Diving in Taiwan
Including Green Island (Ludao), Kenting National Park, and Orchid Island (Lanyu). On the map.
The vibe
Submerged volcanic formations and deep drop-offs create dramatic underwater topography where schooling pelagics thrive in strong currents. The warmest water arrives between late spring and early autumn, offering the calmest surface conditions for boat and shore diving alike. Operations are well-established and efficient, run largely by dedicated local dive shops that cater to both weekend students and traveling enthusiasts.
park ticket
Green Island (Ludao)
Green Island
Yuriy kosygin / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Green Island is Taiwan's premier diving destination, famous for its incredible visibility and the warm Kuroshio Current. Divers visit for spectacular coral reefs, dramatic underwater topography, and the chance to spot hammerhead sharks during the winter months.
Access. Accessible via a 50-minute ferry from Taitung; numerous dive shops are located around Nanliao Harbor.
Notes. Best diving from April to September; strong currents are common at exposed sites.
Kenting National Park
Pingtung County
Outlookxp / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located at the southern tip of Taiwan, Kenting offers accessible reef diving with a high variety of soft and hard corals. It is a popular year-round destination for divers looking for easy shore entries and vibrant marine biodiversity.
Access. Easily reached by bus or car from Kaohsiung; dive shops are abundant in the Houbihu and Nanwan areas.
Notes. Houbihu is a protected marine area; some sites are restricted to guided shore dives.
Orchid Island (Lanyu)
Taitung County
othree / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Orchid Island offers some of the clearest water in the region, characterized by massive coral formations and deep, vertical drop-offs. The island is culturally significant and provides a remote, pristine diving experience for those seeking wall dives and diverse marine life.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Taitung or Kenting, or by domestic flight from Taitung; local dive operators are concentrated in the main villages.
Notes. Seasonality is heavily influenced by the monsoon; best conditions are generally between April and October.
Penghu Archipelago
Penghu
Penghu — Wikipedia
The Penghu islands feature unique basalt rock formations that extend underwater, creating interesting topography for divers. The area is known for its seasonal migrations and healthy coral patches that thrive in the nutrient-rich waters of the Taiwan Strait.
Access. Accessible by domestic flight or ferry from Chiayi or Kaohsiung; dive centers operate primarily out of Magong.
Notes. Diving is highly seasonal due to strong winter winds; summer months are the only reliable time for boat dives.