kenting tourism

Asia , Beach Guides , Taiwan · May 14, 2022

15 Unmissable Things to do in Kenting, Taiwan

Beyond the neon lights, scooter waterfalls and bustling city life is Taiwan’s little slice of paradise ~ Kenting (墾丁). Situated at the southern tip of Taiwan in Pingtung County, Kenting is the island’s premier beach destination and a huge must on any Taiwan itinerary.

With white sandy beaches, turquoise water, lush tropical forests, stretched-out seaside cliffs and a bustling night market, Kenting has a lot going for it! While most visitors only visit Kenting on a quick weekend getaway, you should definitely stay longer if you can. Why? Because Kenting is stunning and there are loads to do!

In this guide, I’ll share the very best things to do in Kenting, plus all my insider’s tips to make your Kenting trip all the easier .

Ready to find out what to do in Kenting? Let’s dive right into the very best things to do in Kenting!

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Table of Contents

15 Absolute Best Things to do in Kenting

Hit the beaches.

Kenting is home to some of the  most beautiful beaches in Taiwan . And as a result, it’s a paradise for beachgoers and sun seekers with dreamy white beaches, palm trees, and warm tropical water. 

There are several fantastic beaches in Kenting, with  Nanwan  (South Beach) and  Little Bay  (opposite the Caesar Park Hotel) among the most popular. Other popular swimming spots include Kenting Beach (along Dawan Road), Sail Rock (in Chuanfanshi) and my ultimate fave Baisha (White Sand Beach).

Since Kenting’s beaches are quite spread out, you’ll definitely need wheels to access places like  Nanwan ,  Baisha , and  Sail Rock . But if you’re just sticking to the main tourist area, you can easily walk to  Kenting Beach  and  Little Bay . 

Apart from just chilling on the beach or taking a dip in the warm waters of the Luzon Strait, most of the beaches also offer a wide variety of water sports activities – think jet ski rides, banana boat rides, SUP, and snorkeling. 

Kenting is also a popular  diving  spot, so don’t forget to bring your favorite  dive camera  along to capture the diverse marine life here! If surfing is your thing,  Jialeshui  (roughly 20km east of Kenting) is one of Taiwan’s best surf spots.

Check Out the Eluanbi Lighthouse

Eluanbi Lighthouse , also known as “The Light of East Asia,” is one of the top 8 landmarks in Taiwan. Interestingly enough, it is also one of the few manned lighthouses in the world.

To this day, the tower is armed, and a trench surrounds it. You might even spot a few gun holes in the walls if you stroll around a bit. There’s also a great little museum filled with memorabilia and old photographs where you can learn more about the lighthouse’s history.

The lighthouse is also home to beautiful gardens and sweeping ocean views. So if you fancy a picnic, this is the perfect spot!

Entrance fee: NTD 60 per adult

Parking fee: NTD 10

See Chuanfan Rock

Chuanfanshi is one of our favorite areas to stop by in Kenting. The main road, Chuanfan Road , is lined with some pretty peculiar and colorful accommodation options. If you are a shutterbug, you can easily get lost in the weird color combinations and diverse themes here – from Greek to Industrial to even a very bizarre rock-shaped house.

Apart from the colorful architecture, Chuanfanshi is home to one of Taiwan’s most iconic landmarks – Chuanfan Rock, also known as Sail Rock. The limestone rock resembles a sailboat setting sail and has been shaped by years of erosion.

Chuanfanshi is a great place to watch the waves come and go, wander along the promenade, or bake in the sun at Sail Rock Beach . The beach is relatively small, but it’s a nice swimming spot, and there are some great water sports activities on offer if you’re into that kind of thing. The best part? It’s not nearly as crowded as Nanwan.

See the Southernmost Point of Taiwan

Just a stone’s throw from the Eluanbi Lighthouse is the Southernmost point of Taiwan . The footpath is 1500m long, and it only takes about 20 minutes to reach the end. There’s a neat little structure signifying the point and some incredible ocean views.

Admire the Views at Maobitou

Maobitou , best known for its “crouching cat” rock formation, lies on the southeast corner of the Hengchun Peninsula. It offers magnificent ocean views and unique natural landforms such as seashore coral reefs, caves, and ditches.

The panoramic views are best enjoyed in the early morning before the crowds gather and at sunset.

Entrance: NTD 30 per adult

Wander Around the Harbor

Although Houbihu Harbor isn’t huge, it’s a great place to stroll around, snap pics of the fishing boats or watch the boats come and go.

Like most harbors in Taiwan, the Kenting Harbor sells freshly caught fish every morning. There is also a fantastic seafood restaurant in front of the market’s entrance. Diving, snorkeling, and boat ride packages can be purchased here too. And if you want to take a quick dip, there’s a nice little white shell sand beach nearby,

Eat Your Way Th r ough the Kenting Night Market

Kenting Night Market is one of the most famous night markets in Taiwan and a huge must-visit place! 

The night market offers all the usual local snacks you’ll find at any other market across the island (stinky tofu, fresh fruit, sausages, bubble tea, banana pancakes, etc.), but the food tastes so much better here! Plus, it has a fantastic selection of fresh and tasty seafood – oysters, giant squid, clams, tiger prawns, sea urchins, and all kinds of fish; you name it!

There are lots to try here, but some must-eat street food include the Korean spicy pork seaweed rolls and the barbecued oysters. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the  croffles – absolute heaven! 

The market is huge and lines both sides of Kenting Street. Most vendors start to open up around 5 pm, and it gets crazy busy from 7 pm onwards. Come hungry, wear comfortable walking shoes, and get ready to join the scrum!

Grab Drinks at the Funky Truck Bars

Another unique attraction in Kenting is its quirky roadside truck bars. 

Truck bars in Kenting are quite a big deal, and each one is unique with its own colorful decorations, funky playlist, and an array of boozy drinks.

You’ll find the best ones near the Ceasar Park Hotel , opposite Xiaowan Beach . Definitely check out the super laid-back  Alex Reggae Bar . The cocktails are amazing, and there’s ample seating scattered around the truck where you can sit back and enjoy a boozy cocktail while listening to Bob Marley. 

Take in the Views at Longpan Park

Roughly five minutes drive from the Eluanbi Lighthouse, you’ll find one of the best examples of Taiwan’s rugged coastline – Longpan Park .

The sprawling roadside area offers sweeping views over the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and grassy hills of Kenting National Park. It’s quite popular among photographers, sunrise chasers, and stargazers, making it a must-visit attraction in Kenting.

The local authorities have recently made some good changes here, so the trail is much safer now than it used to be. The first section is now fitted with a wooden walkway, and the viewing area has been leveled out. Just a heads up – it’s quite windy here, so don’t go too close to the edge and keep an eye out for the signs which mark the most dangerous areas.

Visit the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium 

Another great place to go in Kenting is the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium (NMMBA) . 

Located in the   northwestern corners of Kenting National Park in Checheng Township, NMMBA covers more than 60 hectares making it the largest aquarium in Taiwan. 

What really makes NMMBA such a hot spot is that it houses a diverse range of aquatic life, both large and small. A 16-m whale shark, dolphins, sailfish, belugas, and penguins are just a few of the incredible marine animals you can see up close here. Other highlights include the Coral Kingdom Pavilion, housing an 84-meter underwater tunnel filled with colorful coral, and the Giant Kelp Tank.

With multiple displays, educational activities, and even sleepover tours for those that really want to get acquainted with the underwater world, it’s a great place to take the whole family. However, since the aquarium is a popular tourist attraction in Kenting, it’s best to grab your tickets online to avoid disappointment. Entrance to the aquarium is NTD 450 per adult.

Kenting aquarium is roughly 30 minutes drive from Kenting Town and is also easily accessed by bus. Bus 101 (Kenting Orange Line) departs every hour from Kenting and takes about 45 minutes. 

Relax at Baisha Beach

As already mentioned, Kenting has a whole host of incredible beaches. But there’s one beach, in particular, that stands out from the rest – Baisha .

Baisha is on the peninsula’s western side, away from all the crowds. The famous “Life of Pi” beach features a stunning 500m long strip of soft sand mostly formed by shells and dreamy turquoise water. 

