Introduction to Pingtung
If you dream of white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, vibrant indigenous culture, and endless sunshine, then Pingtung belongs at the top of your Taiwan travel list. Nestled at the southern tip of the island, Pingtung offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling cities up north—welcoming you with laid-back coastal towns, lush mountains, and the rich traditions of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples.
Often overshadowed by neighboring Kaohsiung, Pingtung is a hidden gem full of natural wonders, culinary delights, and ecological treasures. It’s home to Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s top beach destination, but there’s so much more: riverside hot springs, forested hiking trails, thriving night markets, and seaside towns where time slows down. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just a place to relax under the sun, Pingtung has something for everyone—and it delivers with warm smiles and even warmer weather.
Pingtung is more than just a beach getaway—it’s a deeply diverse region where culture, nature, and adventure coexist in harmony. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning hiking through cloud forests, the afternoon snorkeling with turtles, and the evening enjoying grilled squid under string lights at a night market. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or a culture seeker, Pingtung offers an unforgettable escape to a side of Taiwan that feels both wild and welcoming.
What to Eat in Pingtung
Pingtung’s tropical setting and coastal location mean fresh seafood, local fruits, and southern-style Taiwanese comfort food.
Local Delicacies:
Donggang Tuna Sashimi – Especially during the spring tuna festival
Flying fish roe sausage – Indigenous specialty
Pineapple & wax apples – Grown fresh in Pingtung’s warm climate
Millet wine – Traditional aboriginal drink
Cactus ice cream – Found in Liuqiu, it’s bright pink and refreshing
Night Markets:
Kenting Night Market
Pingtung Night Market
Tip: Head to Donggang Fish Market for fresh seafood and the famous bluefin tuna (April–June).
Beach and Water Activities
■ Water Activities at Kenting South Bay in Pingtung
■ Kenting Nanyong Diving Center – Snorkeling Experience
■ Stand Up Paddleboarding Experience in Kenting
■ Houbihu Semi-Submarine Experience in Kenting, Pingtung
■ Kenting Night Adventure Experience
Whether you want to surf, swim, or sunbathe, Kenting’s beaches deliver:
South Bay (Nanwan)
South Bay (Nanwan, 南灣) is Kenting’s most popular beach destination, famous for its golden sands, clear turquoise water, and vibrant water sports scene. The wide, gently sloping shoreline makes it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and encountering colorful coral life just offshore. Lined with cafés, bars, and beachside tents, it comes alive in summer, with evening bonfires and music creating a festive vibe.
Despite its energetic atmosphere, the bay still offers quieter stretches toward the edges where families can relax away from crowds. A paved boardwalk parallels the beach, perfect for sunset strolls. Beach rentals—from jet-skis to snorkeling sets—are available daily, making it easy to spend anything from a few hours to a full beach day in comfort and convenience.
Key Points:
Wide sandy beach with lively water sports and rentals
Beachfront cafés, bars, and sunset strolls on the boardwalk
Family-friendly zones alongside more social areas
Little Bay (Xiaowan Beach)
Just east of Nanwan, Little Bay (Xiaowan Beach, 小灣) offers a more intimate and sheltered coastal experience. Though smaller than its neighbor, its calm waters and sandy stretch make it ideal for young children and snorkeling among shallow tidepools rich with marine life. The beach curves inward, providing natural protection from wind and waves.
With fewer commercial spots, Little Bay maintains a laid-back, local feel. A couple of shaded picnic gazebos and coconut palms dot the shore, offering simple spots to unwind, enjoy a book, or watch fishermen bring in their morning catch. It’s a quiet retreat just steps away from Kenting’s livelier centers.
Key Points:
Sheltered small bay perfect for kids and snorkelers
Simple amenities with relaxed, local beach vibe
Ideal for a peaceful beach break without crowds
Kenting Beach (Dawan)
Known as Dawan among locals, Kenting Beach (Dawan, 大灣海灘) stretches along the cape’s southern side and connects South Bay to Turtle Beach. Its broad, gently curving shoreline is favored for long walks, sunrise photography, and beach volleyball. The early morning light casts a golden glow that enhances its wide-open coastal beauty.
The beach is backed by dunes and low-lying hills, with scattered palm trees and small food stalls offering snacks and cold drinks. Though quieter than South Bay, it offers the same water-based activities—kayaking, swimming, and bodyboarding—while retaining a slightly more natural, less commercialized ambiance, attracting those seeking a relaxed beach day.
