I visited Keelung Islet in 2024 July after spotting its lighthouse from the Norwegian Spirit cruise. A quick search revealed that the island was open for hiking during a limited time–April to October every year since 2001. If you’re considering visiting Keelung Islet, here’s everything you need to know.
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When is Keelung Islet Open for Visitors?
Keelung Islet has been open for tourism since 2001 and generally operates from April to October. The daily visitor limit is 1,200 people. To check availability, visit the Keelung Islet booking system and contact local tour operators to secure a spot.
I initially tried booking through KKday, but my selected date showed no availability. Instead, I directly called a local tour operator and managed to get two spots on standby. Many people book at least ten days in advance, especially for weekends, which fill up quickly. Weekdays tend to have more open slots.
Keelung Islet Tour Costs
At check-in, you’ll receive a color-coded lanyard indicating your tour group. I booked my tour with Keelung Fishing Tackle Business(鉅隆船隊) Tours.
There are three main tour packages:
- Two-in-One Tour (NT$700): Island landing (coastal trail) + island circumnavigation (2 hours)
- Three-in-One Tour (NT$850): Island landing (coastal trail + lighthouse trail) + island circumnavigation (3.5 hours)
- Four-in-One Tour (NT$1,050): Adds a Blue Highway boat ride (4+ hours)
The most popular option is the three-in-one tour, which includes hiking to the peak. I chose this, and while the hike was rewarding, it was also exhausting! The trail climbs 182 meters with steep and narrow stairs, no shade, and limited resting spots. If you’re traveling with elderly or young children, consider whether the hike is suitable.
I don’t exercise often, and the last time I did something this intense was climbing Diamond Head in Hawaii a year before.. Compared to Keelung Islet, Diamond Head felt much easier—the slope was gentler, and despite similar temperatures, I didn’t sweat nearly as much!
How Long is the Boat Ride to Keelung Islet?
A direct boat ride from Bisha Harbor takes around 20 minutes. However, my tour included a scenic boat ride around the island first, so the journey took about 30 minutes.
Where to Board the Boat to Keelung Islet
We departed from Badouzi Tourist Fishing Port (Bisha Harbor). My tour was scheduled for 1:30 PM, with check-in at 1:00 PM. I took Bus 1579 from Taipei City Hall to reach the harbor, but public transport can be unreliable, so plan accordingly.
What to Bring for Keelung Islet Hiking
- Sun protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and even an umbrella (I ended up using mine!)
- Water: The boat provides one bottle per person, but bring extra electrolyte drinks like Pocari Sweat
- Cooling accessories: A portable fan may help, though its effect is minimal
- ID: Required for verification before boarding
Best Time to Visit Keelung Islet
I visited in mid-July when temperatures soared to 32°C (90°F)—way too hot! The guide recommended visiting in April, May, September, or October.
- April & May: Wild lily season
- September & October: Spider lily season
- October: Weather may be unstable, leading to fewer boat trips
If possible, book an 8-9 AM tour to avoid the heat. The last boat departs at 2 PM, and all visitors must leave the island by 5 PM.
Is There Internet on Keelung Islet?
Yes! I used Chunghwa Telecom 4G, and the signal was strong.
Hiking Keelung Islet: My Experience
Upon arrival, I immediately opened my umbrella—there was almost no shade! The island offers two main trails:
- Coastal Trail: A short and easy path
- Lighthouse Trail: The challenging route to the peak
We hiked up first, as suggested by the guide. The stairs consisted of wooden planks and natural stone steps. Reaching the small pavilion meant we were halfway there, but it was so tiny and crowded that resting was impossible. If you’re exhausted before reaching it, turning back early is a viable option.
Line of duty death memorial gravestone for a Japanese soldier
Unfortunately, the lighthouse was under renovation, so we couldn’t go further.
Luckily, there was a viewpoint for summit photos, which saved the experience. The hike from the helipad to this point took 30 minutes, though other hikers estimated 40-50 minutes to reach the top. By then, I was drenched in sweat!
Unique and breathtaking view. Reminds me of Santorini.
I’ve never imaged seeing this in Taiwan. It was fun! But scorching hot.
Keelung Night Market: A Post-Hike Feast
Regarding the photo, I wanted to mention that placing utensils upright in a bowl can be seen as a cultural taboo, as it resembles food offerings to ancestors. It’s just a point of awareness.
After returning to Keelung, we took a city bus to Famous Night Market and arrived around 5:40 PM. It had been nearly 20 years since my last visit, so I had no recollection of the place.
Bubble Ice Taste Test
I accidentally ended up trying three different bubble ice brands:
- Yuan Dong Bubble Ice (NT$60) – My favorite! They list fruit origins on a chalkboard (e.g., Kyoho grapes, Puli passion fruit)
- Chen’s Bubble Ice (NT$55) – Lighter, airy texture, slightly too sweet
- Shen’s Bubble Ice (NT$60) – Decent, but the peanut flavor felt dry
If you prefer quality ingredients, Yuan Dong is the best choice! Some flavors are also available in PX mart.
Must-Try Foods at Keelung Night Market
- Stall #22 Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice): Famous among foodies
- Tempura: A classic Keelung specialty
Final Thoughts
Keelung Islet is a fantastic seasonal adventure, offering breathtaking ocean views. Honestly, I think 95% of Taiwanese have no idea such tour exists! The hike was tougher than expected, but the scenery made it worthwhile. If you plan to visit, remember to protect yourself from the sun and bring plenty of water!
The Mandarin version of this article can be found here.
10 comments
I love seeing lighthouses! They’re unique but in some ways similar no matter where in the world you are.
yes that’s so cool! I like to take photos of lighthouses while on a cruise!
Keelung looks like such a fascinating place! The mix of coastal views, historic temples, and, of course, the night market makes it a must-visit. Thanks for the great recommendations!
It’s a cruise port! Sometimes people do day trips from Keelung! A good place to visit.
The views certainly make the hike worthwhile. Interesting to learn about how utensils positioned upright in a bowl can be seen as a cultural taboo, resembling food offerings to ancestors
Yes, if kids put utensils like that, they’ll be scolded by parents
Ooh the night market looks amazing! Great tips!
Thank you!
I have never been to Taiwan, but I would like to go and check this island. It looks beautiful.
It was a cool experience climbing to the top!