There are hardly any waves here, so it’s the kind of place where you can float on the water or swim for hours. If you’re looking for something a bit more thrilling, enjoy a jet ski or banana boat ride. The drivers really go wild, so get ready for some fun! 

You can rent umbrellas and chairs for NTD 300 a day. And at the northern end of the bay, there’s a cute little bar where you can get everything from freshly cracked coconuts and ice cream to boozy cocktails and ice cold beers.  

Watch the Sunset at Guanshan Cafe

Just a short drive from Maobitou is the top sunset viewing spot in Kenting, Guanshan.

Here you’ll find a lovely little outdoor cafe (see  Google Maps ) with breezy decks overlooking the ocean where you can sit back and watch the sun dwindle under the horizon. You’ll need to buy a ticket (NTD 100) to enter, but you can use it for any snacks or drinks on the menu. They don’t serve alcohol here but have all the usual drinks and a small selection of light snacks. 

It gets crowded, so make sure you get there at least an hour before sunset to grab a seat. And bring bug spray! 

Stop by Shell Beach

Shell Beach or Shadoa is a beautiful 220-m long white shell sand beach that you simply have to visit. 

The beach is an ecological reserve, which sadly means visitors can’t access its sandy shores. But you can walk along the viewing deck and even down to the rocky shore to admire it a bit closer. What really makes this beach so unique is that 97.7% of the sand here is formed from seashells and coral debris. 

Make sure to also pop into the exhibition center to view the shell sand up close and learn a little more about the ecology of Kenting’s gorgeous beaches. 

Eat Ice Cream at Day by Day

Nothing beats delicious ice cream on a hot summer’s day in Taiwan . And if you happen to be exploring Route 26, you should definitely pop by Day by Day (see  Google Maps ). 

Day by Day is located just past Shell Beach, on the same grounds as the cool Ocean Day by Day Hotel. The cute vintage ice cream truck serves lip-smacking delicious ice cream and drinks, and there’s an outdoor area with lots of room to enjoy your treats as you gaze over the ocean.

The ice cream truck is open from 12 pm to 5 pm. You have to buy an entry ticket (NTD 90), but it can be used to purchase goodies at the truck. Try the Gang Kou Milk Tea Ice Cream and the Sparkling Mango Ice Cream Float – both are delish! 

Have Sundowners at YagouBlue Rooftop 

If you continue along Route 26 towards Jialeshui, make a pit stop at Xinghai Fishing Harbor. It’s a nice spot to watch the fishing boats come and go, but there’s also an amazing little rooftop cafe here, YagouBlue Rooftop (see  Google Maps ). 

The cafe overlooks the harbor, and it’s a great place to have a coffee and some dessert while watching the sunset. This Kenting hidden gem is quite small, so it can be hard to get a seat. Therefore if you want to go, it’s best to phone ahead (08-8801198) to check if they have any seats available. Reservations aren’t allowed. 

The cafe is only open from 3:30 pm to 6 pm, weather permitting. 

How To Get to Kenting

Kenting is easy to reach with Taiwan’s excellent public transport system. Like elsewhere in Taiwan, buses and trains are frequent and reliable modes of transport. However, the only way to get to Kenting from Taipei or other parts along Taiwan’s western coast is to use a combination of transport modes.

First you’ll need to get to Kaohsiung . And the easiest way to do that is to take the HSR to Zouying Station (the very last stop on the high-speed rail). Once you get to the high-speed rail station, getting to Kenting from Kaohsiung is pretty straightforward. There are several ways to travel, but the easiest one is to take the Kenting Express Bus . The ticket office is located at Exit 2 of the HSR station.

Kenting Shuttle Bus return tickets cost NTD 600 and are open-ended, meaning you can use the return ticket anytime. The bus drivers do not speak much English, but there are random announcements in English. So, be sure to listen carefully. You could also check with your accommodation (before arriving) which stop to get off at.

Tip: If you only want to buy a one-way bus ticket, I highly recommend using an Easy card as it works out a lot cheaper.

How To Get Around Kenting

Getting around Kenting village is extremely easy, as most of the shops, restaurants, and even the beach (Little Bay) is a short stroll from  Kenting Street . 

However, the majority of the main attractions in Kenting, such as Maobitao, Longpan Park, and Chuanfanshi will require transport.

If you haven’t rented a car, the easiest way to get around Kenting is by scooter. There are tons of scooter shops scattered around town where you can rent a motorcycle for TWD 450-550 a day. I highly recommend Feng-Xiang Motorcycle Rental (see Google Maps ). The owner speaks excellent English and is super friendly and helpful.

You will need a valid local license or an international driver’s license for a scooter to rent a scooter in Kenting (and everywhere else in Taiwan). If that is not an option for you, you may still be able to rent an electric bike (at some shops).

Alternatively, the local bus runs along the main road, which will get you to Chuanfanshi and Nanwan Beach but not to places like Maobitou. Grab a 1 or 2 day pass here . To see places a bit further afield, joining a tour will be your best bet.

Where to Stay

Kenting has no shortage of great accommodation options , from cheap hostels to boutique hotels to luxury beachfront resorts.  I’ve written an entire guide on exactly where to stay in Kenting , but if you’re in a rush here are a few pointers.

Most people stay in the heart of Kenting, near Kenting Street . And, if it’s your first visit to Kenting, it’s best to do the same. That way, you’ll be right in the center of town, with lots of shops and eateries around you.

It is, however, imperative to know that Kenting is a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike. And as a result, it is often crowded , especially on weekends and special holidays.

If crowds aren’t for you, rather stay along Dawan Road . Other great areas with minimal crowds include Chuanfanshi and Nanwan , but it’s best to have transport when staying there.

Recommended Hotels near Kenting Street:

• Budget: Hido Hotel
• Mid-range: Kenting Sea Wall 112 or Howard Beach Resort
• Lux: Caesar Park Hotel or Chateau Beach Resort

Recommended Chuanfanshi Hotels :

• Budget: Jin Yan Hostel
• Mid-Range:  Chuanfan Haku Beach Days Inn
• Lux:   866 Oceanic View Villa

Where to Eat in Kenting

Besides the night market, there are a couple of other nice places to eat in Kenting. Here are some of my favorites.

• Amy’s Cucina  on Kenting Street makes some of the best pizza in Taiwan. Seriously. If pizza is not your thing, try the lasagne. 
• Bossa Nova Beach Cafe  in Nanwan   has a great selection of western and Asian cuisine. The food is reasonably priced, and the outdoor seating is amazing. Try the Caesar Nova salad!
• Lumi Cafe  is a cozy little cafe that serves vegan cakes and other sweet treats.
• Under Star Lab  is a lovely modern bistro with a tantalizing menu. Great for brunch!
• Magic Kitchen ( 魔法廚房複合式早餐) makes simple yet  oh-so-delicious  Taiwanese-style breakfast burgers, sandwiches, and  dan bing .
• Haku Cafe on Chuanfan Road is a cozy Instagrammable cafe overlooking the ocean. Don’t miss their croffles!
• Wild Kid Bar at Nanwan is an awesome spot to enjoy a boozy cocktail or an ice cold beer while watching the waves come and go.
• Alex Reggae Bar makes the most amazing barbecued chicken wings and pork ribs. You’ll need to wait a bit for your order, but it’s totally worth it!
• Pizza Swell is basically a food truck, but they make delicious pizzas. There are a few tables and chairs set up next to the truck, but for an awesome experience, walk down to Little Bay and enjoy your pizza on the beach!

Other Things To Do Near Kenting

If you have a few extra days to spare on your Kenting itinerary or want to see a bit more of Southern Taiwan, here are some places worth checking out near Kenting:

• Hengchun  is the closest town to Kenting. It’s famous for its Old Street and Ancient City Gate.
• Cikong Waterfall:  A secret cascading waterfall where you can actually swim! You’ll need to hike to get to the waterfall, but the effort will be worth it!
• Jialeshui  is a laidback surfer’s town where you can take surfing lessons, chill at the beach, or kayak along the Gangkou River. 
• Orchid Island/ Green Island:   Most people don’t know this, but you can actually take a ferry from Houbihu Harbor to Orchid Island and Green Island.  See details or book tickets here.  
• Kaohsiung:  Taiwan’s third largest city is the place to go if you’re into street art, cool cafes, riverside walks, and temple hopping. Check out my list of best things to do in Kaohsiung , this  2-day Kaohsiung itinerary , or this  Kaohsiung sightseeing ideas guide.
• Tainan:  Taiwan’s ancient capital city is a hub for foodies and culture seekers, with more than 1000 temples to explore! Find out what to do in Tainan here. 
• Xiaoliuqiu:  A tiny coral island where you can swim with sea turtles, lounge on dreamy beaches, go freediving or snorkeling, and explore some pretty impressive caves. Read my super detailed  Xiaoliuqiu guide  for more tips. 

