Introduction to Keelung Islet
Keelung Islet is a dramatic volcanic island located just off the coast of Keelung City in northern Taiwan. Rising steeply from the Pacific Ocean, this uninhabited islet is known for its rugged cliffs, rich marine life, and strategic military history.
Though small in size, it leaves a big impression thanks to its unique geology, isolation, and panoramic views of the sea.
A Quick Escape from the City
Just a 15- to 20-minute boat ride from Keelung Harbor, Keelung Islet is an ideal half-day or day trip for travelers looking to escape the city without venturing far.
The ferry ride itself offers beautiful coastal views and a refreshing ocean breeze, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Despite being so close to Taipei, this island feels worlds away.
A Short but Rewarding Hike
One of the main attractions on Keelung Islet is a steep but scenic hiking trail that leads from the pier to a viewpoint near the island’s lighthouse. The hike takes around 40–60 minutes round trip and consists mostly of paved steps with handrails.
From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning 360° views of Keelung, the open sea, and Taiwan’s jagged northeast coastline.
A Protected Natural Haven
Keelung Islet is not just a pretty view—it’s also an important ecological area. The island is home to various seabirds, rare coastal plants, and unique volcanic rock formations.
To preserve its delicate ecosystem, access is carefully controlled, and visitors must stay on marked paths. It’s a perfect destination for eco-conscious travelers and photographers alike.
▼ Keelung Islet
A Place Rich in History
The islet once served as a military outpost, and for many years, it was off-limits to the public. Since reopening as a tourist destination, it has become a symbol of local pride and cultural heritage.
Its iconic cone-shaped silhouette is easily visible from Keelung City and has long been a maritime landmark for fishermen and sailors in the region.
▼ The Little Keelung Islet
When and How to Visit
Keelung Islet is open to the public only during certain months—typically from April to October, when sea conditions are safe for ferry travel.
Boats depart daily (weather permitting) from Badouzi Fishing Harbor or Bisha Port, and advanced reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. There are no shops or facilities on the island, so come prepared.
A group of 15 people is required. If the minimum number of people is not reached, you will be rescheduled or a full refund will be given.
Why You Should Go
If you’re looking for a unique, nature-filled adventure just outside of Taipei, Keelung Islet offers the perfect mix of coastal scenery, short hiking, and peaceful solitude.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, an amateur photographer, or simply someone who appreciates off-the-beaten-path destinations, Keelung Islet is one of Taiwan’s best-kept secrets waiting to be explored.
History of Keelung Islet
Due to military control, Keelung Islet was not open to the public until 2001. Reservations are required during the opening hours of Keelung Islet. Tickets must be purchased in advance and personal information must be registered at the customs. Registration will be stopped when the daily limit reaches 1,200 people.
Opening time: Keelung Islet officially opened to tourism in 2001.
Typhoon attack: In 2014, the island was closed due to damage from a typhoon.
Reopening time: In 2019, the island reopened to tourism, but the flow restriction policy is still implemented.
Island restrictions: Due to the daily limit on the number of people going to the island, you need to provide personal information and pass the review before you can go to the island.
Island access method: Currently, you can board the boat from Bisha Fishing Port or Badouzi Port.
Although Keelung Island is open to the island, it is still necessary to comply with military control-related regulations such as limiting the number of people going to the island and environmental protection.
▼ Keelung Islet has the only tunnel, which was artificially dug during the Japanese colonial period to run through the southeast and southwest of the island. It is extremely cool to walk in the tunnel.
Hiking on Keelung Islet
Keelung Islet is open from April 1 to October 31 every year, from 08:00 to 17:00 every day. The island is closed to the public during the winter months due to strong northeasterly winds.
All visitors take the same boat to the Keelung Islet and the same one back. You can’t take the next boat back.
