SUP (Stand Up Paddle), originally from Hawaii, is a new water activity raising these years. It is a combination of surfing and sailing. The surfer has to stand on the board and hold the paddle for gliding. Unlike surfing, which also requires chasing waves, SUP can be experienced as long as there is water. Therefore, you would find the activity be held on both sea and lake.
SUP has become more and more famous in Taiwan in recent years and there are many spots to experience SUP around the Island. Let’s take a look at these beautiful places.
Elephant Trunk Rock, Shenao Cape
The Elephant Trunk Rock, located on the headland of Shen'ao,New Taipei City, is named after its resemblance to a huge elephant trunk. Paddling in the Elephant Trunk Rock Scenic Area, you can explore the unique and spectacular sea cave terrain at close range. The sea here is calm and wide, which is quite suitable for a novice to experience SUP.
Dong'ao Bay, Yilan
Dong'ao Bay in Yilan is composed of sandy shores and reefs. The bay stretches for about 2 kilometers. White sandy beaches, azure blue waters, and lush mountains form a beautiful scenery.
Going to Dong'ao Bay to experience SUP, in addition to enjoying the natural spectacle of the Pacific Ocean, you can also enjoy the sunrise scenery of Dong'ao Bay, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of Eastern Taiwan.
Liyu Lake, Hualien
Liyu Lake is located in Shoufeng Township, Hualien. It is the largest inland lake in Huadong and is only half an hour's drive from the downtown area.
Liyu Lake is one of the famous sightseeing spots in Hualien. The lake water comes from underground springs, which is clear all year round. Because its surface is calm, it is very suitable for beginners to try SUP activities.
Sun Moon Lake, Nantou
Sun Moon Lake is one of the famous scenic spots in Taiwan. It is also a place where many people choose to experience SUP. Unlike the sea, Sun Moon Lake is a calm water area which is not limited by weather and is able to experience SUP activities in every season.
SUP in Sun Moon Lake, you can enjoy not only the fantastic view of the lake, but also the mountains around and the sunrise scenery in the morning, which is breath-taking and charming.
After doing SUP in the morning to start a beautiful day, you can continue to explore the surrounding attractions. What a perfect schedule!
Taiwan is an Island surrounded by ocean and with many lakes and streams on it. Therefore, you could always find a wonderful place to do SUP. If you want to try it on the sea, the best period would be from May to October since the ocean current will be stable relatively. Otherwise, you could choose to experience it on the lake which has no season limit.
No matter if you are a beginner who wants to try in a gentle way or a big fan who likes to pursue excitement, you could always find a dream place to SUP in Taiwan.