What To Do in Kenting in Conclusion

Kenting is one of the most beautiful places in Taiwan, with so much to see and do! Whether you want to relax at the gorgeous beaches, see all the tourist spots, or try the snacks at the night market, a visit to Kenting will not disappoint.

Well, that wraps up this guide on what to do in Kenting! If you think I’ve missed any must-do things or popular Kenting attractions, let me know in the comments so that I can check them out on my next visit!

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June 7, 2017 at

I was born in Taiwan, but I immigrated to Canada when I was little. So still have not had a chance to visit Kenting, just yet. Your photos are super gorgeous though and that seafood looks so mouth-watering. I’m currently drooling in front of my laptop! Hahahaha.

Haha, thanks Jas! Hope you get a chance to come one day! 😊

June 8, 2017 at

I’ve been thinking of going to Taiwan. I had no idea the beaches were so beautiful. Makes me want to go!

June 1, 2023 at

Kenting has been on my bucket list for sme time already. But Taiwan applied some severe corona rules. What is the situation today. I am travelling through Hong Kong. Do I still need PCR test, or any special document to enter the country ?

June 5, 2023 at

Hey Patrick, Taiwan has scrapped most of its Covid rules, so no, you do not need a PCR test anymore to enter the country.

Excellent pics, well captured and equally well narrated….

Wow, this is great info. I’ve seen good airfare to Taiwan and thought about going, but I have been intimidated. With your post here and in the rest of your Taiwan section, I feel like I have all the info I need to have an amazing journey as you did. Amazing pics too.

July 24, 2017 at

Thanks Tara, Taiwan is totally worth checking out! It is also becoming a hot spot for solo travel; it’s easy to get around and super safe. Hope you get a chance to make it out here, one day!

Taiwan is a place I have always wanted to go! Really good tips – saving this post! 🙂

June 9, 2017 at

I don’t know about that seafood but that reggae bar seems up my alley. Never realized how beautiful Taiwan was. Would love to make a trip there with my husband for sure.

June 16, 2017 at

Haha! The seafood is great here! You should give it a try! 😉 Thanks for stopping by, Kellyn.

Fabulous guide! Makes me want to visit Tawain!

June 10, 2017 at

This is very interesting. I would normally see people post pictures of the city. It is nice to discover Taiwan’s wonderful coast as well.

I’ve never been to Taiwan but I’ve always wanted to go! The beaches look stunning and your photos are beautiful 🙂

Thanks! Hope you get a chance to make it out here, one day!

June 12, 2017 at

Really cool place with a lot of IG worthy spots. The Night market is another great attraction, but won’t beat Thailand on that I guess.

Thanks Gokul. Taiwan is famous for it’s night markets. They are a bit different than the ones in Thailand, but totally worth a visit!

Absolutely stunning! So picturesque! I’d take tons of pictures at Chuanfan rock! Street food looks sumptuous as well!

June 15, 2017 at

This post literally comes as a breath of fresh air. Do not see many posts about Taiwan, especially ones on the seaside places. Kenting looks enchanting. I cannot have enough of the sea, your pictures have captured the beauty of the sea to stunning effect. The lighthouse is another thing that absolutely fascinates me, always love them, they have such a romantic aura around them.

Thank you Sandy. You are so right – most posts focus on Taipei (which is an awesome city btw). But, if you go beyond the hustle and bustle of city life, you will discover some pretty neat little places.

Kenting is very beautiful. Although haven’t been here, but I aspire to. That lighthouse seems to be so beautiful. I will love to climb up there and get a view of the beautiful sea from there. I visited a similar one in Mahabalipuram, India this year and totally loved it.

June 17, 2017 at

Vitamin Sea is a must when you have water like that. I have always enjoyed lighthouses. There is just something about them that I always enjoy. Markets are always fun to peruse and people watch. Having fresh seafood is always great as well! Truck Bars is a very interesting concept. Can they set up anywhere?

Most of the truck bars are located on a small stretch between the main market and the Howard Plaza Hotel. They can basically set up anywhere along the main night market street, but the ‘rent’ will depend on the location.

The way you have captured your photos is lovely 🙂 The beaches look wonderful, I would love to visit Taiwan at some point!

Taiwan is so close to my country (Philippines) but I have never been there yet. The beach is stunning and those rocks are just magnificent.

Thanks Ricci! You should totally check it out! Especially with flights being so cheap between the Philippines and Taiwan – you could easily pop over for a long weekend. Hope you get a chance to make it out here, one day!

June 19, 2017 at

That water looks so inviting! I would love to dip into it right now and enjoy the beach life. Thank you for adding the map on your post, it always helps in understanding where the place is located. Very nice post!

Kenting seems to have many attractions to offer visitors. Of course, the Vitamin Sea is a must especially with those beaches and blue waters. I cannot get enough of the beach. The lighthouse is an interesting attraction as well that I would love to see. Great post. I have not read about Kenting prior to this and loved reading about it.

Thanks Riely! I’m a total beach bum too – I could lie on the beach for days, swim, snorkel and scuba…now, that’s utter bliss!

August 24, 2017 at

Kenting seems so charming! I’d love to visit and enter the Eluanbi Lighthouse. Any tips on how to avoid crowds?

August 29, 2017 at

Most sights in Kenting are pretty crowded throughout the year, no matter the season. But as a rule try going early in the morning or after 3pm in the afternoon to avoid the tour groups. 🙂

December 28, 2022 at

very informative and your pictures are beautifully taken. I went to a few of the places that you mentioned above, before reading your article and now it added more meaning to where I had been. Excellent job!

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16 things to do in Kenting in and around Kenting National Park | Travel Guide

Posted on February 26, 2021 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on December 11, 2023

After having spent most of my Taiwan trip in big cities, visiting Kenting was like a breath of fresh air. If you dislike big cities and want to escape the crowds and pollution, Kenting is the right place for you.

There, I discovered that Taiwan was actually beautiful and had a lot of natural wonders to explore , starting with Kenting National Park. There are actually many things to do in Kenting – where you’ll find impressive tourist attractions and many breathtaking natural sights.

The peninsula is famous for the Kenting National Park, a large protected area including beautiful beaches, many natural wonders, and a few nice trekking trails . Don’t expect a regular National Park with an entrance where the headquarters are and from where you can start trekking, see it more like a protected area encompassing most of the peninsula.

There are plenty of other things to do in Kenting besides visiting the park. You’ll find gorgeous beaches, lush natural areas, and weird natural phenomena within the protected area, as well as a bit further, outside of the park.

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Map of Kenting National Park attractions and tourist spots

How to Plan Your Visit to Kenting

Kenting is located at Taiwan’s southern tip and has been protected from heavy development, it boasts several protected areas and natural parks. I recommend staying at least 3 days to fully explore the area. You’ll need to rent a car or motorbike as public transportation is not ideal. You can also join a tour or hire a driver .

The easiest would be to stay in Kenting Township, where there are plenty of accommodations to choose from. From there you can easily visit Kenting’s top tourist attractions and natural wonders as it’s a central location. In the evenings, the main street turns into a 2 km night market , full of delicious street food.

The best way to explore Kenting National Park and beyond is to drive around the peninsula where you’ll see several viewpoints and nice beaches. Kenting has a lot of beautiful places to visit, you could stop every 100 meters and see something different every time.

There are so many things to do in Kenting!

Read on to discover all the best things to do in Kenting, how to get to the tourist attractions, as well as useful travel tips to plan your trip to Kenting National Park.

Best things to do in Kenting National Park – Top Kenting Tourist Attractions:

1 – white sand bay – bai sha beach.

