Yehliu Geopark
Area Coastal geopark known for unique mushroom-shaped rock formations
On Taiwan’s northern coast, Yehliu Geopark displays honeycomb weathering and mushroom-shaped rock formations like the Queen’s Head; visitors walk the seaside trail to view coastal geology.
Yehliu Geopark is a coastal geological park on Taiwan’s north coast in Wanli District, known for its distinctive hoodoo and mushroom-shaped rock formations. The site is famous for a handful of iconic sculpted stones that have been heavily eroded by sea and wind.
The park’s highlights are concentrated along a paved promontory with boardwalks and viewing platforms that let visitors see dozens of weather-carved forms in a compact area. The most photographed feature is the Queen’s Head, among many other named rocks and sea stacks.
The cape and its rocks were formed by long-term marine erosion, wave action and weathering of sedimentary rock layers. The area has long been used by local fishing communities and later developed as a protected scenic area and tourist site.
Yehliu sits on the northern shoreline of Taiwan, facing the Taiwan Strait and bounded by the coastal waters of New Taipei City near the town of Wanli. It is a short coastal drive north of central Taipei.
- Geology: Rock formations are the result of marine erosion and differential weathering of sandstone and shale over thousands of years.
- Conservation: Visitor access is managed with promenades and viewing platforms to protect fragile formations.
What to See #
- Queen's Head: The Queen's Head - a weathered hoodoo rock formation that has become the park's signature landmark and viewing focus.
How to Get to Yehliu Geopark #
Yehliu Geopark is on Taiwan’s north coast in Wanli District. By car from central Taipei it’s about 35-45 km along Provincial Highway 2 (coastal route), roughly a 45-60 minute drive depending on traffic. Public buses run from Taipei (or from Keelung/Tamsui) to Yehliu - the bus stop is a short walk from the park entrance; check Taipei/Keelung bus timetables for the current routes and schedules.
Tips for Visiting Yehliu Geopark #
- Arrive right at opening on weekdays to beat the tour-bus influx and get unobstructed photos of signature formations like the "Queen's Head."
- Follow the park's boardwalk route beyond the main clusters-walking slightly farther along the cape reveals less-crowded viewpoints and different rock formations shaped by sea erosion.
- Plan your visit for a clear, low-wind day for the best visibility and safer shoreline walking; check tide and weather conditions before you go to avoid strong surf along exposed areas.
Best Time to Visit Yehliu Geopark #
Yehliu Geopark is nicest in spring or autumn-visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best coastal light.
Weather & Climate near Yehliu Geopark #
Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 12°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (3308 mm/year), wettest in October.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 17°C and lows of 12°C. Heavy rain (275 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 12°C. Heavy rain (317 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (286 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 18°C. Heavy rain (209 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Heavy rain (274 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is warm with stifling humidity (dew point 25°C). Heavy rain (275 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 33°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (147 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (223 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 24°C). Heavy rain (368 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 21°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (374 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 17°C. Heavy rain (296 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (264 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.