Key Points:
Expansive sandy shore great for walks and sunrise photos
Water sports options in a quieter setting than South Bay
Casual local food stalls and natural dune backdrop
Banana Bay
Named for its curved, banana-shaped shoreline, Banana Bay (香蕉灣) is a hidden gem tucked between dramatic limestone cliffs and lush hills. It offers calm, clear water ideal for SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) and snorkeling. The bay’s small-scale charm makes it less crowded—perfect for couples or solo visitors in search of serenity.
Come late afternoon, the bay becomes a scenic retreat, as the golden sunlight bathes the palms and limestone formations. Simple shade huts dot the sand, and a small riverside stream forms a shallow lagoon at one end, ideal for cooling your feet. It’s a calm, scenic sanctuary near Kenting’s more active beaches.
Key Points:
Small curved bay offering natural beauty and calm waters
Ideal for SUP, snorkeling, and intimate beach access
Scenic backdrop of limestone cliffs and palm shade
Baisha Beach (White Sand Bay)
Baisha Beach (White Sand Bay, 白沙灣) lives up to its name with powdery white sand and a shallow turquoise surf—one of Kenting’s most striking natural beaches. The clear water and gentle waves invite swimming and slow strolls along the shoreline. Named “White Sand” for good reason, its fine grains contrast sharply with darker volcanic rock formations at the bay’s edges.
The setting feels more secluded, with fewer amenities and a laid-back vibe. A small café offering refreshments nestles against the dunes, but for the most part, the beach retains a natural, unspoiled feel. Watch for migrating seabirds, admire the colorful cliffs, or sink your toes into soft sand while enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Key Points:
Pristine white-sand beach with crystal-clear, shallow surf
Secluded, less commercialized setting with minimal facilities
Volcanic rock formations and birdwatching opportunities
Houbihu
Houbihu (後壁湖) is a bustling fishing harbor turned marine hub at Kenting’s eastern end. Its waterfront is lined with fish markets, seafood restaurants, and boat operators offering snorkeling, glass-bottom tours, and diving trips. It serves as both the region’s fresh-catch center and water-activity gateway.
Behind the harbor, a paved promenade offers shaded benches and sunset views across the water toward Little Liuqiu Island. Boat trips depart regularly, taking visitors to vibrant coral reefs, turtle habitats, and WWII shipwrecks. In the evening, the harbor transforms as diners gather at open-air seafood stalls beside docked fishing boats.
Key Points:
Active fishing port with markets and waterfront seafood eateries
Departure point for snorkeling, diving, and boat tours
Scenic promenade offering sunset views and evening ambiance
Locals’ snorkeling and scuba spots
Wanlitong (萬里桐)
Little Bali (小峇里)
Sail Rock (船帆石)
Puppy Bay (小狗灣)
Shanhai Fishing Port (山海漁港)
Hengchun (合界)
▼ Little Bali: Locals’ snorkeling and scuba spots spot
Jialeshui
Jialeshui (佳樂水) is a windswept coastal area on the southeastern tip of Taiwan, renowned for its powerful surf and untouched beauty. The rugged cliffs meet crashing waves, creating a dramatic landscape loved by surfers and nature photographers alike. With practically no commercial development, the wide-open beach has a raw, wild charm.
Visitors often come here for surf lessons or to ride the consistent swells, especially in the winter months. Coastal walking paths lead to scenic lookout points where the ocean stretches uninterrupted toward the horizon. For those craving a sense of freedom and natural drama, Jialeshui is a refreshing contrast to Kenting’s busier beaches.
Key Points:
Powerful surf break popular with advanced surfers
Untamed coastal cliffs and wide-open beachscapes
Minimal development, wild and pristine ambiance
Manzhou Beach
Manzhou Beach (滿州沙灘), tucked into the rural outskirts of Manzhou Township, offers a serene seaside escape far from the crowds. Its soft, golden sands arc gently toward a sea that’s usually calm and clear—perfect for leisurely swims or handheld-viewing of distant islands during low tide.
A couple of shaded pavilions provide peaceful spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. Nearby fishing villages add cultural charm, offering roadside seafood stalls where visitors can sample fresh, simply prepared fish and shellfish. Manzhou Beach is ideal for a slow-paced afternoon in nature with a local twist.