This beach is where some of the scenes from Life of Pi have been filmed and I understand why the director chose this spot. The beach is just amazing, especially compared to most Taiwanese beaches. The water is crystal clear, not too wavy, so perfect for swimming, and the sand is clean and thin. The beach is far from the road, so the place is really quiet, there’s no big building and the beach’s surroundings are mostly left wild.

There are a couple of hotels nearby and a campsite right in front of the beach. You can rent chairs and umbrellas as well as organize water activities. You can also rent paddles and explore the coast. Visiting Bai Sha Beach is one of the best things to do in Kenting, it’s a must-see.

Entrance fee: Free

2 – Maobitou Park

Near Baisha Beach, you can also visit Maobitou Park, famous for its corals sculptures, one representing a cat about to jump (entrance fee: 30 NTD). The park also offers nice views of the ocean. It’s a nice thing to do in Kenting but I wouldn’t recommend visiting it if you’re short on time or if it’s not on your way.

3 – South Bay, Namwan Beach

If you like beaches and have time to spare, pay a visit to South Bay also known as Nanwan Beach . The scenery there is stunning and the sea perfect for surfing especially during the winter and spring. There are also areas where you can swim safely .

It’s a bit more developed than Baisha Beach with guesthouses, convenience stores, bars, and restaurants. The southern part is the busiest, head to the north if you’re looking for some peace and quiet. The beach can get pretty crowded with locals during weekends and national holidays, especially as spending some time relaxing there is one of the top things to do in Kenting.

You can easily access South Bay from Kenting via public transportation. If you like water activities, make sure to book a water sport package giving you access to up to 8 rides with jet skiing, banana boat, and more.

If you like to surf, you can also check out Jialeshui , a scenic little village only 20 km east of Kenting and one of the top surfing spots in the country.

4 – Wanlitong Beach

Wanlitong Beach might not be Kenting’s prettiest beach but it’s one of the quietest and probably the best ones for snorkeling. You can rent snorkeling gear near the beach and just swim to the reef . The reef there is well-preserved and colorful, with many fishes swimming around.

5 – Jialeshuei Scenic Area

This place is famous for its rock formations . Along a 2 km road, you’ll see many sculptures made by the ocean, with a bit of imagination you might be able to spot some animals.

The guide only speaks Chinese, but if you have someone to translate for you, you’ll realize they are obsessed with frogs, every 10 meters they’ll point a rock looking like a frog, even with a good imagination I couldn’t spot half of them.

You can choose to walk by yourself or take the free shuttle that will stop at every interesting point. The end of the road is the most spectacular with the biggest rocks and many cliffs.

Jialeshuei Scenic Area entrance fee: 100 NTD – Open every day from 7 AM to 5 PM.

6 – ChuHuo Eternal Flame

Apart from being beautiful, ChuHuo is famous for its small fires coming out of the ground . The area is full of natural gas, which leeks to the surface and ignites, but don’t worry it’s not dangerous. The size of the flames depends on the season, the best time to visit is during summer and dry weather. You can just make a quick stop here on your way to Hengchun.

7 – Sheding Natural Park

This other protected area is great for trekking and you’ll find many caves to visit right along the main path . Sheding Natural Park used to be the land of the Paiwan people, one of Taiwan’s most predominant aboriginal tribes.

Nature there has been really well preserved, you’ll see many different types of plants as well as animals, especially butterflies. If you’re lucky (or hire a local guide) you might spot glowing mushrooms, Formosan Sika Deers, land crabs, and tree frogs.

Sheding Park is less frequented than Kenting National Forest Recreational Area so it’s a nicer experience, with more peace and quiet. The park is also wilder and trekking there is one of the best things to do in Kenting if you’re looking for a less frequented place.

Entrance fee: free

8 – Eluanbi Lighthouse and Park

In the southernmost part of Taiwan, the Eluanbi lighthouse is a must-stop on your visit to Kenting. The lighthouse in itself offers nothing special, but the park around it is worth a stroll. Along the main path, you’ll find many viewpoints of the ocean and surrounding mountains, as well as several caves and rock formations.

The site is of archaeological importance as a couple of prehistorical tools have been found there. Count at least 2 hours if you want to fully visit the park.

Nearby, don’t forget to stop at the Southernmost tip of Taiwan and take a selfie next to the sign. It’s a 20-minute walk from the lighthouse, it’s also a good spot to watch the sunset.

Eluanbi Lighthouse and Park entrance fee: 60 NTD – Open every day from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

9 – Hengchun Township

Visiting Hengchun is one of the best things to do in Kenting if you’re interested in culture. There are plenty of things to do in Hengchun, you can start by walking around the old commercial district .

Around town, you’ll find 4 ancient gates , the city wall is still intact in some places and some of the gates are still in use and well preserved. Hengchun is the only fortified city in Taiwan with its 4 gates still standing, it’s also an important historical site.

10 – Monkey Cave

In Hengchun, you can also visit the Monkey Cave . Nowadays you won’t see any monkeys and even less a cave. It’s now just a big coral rock, you can climb to the top. The area used to be covered with water, that’s why you’ll find coral so far from the sea.

A lot of legends surround what used to be a cave, several earthquakes destroyed it and modern life chased the monkeys to less developed areas.

11 – Beer Museum

Not far from the city center, you can visit the Beer Museum , they also craft beers here but you cannot visit the factory. To me, the museum is not worth the 100 NTD entrance fee, but if you drink beer it’s fine because you get a free beer.

Just seeing the bar area is sufficient, that’s where most of the interesting things are, and the entrance is free. On one of the walls, you’ll see thousands of beer glasses forming the word “BEER”. On another one, you’ll see a huge replica of the Mona Lisa made only with beer tags.

12 – Longluan Lake

On your way back from Hengchun, you can drive by Longluan Lake, taking in the scenery and passing through lush fields.

13 – Mount Turtle – Gueishan

Nearby, you can also go to  Gueishan , also known as Mount Turtle, the 15-minute hike to the top will bring you to amazing views of the ocean and of the surrounding mountains. The entrance fee is 60 NTD. This place is not on most tourists’ routes so it’s really quiet and you won’t see many people there. It’s also a good spot to watch the sunset.

14 – Sail Rock

Sail Rock, also known as Nixon’s head, is famous for resembling a US president, some people also see a sailboat about to depart. You can make a quick stop on your way back from the lighthouse. You can also stroll around Chuanfanshi’s colorful streets , boarded by cute cafés, and let’s be honest, weird architectural and design choices.

15 – Go Diving

Kenting features some of Taiwan’s top diving spots with beautiful reefs, colorful fishes, and impressive shipwrecks. You can book a diving trip from the main street in Kenting or at most beaches nearby. The dive sites near Kenting are quite challenging as there’s usually a strong current but there are a couple of beginner-friendly spots as well.

Going on a diving or snorkeling trip is one of the best things to do in Kenting during the dry season.

16 – Kenting Forest Recreational Area

Kenting Forest Recreational Area is the best place in Kenting National Park to hike and explore caves . This protected area was once an undersea coral reef and was turned into a botanical garden centuries later by the Japanese. Walking around, you’ll pass by intriguing limestone caves, narrow canyons, and cliffs, seeing ancient banyan trees and maybe spotting a few macaques.

There are a lot of amazing viewpoints along some of the paths and an observation tower in the middle of the park from which you can see the whole peninsula.

Entrance fee: NT$ 150 – Open every day from 8 AM to 5 PM

Is Kenting worth visiting?

Definitely YES, Kenting is worth visiting! First off because it’s different from the rest of Taiwan and it’s where you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Visiting Kenting’s tourist attractions is a nice change to visiting Taiwan’s huge cities like Taipei, there you’ll find a lot of natural attractions, as well as cultural activities to join. There are so many things to do in Kenting National Park and around!

Kenting National Park Itinerary

Kenting is worth spending at least a day, but I would recommend staying at least two days. You can spend half a day to a full day trekking in Kenting Forest Recreational Area and a second, renting a scooter and going around the peninsula. You could easily visit all the tourist attractions listed above within a day.

You can spend a third day at the beach if you’re there during summer.

How to get to Kenting from Taipei?