The Keelung Islet hike is a short, accessible adventure that packs in some of the most beautiful sea views in northern Taiwan. While it doesn’t require advanced hiking skills, the steady incline makes it feel rewarding. If you’re visiting between April and October and want a quick nature escape from the city, this hike should be high on your list.
▼ Driftwood installation art
Highlights
● Coastal Views: You’ll get sweeping views of Keelung Harbor, the Pacific Ocean, and Taiwan’s northern coastline.
● Lava Formations: The island is volcanic in origin, so look out for unusual basalt rocks and rugged cliffs.
● Lighthouse Viewpoint: Though you can’t enter the lighthouse, the nearby viewing platform offers a perfect photo spot.
● Flora & Fauna: Expect to see sea birds, hardy island plants, and coastal vegetation adapted to strong ocean winds.
What to Expect on the Trail
The hike begins with a gentle climb, but quickly becomes steeper as you ascend the side of the volcanic hill. The stairs are steep but sturdy, and handrails are provided along the way for added safety. While there are no technical sections, the incline can be challenging in the summer heat.
▼ Wooden plank steps
As you gain elevation, the views become increasingly spectacular. You’ll see:
● The vast Pacific Ocean stretching into the horizon
● Keelung Harbor and the surrounding coastline
● Unique volcanic rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion
● At the top, a viewing deck offers sweeping 360° views, making it the perfect place for rest, photos, and quiet reflection.
Keelung Islet’s Seaside Trail & Lighthouse Trail
Though Keelung Islet is small, it offers two distinct walking paths that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty and scenic viewpoints: the Seaside Trail and the Lighthouse Trail. Each has its own charm—one for a gentle walk along the coast, and the other for a more adventurous hike to a panoramic viewpoint.
Seaside Trail (Coastal Walk)
The Seaside Trail begins right at the island’s landing pier and follows the southwestern coastline of Keelung Islet. It’s a short, flat, and well-paved path—perfect for families, seniors, or anyone looking for a relaxed stroll.
▼ Seaside Trail
Along the seaside trail, you can enjoy driftwood installation art, caves, Little Keelung Island and sea views. There is also a Tudigong Cave and Guanyin Cave.
▼ Tudigong Cave
▼ Guanyin Cave
Highlights:
● Offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged basalt cliffs.
● Features viewing platforms and interpretive signs that explain the island’s geology and ecology.
● An easy and scenic walk with minimal elevation gain, suitable for all ages.
● This trail is a great way to enjoy the sea breeze and take in the dramatic coastal landscape without hiking uphill.
● The tiny islet is next to Keelung Islet.
Lighthouse Trail (Summit Hike)
The Lighthouse Trail is the main hiking route on Keelung Islet, leading from the end of the Seaside Trail up to a viewpoint near the Keelung Islet Lighthouse, located at the highest accessible point on the island.
Lighthouse Information:
Keelung Islet Lighthouse was built in 1980. The lighthouse is a reinforced concrete structure, octagonal, and 12.3 meters high.
Appearance: The exterior is black and white vertical stripes.
Location: The lighthouse is located on the top of Keelung Island, about 4,500 meters from Keelung Port.
Features: Keelung Island Lighthouse is the first solar-powered lighthouse in Taiwan.
Lighthouse height: The tower is 12.3 meters high. Keelung Island is more than 170 meters high, and the lighthouse is 189.3 meters high, making it the second tallest lighthouse in Taiwan.
Lighthouse Trail Information:
● Distance: About 0.7 km one way
● Number of steps: About 1,200 steps on the wooden plank road and stone steps or dirt roads
● Hiking Time: 40–60 minutes round trip
● Lighthouse Trail: A wooden plank steps with about 1,200 steps
● Elevation Dain: ~180 meters
● End point: Keelung Lighthouse, the highest point on the island.
● Difficulty: Moderate (mostly stairs; short but steep)
● Scenery: The lighthouse has a wide view, with a 360-degree panoramic view, and the scenery of Yehliu, Bitou Cape, and the North Coast in the distance is unobstructed.
