Offshore Islands
What It Encompasses
Taiwan’s offshore islands include several distinct archipelagos: Penghu (the Pescadores), Kinmen, Matsu, Green Island, Orchid Island, and several smaller islands. Each has its own distinct character, history, and appeal.
Distinctive Characteristics
These islands are united more by what they’re not (part of the main island) than by any shared characteristics. Penghu sits in the Taiwan Strait, famous for its basalt columns, beaches, and seafood. Kinmen and Matsu, located just kilometres from mainland China, served as frontline military outposts during the decades of cross-strait tension and retain a unique militarised heritage.
Green Island and Orchid Island lie off Taiwan’s southeast coast. Green Island is known for underwater hot springs, diving, and snorkelling, whilst Orchid Island (Lanyu) is home to the Tao people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous groups with distinct cultural practices including their iconic traditional fishing boats. Also Orchid Island is more nature-preserved than Green Island.
These islands offer escapes from the main island’s density and commercialisation. Most have small populations, slower paces of life, and economies based on fishing, agriculture, and increasingly, tourism. However, “escape” often means limited amenities, restricted transportation, and vulnerability to weather that can strand travellers.
Key Highlights
Penghu excels as a summer beach destination, with clearer water and better beaches than most of the main island. The basalt formations at Daguoye and other sites offer unique geological attractions. The islands also host the annual Penghu International Fireworks Festival, though this draws large crowds.
Kinmen provides a fascinating window into the Cold War era, with military tunnels, bunkers, and museums documenting the tense decades of standoff with the mainland. Traditional Fujian-style architecture survives here better than on the main island, as development was restricted for security reasons.
Orchid Island offers the most authentic indigenous cultural experience in Taiwan, though visitors should approach respectfully and understand that tourism here is contentious. The island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and exceptional diving attract those willing to make the journey.
Who Should Prioritise This Region
The offshore islands suit travellers with specific interests: beach lovers and divers (Penghu, Green Island); history enthusiasts interested in cross-strait relations (Kinmen, Matsu); those seeking remote island experiences (Orchid Island); and anyone wanting to add unique stamps to their Taiwan experience.
These destinations work best for travellers with flexible schedules, as weather can disrupt ferry services and flights. They’re not ideal for those on tight timelines or who need consistent urban amenities.
Climate Considerations
Penghu experiences strong winds, particularly in winter when the northeast monsoon makes the islands feel much colder than thermometer readings suggest. Summer (May to September) is the primary tourist season, with warm weather and calm seas, though typhoons can still disrupt travel.
Kinmen and Matsu have climates similar to southern mainland China: hot, humid summers and surprisingly cold, damp winters with occasional frost.
Green Island and Orchid Island share eastern Taiwan’s typhoon vulnerability and wet winters. The best weather for both comes in spring and early summer (April to June) before typhoon season intensifies.
For all offshore islands, always build flexibility into your schedule to account for weather-related transportation disruptions.