Key Points:
Quiet, golden-sand beach in a rural coastal setting
Calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxation
Nearby seafood stalls bring regional flavor
Shadao Beach
Shadao Beach (砂島海灘) gets its name from the “sand island” phenomenon: tidal currents deposit curved sandbanks and create striking sand formations. The beach is expansive and flat, with rare geological features—like naturally sculpted sand waves—that emerge at low tide.
Long walks across the sands reveal unique textures and patterns, setting the stage for photography and sensory discovery. Minimal development means few amenities, but the panoramic vistas and creative geological shapes make Shadao an atmospheric destination for explorers seeking something distinct in Kenting’s coastal tapestry.
Key Points:
Flat beach with sandbar formations and tidal “sand islands”
Geological interest with sculpted sand textures
Quiet, undeveloped setting ideal for exploration and photography
Things to Do in Kenting (Pingtung)
Escape the crowds and discover the secret soul of Taiwan’s southern coast. While places like Eluanbi Lighthouse and Longpan Park steal the spotlight, Kenting National Park is filled with lesser-known corners that offer solitude, beauty, and a deeper connection with nature. Kenting is not just a beach town.
It’s a full-on tropical experience. Whether you’re sipping cocktails under palm trees, diving through coral reefs, or hiking along a rugged cliffside trail, it’s the kind of place that reminds you what vacation should feel like. Add Kenting to your Taiwan itinerary – you won’t regret it.
National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium
Situated near the southern tip of Taiwan in Checheng, this expansive aquarium is full of immersive marine displays—from giant whale sharks and manta rays to colorful coral reefs and interactive touch pools. Themed exhibition zones include tropical ocean tanks, cold-water seas, and even a coral conservation lab, making it both entertaining and educational.
Ideal for families and ocean lovers, the museum also features live feeding sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, and outdoor habitats for sea turtles, sea lions, and penguins. Its coastal setting creates a seamless experience of marine life both inside and out.
Key Points:
Immersive thematic tanks with diverse marine life
Interactive experiences: touch pools, feeding sessions
Outdoor exhibits featuring penguins, turtles, and more
■ National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium Ticket
■ Penguin Encounter at National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium
Parent-child ecological park
If you have children, you can consider finding a suitable one for them.
■ Paradise of Deer Ticket in Kenting Pingtung
■ Tickets for Kenting Luyu Island Capybara Ecological Park
■ A-Shin Choco Farm Ticket in Pingtung
■ Pingtung Kenting Kencao Fun Parent-child Park Ticket
■ Entrance ticket to Kenting Big Wolf Ecological Education Park
Kenting Forest Recreation Area
The Kenting National Forest Recreation Area is a lush green gem that’s perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to soak in Taiwan’s tropical biodiversity. Set on a coral-limestone plateau 300 meters above sea level, this 150-hectare forest park is part of Kenting National Park.
It’s not just trees and trails. This place is packed with rare plant species, towering tropical trees, hidden caves, and epic coastal views. Established in 1967, the park was originally a botanical research base, and today, it’s one of Taiwan’s best-preserved examples of a low-altitude tropical forest. Must-See Highlights
Coral-Limestone Formations & Caves
The terrain here is totally unique—raised coral reefs turned into rocky cliffs and limestone caves. Wander into the mysterious Fairy Cave (仙洞) or the eerie Silver Dragon Cave (銀龍洞), where you’ll find amazing stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years.
Diverse Plant Life
This isn’t your average forest. Over 1,200 plant species thrive here—from spiky pandanus trees to graceful ferns and vibrant orchids. It’s basically a living jungle encyclopedia.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Bring your binoculars! The park is a hotspot for migratory birds, especially during fall and winter. The Gray-faced Buzzard and Black-naped Oriole are regulars here, among many other species. The best viewing spot? Climb the Sea Viewing Tower (觀海樓). You’ll not only get a great look at the birds, but also sweeping ocean views.
Scenic Walking Trails
The park has a network of well-marked trails, perfect for a relaxing walk or a short hike. Whether you’re strolling beneath towering fig trees or exploring a rocky canyon, the air feels cooler, fresher, and quieter than the beachside.
