XIaoliuqiu Secret No One Talks About
Winter Blues Hit DIfferent in Xiaoliuqiu
As the temperatures drop across much of Asia, there's a small island off Taiwan's southwest coast that becomes even more appealing: Xiaoliuqiu. While most travelers associate tropical islands with summer vacations, winter might actually be the best-kept secret for visiting this turtle paradise.
Here's the thing about winter blues: on Xiaoliuqiu, they're not about sadness or seasonal depression. The winter blues here are the powerful shades of blue in the water and sky – deep ocean blues meeting crisp, clear winter skies that seem to stretch forever. While Taiwan's cities bundle up in jackets and gray weather settles over the north, Xiaoliuqiu maintains its comfortable warmth and those brilliant blues that make you forget winter is supposed to be dreary.
Winter on Xiaoliuqiu: Taiwan's Warm Escape
While Taiwan's cities up North bundle up in jackets, deal with depressing drizzles of rain and the northern beaches empty out, Xiaoliuqiu maintains its comfortable warmth throughout winter. The island sits far enough south that winter temperatures remain pleasant for both beach activities and water sports (unless there is a cold front from China). You won't need heavy winter gear here - just your swimsuit, a light jacket for evening scooter rides, and some reef-safe sunscreen.
The real advantage? Fewer crowds. Summer and holiday periods see the island packed with domestic tourists, but winter offers a more relaxed pace. You can actually find a quiet spot on the beach, book accommodations without weeks of advance notice, and experience the island at a more authentic, slower rhythm.
The Water Activities (Yes, Even in Winter)
Let's address the obvious draws first. Xiaoliuqiu's waters remain accessible year-round, and winter diving, freediving, scuba and snorkeling can be spectacular. The green sea turtles don't hibernate – they're out there munching on seagrass regardless of the season. Visibility can actually improve and is best during winter months, and you'll have more space in the water without competing with dozens of other tourists in the ocean.
Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking along the coastline remain perfectly viable in winter. The water temperature might make you pause for a second when you first jump in, but you'll adjust quickly, especially in a wetsuit.
Comfortable Weather, Not Scorching Heat
Winter on Xiaoliuqiu means you can actually enjoy outdoor activities without melting. Scootering around the island becomes pleasant rather than sweat-inducing. Walking to viewpoints and exploring coastal paths doesn't require constant breaks in air-conditioned shops (I personally find myself walking a lot more). The sun is still strong enough for beach days, but the overall temperature makes the island far more comfortable to explore.
Better Accommodation Availability and Prices
Here's a practical benefit that matters: winter bookings are simply easier. During peak summer months and Taiwanese holidays, accommodation on the island fills up weeks in advance, and prices reflect the high demand. Winter offers more flexibility – you can sometimes even book just a few days ahead and still find good options. Some guesthouses also offer better rates during the quieter winter season.
Authentic Island Life
With fewer tour groups and domestic tourists flooding the island, winter lets you experience Xiaoliuqiu at a more authentic pace. You'll interact more with locals, discover the cafes and restaurants that often fill up and it's hard to get a seat without waiting and get a sense of what island life feels like beyond the tourist rush. The unofficial night market in the center of town isn't packed and popular photo spots at Vase Rock and the beaches aren't swarmed with selfie-takers.
Who Should Visit in Winter?
Winter on Xiaoliuqiu is ideal for:
- Divers and freedivers who want quality water time without crowds and doesn’t have extreme aversion to a bit of cold
- Couples seeking a peaceful beach retreat
- Remote workers and digital nomads looking for a warm base during Taiwan's colder months
- Photographers who appreciate better light and fewer people in the frame
- Anyone tired of fighting crowds at popular tourist destinations
Practical Considerations
While winter is generally excellent for visiting Xiaoliuqiu, keep a few things in mind:
The water is slightly cooler in the 23-27° C range, so a wetsuit makes longer water activities more comfortable. The majority of winter the temperature is 25-27° C and only a few weeks at around 23-24° C.
On a few occasions in the last five years I can remember the air temperature dropped to around 10-12° C when there was a cold front coming from China and that was the only time I remember it being truly unpleasant to get into the water with a 3mm wetsuit. So check the weather forecast before coming to make sure.
The Bottom Line
Xiaoliuqiu doesn't shut down for winter like most of the outlying islands in Taiwan. The island simply becomes a quieter, more peaceful version of itself – which for many travelers is actually the ideal way to experience it. The turtles are still swimming, the beaches are still beautiful, and the island charm is still fully intact. You just get to enjoy it all without the crowds.
If you're in Taiwan during the winter months and craving some warmth, beach time, and island relaxation, don't overlook Xiaoliuqiu. While everyone else assumes it's a summer-only destination, you'll discover that winter might actually be the insider's choice.
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