Suao

Suao is a small coastal town at the southern end of the Yilan County coast, best known as the gateway to the dramatic Suhua Highway—one of Taiwan's most scenic drives. With a working fishing port, nearby hot springs, and easy access to world-class marble-walled gorges, Suao offers a laid-back base for exploring northeastern Taiwan's wilder side.

Highlights & What to See

• Suao Fishing Port – Watch the daily catch come in and sample ultra-fresh sashimi at the adjacent fish market; the lively morning auction is a photographer's dream.
• Suao Cold Springs – A rare natural cold spring (around 15°C year-round) where you can soak in mineral-rich waters; a refreshing alternative to Taiwan's hot springs.
• Suhua Highway (Highway 9) – Taiwan's most spectacular coastal road, clinging to sheer cliffs above the Pacific; rent a car or join a tour for jaw-dropping views of Qingshui Cliff.
• Nanfang'ao – A historic fishing village just north of Suao, famous for its dramatic lighthouse and seafood restaurants serving grilled squid and fish soup.
• Wulaokeng Trail – A short, easy hike through lush forest to a waterfall and natural swimming hole – perfect for a cool dip on a humid day.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers pass through Suao on a day trip from Yilan or Hualien, but staying one night allows you to soak in the cold springs at leisure and catch the sunrise over the Pacific. If you're driving the Suhua Highway, plan at least 3–4 hours for the road itself plus stops at viewpoints. For a relaxed visit, allocate a full day to explore the port, springs, and nearby trails.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Yilan City – 30 minutes north, with its vibrant night market, National Center for Traditional Arts, and cycle-friendly countryside.
• Jiaoxi – Famous for its hot springs and the stunning Taiping Mountain forest recreation area, about 40 minutes northwest.
• Hualien City – Two hours south via the Suhua Highway, gateway to Taroko Gorge and the East Rift Valley.
• Taroko National Park – Taiwan's most iconic marble gorge, reachable in under 90 minutes by car from Suao.
• Qingshui Cliff – A dramatic 21-km stretch of cliffs dropping into the Pacific, unmissable on the Suhua Highway.

Please check official sources for current details.