Sheding Nature Park
Located near the National Museum in Checheng, Sheding Nature Park (社頂自然公園) spans lush tropical forests, limestone cliffs, and tranquil coastal paths. Well-marked hiking trails of varying lengths lead you through dense jungles and leafy glades where monkeys, birds, and butterflies thrive.
Highlights include the 1.6 km Sheding Nature Trail and the scenic path to Dashan Waterfall. This park offers a peaceful contrast to the beachside buzz of other Kenting attractions, ideal for nature walks or family picnics.
Key Points:
Tropical forest hiking in coastal hinterland
Wildlife-rich zones with birds, monkeys, and insects
Scenic trails leading to waterfalls and lookouts
Guanshan Sunset Viewing Park
Overlooking Evergreen Grasslands near Hengchun, Guanshan Sunset Viewing Park (觀山夕照觀景台) is one of Kenting’s premier sunset spots. Elevated platforms provide unobstructed views of the sun sinking behind distant mountains, casting golden reflections over the flat landscape.
It’s a peaceful evening retreat—bring a bottle, a snack, and linger as day turns to night, accompanied by soft breezes and songbird chirps.
Key Points:
Elevated vantage for dramatic sunsets over grasslands
Quiet, open-air terrace environment
Ideal for photography and romantic quietude
Eluanbi Lighthouse
Perched on the southernmost tip of Taiwan, Eluanbi Lighthouse (鵝鑾鼻燈塔) is a historic landmark whose white cylindrical tower stands sentinel against crashing waves. Built in 1883, it boasts unique fortified walls and defensive features rarely seen in lighthouse architecture.
Beyond admiring the structure, you can stroll through landscaped coastal trails and enjoy sweeping ocean views. Nearby exhibits explain its maritime significance, making it a cultural anchor to your coastal journey.
Key Points:
Historic 19th-century lighthouse with defensive walls
Panoramic views of the Pacific at Taiwan’s southern tip
Coastal gardens and educational maritime displays
Longpan Park
Longpan Park (龍盤公園) stretches along Kenting’s dramatic eastern coast, with rocky cliffs, hardy grasslands, and ocean-splashed terraces. Elevated trails lead hikers over calcium-rich rock terraces, where strong winds create wind-swept “hairdo” grass formations.
With every viewpoint open to the horizon, it’s a dramatic setting for watching waves crash against cliffs, capturing sunrise colors, or witnessing the raw intersection of land and sea.
Key Points:
Cliffside trails overlooking dramatic ocean vistas
Grassland cliffs sculpted by strong coastal winds
Rugged scenery perfect for hiking and photography
Maobitou Park
Named “Cat Nose Head” for its feline-like cape jutting into the sea, Maobitou Park (貓鼻頭公園) features paved coastal walkways and interpretive paths that reveal marine life and headland geology. A sculpted lookout offers sweeping views of Hengchun Peninsula.
The park is also home to coastal fauna—crabs, egrets, and occasional dolphins. Maobitou forms the western gateway to Kenting National Park and is ideal for picnics, shoreline exploration, and wildflower spotting in spring.
Key Points:
Coastal headland resembling a cat’s nose
Interpretive walking paths with wildlife spotting
Shoreline views and paved trails for casual walks
Fongchueisha
Also known as Wind-Blown Pottery Rock, Fongchueisha (風吹石/風櫃斗山) is a dramatic coastal bluff marked by a striking mushroom-shaped rock formed by wind and salt erosion. The peak overlooks Houbihu and the Qiao Bin caves below.
An adjacent interpretive trail offers panoramic views of Kenting’s eastern seaboard, making it a dramatic and educational waypoint—best visited in the late afternoon when coastal winds pick up.
Key Points:
Iconic wind-eroded mushroom rock structure
Coastal bluff with sea blowhole caves nearby
Elevated views of the eastern Kenting shore
Alang Yi Ancient Trail
Hugging the southeastern coast between Manzhou and Hengchun, the Alang Yi Ancient Trail (阿朗壹古道) follows the former path used by Hakka fishers. It stretches along cliffs, through grass forests, and along tumbled-down headlands.
Ideal for experienced hikers, the trail reveals remote coastal scenery, isolated beaches, and rugged cliffs—and even marine caves below. Weather conditions vary, so only attempt it with proper gear and daylight. For those who tread it, Alang Yi offers a connection to both history and raw coastal beauty.
