Think the breathtaking blue-and-white seascapes from movies can only be found in Greece’s Aegean Sea?

Surprisingly, you don’t have to travel that far—Taiwan’s Guishan Island Milky Sea, just off the coast of Yilan, offers a similarly dreamlike view. This natural gradient of blue and white is created by the mixing of cold springs from the seafloor with seawater, resembling the crystal-clear waters and white waves of Santorini.

In recent years, this hidden gem has become one of Taiwan’s most popular summer attractions, drawing travelers to enjoy activities like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and sailing while experiencing the calming beauty of nature on the open sea.

Table of Contents

1. Where is the Milky Sea? Why is it so Popular?
2. How to Get to the Milky Sea: Wushi Harbor Transportation Guide
3. Milky Sea SUP Experience: Fun for Beginners Too!
4. Private Boat Booking and Payment Methods
5. Best Months to Visit the Milky Sea
6. Frequently Asked Questions about the Milky Sea

1. Where is the Milky Sea? Why is it so Popular?

The Milky Sea is located off the coast of Guishan Island in Yilan, Taiwan. It can be reached by a 50-minute boat ride from Wushi Harbor. This breathtaking marine wonder is not an official geographic name but was nicknamed by travelers in recent years due to its unique water color.

The stunning blue-white gradient of the Milky Sea is created by the mixing of cold springs from the ocean floor with seawater. As the cold spring water rises and blends with the ocean, it forms a milky blue hue that shimmers under the sunlight, resembling the iconic Aegean Sea in Greece.

Its popularity skyrocketed not only due to its dreamlike waters but also because of the growing trend of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). With the rise of social media check-ins, the Milky Sea has quickly become one of Taiwan’s must-visit coastal destinations. Whether you’re looking to paddle through crystal-clear waters, relax on a sailboat, or capture the mesmerizing blue-and-white scenery, the Milky Sea promises an unforgettable ocean adventure.

2. How to Get to the Milky Sea: Wushi Harbor Transportation Guide

By Car

• Meeting Point: Yilan Wushi Harbor Yacht Pier (Arrive at least 15 minutes early)
• View on Google Maps

By Train

• Take the train to Toucheng Train Station
• From the station, take a 10-minute taxi ride to Wushi Harbor

3. Milky Sea SUP Experience: Fun for Beginners Too!

The Milky Sea is not just a picturesque hidden gem but also one of Taiwan’s most popular spots for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Even if you’ve never tried SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) before, it’s easy to pick up, allowing you to leisurely glide across the stunning milky-blue waters while soaking in the breathtaking natural scenery.

Milky Sea SUP Experience Process

1. Boat Ride to the Milky Sea

   • Depart from Wushi Harbor Pier and enjoy the scenic boat journey.
   • Take in the open-sea views and capture beautiful moments along the way.

2. Instructor Briefing

   • Upon arrival at the Milky Sea, an experienced instructor will provide a SUP tutorial.
   • Learn how to stand up, maintain balance, move forward, backward, and turn.

3. SUP Adventure Begins

   • Enjoy your SUP session at the Milky Sea.
   • Beginners are recommended to start paddling from a kneeling position before attempting to stand.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing water adventure or an exciting new activity, the Milky Sea SUP experienceoffers an unforgettable way to connect with nature on the open water.

4. Private Boat Booking and Payment Methods

• Contact Orange Cat via LINE for Milky Sea Customer Service (Personalized itinerary planning for your Milky Sea adventure)
• Book directly on the Orange Cat official website (2025 summer tours are now open for reservations!)

5. Best Months to Visit the Milky Sea

The ideal time to visit the Milky Sea is from May to October.

• Weather: Mostly sunny with little rain, plenty of sunshine, and calmer waves, reducing the chances of seasickness.
• Water Temperature: Averages 25-30°C, making it comfortable for SUP activities. Lightweight sun-protective clothing or swimwear is recommended.
• Scenery: The blue-white gradient is most vivid, and with sunlight reflecting off the water, the view becomes even more magical.

Travel Tip: July and August are peak season months, so it is highly recommended to book your SUP experience and private boat tours in advance to secure availability.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about the Milky Sea

1. What if it suddenly starts pouring rain upon arrival?

Weather conditions can change rapidly, and sometimes heavy rain starts just as you arrive. If the captain deems it unsafe to set sail, you have two options:

• Reschedule for another day: Since you're already at the dock, you can still take photos on the boat, and some guests even turn it into a mini yacht party with their own snacks and drinks while waiting for a new departure date.
• Request a refund: If you prefer not to board, you can explore nearby Yilan cafés and enjoy a relaxing afternoon before heading home.

2. Can I do SUP if I don’t know how to swim?

Yes! Everyone wears a life jacket, and the SUP board is secured with a leash, ensuring high safety. However, if the waves are strong, non-swimmers may feel uneasy, so it's best to assess the conditions before getting in the water.

3. Can I try steering the boat?

Yes! If you're interested in driving the boat, just ask the captain. Many guests enjoy the experience so much that they later sign up for Orange Cat’s sailing courses!

4. Can I snorkel? Will I see fish?

Yes, but you need to bring your own snorkeling gear. The SUP instructor can guide you to a coral reef area where marine life is more visible.

5. What if I need to use the restroom?

There is a toilet on board, but since the boat moves with the waves, those prone to seasickness may feel unwell. The restroom is located in the lower cabin, where motion can feel stronger. It’s recommended to use the public restrooms at Wushi Harbor before boarding.

6. What if I get seasick?

• Take motion sickness medication at least two hours before boarding.
• If you start feeling nauseous, try looking at the horizon or getting in the water to ease symptoms.

7. Is there an age limit for visiting the Milky Sea?

No age restrictions! However, children under 5 years old must bring their own life jacket.

8. Can I bring my pet?

Yes! A small cleaning fee will be charged for pets on board.

9. How can I become a captain?

To become a captain, you need to obtain a powerboat license and gain hands-on experience. If you're interested in learning more, Orange Cat offers training courses.

10. Can meals be arranged on the boat?

Yes! Orange Cat offers customizable onboard meals, including afternoon tea or BBQ, based on your preferences. We can also arrange event decorations, such as flowers and balloons, to create a unique experience.

Learn More: Join a Group Tour If You Don’t Have Enough People for a Private Boat >>> Yilan Guishan Island Milky Sea Shared Tour – Minimum 4 People

Learn More: Enjoy a Private and Peaceful Ocean Experience >>> Yilan Guishan Island Milky Sea SUP Private Boat Tour