Things to Do in Penghu – Taiwan: Xiangshan, Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola, Yangmingshan, Taroko Gorge, Alishan

There are various small island hopping tours available in Penghu. A full-day tour may take you to 2 islands. If you have time, you can purchase an island hopping based on your preferences. We bought 3 island hopping tours during our 7 day holiday in Penghu.

If you cannot find the location of the attraction, please use the Chinese Name on the website to ask the locals. Please tell me. If the map location is wrong, I can help you find the correct location.

Qimei Island – Scenic Wonders & Cultural Icons

Qimei Island is home to Penghu’s most iconic landmark: the Twin Hearts Stone Weir, a beautiful heart-shaped fish trap built using traditional methods. The weir not only represents local heritage but also offers one of the most photogenic spots in the archipelago.

Beyond the weir, visitors can explore other natural formations such as Little Taiwan, a rock outcrop shaped like the island, and the Great Stone-Lion, a large rock said to resemble a crouching lion. The island is quiet, romantic, and rich with folklore.

Visit the Twin Hearts Stone Weir for romantic photo ops

See natural landmarks like Little Taiwan and the Stone-Lion

Wangan Island – Tranquil Beauty & Historic Villages

Wangan is known for its peaceful environment and Huazhai Settlement, a rare, well-preserved example of traditional southern Penghu architecture. Walking through this village feels like stepping back in time, with coral-built homes and winding stone alleys.

The island also features coastal trails with panoramic views of the sea, making it perfect for biking and slow exploration. Its relaxed vibe is ideal for those wanting to escape the busier parts of Penghu.

Explore Huazhai Historic Village

Enjoy quiet coastal bike rides

Bird Island – Wildlife Haven & Scenic Escape

Bird Island (Niaoyu) is a small ecological gem and sanctuary for migratory birds. It’s especially popular with birdwatchers and photographers during the spring and autumn migration seasons.

The island’s untouched natural landscape is also perfect for short hikes and quiet relaxation. You can take part in eco-tours that emphasize environmental conservation and learn about the bird species that call the island home.

Join eco-tours focused on conservation

Hike and relax in an undisturbed coastal environment

Jibei Island – White Sand & Water Adventures

Jibei is famous for its long sand spit, a narrow stretch of white sand extending into the ocean. It’s one of the best beaches in Penghu and attracts swimmers, sunbathers, and photographers alike.

The island also offers various water activities like snorkeling, windsurfing, and jet skiing. There are boat tours that take visitors around Jibei and nearby islets, often with local guides sharing stories of island life.

Try watersports like jet skiing and snorkeling

Join boat tours for scenic coastal views

Tongpan Island – Basalt Cliffs & Marine Views

Tongpan Island is often called the “Basalt Island” because of its stunning hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea. A boat tour around the island reveals incredible rock formations, sea caves, and clear turquoise waters.

Though uninhabited, Tongpan offers a dramatic natural landscape ideal for geology lovers and photographers. Its coastal cliffs and underwater biodiversity also make it a great spot for snorkeling and marine exploration.

Explore via boat tour around the island

Great for photography and marine activities

Dongji Island – Remote Charm & Coastal Views

Dongji Island is part of the South Penghu Marine National Park and features a picturesque lighthouse, abandoned houses, and quiet shorelines. Its secluded setting makes it feel like a hidden gem far from the main tourist trail.

Perfect for slow travel, Dongji allows you to hike scenic paths, visit old military bunkers, and gaze at the endless sea. The island also offers views of surrounding islets and is a favorite stop on multi-island boat tours.

Visit the Dongji Lighthouse for sweeping views

Ideal for remote island exploration and photography

Popular Tours

We bought these two tours during our 7 day holiday in Penghu.

Ocean Ranch

The Ocean Ranch in Penghu offers a fun, hands-on experience where you can fish, feed marine animals, and enjoy seafood freshly cooked right on the floating platform. It’s a relaxing and interactive way to enjoy Penghu’s ocean life.

