Freediving in Taiwan
Including Green Island, Kenting National Park, and Long Dong Bay. On the map.
The vibe
Steep drop-offs close to shore give breath-hold divers immediate access to deep blue water without long boat transits. Summer brings glass-calm surface conditions and warm thermoclines, which suit long training sessions and relaxed depth progression. The scene is tight-knit and community-focused, made up of traveling divers and resident instructors sharing quiet shore entries.
Green Island
Green Island
Yuriy kosygin / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located off the southeast coast, Green Island offers some of the clearest water in Taiwan with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. The volcanic topography creates steep drop-offs and underwater canyons that are ideal for advanced freedivers looking for depth.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Taitung; there are numerous professional freediving centers on the island offering boat charters and guided training sessions.
Notes. The Kuroshio Current flows nearby, which can bring strong currents; always check local conditions before entering the water.
Kenting National Park
Pingtung County
Outlookxp / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The southernmost tip of Taiwan provides a variety of reef-based freediving sites with warm, tropical water. The area is characterized by vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life, perfect for recreational breath-hold sessions.
Access. Easily accessible by car or bus from Kaohsiung; many freediving schools are based in the Kenting town area and offer guided shore entries.
Notes. Some areas are restricted for conservation; ensure you are diving in designated zones.
Long Dong Bay
Taiwan
James Gagen / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Long Dong is Taiwan's premier coastal rock climbing and freediving destination, featuring dramatic sandstone cliffs and deep, clear water. The bay offers immediate access to significant depths just meters from the shore, making it a favorite for local breath-hold training.
Access. Accessible via a short hike from the main road in New Taipei City; several freediving schools operate out of the nearby harbor area.
Notes. Currents can be strong; best visited during the summer months when the North Coast waters are calm.
Orchid Island
Taitung County
othree / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Orchid Island, or Lanyu, is a remote paradise for freedivers seeking pristine coral reefs and dramatic underwater rock formations. The water is exceptionally clear and the island's isolation keeps the dive sites uncrowded and well-preserved.
Access. Accessible by ferry from Taitung or flight from Taitung/Kaohsiung; freediving is best arranged through local operators who understand the island's unique currents.
Notes. The island is the home of the Tao people; respect local customs and traditional fishing zones.
Xiaoliuqiu Island
Pingtung County
Outlookxp / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A coral island off the coast of Pingtung known for its year-round warm water and high density of green sea turtles. The surrounding reef flats drop off into clear, blue water, providing excellent conditions for both reef exploration and depth training.
Access. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Donggang; the island is small and easily navigated by scooter to reach various shore-entry freediving spots.
Notes. Marine park regulations are strictly enforced to protect the turtle population; do not touch or harass the wildlife.