Taiwan in June transitions into summer, with rising temperatures while the plum rain season lingers, bringing occasional showers. This makes cooling off in the refreshing ocean waters a top choice, especially in coastal cities where beach outings are the perfect way to escape the heat. June also marks Taiwan’s Dragon Boat Festival, a traditional celebration known for its iconic food—zongzi (粽子a sticky rice dumplings). With a wide variety of flavors across different regions, these festive treats are a must-try.
For those planning to visit southern Taiwan, take note! June is the best time to explore Tainan before the peak summer heat sets in. By July and August, temperatures in Tainan can soar to unbearable levels, often ranging from 30°C to 35°C during the day and sometimes exceeding 35°C. Even at night, the temperature stays around 25°C to 28°C, and the high humidity makes it feel even hotter. Additionally, June is the peak harvest season for Irwin mangoes, one of Taiwan’s most beloved summer fruits, and Tainan happens to be the heart of mango production.
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The Best Beaches in Taiwan – A Summer Paradise for Families
Taiwan’s beaches are the ultimate summer getaway! From the lively shores of Nanwan in Kenting to the golden sands of Fulong and the surfing paradise of Waiao in Yilan, each beach offers its own unique charm. Whether it’s feeling the soft sand beneath your feet, playing in the waves, or enjoying thrilling water activities, a beach day is the perfect way to beat the summer heat.
But Taiwan’s beaches aren’t just about the ocean—they’re also a feast for the senses! Many seaside spots offer stunning coastal views paired with fresh seafood delights. Imagine savoring a just-caught seafood meal while gazing at a breathtaking sunset over the waves. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic date, or a solo retreat, Taiwan’s beaches have everything you need for an unforgettable summer escape.
1. Nanwan Beach, Kenting
Highlights: One of the most popular beaches in southern Taiwan, Nanwan boasts fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Activities: Known for its exciting water sports, Nanwan offers banana boating, snorkeling, jet skiing, and even surfing.
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone looking for a tropical beach experience.
2. Fulong Beach, New Taipei City
Highlights: Located in Gongliao District, this famous northern Taiwan beach features soft golden sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming.
Activities: The annual Fulong International Sand Sculpture Festival is a major attraction, drawing visitors to admire incredible sand art creations.
Best for: Families, photographers, and those who enjoy beach festivals.
3. Waiao Beach, Yilan
Highlights: Known for its black sand and consistent waves, Waiao Beach is a hotspot for surfers.
Activities: Surfing is the main draw here, but visitors can also try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kitesurfing.
Best for: Beginner and experienced surfers, adventure seekers.
4. Baisha Bay, New Taipei City
Highlights: A quiet stretch of coastline along Taiwan’s northern shore, Baisha Bay features a long white sandy beach perfect for relaxation.
Activities: Swimming, beach volleyball, camping, and seaside barbecues.
Best for: Families and travelers seeking a peaceful beach getaway.
5. Zhaori Hot Spring Beach, Green Island
Highlights: This unique spot combines a natural beach with a rare underwater hot spring, surrounded by rich coral reefs.
Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, sunrise watching, and soaking in the hot spring pools.
Best for: Adventure lovers, divers, and those looking for a one-of-a-kind beach experience.
（绿岛温泉）
6. Jibei Island, Penghu
Highlights: Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Sea,” Jibei Island is known for its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand.
Activities: Jet skiing, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides for an up-close view of marine life.
Best for: Water sports enthusiasts and tropical island lovers.
7. Vase Rock Beach, Xiaoliuqiu
Highlights: Xiaoliuqiu is famous for its coral reefs and vibrant marine life, with Vase Rock being one of its iconic landmarks.
Activities: Snorkeling, turtle watching, and exploring tide pools.
Best for: Families with kids, eco-tourists, and ocean explorers.
8. Qixingtan Beach, Hualien
Highlights: Unlike other sandy beaches, Qixingtan features smooth pebbles and offers stunning views of both the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains.
Activities: Cycling along the coastal trail and enjoying the serene ocean views.
Best for: Nature lovers and those seeking a scenic, peaceful retreat.
9. Dulan Bay, Taitung
Highlights: A surfer’s paradise, Dulan Bay is renowned for its excellent waves and laid-back coastal vibe.
Activities: Surfing, paddleboarding, and leisurely beach walks.
Best for: Surfing enthusiasts and travelers looking for a relaxed beachside experience.
10. Wushi Harbor, Toucheng, Yilan
Highlights: Known as the birthplace of surfing in Taiwan, Wushi Harbor has wide beaches and steady waves, making it a favorite among surfers.
Activities: Surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and even fishing experiences.
Best for: Beginner and advanced surfers, water sports fans.
Green Mountain Trails for a Refreshing Hike
As June arrives, Taiwan transitions into summer, but the mountain trails remain a perfect retreat for cooling off and hiking. From the high-altitude Hehuan Mountain to the scenic circular trail around Cuifeng Lake in Yilan, there are hiking routes for every level, each offering breathtaking landscapes. Taiwan’s diverse trails are not only ideal for outdoor enthusiasts but also renowned for their stunning mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing escape or an immersive nature experience, these trails provide the perfect setting to relax, recharge, and stay active.