Fish-feeding and hands-on marine fun

Fresh seafood BBQ on the ocean

Night Squid Fishing Experience

Experience the thrill of night squid fishing on a local boat tour, where you’ll use lights to attract squid and enjoy freshly prepared squid dishes while out at sea — a Penghu summer tradition.

Unique nighttime fishing adventure

Eat fresh squid sashimi on board

Things to Do in Huxi Township (湖西)

Kuibishan Recreation Area (Moses Parting Sea) 奎壁山摩西分海

Kuibishan is famous for its natural “Moses Parting the Sea” phenomenon, where a rocky path emerges at low tide, allowing visitors to walk across the sea to Chiyu Islet. The view is both surreal and stunning, making it one of Penghu’s most unique coastal sights.

Visit only during low tide to walk the ocean path

A top photo spot with dramatic coastal scenery

Opening hours may vary slightly from month to month and day to day. You can check the daily opening schedule.

Aimen Beach 隘門沙灘

Aimen Beach boasts soft white sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities. It’s one of Penghu’s most accessible and popular beaches, great for families or a relaxing beach day.

Wide, sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing

Family-friendly and easy to access from Magong

Gouye Lime Kiln 菓葉灰窯

This historical lime kiln near Gouye Village offers insight into Penghu’s traditional lime-making industry. Though now quiet, the well-preserved structure tells stories of the island’s economic past and offers rustic photo opportunities.

Preserved site showcasing traditional lime production

Hidden historical gem with cultural significance

Sea Shell Church 貝殼教堂

The Sea Shell Church, located in Baisha Township, is a charming, ocean-themed chapel decorated with real shells and coral. It’s a popular stop for photos, weddings, and those looking to enjoy a peaceful, artful space.

Unique chapel decorated entirely with sea shells

Popular for photos and quiet reflection near the coast

Things to Do in Baisha Township (白沙)

Penghu Great Bridge 澎湖跨海大橋

The Penghu Great Bridge connects Baisha and Xiyu Islands and is a symbol of the archipelago. Stretching over 2.5 km, it offers scenic ocean views and is a great photo stop when exploring the outlying islands.

Long bridge linking major islands in Penghu

Ideal photo spot with sea and sky views

Tongliang Great Banyan 通梁古榕樹

Located near a temple, this ancient banyan tree spans over 200 square meters with thick, intertwining branches providing cool shade. Locals see it as a spiritual and cultural landmark, perfect for a peaceful break.

Massive, 300-year-old banyan tree with sprawling roots

A natural canopy near historical Tongliang village

Jhongtun Wind Power Area 中屯風車

This area showcases Penghu’s commitment to renewable energy with its striking white wind turbines. The coastline offers a beautiful contrast between the natural sea and man-made structures, making it great for sunset views.

Iconic wind turbine field near the sea

Scenic and educational stop on a coastal drive

Penghu Houliao Paradise Road 後寮天堂路

A narrow concrete path stretches out into the sea at Houliao, creating a surreal scene often called “Paradise Road.” Best viewed during low tide or sunset, it’s a top spot for photographers and dreamers alike.

Stunning ocean pathway perfect for dreamy photos

Popular at low tide and sunset for scenic beauty

Things to Do in Xiyu Township (西嶼)

Daguoye Columnar Basalt 大菓葉柱狀玄武岩

This striking natural wonder features vertical basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. The geometric formations create a dramatic cliffside view that attracts photographers and nature lovers alike.

Impressive volcanic rock formations

Popular geological photo and sightseeing spot

Whale Cave 鯨魚洞

Located on Xiyu Island, Whale Cave is a sea-eroded arch that resembles the shape of a whale. It’s a peaceful coastal spot with nearby cliffs and panoramic ocean views.

Natural arch shaped like a whale

Scenic coastal area ideal for relaxing walks

Penghu Erkan Ancient Residences 澎湖二崁聚落

Erkan Village is a well-preserved traditional settlement featuring Southern Min-style homes with coral stone walls. It’s rich in culture, with historical displays and local crafts.