In Taipei head to Taipei Main Station where you’ll take an HSR high-speed train to Kaohsiung. Then, from the train station, take an express shuttle bus to Kenting. The bus from Kaohsiung to Kenting takes 2,5 hours, buses depart every 30 minutes.

How to get around Kenting?

The easiest way to visit Kenting is to rent a car or scooter, you’ll need a Taiwanese or international license for each of those (the driving license you have must state you can drive a scooter). If you don’t have the right driving license, you can rent an electric scooter without it, as it’s not mandatory to have a license to drive those.

You can also hire a private driver for the day, just ask your hotel about it or negotiate with a cab driver – or go through a tour .

Some places can also be reached by bus, but not all of them so it’s not the optimal solution to get around Kenting.

What to do in Kenting at night?

One of the best things to do in Kenting is to visit the night market along the main street where you can sample some local delicacies as well as international dishes with a local twist. You should also check out the funky truck bars and grab a cocktail or two there. You’ll find them near the Howard Plaza Hotel. All of the trucks serve original drinks and have unique decorations.

You can also catch the sunset at Little Bay Beach while having a drink.

What’s the best time to visit Kenting National Park?

If you want to avoid heavy rainfalls and hot weather, the best time to visit Kenting is from March to May and in October and Novembe r. This being said, you can visit Kenting year-round and you should be fine (unless you’re unlucky enough to be there during a typhoon).

Where to stay in Kenting National Park – Best accommodations

There are plenty of accommodation options in Kenting for all budgets, from quirky backpackers to luxurious resorts and everything in between.

For backpackers, check out Kenting my Home and Kenting Original Hostel . Both are super well located, with a cool design and a lot of common space to meet fellow travelers and hang out. They offer female-only and mixed dormitories, Kenting Original Hostel has bunk beds and Kenting My Home has capsules (not a good option if you are claustrophobic but great for privacy).

For something nicer, check out Bai Sha Tan Cottage (don’t let the name confuse you, it’s not on Bai Sha Beach and there are no cottages), the hotel is conveniently located in the city center near Kenting National Park. The rooms are spacious and modern with a balcony. Breakfast is included and most of the staff speaks good English.

If you want to splurge, check out Gloria Manor , it’s a bit excentered but the view is just spectacular. The rooms are beautiful and they have a big ocean-view garden with a pool. Breakfast is included and the restaurant serves tasty international as well as local dishes.

Related posts to help you plan your trip to Taiwan:

• Taiwan Complete Travel Guide – Everything your need to know to plan your trip to Taiwan: budget, best places to visit, food, best time to visit, and much more…
• Best day trips from Kaohsiung – Kaohsiung is the biggest city near Kenting, It is worth stopping for a few days, the city is full of cultural activities and the county is rich in natural activities as well.
• Taitung’s best tourist attractions – If you’re planning on visiting Taiwan’s East Coast after Kenting and want to discover Taiwan’s vibrant aboriginal culture, you should definitely include Taitung in your itinerary.

Useful Travel Resources:

• 18 travel essentials to pack to help you save space and travel lighter.
• Staying at a hostel – Everything you need to know + what to pack + hostel etiquette.
• Getting over the fear of traveling alone – How to solo travel like a pro.
• 30+ secret budget hacks to save money when traveling so you can travel more!

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• Travel tips

Kenting Travel Guide: 19 Things to Do in Kenting Taiwan

Kenting (墾丁) is the area that includes Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園)  and all the small townships including Hengchun (恆春)  in Southern Taiwan. It is one of the most visited areas in Taiwan.

There are many things to do in Kenting especially if you are a first time visitor. Experience Kenting’s beautiful beaches and see the unique land formation in this part of Taiwan. Moreover, there are many activities like swimming, kitesurfing, jet-skiing, kayaking, snorkelling, surfing, and hiking that can easily occupy a few days.

The land formation in southern Taiwan is entirely different from the rest of the country. You will find white sand beaches lining the coast while black rock formation at the southern tip that resembles the surface of Mars! Other parts of the park have cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and cascading waterfalls and hot springs are found in this area as well.

As one of the most visited national park in Taiwan, you do not want to miss Kenting. So make sure to include Kenting in your itinerary!

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Before you visit Kenting in Taiwan

Before you visit Kenting, take a look at my post on all the  best tips for travelling to Taiwan . I included a lot of information, including getting a  Taiwan prepaid SIM card , transportation around the country and much more.

Here are a few quick tips for travelling to Kenting:

• Southern Taiwan, including Kenting, is safe for solo female travellers .
• There are many surf schools near the beaches and in Hengchun . Many people surf during the colder months as it is especially windy during winter.
• If you plan on renting a scooter, make sure to bring your motorcycle license . Otherwise, you can rent an electric scooter.

How to get to Kenting Taiwan

From kaohsiung to kenting.

If you travel to Kenting in Taiwan, you will most likely be coming from Kaohsiung. There are direct express buses from Kaohsiung Zuoying Station. They stop at Hengchun bus station and Kenting bus station .

• Time: 2 hours
• Cost: NT$650 (round trip ticket can be purchased at the bus station)
• Check the bus schedule here

From Taitung to Kenting

If you are coming from the east coast of Taiwan, it is possible to get to Kenting without connecting through Kaohsiung. If you are taking the train from the east coast, transfer to an express bus at Fang Liao Station (枋寮車站). The express bus stops at Hengchun bus station and Kenting bus station.

• Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cost: NT$223
• Check Taitung to Fang Liao train schedule and cost
• Tip: select Pingtung (for the area) and Fang Liao (for the station)
• Time: 55 minutes
• Cost: NT$221 (one-way ticket can be purchased at the bus station)

How to get around Kenting

There are several ways to see Kenting. Whether you join an organized tour, bicycle around the park or take the hop-on-hop-off bus . Every option has its own perks.

But the best way to get around Kenting is by scooter . There are many scooter rentals in Hengchun Old Town and on the main street in Kenting. However, you will have to provide a proper motorcycle license to rent one.

Otherwise, the alternative is to rent an electric scooter . It is just as much fun but maybe a bit slower going uphill, plus it requires a change of battery every 30km.

Kenting Attractions Map

Kenting covers a big area in Southern Taiwan. You can see most of the attractions in two days with proper planning.

All the attractions in this post are pinned on the interactive map. You can find more information about each attraction by clicking on the individual pin.

Kenting Travel Guide: 19 things to do in Kenting Taiwan

1. kenting national park (墾丁國家公園).

Visiting Kenting National Park will highlight your trip if you are travelling to Kenting.

It is Taiwan’s most southern and oldest national park. The area has a diverse landscape from sharp rock formations that resemble the surface of another planet to luscious green vegetation that you will not see anywhere else.

From mountains to beaches, Kenting is one of the top attractions and most visited national park in Taiwan.

2, 3 & 4. Kenting National Forest Recreation Area (墾丁國家森林遊樂區)

The Kenting National Forest Recreation Area has some pretty amazing attractions. Walking through the recreation area, signage leads you to different attractions. Look for Fairy Cave (仙洞) and  Silver Dragon Cave (銀龍洞 ). The area also has some of the biggest banyan trees. It is definitely worth a small entrance fee.

5, 6 & 7. Cape Eluanbi (鵝鑾鼻)

Visit Cape Eluanbi where you will see some of the attractions at the southernmost tip of Taiwan. After you visit the  Eluanbi Lighthouse (鵝鑾鼻燈塔) , follow the trail to the Southernmost Point of Taiwan (臺灣最南點碑) . It has a point market at the very tip.

8. Kenting Long Keng Ecological Reserve (龍坑珊瑚礁保護區)

And if there is one thing you must see in Cape Eluanbi, it is  Kenting Long Keng Ecological Reserve . However, you must either book online for a spot on one of the tours or show up and hopefully you can get a spot right away.

Unfortunately (for me), the entire tour was in Mandarin. But even though I didn’t understand what he said, the tour was one of Kenting’s highlights. Towards the end of the tour, you can see the unusual coastal rock formation that resembles something you see on Mars! It is totally out of this world!

9, 10, 11, 12, & 13. Beaches of Kenting

Visiting the beautiful beaches of Kenting is a highlight for everyone who visits Kenting. And there are plenty along the coastline.