From challenging mountain treks to family-friendly nature walks, Taiwan’s trails offer a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. However, since UV levels in June can be intense, it’s essential to bring sun protection and plenty of water to prevent sunburn and dehydration. Midday temperatures can be high, so it’s best to hike in the early morning or late afternoon. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes for comfort and safety.
1. Qixing Mountain Trail (Yangmingshan, Taipei)
Highlights: The highest peak in Taipei, Qixing Mountain offers breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes, grasslands, and a panoramic view of the city. The cool mountain breeze makes it a great early summer hike.
Difficulty: Moderate to slightly challenging (Approx. 2 hours one way)
Best Features: Sulfur vents, dense forests, and diverse plant life along the trail.
2. Cueifeng Lake Circular Trail (Taiping Mountain, Yilan)
Highlights: Taiwan’s highest alpine lake, often covered in mist during June, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The loop trail offers a peaceful and scenic walk.
Difficulty: Easy (Approx. 2 hours round trip)
Best Features: Towering fir trees and abundant birdlife around the lake.
3. Zhushan Sunrise Trail (Alishan, Chiayi)
Highlights: Famous for its high-altitude railway and sea of clouds, Alishan is one of the best places to watch the sunrise. The Zhushan trail is an easy hike with cool morning temperatures in June.
Difficulty: Easy (Approx. 1 hour with train access; up to 1.5+ hours on foot)
Best Features: Sunrise viewpoints and enchanting cypress forests.
4. Shakadang Trail (Taroko National Park, Hualien)
Highlights: Following the crystal-clear waters of the Liwu River, this trail offers spectacular canyon views, rock formations, and shaded paths—perfect for summer hikes.
Difficulty: Easy (Approx. 2 hours round trip)
Best Features: Cool river scenery and impressive gorge landscapes.
5. Hehuan Main Peak Trail (Nantou County)
Highlights: As one of Taiwan’s top 100 peaks, Hehuan Mountain offers refreshing cool temperatures at high elevations. Clear weather reveals panoramic mountain views.
Difficulty: Moderate (Approx. 1.5 hour one way)
Best Features: The rhododendron season may extend into June, covering the trail with vibrant blossoms.
6. Jiajiuliao Trail (Wulai, New Taipei City)
Highlights: A lush riverside trail with clear streams, wooden bridges, and gentle terrain. The shaded path and cooling water make it an ideal summer hiking destination.
Difficulty: Easy (Approx. 2 hours round trip)
Best Features: Refreshing stream crossings, natural pools for wading, and vibrant forest scenery. （乌来温泉）
Must-Try Festival Food – Dragon Boat Festival Zongzi
Date: 5th day of the 5th lunar month (around June)
The Dragon Boat Festival is one of Taiwan’s most important annual cultural celebrations, rich in historical significance as it commemorates the patriotic poet Qu Yuan. This festival blends tradition with excitement, featuring two main highlights: thrilling dragon boat races and delicious zongzi (sticky rice dumplings).
Every year, vibrant dragon boat races take place across Taiwan in cities like Taipei, Hsinchu, and Hualien. Whether it’s a large-scale competition in the city or a smaller, community-driven event, these races embody the spirit of teamwork and determination. Teams paddle fiercely to the rhythm of pounding drums, creating a spectacular display of speed and strength. This adrenaline-fueled competition is a must-see event, offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s lively festival culture.
The other star of the Dragon Boat Festival is zongzi（粽子）, a traditional dish made by wrapping glutinous rice and various fillings in bamboo leaves. These flavorful dumplings are a key part of the festival, carrying both cultural significance and irresistible taste.
Taiwan offers a diverse selection of zongzi to suit different palates. Popular variations include sweet zongzi, such as red bean or peanut-filled ones, and savory zongzi, like pork-stuffed dumplings or those with salted egg yolk. There are even vegetarian options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat.
Interestingly, northern and southern Taiwan have distinct styles of zongzi:
- Northern-style zongzi are steamed, resulting in a drier, grainier texture with well-defined layers.
- Southern-style zongzi are first stir-fried and then boiled, creating a softer, stickier consistency.
These delicious rice dumplings can be found in night markets, traditional markets, and special holiday food stalls throughout Taiwan. If you visit during the Dragon Boat Festival, be sure to experience both the exhilarating boat races and the diverse flavors of zongzi for an authentic taste of Taiwan’s festive traditions.
Top Dragon Boat Races in Taiwan
1. Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships
Location: Keelung River (Dajia Riverside Park, Taipei)
Scale: The largest and most international dragon boat race in Taipei, attracting hundreds of teams from Taiwan and abroad.
Highlights:
-Held over multiple days during the Dragon Boat Festival.
