Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
At the town's southern edge (a short walk from the train station) is a surfing beach
known as
Honeymoon Bay
(Mìyuè Wān). Waves are generally chest to head high,
though during the summer typhoon months they can be over 3m. Depending on
the swells, conditions are suitable for beginner to advanced surfers. Daxi has a
reputation for being a bit of a locals-only venue now so be respectful if you decide
to surf here.
Wai-Ao
Just a little further south is Wai-Ao, which is quickly becoming the new surf and
beach hot spot, but is still quiet during the week. Just south of Wai'ao, or just north
of Toucheng, is
Wushih Harbour
(Wūshí Gǎng), which can get unpleasantly
crowded on summer weekends. If you take the beach road from Wai-Ao you will
start to hit the shops that cater to the crowds here very quickly.
Surfboard rentals are available across all the above-mentioned places usually for
NT$600 to NT$800 per day. Wetsuits are also available, though you can usually
surf in the north in a swimsuit or shortie, with a wetsuit reserved for those cold
snaps in January and February.
Sleeping & Eating
There are half a dozen or so B&Bs, cafes and restaurants facing the beach. The foreign-
NT$1000; )
offers mixed and female-only dorms. Amenities include free bikes, wi-fi,
common areas, and a patio bar and restaurant open from 8am to 11pm serving Western
breakfast and backpacker fare (burgers, sandwiches and Mexican) for lunch and dinner.
Wai'ao and nearby Toucheng and Jiaoxi are well known for fresh off the boat seafood.
Getting There & Away
The train station is literally across the street from one of the beach entrances. There are
hourly trains to/from Taipei (NT$113, one hour and 40 minutes). If you are looking to
rent a scooter, head to Jiaoxi.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Jiaoxi (Jiaoshi)
03 / POP 5000
