October.
The entire journey takes about 3-4 hours and offers thrilling experiences and magnificent views of the Xiuguluan River valley.
Whether in the first or second half of the rafting route, you will experience different levels of excitement and thrills.
When visiting Hualien, you should definitely not miss this unforgettable rafting adventure!
- Hours：Mon – Sun 09:00~19:00
- Get Location
Don’t miss out on the exhilarating river rafting experience! Come and feel the rush as you navigate the waters!
Xiuguluan River Rafting Experience
- Experience the beauty of the Xiuguluan Riverbank, no experience needed.
- Complete and advanced equipment, professional coaching for safe guidance.
- Convenient pick-up from designated locations in Hualien city, no worries about transportation!
Photo Source: Klook
12. Dolaman Ocean Whale Watching Tour（多羅滿海洋賞鯨導覽體驗）
Immerse yourself in the splendor and mystery of nature with a whale watching experience in Hualien.
In this tranquil sea, you will have the opportunity to witness the majestic gathering of whales and dolphins.
Step aboard a comfortable sightseeing boat and soar across the deep blue ocean as professional guides lead you into the realm of these incredible marine creatures.
As you wait in silence, you may catch a glimpse of water spouts suddenly rising from the surface – the exhilarating sight of whale blowholes.
If luck is on your side, you might encounter gigantic whales breaching the surface or playful pods of dolphins leaping in the waves, providing you with moments of surprise and awe.
This extraordinary encounter with nature will become an unforgettable memory.
The knowledgeable guides will also offer insights into the stories, ecology, and conservation efforts of whales and dolphins, providing a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding of marine conservation.
Whether you are a nature enthusiast, an eco-adventurer, or simply seeking a romantic connection with the ocean, Hualien’s whale watching tour is an unmissable choice.
Get ready to meet these magnificent creatures that guard the oceans and create lasting memories together!
- Hours：Mon – Fri 08:00~18:00 | Sat– Sun 07:00~19:00
- Get Location
Are you ready to dance with whales and resonate with the sea?
Turumoan Whale-Watching Tour
- Take a boat ride and get up close to various whales and dolphins.
- Sea insurance provided.
- Professional guided tours and explanations.
Photo Source: Klook
13. Farglory Ocean Park（花蓮遠雄海洋公園）
Farglory Ocean Park combines marine ecology and amusement facilities, offering eight themed areas and exciting performances featuring dolphins, sea lions, and more.
The park features a Victorian-style marine theme, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a dreamy ocean world.
Suitable for family visits, the park offers ecological interpretation, amusement rides, song and dance performances, and mascots, making it a popular attraction in Hualien.
- Hours：Mon – Sun 09:00~18:00
- Get Location
- Admission fee：NT$990($33)
The original ticket price is NT$990($33), but you can get 16% off just click the below button!
Do you want to enter the underwater world and swim with the fishes?
Farglory Oceanpark Sleepover Experience
- Overnight at Farglory Ocean Park in Hualien, enjoy the unique experience of sleeping with the fishes.
- Diverse and enriching activities for the whole family to create unforgettable memories together!
- Guided tours and explanations provided by professionals.
Photo Source: Klook
I hope you enjoyed reading this post. In this post, you’ve learned about the fun things to do in Hualien. Now, I’d love to hear which activity you prefer and where you would like to go first.
Lastly, if you have any questions about your trip to Hualien, please leave them in the comments below. I will be more than happy to help you out 🙂
