Penghu: Taiwan’s Island Paradise of Wind, Waves, and Wonder
Set in the azure waters of the Taiwan Strait, Penghu (澎湖) is a cluster of 90 islands and islets that feels like a different world from mainland Taiwan. Known for its crystal-clear seas, white-sand beaches, historic villages, and dramatic basalt cliffs, Penghu offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and seaside charm.
Whether you’re snorkeling in turquoise coves, watching the sun set behind ancient stone houses, or tasting some of Taiwan’s freshest seafood, Penghu is a dream escape for beach lovers, adventurers, and cultural explorers alike. Despite its growing popularity, the islands retain a laid-back, timeless atmosphere — where the rhythm of life is shaped more by the tides and the wind than by the clock.
📍 Where Is Penghu?
Penghu, also known as the Pescadores, is an archipelago located in the Taiwan Strait, roughly 50 kilometers off the west coast of Taiwan between Chiayi and Tainan. It’s officially part of Penghu County and is one of Taiwan’s outlying island regions.
How to Get There:
✈️ By Plane: The easiest way is a short domestic flight from Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung to Magong Airport (on the main island).
⛴️ By Ferry: Ferries from Chiayi (Budai Port) and Kaohsiung operate seasonally. While cheaper, ferries are subject to sea conditions and take 1.5 to 4 hours.
🌟 Why Visit Penghu?
🏖️ Unspoiled Beaches – Some of Taiwan’s cleanest, quietest stretches of sand
🌋 Unique Geology – Spectacular columnar basalt formations found only in a few places in the world
🐠 Island Hopping & Snorkeling – Explore coral reefs and crystal waters
🏛️ Traditional Villages – Walk through time in centuries-old stone houses
🎆 Sea-Fireworks Festival – A seasonal event that lights up the skies over the ocean
🍴 Seafood Galore – Oysters, squid, and seasonal delicacies caught fresh every day
🏝️ Top Things to Do in Penghu
1. Explore Magong City (馬公市)
The capital of Penghu is a great starting point. Stroll the old streets, visit Tianhou Temple (dedicated to Mazu, goddess of the sea), and explore Central Street, lined with historic shops and snack stalls.
Don’t Miss:
Penghu Living Museum (local culture and history)
Four-eyed Well (a centuries-old water source)
Local oyster omelets and brown sugar cake
2. Visit the Twin Heart Stone Weir (雙心石滬)
Located on Qimei Island, this romantic heart-shaped fish trap is one of Penghu’s most famous landmarks. Built by hand using volcanic rocks, it’s both a functional structure and a symbol of local craftsmanship.
Best at: Low tide or from a drone for the perfect heart-shaped photo
3. Snorkeling and Water Sports
Penghu’s clear waters and coral reefs make it one of the best places in Taiwan for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing.
Top spots:
Jibei Island (吉貝嶼) – Water activities and sandbar walks
Chenggong Island – Peaceful snorkeling
Hujing Island – For diving lovers
4. View Basalt Columns
Penghu’s volcanic past has left behind dramatic columnar basalt formations, similar to those in Iceland and Ireland.
Visit:
Xiyu West Fort and Yuwengdao Lighthouse
Daguoye Columnar Basalt (大菓葉玄武岩)
Tongpan Island (桶盤嶼) – Take a boat tour around its cliffs
5. Relax on Secret Beaches
Escape the crowds and find your own slice of paradise.
Best beaches:
Shanshui Beach (山水沙灘) – Great for swimming and surfing
Aimen Beach (隘門沙灘) – Calm waters, ideal for families
Jibei Sand Tail (吉貝沙尾) – A narrow strip of white sand stretching into the sea
6. Attend the Penghu Fireworks Festival
Every April to June, Penghu hosts a spectacular fireworks and drone show twice weekly over the sea at Guanyinting Park. The event draws visitors from across Taiwan and features concerts, food stalls, and a festive atmosphere.
7. Experience Traditional Villages
Many islands preserve centuries-old Fujian-style stone houses, often built with coral and basalt. Wander through Erkan Village (二崁村) or Daguoye Community, and experience life as it once was.
Tip: Try the local cactus ice cream and herbal drinks while walking the lanes.
🍤 What to Eat in Penghu
Thanks to its fishing heritage, Penghu is a seafood lover’s dream. But there’s more to savor, too!
Local Must-Trys:
Squid noodles (花枝麵線) – A local favorite with thick squid broth
Oyster pancakes (蚵仔煎) – Briny, savory, and always fresh
Cactus ice cream (仙人掌冰淇淋) – Made from a local variety of pink cactus
Brown sugar cake (黑糖糕) – A chewy, steamed dessert infused with molasses
Flying fish roe sausage – Popular during festival season
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Penghu
Spring (April–June) – Great weather and the famous Penghu Fireworks Festival
Summer (July–September) – Hot and ideal for beach days, snorkeling, and water sports
Autumn (October–November) – Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and great sunsets
Winter (December–February) – Windy and quiet; not ideal for beach activities but still peaceful
Note: Penghu is known for its strong winter winds. If you prefer water sports, avoid the northeast monsoon season (late fall to winter).
