Penghu Travel Guide – iBeauty Taiwan Travel Guide Blog Itinerary, Taipei Tourist Attractions

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.

Set in the azure waters of the Taiwan Strait, Penghu 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.

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

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.

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 – A local favorite with thick squid broth

Oyster pancakes – Briny, savory, and always fresh

Cactus ice cream – Made from a local variety of pink cactus

Cactus juice and popsicles – bright pink and refreshingly sour

Oyster omelets and sea urchin rice

Brown sugar cake – A chewy, steamed dessert infused with molasses

Flying fish roe sausage – Popular during festival season

Tips for Visiting Penghu

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.

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.

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.

Tip: Some hotels and homestays offer scooter rental services or discounts.

View Basalt Columns

Penghu’s volcanic past has left behind dramatic columnar basalt formations, similar to those in Iceland and Ireland. Penghu’s volcanic past left it with stunning basalt columns and cliffs. Top photo spots include:

Xiyu East Fort and West Fort

Daguoye Columnar Basalt

Yuwengdao Lighthouse

Tongpan Island – Take a boat tour around its cliffs

Jibei Sand Tail – a dreamy stretch of sand connecting two parts of an island

Explore Magong City

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

Visit the Twin Heart Stone Weir

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

Relax on Secret Beaches

Escape the crowds and find your own slice of paradise. Best beaches:

Shanshui Beach – Great for swimming and surfing

Aimen Beach – Calm waters, ideal for families

Jibei Sand Tail – A narrow strip of white sand stretching into the sea

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.

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!

Try Snorkeling, Water Sports and Island-Hopping

Penghu’s clear waters and coral reefs make it one of the best places in Taiwan for diving, snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing, and jet skiing. 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

Hujing Island – For diving lovers

Safety Tip: Always check weather conditions before booking — Penghu’s winds can pick up fast.

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

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.

How to Get to Penghu from Taipei

The Complete Travel Guide
With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, basalt cliffs, and historic fishing villages, Penghu (also known as the Pescadores Islands) is a stunning archipelago located in the Taiwan Strait. Though it’s part of Taiwan, Penghu feels worlds apart from the bustle of Taipei—and getting there is part of the adventure.

The county seat, Magong City, is where you’ll likely base your stay. It’s home to Penghu Airport, the main harbor, and many hotels and restaurants.

Option 1: Fly from Taipei to Penghu – Fastest and Easiest

The most popular and convenient way to reach Penghu from Taipei is by plane.

Route: Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) → Penghu Airport (MZG)
Flight Time: ~50–60 minutes
Cost: NT$1,500–2,500 (one-way)

Airlines:
UNI Air
Mandarin Airlines
Daily Air

Flights land at Magong Airport (MZG), located just 15 minutes from downtown Magong.

Pros:
Quick and comfortable
Frequent flights (especially in summer and on weekends)
Great views of the Taiwan Strait

Cons:
Limited baggage (usually 10 kg checked + 7 kg carry-on)
Flights can sell out during peak season (April to September)

Tip: Book flights at least 2–3 weeks in advance for holidays or summer travel. Try UNI Air’s official site or apps like KKday, Klook, and Skyscanner for easy booking.

Option 2: Ferry from Taiwan to Penghu – For the Scenic Route

If you’re up for a slow travel experience or just want an alternative to flying, ferries also operate between Taiwan and Penghu—though they take longer and are weather-dependent.

Ferry Routes:
Kaohsiung → Magong (Penghu)
Travel Time: ~4.5–5 hours
Cost: ~NT$900–1,100
Schedule: 3–5 times per week (varies seasonally)

Chiayi (Budai Harbor) → Magong
Travel Time: ~90 minutes
Cost: ~NT$700–900
Schedule: Daily (more frequent in summer)

No direct ferry from Taipei. You must travel to Kaohsiung or Chiayi (Budai) to board a ferry.

Final Travel Tips

Visit in spring or summer (April–September) for best weather and water activities.
Book accommodations early in summer—Penghu is a hot domestic travel spot.
Pack light if flying—baggage limits can be strict.
Consider island-hopping tours to Qimei, Wang’an, or Jibei.

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