▼ Trail type: The trail starts with wooden steps with railings. After passing the pavilion it is just a stone steps or dirt roads. (Out-and-back)
▼ Stone steps
▼ Dirt roads
Highlights:
● A moderate workout with rewarding panoramic views at the top.
● From the summit platform, you can see Keelung Harbor, Badouzi, Heping Island, and the vast Pacific Ocean.
● The trail is short but steep, so bring water and take breaks in the summer heat.
The trail begins at the island’s dock landing area and leads uphill to a viewing platform near the lighthouse, the highest accessible point on the island. There are about 1,200 wooden steps in the front section, and stone steps or dirt roads in the back section, making walking quite difficult.
Eco Guidelines & Trail Rules
Keelung Islet is a protected ecological area, and all visitors must follow strict conservation rules:
▎Stay on Trail: Visitors must stick to the designated path to protect the island’s fragile environment. There’s no off-trail hiking allowed.
▎Weather Check: Boats and access to the island are weather-dependent. The trail closes during rough seas or storms.
▎Limited Shade: Bring a hat and sunscreen—the trail is exposed, especially in summer.
▎Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and midges can be present, especially in warmer months.
▎Do not pick plants, feed animals, or leave trash.
These trails are designed to let visitors experience the island without harming its delicate ecosystem, especially its bird habitats and native plants.
Together, the Seaside Trail and Lighthouse Trail make Keelung Islet a perfect destination for a short, scenic hike. You can enjoy breathtaking ocean views, a bit of local history, and a peaceful walk away from the crowds—all in a half-day trip just off the coast of Keelung.
Nature and Scenery
The trail is surrounded by windswept coastal vegetation, including hardy grasses, wildflowers, and seabird nesting sites. On a clear day, you may spot:
● Migratory seabirds
● Fishing boats returning to Keelung
● Distant views of Taiwan’s northeast mountains and capes
Because the islet is ecologically sensitive, all hikers must stay on the designated trail. Do not go off-path or climb on rocks to protect both the environment and yourself.
▼ Keelung Islet Harbor
Recommended Gear
● Lightweight hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers
● Water bottle (no shops on the island!)
● Hat and sunscreen
● Camera or phone for photos
● Light rain jacket (weather can shift quickly)
● Insect repellent
▼ Currently, the main water source of Keelung Island is the rainwater collected daily and the clean water transported from the main island of Taiwan every week, which provides living water for the soldiers on the island. Clean water is stored under the stage.
Opening Hours
Keelung Island is open from April 1 to October 31 every year, from 08:00 to 17:00 every day.
Reservations are required during the opening hours of Keelung Islet. Tickets must be purchased in advance and personal information must be registered at the customs. Registration will be stopped when the daily limit reaches 1,200 people.
Foreigners are required to provide personal information such as passport number, and the shipping company will assist you with the entry procedures to the island.
Boat access only: You must book a round-trip ferry in advance.
Open Season: April to October (weather permitting). No shops on the island.
Keelung Islet Ferry & Tour
If you go on weekdays, it is recommended to choose Jinlong Hao, which should be easier to reach 15 people. There is usually one boat in the morning and one in the afternoon to Keelung Islet.
■ Keelung Islet Ferry : Island Landing, Around the Island, Going to the Lighthouse, and Going Around the Elephant Trunk Rock Experience. (Mandarin speaking tour guide)
Please note that Keelung Islet is typically open to visitors from April to October, depending on weather conditions. It’s advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, as visitor numbers are often capped.
A group of 15 people is required. If the minimum number of people is not reached, you will be rescheduled or a full refund will be given.
Price
Package type
[Two-in-one trip] Island landing + island hopping : NT$700
[Three-in-one trip] Island landing + lighthouse + island hopping : NT$850
[Four-in-one itinerary] Island landing + lighthouse + Elephant Trunk Rock + around the island : NT$1050
The Best Time to Visit
Keelung Islet is a seasonal destination, and planning your visit during the right time of year can make all the difference. Because the island is only accessible by boat and prone to rough sea conditions, it’s important to time your trip wisely.