🧭 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Magong & Culture
Arrive and explore Magong Old Town
Visit Tianhou Temple and local markets
Watch sunset at Guanyinting Park
Day 2: Island Hopping Adventure
Take a boat tour to Tongpan and Xiyu Islands
Visit basalt cliffs and historic forts
Swim or snorkel at Shanshui Beach
Day 3: Hearts & Heritage
Take a day trip to Qimei Island
Snap photos at Twin Heart Stone Weir
Stroll through Erkan Village and enjoy a quiet afternoon
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Penghu
Penghu is not just a beach destination—it’s an experience that combines nature, heritage, and island soul. Whether you’re tracing the coastlines of volcanic islets, tasting the ocean’s daily catch, or simply watching fireworks light up the strait, Penghu invites you to rediscover wonder in the small, quiet, and beautiful.
It’s the kind of place where time slows, sunsets glow longer, and memories last forever.
Top Tips for Visiting Penghu: A Guide to Taiwan’s Island Paradise
Nestled in the Taiwan Strait between Taiwan and China, the Penghu Islands (also known as the Pescadores) are a hidden gem filled with turquoise waters, traditional villages, and wind-swept coastal beauty. Made up of nearly 90 islands and islets, Penghu is perfect for beach lovers, seafood fans, and those looking to slow down and soak up island life. Whether you’re planning a short escape or a full island-hopping adventure, here are essential tips to help you make the most of your Penghu experience.
✈️ 1. Getting There: Fly for Convenience
The easiest way to reach Penghu is by plane. Daily flights depart from Taipei Songshan, Taichung, Chiayi, and Kaohsiung to Makung Airport (MZG), the main airport on the islands.
Flight Time: Around 45–60 minutes
Ferry Option: Available from Chiayi or Kaohsiung, but it takes 4–5 hours and is weather-dependent.
✅ Pro Tip: Book flights early during peak travel times like summer or holidays — Penghu is especially popular from April to September.
🏝️ 2. Visit During the Right Season
Penghu’s best travel season is from April to October, especially for water activities and beach weather. Avoid winter, when strong winds can limit travel and make the sea rough.
✅ Bonus: Visit in spring for wildflowers or late summer for the Penghu Fireworks Festival.
🛵 3. Rent a Scooter or Car to Get Around
Public transportation is limited, so the best way to explore Penghu is by scooter or car. Scooters are perfect for solo travelers or couples and allow easy access to beaches, coastal roads, and scenic spots.
Scooter rental: Affordable and widely available, but an international driver’s permit is required.
Car rental: Great for families or groups and ideal during windy weather.
✅ Pro Tip: Some hotels and homestays offer scooter rental services or discounts.
🏖️ 4. Don’t Miss These Iconic Spots
Penghu is full of jaw-dropping coastal views and cultural treasures. Be sure to include these:
Twin-Heart Stone Weir (Qimei Island): A romantic and ancient fish trap shaped like two hearts
Whale Cave: A natural basalt arch on Xiaomen Island
Penghu Great Bridge: Connecting Baisha and Xiyu — great for photos
Erkan Historical Village: Preserved stone homes with local architecture and charm
Tongliang Great Banyan Tree: A huge banyan over 300 years old that covers an entire plaza!
🍱 5. Eat Fresh, Local, and Unique
Penghu’s food is deeply tied to the ocean. Must-tries include:
Grilled squid
Seaweed ice cream
Cactus juice and popsicles – bright pink and refreshingly sour
Oyster omelets and sea urchin rice
Brown sugar cakes (hei tang gao) – a soft, sticky Penghu dessert
✅ Pro Tip: Visit Makung Night Market and small harborside seafood restaurants for the best eats.
🏄♂️ 6. Try Water Sports and Island-Hopping
Penghu is a haven for beach lovers and thrill-seekers alike:
Snorkeling & diving: Clear water and coral reefs, especially near Jibei and Qimei
Kayaking & SUP: Available in more sheltered bays
Island-hopping tours: Take a boat to Jibei Island, Qimei, or other outlying isles
✅ Safety Tip: Always check weather conditions before booking — Penghu’s winds can pick up fast.
🕌 7. Explore the Local Culture and Temples
Penghu has a rich maritime culture and strong ties to Taoist traditions. Explore:
Mazu Temples – Penghu is a major center for worship of the sea goddess
Traditional villages with coral-stone houses
Local festivals – especially the Fireworks Festival (April–June), which lights up the night sky over the harbor
📷 8. Capture the Basalt Coastlines
Penghu’s volcanic past left it with stunning basalt columns and cliffs. Top photo spots include:
Daguoye Columnar Basalt
Xiyu East Fort and West Fort
Jibei Sand Tail – a dreamy stretch of sand connecting two parts of an island
✅ Bring: A wide-angle lens and plenty of storage — the landscapes are unforgettable.
🌬️ 9. Prepare for Wind and Sun
Penghu is known for its strong winds and abundant sunshine. Even in summer, the wind can be intense — especially near the coast.
✅ Pack: Sunglasses, a hat that ties on, sunscreen, and a light jacket for boat rides.
🛍️ 10. Support Local and Bring Back Unique Souvenirs
From dried seafood to cactus jam and handmade crafts, Penghu is a great place for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Visit local markets or handicraft shops to support island communities.
✅ Don’t Miss: Coral jewelry, sea salt products, and dried flying fish snacks.
Final Thoughts
Penghu is a magical blend of wild coastlines, traditional culture, and laid-back island vibes. Whether you’re sipping cactus juice by the sea, riding a scooter past stone villages, or watching the sunset from a wind-swept cliff, Penghu will leave you recharged and inspired.
Ready to escape the ordinary? Let Penghu welcome you with open arms — and salty sea breezes.