Qixingtan Beach

七星潭

A crescent-shaped pebble bay on the outskirts of Hualien city, with blue Pacific waters, a stony beach, and the Central Range rising behind. It is a classic spot for listening to the sea and watching the sunrise.

Qixingtan lies on the northern outskirts of Hualien city, in Xincheng Township. It is a crescent-shaped pebble beach about 20 kilometres long. Its name comes from the seven small lakes that once existed here in the Qing dynasty. The lakes have since vanished, but the name remains. The beach is covered in grey-white pebbles. The sea turns layered shades of blue because the seabed drops off steeply. To the north you can see the cliffs of Qingshui, and to the south the beach runs toward Hualien Airport and the city. On clear days you can see the Central Range and the Coastal Range framing the coast. It is a place where Hualien residents go for walks, to watch the sunrise, and to count the stars. At the north end of the bay, the Qixingtan Scenic Area has a stargazing plaza, a sunrise observatory and a bicycle path. Cycling along the coastal path to Hualien city takes about 8 kilometres. The Sibaa Highland at the southern end is the best vantage point over the whole bay. Nearby are the Bonito Museum, where you can shave your own katsuobushi, and the Yuanye Farm, known for its goat milk coffee. Entry is free. Tips: sunrise is the most recommended time, since the eastern sea is unobstructed. Alternatively, come in the evening for the breeze. Rent a bicycle and ride the coastline for about an hour. Getting there: from Hualien Station, take Taiwan Tourist Shuttle Route 310 (Taroko line) or bus route 105 for about 20 minutes. By scooter or taxi it takes about 15 minutes. Taroko day tours usually stop here too. Notes: the beach is steep, and the offshore currents are strong, so swimming is strictly prohibited. Do not take pebbles away, as there is a fine for doing so. There is no shade at midday in summer.

Qixingtan Beach

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