Exploring the Best Cafes on Xiaoliuqiu

Xiaoliuqiu is famous for its breathtaking sea turtles, crystal-clear waters, and, more recently, its thriving coffee scene. As a devoted coffee lover (okay, maybe addict), I know the first thing on your mind when visiting a new place is: Where am I going to get my coffee? That’s exactly why I put this guide together.

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado in search of the perfect brew or just looking for a cozy spot with a view, Xiaoliuqiu has a café for you. If you are looking for an ideal place to work from, check out Freedive Nomad’s blog here. Here are some of the island’s must-visit coffee spots (for your convenience we’ve included them into a Google Maps list.

Earliest Coffee

First, a little gripe about southern Taiwan and our island is no different. Some of the best cafes don’t open until 10-11am. Before moving to this island I was more accustomed to cafes opening up early, like 6-7am. How else are people going to get coffee before work or in this case, before your dive? Thus, below are the places you can get coffee before the other places below open up. 

Manban: If you’re an early riser or need a caffeine fix before the island’s adventures, Manban is your go-to. They open at 7:30am to fuel your day, offering a solid menu of coffee and teas.

7-11 and FamilyMart:  Twenty years ago, if you had told me that convenience stores would one day serve decent coffee, I would have laughed. But here we are—and not only is the coffee surprisingly good, but it’s also available 24/7. If you’re looking to upgrade your cup, go for the single-origin option or “單品”, which has become my go-to when I need a quick caffeine fix on the go.

Best View

Being a small island there is no doubt there would be a choice of cafes with views, and here are our favorites. 

柒柒里咖啡 (Qiqi Li Cafe): Perched on top of a hill with an unparalleled view of the ocean, this cafe offers a serene backdrop to your coffee moments. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and watch boats between Xiaoliuqiu and the main island. 



海找冰 (Haizhao Bing): This spot combines refreshing beverages with stunning sea views. Their outdoor seating right next to the Houshi Shores makes it a top pick for enjoying Xiaoliuqiu’s natural beauty and a good spot to hit before heading to Secret Beach or catch some rays while enjoying your cup of joe. 

Best for Coffee Snobs

Seaside Cafe: Jason, the owner, honed his craft as a barista in Taipei’s coffee scene for years before bringing his passion to the island to start his own café. He takes a hands-on approach, hand-roasting his coffee beans in a clay pot—a method that adds a unique depth to the flavor. While his pour-over coffee is among the best on the island, my personal favorite is his passion fruit-infused iced coffee—an unexpected yet refreshing twist that keeps me coming back.

Unknown Coffee: True to its name, this hidden gem delivers an exceptional coffee experience. It’s a haven for those who appreciate expertly roasted beans and meticulous brewing techniques. The owner, deeply passionate about coffee, even pursued his master’s degree in Seattle—immersing himself in the city’s legendary coffee scene before bringing that expertise back to Xiaoliuqiu.

Beyond great coffee, it’s also a convenient spot to get some work done, with each bar seat thoughtfully equipped with an electrical outlet. My go-to? The ice-dripped coffee. But if you're a pour-over enthusiast, you'll be thrilled to know they offer the most extensive selection on the island.

Historical Charm

Coral Cafe: I’ve heard this was the first café on the island—and it was also one of the first I visited when I moved here. Coral Café gets its name from a rather unusual piece of local history. Long ago, Xiaoliuqiu’s corals were harvested for their lime, which was then mixed into cement and concrete to construct many of the island’s older buildings. Behind the café, you can still find the remnants of this process, including the old kiln where coral was once turned into lime.



Freedivers will appreciate the Big Blue movie poster on the wall, a nod to the deep-sea lifestyle. As for the coffee, they serve Illy—always a reliable choice for a solid cup.

Cool Vibes and Atmosphere

Both of these cafés offer distinct, Instagram-worthy aesthetics. One boasts a sleek, modern design, while the other feels like stepping into a time capsule, transporting you to another era. No matter your style, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect backdrop for your next photo.

Islet Lemonade: Not just a cafe but a whole vibe, Islet Lemonade is a favorite among visitors for its laid-back atmosphere and quirky decor. It’s a fantastic place to chill with friends and the resident cat named Money is beloved by many customers. 

吉慶號 Good_Lück: This café fully embraces the charm of its original building, going all-in on a retro 60s-70s aesthetic. The result? A space that feels effortlessly cool, quirky, and full of character. It’s a one-of-a-kind spot that transports you back in time—perfect for those who appreciate a bit of nostalgia with their coffee.

Beyond the great coffee and desserts, there’s also a little shop on the ground floor filled with unique knick-knacks—perfect for those looking to bring home a one-of-a-kind souvenir from Xiaoliuqiu.



This cafe’s unique ambiance and creative energy make it a standout. Whether you’re here for a casual hangout or to soak in the cool island vibe, it delivers.

New Kid On the Block

M. Coffee 芒點咖啡 -  the newest cafe on Xiaoliuqiu, quickly gaining popularity for its quality coffee and welcoming atmosphere. Conveniently located next to the Mate Waves guest house, it’s a favorite among visitors for its expertly brewed medium roast coffee and thoughtful touches, such as offering non-dairy creamer options to accommodate different preferences.

In addition to its standout coffee, M.coffee is one of the few cafes on the island serving warm meals at affordable prices, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both great drinks and a satisfying bite. The relaxed vibe, paired with outdoor seating, creates a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the island’s laid-back charm. 

Conclusion



Xiaoliuqiu’s cafes offer something for everyone, from scenic views to high-quality coffee and atmospheric charm. Whether you’re a morning bird or a coffee connoisseur, these spots are worth exploring during your visit to this idyllic island. Did we not include your favorite spot? Let us know.