Dongqing Bay sits on the east coast of Lanyu (Orchid Island), a volcanic island off Taitung, Taiwan, across from Warship Rock. Its snorkel highlights are the 'Tidal Pool' (Chaochi) — a natural pool that forms at low tide — and the nearby Mother-Hen Rock (Muji Rock) area, both easy beach entries onto coral. A shallow reef of about 5m near shore slopes gently to a 20m sandy bottom, home to clownfish nestled in anemones, butterflyfish, starfish, and sea turtles in summer. Summer visibility near shore is typically 15-20m, and Lanyu's exceptionally clear water is among the best in Taiwan. As of 2026 both independent snorkeling and dive-shop tours operate here.
The Tidal Pool (Chaochi) — a natural pool formed at low tide with a resident colony of clownfish, shallow and beginner- and child-friendly
Adjacent Mother-Hen Rock (Muji Rock), a popular summer spot where sea turtles are sometimes seen
Straightforward beach entry, with terrain running from a 5m nearshore reef down to a 20m sand bottom
Rich fish life — anemones with clownfish, butterflyfish, coral gardens — set against the island's volcanic rock formations
The nearby Frog Rock Blue Cave (Qingwa Yan), a striking cavern at 13-16m — note this is an advanced boat dive, not a snorkeling site
Good to know
SafetyThe bay opens onto the open Pacific, and just outside the cove there are strong currents and rip zones. Locals specifically warn against swimming out to the right side of the bay. Carry a buoy or float and stay inside the sheltered shallow area.
SafetyThere are no lifeguards. Avoid snorkeling alone, use a buddy, and if you are a beginner go with an instructor or tour — mask fogging and surge can cause panic in open water.
SafetySea urchins, fire coral, and stinging reef life are common. Keep buoyant so hands and fins never brush the reef or rocks, and give sea snakes and other wildlife a wide berth rather than provoking them.
RulesDuring the Tao (Yami) Flying Fish Season (roughly February-June by the lunar calendar), swimming and water play are traditionally forbidden except in designated visitor waters. If you visit then, confirm the open zones and tour rules locally before entering the water.
MannersNever stand on or step on coral, and keep your distance from sea turtles and other wildlife — do not touch or feed them. Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly encouraged.
MannersThe traditional tatala plank-boats and fishing gear on the beach are sacred to the Tao people. Do not touch or climb on them without permission, and do not speak to fishermen who are heading out or just returning.
SeasonThe best snorkeling window is April-October, peaking July-October. Winter brings rough seas from the northeast monsoon and cooler water (about 28-29C in summer, around 25C in winter), and typhoons can affect summer — always check the day's sea conditions.
Practical info
Reach Lanyu by ferry from Taitung's Fugang Harbor (or Houbihu near Kenting), roughly 2.5 hours, or by small plane from Taitung Airport, then travel to Dongqing village on the island's east side. Most of the area is beach-entry snorkeling, but renting gear and hiring a guide through a local dive shop is the safer choice. Fares, ferry and flight schedules, and the designated open waters during Flying Fish Season change by season, so verify the latest details before you go.
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