South Bay (南灣海灘) is the first beach you see when you drive towards Kenting Town, and it is one of the busiest beaches. And it is popular because of all the restaurants and bars in the nearby recreation centre.

As you move east, there is Kenting Beach (墾丁海水浴場)  near Kenting Town.

Keep moving east, and you will find  Xiaowan Beach (Little Bay Beach) (小灣海灘) which is a smaller beach but has lots of activities like diving and jet skis. The corals in this beach are especially lovely for snorkelling.

As you drive further up the coast, you will see  Fongchueisha (風吹砂) . As the name suggests, “windblown sand,” the sand along the beach is washed away during summer but is blown back during winter. The natural cycle of movement of the sand created fantastic views of sandhills. This is a great spot for photos, but it is windy during winter.

Moving back to the western peninsula, you will find  White Sand Bay Beach (墾丁白沙灣海灘) . The beach is a bit less crowded than other beaches because it is not part of the route to Kenting Town. But it is still worth visiting!

14. Gangkou Suspended Bridge (港口吊橋)

Located in Manzhou Township, the Gangkou Suspended Bridge crosses over the Gangkou River, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Kenting.

15. Qikong Falls (七孔瀑布)

Qikong Waterfall is a cascading waterfall that you can jump into. After you pay a minimal fee, hike up the path along the river and waterfall. The higher you go, the more you will see. After about ten minutes or so, a small cascading waterfall appears. It is the most stunning and surprising gem in Kenting! But be careful; the path is very steep!

16. The ChuHuo Eternal Flame (出火)

A small amount of natural gas seeps through the ground in an area called The ChuHuo Eternal Flame . Basically, you can see flames coming up from the ground of several regions. During peak times, vendors sell popcorn so you can pop it over the eternal flames. I’ve never seen anything like this before!

17. Guanshan (關山)

Drive out to Guanshan and take in the famous sunrise and sunset views. It is a great spot along the coastline. There’s a bit of a climb up to the top, but it will be worth your effort. It is said that the top of the mountain used to be underwater thousands of years ago. Which is why the temple is made of coral stone.

18. Try different Taiwanese food at the night markets in Kenting

You won’t go broke from eating in Kenting. Local Taiwanese food is really cheap at local restaurants and night markets. You can find more information about each location in each pin in the attached google map (see above).

• Hengchun Night Market (恆春夜市) – A vibrant and busy night market! Vendors sell meat skewers, savoury and sweet crepes, sizzling hot plates, roasted chestnut, pastries, fried dumplings, bubble tea, papaya milk smoothie and more.
• Kenting Night Market (墾丁大街夜市 ) – The market opens every day as soon as the sun sets, making inexpensive and delicious food available all hours of the night. Many food stalls line both sides of the main street in Kenting Town.

19. Eat your way around Kenting

• Beef Noodles (恆春牛老街牛肉麵)  – They are known for their beef noodles so definitely try one! The menu is in Chinese, but the staff is friendly and can help with ordering. They have small side dishes that you can get at the counter.
• Vegetable Hotpot (一品滷味) – I love this place! You pick exactly what type of vegetables, tofu and meat, and they cook it for you in their own special sauce and serve it on a big plate. The best part about this is you get to pick anything you want (and I chose a lot of vegetables as that was what I was craving at the time!)
• Mangia Pizza – the Taiwanese and Italian couple runs this little restaurant and serves delicious thin-crust pizza! They make the best margarita pizza! I never thought I’d be so happy to eat pizza in Taiwan!

Where to stay in Kenting as a solo traveller

There is plenty of budget and mid-range accommodations in Kenting including hostels, hotels, guest houses and Airbnb. I recommend staying in Hengchun Old Town because there are better options and more food options.

And if you are coming from Kaohsiung, make sure you get off the express bus at the Hengchun station and not the Kenting station.

• Check prices & reviews: Agoda
• Just north of Hengchun centre, get a modern double room for a reasonable price. You even have a bathtub, which is quite rare nowadays.

Conclusion: what to do in Kenting Taiwan

I hope you enjoyed my Kenting travel guide. I included all the best spots around the southern tip of Taiwan. But you’ll have to get a scooter – that is part of the fun.

Let me know in the comments if you enjoy reading this post or have any questions about this itinerary.

Thank you for reading my Kenting travel guide

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Taiwan:

Introduction to Taiwan

• Things to know before visiting Taiwan  
• How and where to buy a Taiwan prepaid SIM card
• How to spend 3 weeks in Taiwan  
• 22 must-eat food in Taiwan  
• Top 10 must-try Taiwan 7-11 Food

Travel guide posts

• Things to do alone in Hualien Taiwan
• Things to do in Tainan as a solo traveller  
• 17 Best things to do in Chiayi Taiwan
• How to travel from Chiayi to Alishan
• Alishan 2-day solo itinerary  
• What to do in Sun Moon Lake: 2-day itinerary  
• Sun Moon Inn: hotel review

Taipei posts

• Things to do alone in Taipei Taiwan
• Where to stay in Taipei for solo travellers
• Dadaocheng Taipei: what to do, buy and eat on Dihua Street  
• 5 Places to eat breakfast in Taipei  
• Top 15 food to try in Ximending in Taipei  
• 7 Best day trips from Taipei
• A complete beginner’s guide to Beitou Hot Spring
• How to travel from Taipei to Jiufen  
• Kafnu Taipei: best coworking and coliving hotel in Taipei
• Monka Hotel: affordable Taipei boutique hotel
• Kimpton Da’an Hotel: best luxury boutique hotel in Taipei

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

A Complete Beginner’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Jiaoxi Hot Spring in Yilan County

Taiwan Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Weeks in Taiwan as a Solo Traveller

Top 3 Taichung Night Market in Taichung, Taiwan

10 comments.

Nick Kembel

I’ve been to Kenting several times but still haven’t explored many of the places you mentioned. I need to check out some of those hikes and waterfalls. Thanks for sharing!!

hey thanks for your comment. I’m so glad you want to go back and explore! I want to go back too…I just love Taiwan!! 🙂

Hello! Just want to clarify that we don’t need a motorcycle license to rent an electric scooter? And how much should I budget to rent an electric scooter? Thanks!

Hi Lee, no you don’t need a motorcycle license to rent an electric scooter. Lots of tourist rent electric scooter and scoot around Kenting because distances are quite far and its hard to walk to all the attractions. I believe it is about 500NT per day. Hope this helps!

Hi! I wanted to ask if March is a good month to go to kenting and its beaches (and to Taiwan in general), if it is not too cold / rainy. If it is not a good time, when is it recommended to come? Thank you!

Hi Maya! March is spring time in Taiwan – a great time to visit the country! It is cool-ish but can be warm during the day. So dress in layers!

Hi Queenie, I m planning to Kenting in March to attend frined’s wedding. then i’d like to stay behind on my own and i’s want to learn Kitesurfing. Do you know where and who i can contact to do that? Cathy

Hi Cathy,
How exciting to attend a wedding in Kenting! I didn’t do any kitesurfing myself. But I did a quick search and seems like there is kitesurfing at Jialeshuei beach, which is just east of Gangkou Suspension Bridge. And this website shows the wind speed of Jialeshui https://www.windguru.cz/45291 There is a surf shop right at the north end of Gangkou Suspension Bridge. Their name is 阿郎衝浪俱樂部. Maybe you can ask them first?

Or ask Rainbow Wave Surfing Hostel. When I stayed there, there were a group of people surfing. But I also remember they had a lot of information/brochures at the front so maybe they can guide you to where you can kitesurf. They are only on FB https://www.facebook.com/rainbowwavesurf

Hope this helps! 🙂

I was here for a weekend trip from Friday to Monday. And it was a friend to follow your points!!! Thanks for the map and the great description in your blog! Absolute recommendation!

Hi Marcel, thank you so much for reading my blog and also the follow up message after you visited Kenting. I really appreciate your comment. I tried to create a post that include as much info as possible so I’m super happy that you found it useful. Hope you had a great time in Taiwan! 🙂

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What is slow travel & the benefits of slow travel

Tainan travel guide: things to do in tainan as a solo traveller, ms travel solo.

A Guide to Kenting National Park at the Southern Tip of Taiwan

Kenting National Park is Taiwan’s oldest national park . For Taiwanese, Kenting (墾丁, pronounced ken ding ) is synonymous with beaches, water activities, April long weekend , and partying.