Historical village showcasing traditional architecture

Cultural exhibits and heritage walking tours

Two-Way Curved Bridge 小池角雙曲橋

This unique S-shaped bridge arcs over a shallow bay, providing lovely sea views and photo ops. It’s both a pedestrian path and a design icon in the area.

Distinctive double-curved bridge structure

Great for photography, especially at sunset

Chixi Rock Waterfall 池西岩瀑

Chixi Rock Waterfall is not a traditional waterfall but a cliff face where waves crash dramatically against the basalt formations. It’s an impressive natural spectacle on windy days.

Coastal “wavefall” against basalt rocks

Best visited during high tide or rough seas

Sanxian Tower 三仙塔

This small tower, located near a coastal cliff, is a Taoist structure built to honor three immortals. The area offers sea views and a sense of spiritual calm.

Spiritual site dedicated to Taoist deities

Peaceful location with ocean-facing views

Three Stone Walls 三石壁

These natural basalt walls rise like stacked books from the ground, a testament to Penghu’s volcanic past. They’re especially photogenic under warm afternoon light.

Rare triple-layered rock formations

Geological site great for photography

Humuhu (depending on the tide) 池西虎目滬

This stone fish trap appears at low tide, shaped like a tiger’s eye from above. It’s a traditional fishing method and a beautiful piece of ancient coastal engineering.

Traditional tide-based stone fish trap

Visible only during low tide conditions

Yu-Won Island Lighthouse 漁翁島燈塔 (西嶼燈塔)

Built in the Qing Dynasty, this black-and-white striped lighthouse is the oldest in Taiwan. It offers sweeping views of the Penghu coastline and historical insight.

Taiwan’s oldest Western-style lighthouse

Ideal for panoramic views and historical interest

Dream Beach 夢幻沙灘

Dream Beach lives up to its name with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a quiet, lesser-known beach perfect for relaxing and catching Penghu’s famous sunsets.

Secluded beach with clean sand and turquoise waters

Great sunset spot away from the crowds

Things to Do in Magong City (馬公)

Xiying Rainbow Bridge 西瀛虹橋

This iconic arched bridge lights up at night in vivid rainbow colors, spanning over the harbor in Magong. It’s a favorite sunset and evening photography spot, especially in summer.

Famous for night illumination and scenic harbor views

Popular spot for romantic evening walks and photo ops

Four-eyes Well 四眼井

A historical well dating back over 300 years, the “Four-eyes Well” has four small openings and still provides fresh water. It reflects the ingenuity of early Penghu settlers.

Traditional well with historical significance

Symbol of community and water conservation

Duxingshi Village 篤行十村

This former military dependents’ village is now a cultural park with preserved houses and exhibitions on veteran life and Penghu’s military history.

Historic military village turned cultural hub

Great for learning about Taiwan’s military and local life

Coral Reef Offshore Platform 澎湖海洋地質公園中心

This marine center offers insights into Penghu’s rich marine geology, coral ecosystems, and basalt formations. It’s both educational and visually engaging.

Showcases Penghu’s unique marine and volcanic features

Ideal for family-friendly learning experiences

Fenggui Cave 風櫃洞

Located near cliffs on the southwest coast, this sea-eroded cave creates dramatic blowhole effects when waves hit. You can hear whistling wind and water sounds from inside.

Natural blowhole with ocean sound effects

Unique coastal geology attraction

Zhongyang Old Street 中央老街

Zhongyang Street is a bustling historical lane in Magong lined with red-brick buildings, souvenir shops, and traditional snacks like brown sugar cake and cactus ice cream.

Historic street with traditional architecture

Ideal for shopping and local eats

Mazu Temple 澎湖天后宮

Built in the 16th century, Penghu’s Mazu Temple is one of the oldest dedicated to the sea goddess. It features ornate carvings and continues to be a spiritual anchor for locals.

One of Taiwan’s oldest Mazu temples

Cultural and religious hub for seafarers

Shanshui Beach 山水沙灘

Shanshui Beach is known for its clean, fine sand and strong waves, making it a favorite for surfers and beachgoers seeking scenic views.

