TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Convenient public transportation now allows city dwellers the opportunity to participate in that annual rite of summer, beach clean-up.
Shalun Beach is the easiest to reach from Taipei thanks to the new light rail transit line. The hidden gem on the northern coast is a wide stretch of sand extending far into the distance, suitable for beach activities such as sunbathing, volleyball and soccer, per a press release.
Throughout the year, different groups take turns keeping the beach clean. The upcoming event is organized by Havana, Redpoint Brewing and nearby Beautiful Moon Cafe.
Organizers urge the public to “grab a set of tongs and some bags.” They believe “a clean beach shows pride in the surroundings and inspires others to follow suit.”
To entice more people to join, free Havana Summer IPA will be available for two hours as a reward for the hard work of cleaning the beach in summer heat. A party will also ensue around sunset featuring DJs like Marcus Aurelius, NeKBRACE, Cross Cutz and Planet GQ.
The event is both family- and pet-friendly and will also feature a number of dance contests. “The best kind of fun is the kind you earn, earn,” said organizer Marcus Aurelius.
“There’s always debris, driftwood and bits of paper on the beach, and it needs to be picked up. It’s hot and tiring work, but worthwhile for the beer at the end,” said area resident Gary O’Connor.
He said more and more foreigners are living in the Tamsui area, and events such as beach clean-ups give them a chance to give back to the community. “Many go to the beach about 5 p.m. to take photographs or just sit and relax.”
O’Connor said the nearby Beautiful Moon Cafe offers a full menu and some services for washing up after a day at the beach; it’s also a convenient landmark to get to the clean-up activity.
He said the best way to travel is to arrive at MRT Hongshulin Station and transfer to the LRT to Shanlun Station (沙崙站). “From there, walk back from the station, where you will see a sign for Luye Equestrian Center, and follow the path directly to the beach.”
Alternatively, he recommends traveling to Tamsui MRT station and taking a taxi to Beautiful Moon Cafe, located at Danhai Road Lane 280, Alley 33, No. 32. For more information, please refer to the event page.
