Green Island, Taitung City, Taiwan

Other Details:

• Marine Life
• Other Attractions
• How To Get There
• Best Time To Visit
• Required Trainings & Certifications
• Miscellaneous Information

• Hammerhead Sharks - During the last few weeks of February, there’s a high chance you’ll find scalloped hammerhead sharks and other hammerhead species schooling off the southern tip of Green Island. Moving in big schools allows them to catch larger, trickier prey. It takes extreme scuba diving skills to see these awesome sharks because they’re often found at the junction of three strong ocean currents.
• Parrotfishes - The strong yet dangerous current in Green Island make it host to incredible fish species, including the parrotfish. In between inspecting the nooks and crannies of coral reefs, you might notice the presence of these magnificent fishes with their large green bodies. You’ll find them nonchalantly munching on corals with their gaping, prominent teeth.
• Clownfishes - Bright orange and with three distinct white bars, the clown anemonefish is the most recognizable of all reef dwellers. They are commonly found around certain types of anemones, which they perform an elaborate dance with. In exchange for safety from predators, clownfishes drive off intruders and remove parasites from their anemone host.
• Giant Coconut Crabs - The mention of crabs in Taiwan will most likely make anyone smack their lips in delight because of the country’s geography and reputation as a culinary paradise. Indeed, Taiwan is home to more than 600 crab species, including the coconut crab, the world’s largest terrestrial invertebrate. Their large pincers allow them to crack coconuts and devour its contents.
• Sea Snakes - More than four species of sea snakes can be found in the waters off the western side of Green Island. And although they’re highly venomous (making them the most potent of all snake species), they rarely attack humans because of their non-aggressive nature and short fangs. To adapt to underwater life, sea snakes have a flattened body; short, oarlike tails; valvular nostrils; and elongated lungs.
• Shellfish - Taiwan has a strong fishing heritage, which is apparent from its street food to fine dining options. One of these culinary notables is the shellfish, the slimy-yet-tasty invertebrate that produces pearls. But apart from being a delicious snack, shellfish are also in abundance in the waters. Miniature shellfish and other crustacean species can be found along the island’s shoreline.

• Zhaori Hot Spring - Called Asahi Onsen by the Japanese, Zhaori Hot Spring delivers clear and transparent saltwater with a temperature of around 60-70 degrees Celsius. Based on the shape and where the spring occurs, it is possible that the seawater is heated up by the remains of the Green Island volcano.
• Ludao Lighthouse - One of Green Island’s most prominent landmarks is the Ludao Lighthouse, which is situated on the island’s northwest corner. It was built in 1938 after the US cruise liner President Hoover rammed into an offshore reef. This led local villagers to stage a rescue effort, and the US government financed the construction of the lighthouse in gratitude. It’s a dramatic place to visit if you want a breathtaking view of the sunset.
• Guanyin Cave - Guanyin Cave is a limestone terrain formed by rising coral reefs eroded by underground rivers. Inside the cave you’ll find a stone Guanyin statue. Legend says that a group of fishermen lost their directions at sea before a fireball guided the distressed seamen back to shore. They found the Guanyin statue, and an altar was set up for offerings.
• Little Great Wall (Siao Changcheng) - The Little Great Wall is a 300-meter path along a precipitously high promontory, formed on the northern crater lip of the volcano that makes up Green Island. From that vantage point, you’ll have a gorgeous view of Haishenping Bay and Sleeping Beauty Rock.