Popular spot for surfing and water sports

Beautiful sunset location with wide sandy shores

Shili Beach 嵵裡沙灘

Shili Beach is a quieter alternative for those looking to relax away from the crowds. Its clear waters and gentle waves are perfect for swimming and beachcombing.

Calm and less crowded than other beaches

Ideal for families and peaceful beach days

Chang Yu-sheng Memorial Museum 張雨生故事館

This small but meaningful museum commemorates the late Taiwanese pop singer Chang Yu-sheng, a Penghu native. It features memorabilia and his musical legacy.

Honors Penghu’s most famous pop star

Insight into Taiwan’s 1990s music scene

Pan An Pang Memorial 潘安邦紀念館

A tribute to singer Pan An Pang, this memorial shares his life and works, including his famous song “Grandma’s Penghu Bay.” It’s a nostalgic stop for music lovers.

Dedicated to a beloved singer of Penghu heritage

Features vintage music and local cultural references

Penghu Matsu Statue 重光媽祖銅像

This massive bronze statue of Mazu, the sea goddess, stands tall overlooking the sea as a guardian. It’s a revered pilgrimage site and offers panoramic views.

Large bronze Mazu statue symbolic of marine protection

Spiritual and scenic landmark

Things to Do at Night

There is no night market in Penghu, so you can only walk around Magong Street at night. You can also go to these two places to see the night view.

Xiying Rainbow Bridge is one of Penghu’s special attractions. As night falls, the bridge will be lit up with colorful neon lights such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and purple, creating a dazzling array of colors. You can watch the sunset and the beautiful scenery at the Guanyinting Recreation Area.

The Sanxian Tower overlooks the Bund Fishing Port and has a bay view like the town of Santorini. This place is not only beautiful during the day, but also beautiful at dusk and night.

Eat and Drink in Penghu

馬公 Magong City

馬路益燒肉飯
洪家炸粿
鐘記燒餅
澎湖三哥酒釀雞排
城隍廟前燒肉飯
原味漁村小吃
郵局口蔥油餅
鐘記燒餅
二信飯糰創始店
日新餐廳
澎湖漁港麵店
玉冠嫩仙草
劉正港檸檬汁

白沙 Baisha Township

澎湖-回家炸粿
美東芳牛肉麵

易家仙人掌冰

西嶼 Xiyu Township

阿虹的店
小萍的店
外垵刈包福氣早餐店
二馬豆花

The Best Month to Visit Penghu

Penghu’s peak tourist season is from May to September each year. There is a fireworks festival from May to July every year, and the island is crowded with people. During this period, the daytime temperature is above 30 degrees and the nighttime temperature is around 25 degrees, which is very suitable for outdoor water activities.

It is not recommended to travel to Penghu in winter unless you are going there specifically for windsurfing. Because Penghu is made up of open islands, strong winds will occur on the islands.

Where to Stay?

Most locals choose to live in Magong. This is the most convenient because this is the most lively urban area in Penghu. You’ll have access to all the restaurants and attractions in town, and you’ll save on cab fares after a night of drinking. Magong is also the ferry departure port for island hopping tours.

How to get to?

Penghu may feel like a remote tropical escape, but getting there is surprisingly easy. Located off Taiwan’s west coast, this archipelago is reachable by plane or ferry, depending on your travel style and schedule.

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Penghu is by plane. There are regular flights from many cities (Taipei, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan Kaohsiung, Kinmen) in Taiwan every day, and all of these flights land at Magong Airport in Penghu. If you are staying overnight in Taipei, flying from Songshan Airport is very convenient as you can even take the Taipei MRT to Songshan Airport (BR13 Exit 1).

Your Gateway to Taiwan’s Island Paradise. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get to Penghu, plus some handy tips to make your trip smooth and scenic.

By Plane (Fastest and Most Convenient)

Some countries have one or two direct international flights to Kaohsiung or Taichung. You can check flights in your country for a quicker connection to Penghu. International travelers will almost always arrive at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), where you’ll then need to take the Airport MRT to Taipei Songshan Airport, or take a train/THSR to another city to catch a ferry.

