Planning a day trip to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei is surprisingly straightforward and totally worth it! Honestly, the most popular and hassle-free way is joining a guided tour (like ours at Deep China Travel!), where transportation, entry tickets, and often Keelung stops are handled for you. If you prefer independence, hop on a comfortable bus (#1815 or #790) directly from Taipei Main Station or near Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT; it takes about 1.5-2 hours. Driving or using a taxi offers flexibility but can be pricier and involves navigating traffic and parking. Aim to arrive early (before 10 AM) to beat the tour groups and the midday sun at Yehliu. This unique geological wonder on Taiwan’s Northern Coast is absolutely a must-do escape from the city!

Which Transportation Options Work Best from Taipei? (Comparing Time, Cost & Ease)

Getting to Yehliu Geopark requires heading north to the coast. Here’s a breakdown of your main choices from Taipei, perfect for helping you decide:

Transportation Option Travel Time to Yehliu Approx. Cost (NT$) Flexibility Difficulty Level Best For
Guided Tour 1.5-2 hours 1200-1800 ★★☆☆☆ ★☆☆☆☆ Hassle-free experience, includes entry, often combines Keelung
Public Bus (#1815) 1.5-2 hours 100-120 ★★★★☆ ★★★☆☆ Budget travelers, independent explorers
Public Bus (#790) 1.75-2.25 hours 100-120 ★★★★☆ ★★★☆☆ Travelers near Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT
Taxi / Ride-Share 1-1.25 hours 1500-2500 ★★★★★ ★★☆☆☆ Groups of 3-4, time-sensitive travelers
Rental Car 1-1.5 hours 1200-2000 ★★★★★ ★☆☆☆☆ Road trip enthusiasts, families, multi-stop days
  1. Guided Tours (Our Specialty!): Honestly, the easiest and often most enriching way. Companies like Deep China Travel handle everything: comfortable coach transport direct from Taipei hotels/city center, pre-booked tickets to skip lines, insightful commentary about Yehliu Geopark’s formations, and frequently include other gems like the Keelung Fish Market or Peace Island Park. Zero stress, maximum enjoyment. Great value considering inclusions.
  2. Public Bus (Super Affordable):
  • Bus #1815 (Kuokuang): Departs frequently from Taipei West Bus Station (near Taipei Main Station). Head straight to Yehliu stop. Buy tickets at the counter or use an EasyCard. Journey: ~1.5-2 hours.
  • Bus #790 (Capital Bus): Departs from near Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT Station (Exit 2). Also goes direct to Yehliu Geopark. Journey: ~1.75-2.25 hours. Also uses EasyCard.
  • Tip: Check the schedule beforehand as frequency can vary. Use apps like Google Maps or Bus+.
  1. Taxi/Ride-Share (Fastest but Pricier): Grab or Uber work in Taipei. An hour or so drive, good for groups splitting costs, but traffic north of the city can slow things down. Expect NT$1500-2500 each way. Confirm price upfront!
  2. Rental Car (Total Flexibility): Drive yourself along Provincial Highway 2. About 1-1.5 hours. Cons: Requires IDP, navigating traffic/parking (limited near Yehliu entrance), tolls. Best if exploring wider Northern Coast areas extensively.

What Makes Yehliu Geopark So Special to Explore?

Yehliu Geopark is like stepping onto another planet! Forget theme park rides; nature is the star sculptor here on this wild cape jutting into the ocean. Wind and waves have spent millennia carving the sandstone into utterly bizarre and captivating rock formations. You absolutely have to see:

  1. The Queen’s Head: The undisputed icon! This elegant mushroom rock profile really does look like a regal queen. Snap that classic photo, but be prepared for queues (go early!).
  2. Other Mind-Blowing Rocks: Keep hunting for the Fairy Shoe, Sea Candles, Elephant Rock, and the intricate Honeycomb Rocks. Each one feels like its own discovery.
  3. Geological Wonders: It’s not just rocks; explore natural phenomena like the fascinating Marine Bird Rock area and the unique checkerboard-like rock patterns. The park signage explains the science clearly.
  4. Walking Trails: Well-maintained paved trails (wear comfy shoes!) wind through the formations, offering stunning coastal views. Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to wander properly.
  5. Visitor Center: Pop in! Great intro exhibits, souvenirs, and clean facilities. Grab a map here.

Why Should I Consider Adding Keelung to My Trip from Taipei?

Because the vibrant port city of Keelung is practically next door to Yehliu Geopark! Combining them into your day trip from Taipei makes perfect sense and adds fantastic diversity:

  1. Miaokou Night Market (Iconic Eats): Even if you visit late afternoon, it’s buzzing! Seriously, it’s legendary for its insane variety of fresh, cheap, delicious street food – think fresh seafood, thick taro balls, sandwiches, and bubble tea. A foodie paradise!
  2. Zhongzheng Park & Goddess of Mercy Statue: Get panoramic views of Keelung Harbor from this massive park. The towering white statue is breathtaking, especially at dusk.
  3. Heping Island Park (& Keelung Harbor Views): Dramatic coastal scenery near the market – wave-cut platforms, sea-eroded cliffs, and awesome harbor vistas. (Note: Might be included in curated tours like ours!).
  4. Cultural Vibes: Feel the energy of a bustling maritime hub. It’s a super lively counterpoint to the natural wonders of Yehliu.

Should I Book a Tour or Go Solo from Taipei to Yehliu?

This one really depends on your travel style! Let’s break it down:

  1. Book a Tour (Easy Button!): Perfect if you want zero hassle, expert insights, efficient timing (direct transport, skip-the-line), and often bonus stops like Keelung included in one seamless package. Deep China Travel makes it relaxing and enriching! Ideal for first-timers, groups, or those short on time. Value is excellent.
  2. Go Solo (DIY Adventure): Best if you crave total freedom, are super budget-conscious (buses are cheap!), have extra time to spare (schedules vary), and enjoy figuring things out yourself. Requires planning bus