Key Points:
Remote coastal path with Hakka fisher heritage
Cliffside hiking, sea caves, isolated scenery
Challenging multi-hour trek with minimal infrastructure
■ Alangyi Hostoric Trail Hiking Day Tour
How to Get to Kenting from Taipei
Kenting, located on Taiwan’s southern tip in Pingtung County, is famous for its tropical beaches, national parks, vibrant nightlife, and laid-back surf-town vibe. While it’s quite a distance from Taipei—over 450 km—the journey is absolutely worth it.
This guide breaks down how to get from Taipei to Kenting, covering every mode of transportation, from high-speed rail and buses to flights and car rentals. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a multi-day island adventure, this post will help you get there smoothly.
Option 1: HSR + Shuttle Bus – The Most Popular Route
This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Kenting from Taipei.
Step-by-Step:
Take the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) from Taipei Station to Zuoying Station (Kaohsiung)
Time: ~1.5–2 hours
Cost: NT$1,490 (standard class)
From Zuoying Station, take a Kenting Express Bus or shared shuttle to Kenting
Time: ~2–2.5 hours
Cost: NT$350–500
Total Travel Time: ~4–5 hours
Total Cost: NT$1,800–2,000
Pros:
Fast and reliable
Scenic drive from Kaohsiung to Kenting
Shuttles stop at major Kenting hotels
Tip: You can book combined HSR + Kenting shuttle packages on platforms like Klook, KKday, or directly through Kingbus.
Option 2: TRA Train + Local Bus – Budget-Friendly (But Slower)
If you want to save money, you can take the TRA train to Kaohsiung (Xinzuoying or Kaohsiung Main Station) and then transfer to a bus to Kenting.
Step-by-Step:
Take a TRA Train from Taipei to Kaohsiung Station
Time: ~5–6 hours
Cost: NT$843–890
Transfer to Kenting Express Bus from Kaohsiung or Zuoying Station
Time: ~2–2.5 hours
Cost: NT$350–400
Total Travel Time: ~7–8 hours
Total Cost: NT$1,200–1,300
Pros:
Cheaper than HSR
Direct bus access to Kenting
Tip: If you’re not in a rush and want to save, this is a decent option.
Option 3: Flight + Bus or Taxi – Rare and Not Recommended
There are limited domestic flights from Taipei Songshan Airport to Hengchun Airport, but service is infrequent and often canceled due to weather. The better flight option is:
Fly to Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH)
Flight Time: ~1 hour
Cost: NT$1,000–2,000
Take a taxi or Kenting shuttle from the airport to Kenting
Time: ~2–2.5 hours
Cost: NT$400–600 (shuttle) or NT$2,000+ (taxi)
Total Time: ~4–5 hours
Pros:
Good if you’re already flying into Kaohsiung
Tip: Check weather conditions before booking. Trains or HSR are usually more reliable.
Option 4: Drive from Taipei – Great for Road Trips
Driving gives you maximum flexibility and the chance to explore hidden gems along the way (like Tainan, Chiayi, or Dapeng Bay).
Distance: ~470 km
Time: ~6–7 hours
Highway: National Freeway No. 1 → Provincial Highway 26
Rental Cost: ~NT$1,800–3,000/day
Toll Fees: Around NT$250
Pros:
Freedom to stop anywhere
Ideal for families or group travelers
Tip: Start early to avoid traffic, and consider an overnight stop in Tainan or Kaohsiung if driving all the way feels too long.
Where Buses Stop in Kenting
Most shuttles and buses stop at:
Kenting Main Street
Nanwan Beach (South Bay)
Hengchun Bus Terminal
Hotels along Kenting Road
Final Tips for Your Trip to Kenting
Best time to visit: October–April (dry, sunny, not too hot)
Summer is hot and crowded—book early
Scooter rental is popular in Kenting (international license required)
Download Bus+ and Taiwan Railways apps to track your transport
Pack sunscreen, swimwear, and sunglasses—Kenting is beach life at its best
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kenting Coast
Explore Kenting beaches and Eluanbi Park
Watch the sunset from Longpan
Stroll the Kenting Night Market
Day 2: Liuqiu Island
Take the ferry from Donggang
Snorkel with sea turtles, visit Vase Rock
Try cactus ice cream and island seafood
Day 3: Cultural Inland
Visit Sandimen Indigenous Cultural Park
Take a short hike in Wutai
Relax at Sichongxi Hot Springs
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