Kenting is the closest thing Taiwan has to a beach town . There’s nowhere else in the country where you can see night market vendors wearing beach attire as they mix cocktails, with techno music blasting from loudspeakers behind them (see my Kenting Night Market guide for that!)

But there’s more to Kenting that the above – including some stunning coastal scenery , hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Kenting is one of my favorite places to visit in Taiwan . I’ve been there half a dozen times, several of those for going to Spring Scream music festival (which no longer exists, but helped to make Kenting famous).

In this article, I’ll cover it all – how many days you need, how to get there, things to do, the best beaches, activities, tours, and what to eat. I’ll also recommend the best hotels and resorts at each beach, or you visit my guide to where to stay in Kenting .

Table of Contents

Kenting National Park Introduction

Kenting National Park occupies the tip of Hengchun Peninsula in Hengchun Township of Pingtung County .

Hengchun (恆春) is the main town in the area and most visitors drive through it just before reaching the famous beaches of Kenting, including Kenting Main Beach, the location of Kenting Night Market.

Hengchun is known for its old city wall (恆春縣城, built 1879) with four ancient gates, some of the best preserved ones in all of Taiwan.

In 1883, Eluanbi lighthouse was built at the southern tip of Taiwan, after many shipwrecks occurred there. It one of the few fortified lighthouses in the word – it has a protective wall due to regular attacks by local aboriginal tribes after it was first built.

Kenting National Park was established on January 1, 1984, making it the first one in modern Taiwan (earlier, the Japanese had made a national park in what is now Taroko National Park).

Kenting reached peak popularity among locals in the 2000s and early 2010s. During that time, it became the party capital of Taiwan for the 4-day April long weekend. Taiwanese would flock there for Spring Scream (春吶), an alternative rock music festival.

Over time, other festivals and beach parties popped up on the same weekend, including the electronic music-focused Spring Wave.

In 2008, the Taiwanese film Cape No. 7 (海角七號) was filmed in Kenting. Then in 2012, scenes in Ang Lee’s Life of Pi were also filmed there (Lee himself, one of the most famous people from Taiwan , was born in Pingtung) These made Kenting even more popular.

Around the mid 2010s, Kenting’s popularity started declining . As rock music became less popular, Spring Scream music festival tapered off. I went to a few of the last ones, and it was tiny compared to earlier years. In 2016, Spring Wave was held in Taipei instead of Kenting.

As budget flights from Taiwan to Japan proliferated, many Taiwanese started choosing Japan instead of Kenting for their holidays – they price of getting to Japan from Taipei is often cheaper! (see my list of budget flights )

To keep the music festival tradition alive, the Pingtung government now puts on the free Taiwan Music Festival (台灣祭) on the main beach in Kenting during April long weekend. Kenting remains popular, but just not quite as popular as it used to be.

Kenting Orientation

Most people access Kenting from Kaohsiung on the west coast of Taiwan. Even if you’re coming from Taitung on the east coast, you’ll most likely cross over to the main road on the west coast to get down to Kenting.

Going south down the west coast, you’ll go through Checheng and Hengchun . There are a few attractions in and near Hengchun, including a weekend night market, old city gates, and capybara and sika deer parks .

Kenting National Museum of Marine Biology (Kenting Aquarium) is on the coast west of Hengchun. Although it’s quite a ways from other sights in Kenting, it’s part of the national park – a thin strip of national park extends up the coast to it.

Shortly after Hengchun, the highway enters the national park and reaches Nanwan (a small but popular beach) and then Kenting Main Beach .

This is Kenting’s largest beach community. Taiwanese call “墾丁大街” (“ Kenting Main Street ”) or 墾丁大灣 (“Kenting Big Bay”). It is home to Kenting Night Market and the largest concentration of restaurants and hotels in the national park.

Just north (inland) from Kenting Main Beach, Kenting National Forest Recreation Area (墾丁國家森林遊樂區) has some cool walks and caves.  

Snorkeling and scuba diving tours take place near the seafood harbour called Houbihu (後壁湖), which is west of Nanwan and Kenting Main Beach.

East of Kenting Main Beach, the next points of interest are Xiaowan (a small beach with beach bar and a couple resorts), Sail Rock Beach , and Eluanbi Lighthouse .

After Eluanbi, the highway follows the coast north to some lovely coastal lookouts called Longpan and Fengchuishan . After a remote surfing beach called Gangkou, the highway veers inland for a big loop back to Hengchun – I’ll recommend a cool waterfall with natural infinity pool around here.

Because Kenting lies in the tropical south of Taiwan, it’s warm enough to swim in the ocean-year round . Come in winter and you’ll find the beaches pleasantly crowd-free.

The 4-day long weekend at the beginning of April is the busiest weekend of the year in Kenting (read my guide to visiting Taiwan in April ). That’s when Taiwan Music Festival takes places and when many Taiwanese go for a mini spring break. It can already be very hot in Kenting my April.

From April till the end of summer, Kenting remains busy, especially on weekends, then it tapers off again in fall. Try to come on weekdays for less crowds and lower room rates.

Like anywhere in Taiwan, Kenting can be affected by typhoons anytime from July to October.

How Much Time Do You “Need” for Kenting?

In my Taiwan Travel Planning group , travelers often ask how much time they need for Kenting. My answer to that is –  how long do you want to spend on a beach? For me, I could happily spend a week just suntanning and drinking on the beach every day.

If you’re just going to squeeze one night in Kenting into your itinerary, I don’t think it’s worth the trip. If you’re coming here mainly to add some beach time to your otherwise busy Taiwan itinerary, then give yourself at least one full day for the beach (i.e. spend two nights in Kenting) .

Add one more full day if you want to do any sightseeing , such as Kenting Aquarium, animal places, hiking, Eluanbi lighthouse, etc). In other words, I think 3 nights (2 full days) is the ideal amount of time for enjoying Kenting’s attractions and beaches.

And if you’re staying in a nice resort with a pool, make sure to also include some time to actually enjoy the resort’s facilities – otherwise, why bother?

A Note about Expectations

Even though Kenting is said to have the best beaches in Taiwan (personally I think the offshore islands like Penghu have even better ones), you can’t compare them to beaches in countries like Thailand or the Philippines . Taiwan is known for many things , but beaches are not at the top of the list.

Kenting Main Beach is pretty, but you aren’t even allowed to swim there. And for beaches where you can swim (Baishawan, Nanwan, Xiaowan, and Sail Rock), on busy days they are usually packed with people, umbrellas, noisy jet skis , and so on.

Even though Kenting is a national park, don’t be surprised if you see some garbage on the beach , some corrugated metal roofs blown off my typhoons, and mass tourism activities , like go-karting ( see here ), animals zoos ( see here and here ), banana boats ( see here ), and so on.

As for water activities, the snorkeling , scuba , and surfing in Kenting is just OK , not great. Try Green Island for better snorkeling and scuba. For surfing, I’ll recommend a good spot at the end of this article, or try Dulan area of Taitung for a better surfing scene.

So why still come to Kenting? For me, I still love Kenting for its stunning coastal scenery . Nothing beats riding a bike, electric bicycle, or scooter along it.

I also enjoy love the casual and party-esque vibes (don’t expect anything too crazy!) in Kenting town and seeing Taiwanese let loose on their holidays.

I think it’s important to enjoy Kenting for what it is, and don’t compare it to other places with more stunning beaches (it won’t win) or more engrained beach culture (like almost anywhere in Southeast Asia).

Getting to Kenting

Kenting is not on the main train line around Taiwan. If you go, consider it as small detour from your round-Taiwan loop , or a “beach break” in your otherwise rushed itinerary.

By Car or Scooter

If you’ve rented a car ( I recommend renting here ), the drive from Kaohsiung to Kenting usually takes about 1.5 hours , but can take as long as 3 hours during peak traffic (holidays, rush hour, etc.) See my guide to driving in Taiwan .

You can also rent a scooter in Kaohsiung here . Expect it to take a bit longer to reach Kenting by scooter than by car.

Note: I once tried to rent a scooter in Fangliao (after taking the train over from Taitung), but wasn’t able to find a shop there willing to rent one to me (even though I have a Taiwanese license).

