Jici Beach

A forgiving beachbreak on Hualien's coast, Jici is the sandiest stretch of an otherwise rocky shoreline, offering shifting a-frame peaks that suit beginners and intermediate surfers looking for uncrowded practice time. It works on N to SE swell, with westerly winds keeping faces clean, and rides all tides without much drama. Crowds are light most of the year, though summer entry to the beach area requires a small fee. Bottom: beach. Season: year-round, with typhoon season (Jul-Oct) bringing the most energy. Consistency: medium. The estuary and rivermouth nearby can affect water quality after heavy rain, so check conditions before paddling out, and bring a longer board on the frequent small, gutless days. Waves are generally short, rarely breaking past 50m, though a good sandbar on a solid swell can push that to 150m. Most surfers cluster near the bathrooms and car park, walking north may reward you with a cleaner bank, or may not.