Taitung Dive Adventures: Discoveries in the Deep

Shiyusan: Sea-Eroded Wonders

Taitung’s coastal diving terrain is like a natural art gallery, vibrant and diverse. The waters off Shiyusan, the “Stone Umbrella,” located north of Chenggong Township on the mainland of Taiwan, stretch along a one-kilometer-long limestone promontory. Shaped by years of ocean waves, this sea-eroded landscape features natural formations including Balanced Rock, Potholes, and Sea Arches. Closer to the tip of the cape, the formations become more fragmented, presenting a dramatic natural aesthetic. The area is not only a renowned for these unique geological features, but also a great underwater playground for scuba divers.

Green Island and Lanyu: Diverse Undersea Worlds

Formed from various corals and masses of seashell fragments, Green Island’s Dabaisha Diving Area offers a gleaming white dreamscape. The spot is reached by descending a vertical wall to depths of 20 meters or more, where giant corals shoot up from the seafloor like undersea skyscrapers. Reefs at distances of 50 meters and 250 meters from the shore serve as markers to the dive zones. 

(Photo credit: @_ming.ho)

Green Island’s Shilang Diving Area is a real gem among Taitung’s numerous dive spots. Here, warm waters from the Kuroshio Current embrace the island, while circular coral reefs buffer its coast like guardians. Enriched by the upwelling currents, the marine ecosystem here supports over 200 species of corals. Swaying Nephthea chabrolii, darting butterflyfish, and moorish idols create a dreamy underwater garden. At a depth of 18 meters deep, a natural formation called the Giant Mushroom Coral is over 1,000 years old and once stood at a height of 10 meters above the sea floor. Though toppled by Typhoon Meranti in 2016, it remains a sacred landmark for divers and is still a highly popular dive today.

The waters surrounding Lanyu extend from shallow reef plateaus to dramatic sea cliffs, with geological formations like Jiamuzi Bay’s rocky coastline providing shelter for marine life. The Chaikou Diving Area features rich intertidal ecosystems and dense coral formations, including massive encrusting corals. 

From Beginners to Advanced, Experiences for Everyone

Taitung’s waters are suited for all skill levels of divers. Beginners can get a taste for the sport through classes and instructor-led dives, while advanced divers may venture into shipwrecks and underwater tunnels, like those around Dabaisha. From June to August, when there are strong southwesterly winds, the sheltered waters of Green Island’s Chaikou area makes it an ideal snorkeling haven. For many popular dive spots, the East Coast National Scenic Area Administration maintains trails and access points, thus improving safety and accessibility.

Gear Up and Dive Safe

A genuine love for the ocean begins with attention to detail. Choose ocean-friendly sunscreens that are free of oxybenzone and use physical sun protection like rash guards and facekinis. Always remember proper marine etiquette: never touch corals or marine life, and don’t leave any trash behind. Learn to control your fins in the water to both improve your kicking efficiency and reduce environmental impact by stirring up sand or damaging corals. 

The Taitung County Government works hand in hand with local dive operators to protect our marine ecosystems. From underwater cleanups to educational ecological tours, numerous initiatives reflect this dedication. As you dive into Taitung’s deep blue mysteries, you will not only witness vibrant marine life but also learn to coexist harmoniously with nature. Always remember, divers carry an important responsibility as guardians of the sea.