-Features cultural activities, craft exhibitions, and food stalls alongside the races.
-A global competition with high-level teams.
2. Kaohsiung Love River Dragon Boat Race
Location: Love River, Kaohsiung
Scale: The largest dragon boat race in southern Taiwan, drawing numerous local teams and corporate participants.
Highlights:
-Spectacular night races illuminated by riverbank lights, creating a romantic atmosphere.
-Incorporates local cultural performances and market stalls showcasing Kaohsiung’s unique charm.
3. Taichung Dragon Boat Race
Location: Liuchuan or Hanxi River, Taichung
Scale: The biggest dragon boat race in central Taiwan, primarily featuring local teams, as well as corporate and school participants.
Highlights:
-Infused with regional traditions, including folk performances.
-A lively and community-centered celebration.
Must-Try Seasonal Delight – Tainan Mango Season
June marks the peak harvest season for Aiwen (Irwin) mangoes in Tainan, a beloved fruit known for its vibrant red skin, juicy flesh, and rich, sweet aroma. The main mango-producing regions—Yujing, Danei, and Nansi—become bustling hubs of activity from May to July as farmers harvest their ripened fruit. Many orchards offer mango-picking experiences, where visitors can handpick fresh mangoes and savor their unbeatable sweetness straight from the tree. Beyond fresh fruit, Aiwen mangoes are also transformed into mango shaved ice, dried mango snacks, and mango jam, making them a must-try summer treat.
For travelers wanting to enjoy fresh fruit, night market fruit stalls are the most convenient option. Almost every night market features fruit vendors selling ready-to-eat fruit platters, perfect for visitors looking for a quick and refreshing snack. However, fruit prices at night markets can be slightly higher due to the high tourist demand. Roadside fruit stalls also offer similar services but are usually located in residential areas, making them less accessible for tourists. While supermarkets do sell mangoes, they may not always have pre-cut fruit platters. This makes night markets the ideal place to experience Taiwan’s vibrant food culture while indulging in delicious mangoes.
Experience Mango Picking in Tainan
For a more immersive experience, why not try mango picking yourself? Tainan is the best place in Taiwan for this activity, and the following regions offer orchard visits where you can pick your own mangoes. It’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
1. Yujing District (玉井区)
Known as the “Mango Capital,” Yujing is Tainan’s most famous Aiwen mango-producing region. Many orchards here offer mango-picking experiences, where visitors can not only pick fresh mangoes but also learn about mango cultivation.
Recommended Experiences:
- Yujing Mango Market (Yujing Fruit and Vegetable Market): Besides picking mangoes, visitors can buy a variety of fresh mangoes and mango-based products such as dried mangoes and pickled green mangoes.
- Local Delicacies: In addition to the must-try mango shaved ice, the pickled green mango is also a unique local snack.
- Best Picking Season: From June to early July, depending on weather conditions.
2. Danei District (大内区)
Danei is home to numerous mango farms, with a variety of mango-picking experiences. The scenic orchards, combined with local cultural activities, make this a great destination for families.
Recommended Experiences:
- Picking + DIY Workshops: Some orchards offer DIY mango jam-making sessions, allowing visitors to explore different ways to enjoy mangoes.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit Danei Wu Temple to learn about local traditions and explore Hakka settlements to experience a different cultural atmosphere.
- Best Picking Season: June to July, with some orchards adjusting their schedules based on the harvest.
3. Nanxi District (楠西区)
Known for producing exceptionally sweet mangoes, Nansi offers a nature-focused picking experience, perfect for visitors who enjoy a peaceful rural atmosphere.
Recommended Experiences:
- Orchard Picking + Tasting Areas: Some orchards provide mango tasting areas where visitors can enjoy the fresh, juicy mangoes right after picking.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to Meiling Scenic Area, a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
- Best Picking Season: Mid-June to early July.
4. Nanhua District (南化区)
With its higher elevation and large temperature fluctuations, Nanhua produces exceptionally fragrant and sweet Aiwen mangoes. Visitors can enjoy mango picking while taking in the stunning mountain scenery.
Recommended Experiences:
- Picking + Scenic Tour: Combine your mango-picking experience with a cycling tour around Zengwen Reservoir or a visit to Nanhua Reservoir Scenic Area, enjoying a mix of food adventure and breathtaking landscapes.
- Unique Climate Advantage: The high-altitude environment in Nanhua results in plump, juicy mangoes with a rich aroma, making it one of Taiwan’s top mango-producing areas.
- Best Picking Season: Late June to mid-July.
Final Thoughts for Taiwan in June
Just thinking about the sweet, juicy mangoes is enough to make my mouth water! If you love mangoes, there’s no better time to visit Taiwan than during mango season—and the best part? Tainan’s mangoes are incredibly affordable during peak season!
So why not plan a trip before summer is in full swing? Immerse yourself in the warmth and energy of Taiwan, explore its breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in the irresistible flavors of freshly harvested mangoes. Just remember to bring sunscreen and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure!
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