Open Season: April to October
Keelung Islet is officially open to the public from April through October each year. This period corresponds with calmer seas and safer weather conditions for ferry transport.
The peak season is from June to August, when weather is most stable, and school holidays boost visitor numbers.
Best Months to Visit
Best Overall: April, May & June
Comfortable weather, low crowd levels, excellent hiking and photo conditions.
Still Good: July & Early September
Hotter with higher tourist traffic. Check weather frequently for storms.
Avoid If Possible: August & Late September
Peak typhoon risk; expect sudden cancellations.
By timing your visit during the best months—particularly April through early July—you’ll experience the island at its most beautiful and accessible.
Whether you’re hiking the lighthouse trail or enjoying the sea breeze from the viewing decks, Keelung Islet is a must-visit summer gem on Taiwan’s northeast coast.
⚠️ Always check the weather forecast and sea conditions the day before your trip. Ferry services will be canceled during:
- High winds or large waves
- Thunderstorms or typhoon warnings
- Off-Season Access: November to March
From November through March, the island is closed to the public due to strong northeast monsoon winds and unstable ocean conditions. All ferry tours are suspended during this period.
▼ Keelung Islet has the only house number 8, which is also the only store on the island. However, after every typhoon, the decorations in the store will be damaged, and finally no one is willing to open a store here.
How to Get to Keelung Islet
Visiting Keelung Islet is one of the most unique and scenic day trips in northern Taiwan—but getting there requires a bit of planning. Since the island is only accessible by boat, and visits are seasonal, here’s everything you need to know to reach it smoothly.
Step 1: Check Seasonal Availability
Keelung Islet is only open to visitors from April to October, depending on weather and sea conditions. Boat service may be suspended during typhoons, rough seas, or strong wind advisories, so it’s essential to:
Check the weather forecast and confirm ferry status before your trip.
Boat access only: You must book a round-trip ferry in advance.
■ Keelung Islet Ferry and Tour
Step 2: Travel to Keelung City
To get to the islet, you first need to make your way to Keelung, located about 40–60 minutes northeast of Taipei.
From Taipei to Keelung:
By Train: Take a TRA local or express train from Taipei Main Station to Keelung Station (~45 min).
By Bus: Take Kuo-Kuang Bus 1813 or Bus 2088 from Taipei City Hall to Keelung (~50 min).
Once in Keelung, you’ll need to get to the departure harbor for the boat.
Step 3: Go to the Ferry Departure Point
Boats to Keelung Islet usually depart from one of two nearby harbors:
Bisha Fishing Harbor (碧砂漁港) or Badouzi Harbor (八斗子漁港)
Slightly closer to Badouzi Train Station on the TRA Shen’ao Line
Also reachable by taxi or bus from Keelung or Ruifang
Step 4: Book Your Ferry or Tour
You must book a ferry or join a guided boat tour—there are no walk-on boats.
Booking options:
Directly through local boat tour operators (many have Facebook pages)
Through travel platforms like Klook, KKday, or Taiwanese tour agencies
Some offer combo tours that include:
Round-trip ferry
Island landing permit
Guided hike (optional)
💡 Prices typically range from NT$300 to NT$600 per person.
🕐 Step 5: Be on Time
Most tours give you:
A fixed departure time
A set return time (typically ~1.5 to 2 hours on the island)
Don’t be late—boats do not wait, and there is no alternative return if you miss yours.
🧭 Summary: Your Route
Take train or bus to Keelung City
Go to Bisha Fishing Harbor or Badouzi Harbor
Take a pre-booked ferry to Keelung Islet
Hike and explore the island
Return via the scheduled ferry
▼ Just follow your guide, who will teach you how to pose and help you take photos