The easiest way to get to Penghu is by domestic flight to Magong Airport (MZG), the main airport on Penghu’s largest island. Almost all flights from Taiwan to Penghu land at Penghu Magong Airport. One-way fares are around NT$1,500-2,500, depending on departure location, time and season.

Taipei Songshan Airport to Penghu: 60 minutes (20 flights daily)
Round trip fare: about NT$3700-5000 (USD$120-160)

Taichung Airport to Penghu: 40 minutes (3 flights daily)

Chiayi Airport to Penghu: 35 minutes (1 flight daily)

Tainan Airport to Penghu: 30 minutes (3 flights daily)

Kaohsiung Airport to Penghu: 40 minutes (15 flights daily)

Kinmen Airport to Penghu: 45 minutes (Thu. and Sat. flights)

If you want to skip the main island of Penghu Magong, you can take Daily Air from Kaohsiung Airport and fly directly to the two small islands of Qimei or Wangan.

Kaohsiung Airport to Qimei: 40 minutes (2 flights daily)
Kaohsiung Airport to Wangan: 45 minutes (1 flight on Mondays and 1 flight on Fridays)

Airlines: Uni Air

As a domestic airline under the EVA Air Group, Uni Air specializes in short-haul flights that link Taiwan’s major cities to its outlying regions and islands – including Penghu, Kinmen, Taitung, and Hualien. Established in 1996 and headquartered in Taipei, Uni Air operates a reliable fleet of ATR 72-600 turboprops and Airbus jets, designed for safe and smooth travel even on Taiwan’s shorter, regional routes.

Airlines: Mandarin Airlines

A subsidiary of the China Airlines Group, Mandarin Airlines plays a vital role in connecting Taiwan’s major cities with its outlying islands and select regional international destinations. Founded in 1991, Mandarin Airlines has built a solid reputation for reliability and service excellence.

Airlines: Daily Air (Qimei or Wangan)

Daily Air Corporation, established in 1992, is a Taiwanese regional airline headquartered in Taipei’s Songshan District. Originally founded as a helicopter operator, Daily Air expanded its services to include fixed-wing aircraft in 2005, becoming the first Taiwanese airline to operate both rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft .

Pro Tip: Book early during holidays or festival season (April–June) as flights sell out fast.

By Ferry (Budget-Friendly but Slower)

If you’re looking for a more relaxed, budget-friendly, and ocean-scenic way to reach Taiwan’s beautiful Penghu Islands, then taking a ferry is a great alternative to flying. While not as fast as a plane, ferry rides offer a memorable maritime journey across the Taiwan Strait, perfect for adventure seekers and slow travelers. The ferry from Kaohsiung Port takes about 4 hours, while the express boat from Chiayi only takes 1.5 hours.

You can also choose to take a ferry from Taiwan to Penghu. Most ferries depart from Budai Port in Chiayi. You can also take a ferry from Kaohsiung Port, but the journey will be longer. However, there are also ferries departing from Kaohsiung Port at night, which is a very different experience. You can sleep on the boat for one night and arrive in Penghu in the morning for breakfast. Main Ferry Ports to Penghu:

Chiayi ↔ Penghu

Chiayi Budai Harbor ↔ Penghu Magong (1.5 hours)
Round trip fare: about NT$1500 (USD$48)
Chiayi ↔ Penghu Ferry Ticket from Klook (Including shuttle bus transfer)

Kaohsiung ↔ Penghu

Kaohsiung Port ↔ Penghu Magong (4-5 hours)
Round trip fare: about NT$1800 (USD$58)
Kaohsiung ↔ Penghu Ferry Ticket from Klook

Ferry schedules depend on weather and sea conditions. Summer typhoons may cause cancellations. If you get travel sickness, you may want to take the tablet 30 minutes before you board the ferry.

Check out the ferry information here.

Penghu has strong winds and high waves, so the possibility of ferry cancellation is greater than that of flight cancellation. The ferry ride is quite uncomfortable so many people may get seasick throughout the journey and the boat also smells like vomit. If you suffer from motion sickness you may need to take a pill 30 minutes before boarding the ferry.