If you’re driving from Taitung on the east coast , the fastest way is to take Highway 9 across the island to the west coast, and travel south from there.

A slower but scenic route from Taitung is to take a combination of small roads, including 199, 26, and 200 down to the eastern end of Kenting. There are almost no people or signs of civilization on this route. The road is sometimes very narrow, but cars can still fit. And it even passes through a small desert !

You can also hire a driver to explore Kenting or take this Kenting day tour from Kaohsiung .

By Public Transportation

The best way to get to Kenting is to take the HSR to Zuoying station in Kaohsiung (see my HSR guide and order discounted tickets here ) then ride the Kenting Express shuttle bus to Kenting ( order tickets here ).

The traveling time to Kenting by bus is around 2 hours , but it can take longer on busy days. You can see the bus schedule here . Redeem your voucher or buy tickets from the Kenting Express Counter near Exit 2 of the HSR station.

Taxi drivers often hang out around the station trying to entice passengers. They’ll sell one seat in a shared taxi for around TWD 600 , about double the price of the bus.

If there’s a long wait for the bus, it’s not a bad deal. Usually, they drive quite fast (like borderline dangerously fast) so they can squeeze in more trips in one day. I’ve done this several times with my friends – we don’t mind splurging on the ride for those extra hours on the beach.

From central Kaohsiung city , it’s still going to be fastest if you ride the MRT to Zuoying then catch the Kenting Express from there. However, another option is to ride the TRA train from Kaohsiung station to Fangliao then catch the Kenting shuttle from there.

If you’re coming from Hualien or Taitung on the east coast, ride the train to Fangliao , then board the Kenting Express shuttle bus there. Exit the train station, walk straight to the main street, turn left, and purchase a ticket from the bus station here . Then you’ll need to cross the street and wait for the Kenting bus here .

There are a few direct trains from places on the east coast to Fangliao. However, you’ll get more time options if you buy two separate tickets – point A (such as Hualien or Chishang ) to Taitung station, and then Taitung to Fangliao. That’s because some trains only do the east coast. See my guide to buying train tickets in Taiwan for more info.

Getting Around Kenting

For some holidaymakers, just choosing one beach and staying there is sufficient. However, if you want to do some sightseeing in the area or visit multiple beaches, you’ll need to take the bus or drive between them.

Kenting Shuttle Buses

Besides the Kenting Express shuttle from Kaohsiung, there is a network of shuttle buses which ply the Kenting area.

There are four shuttle bus lines , with three of them meeting in Hengchun (see route map above). You can buy a one/two-day pass on the same Klook page as the Kenting Express bus from Kaohsiung, or you can swipe EasyCard to ride the buses.

Here’s a table showing the bus lines and their main stops:

Renting a Bike or Scooter

There are many shops hiring out bicycles, electric scooters, and regular scooters on Kenting Main Street. Book your scooter in advance here. A license is not required for the electric scooters, but they won’t be powerful enough to get you up the steep hill to Kenting National Forest Recreation Area or to travel very far.

For regular scooters, like anywhere in Taiwan, you will most likely need and International Driver’s Permit (IDP), and some shops may additionally require proof that you are licensed to drive motorcycles in your home country (either an A stamp on the IDP or motorcycle endorsement on your home license).

Main Beaches (and where to stay at each one)

Here I’ll introduce the five main beaches in Kenting from west to east, plus my recommended hotels at each one.

Baishawan Beach

Baishawan (墾丁白沙灣, not to be confused with Baishawan in New Taipei City ) literally means “white sand beach” even though sand is actually golden. It is the westernmost main beach in Kenting National Park.

Because it is a 10 to 15-minute drive off the main highway to, Baishwan is more off-the-beaten-track than the other main beaches. There are only about half a dozen guesthouses here and a couple restaurants – that’s it.

This beach’s main claim to fame is that some scenes from Life of Pi were shot here . When it’s not busy, I personally think it’s the most beautiful of Kenting’s main beaches – that’s why I chose it for my list of best beaches in Taiwan.

However, don’t expect anything too pristine . At busy times, this beach still has umbrellas, water activities, and crowds, just like all the other beaches at Kenting. But it does retain a more remote and less “resorty” vibe than the others.

If you’re driving or taking the bus from Kenting Main Beach to Kenting Aquarium, you could make a stop at Baishawan on the way .

Baishawan is on the Kenting shuttle bus Blue Line , between Hengchun and Nanwan/Kenting Main Beach.

Where to Stay

I recommend Baisha 31 B&B (see on Booking / Agoda ), a friendly guesthouse which is only a short walk from the beach.

South Bay (Nanwan)

South Bay (南灣 or Nanwan ) is right at the point where the highway from Kaohsiung and Hengchun reaches the coast in Kenting National Park.

This beach is very popular for lounging under an umbrella, swimming, and beach activities like banana boats, jet skis, and surfing (waves are small though).

There are also a couple bars right on the beach ( this one and this one ). Overall, even though there are no big resorts near this beach, the beach itself has beach resort vibes.

The beach is pretty but can get very crowded at peak times. Another downside is the large nuclear power plant visible on the right side of the bay – maybe try not to think about it…

With several great B&Bs and hostels, a few restaurants, and a 7-Eleven right across the street, Nanwan has everything you need for a relaxing beach holiday .

If you want to go into Kenting main town for the night market, that will be just 10 minutes on any bus passing by. Buses run till late.

The Kenting Express from Kaohsiung will stop at Nanwan. It’s also on the Orange and Blue shuttle bus lines .

There are 20+ small B&Bs and hostels right across the highway from the beach. Most have options with balconies facing the sea.

The First Nanwan Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ) has capsule-style dorms, while Meet You Nanwan (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a kid-friendly choice.

For a reliable guesthouse with balcony rooms, try Cat at Greece (see on Booking / Agoda ), Summer Delight (see on Booking / Agoda ), or Pii Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda ). The latter also has a five-bedroom house for available for groups.

Kenting Main Beach & Night Market

Often when people say “Kenting”, they are referring to the main town and beach here. This is the largest community in the national park and its longest beach .

Notably, though, you are technically not allowed to swim at this beach. This means the beach is also pleasantly free of umbrellas, jet skis, and so on. If you play in the water a little, especially at the beach’s far ends, probably nobody will say anything. Just be careful, as the tides can be strong and there’s no lifeguard.

Kenting Village lines both sides of the highway a few blocks inland from the eastern half of the beach. There you’ll find dozens of hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars.

At night, the street comes alive with Kenting Night Market every night of the year. Besides the usual night market snacks, you’ll also find at least a dozen cocktail stalls, which often blast techno music to set the vibe.

At the eastern end of the night market near Xiaowan (see next section), there’s a more chill vibe. Several food and cocktail trucks play reggae music, with seating available.

On a normal night, the night market isn’t too crowded. But on April long weekend or other busy weekends, the crowds can become so thick that they take over the whole highway.

The Kenting Express from Kaohsiung passes through town, with a few different stops you can get off at, plus the Orange and Blue shuttle bus lines .

At the quieter western end of the beach, Chateau Beach Resort (see on Booking / Agoda ) is the only major hotel in Kenting that is actually right on the beach. It has a pool and bar facing the beach. However, its facilities are getting old.

On my most recent visit, I had a great stay at Kenting Moon Bay Hotel 月彎灣渡假旅店 (see on Booking / Agoda ), on a quiet street right across from the beach. Although my balcony had a sea view, I had to walk a ways down to access the beach due to a fence and stream between the hotel and the beach.

In town along the highway, Kenting Space Capsule (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a hostel option with cool space theme.

Gloria Manor (see on Booking / Agoda ) is one of the top luxury hotels in Taiwan . It’s not right in town but in a secluded spot up the hill towards Kenting National Forest Recreation Area. It has a pool and overlooks Kenting’s iconic Mount Dajian.

For family-friendly resorts, consider Xiaowan (see next section), which is right at the end of Kenting Main Street.

I put Xiaowan (小灣 or “Little Bay”) in its own entry, but it’s just a few steps past the end of Kenting Main Street. Xiaowan is a small beach just east of Kenting Main Beach , with a small peninsula between them called Frog Rock (青蛙石).

Two big resorts are here. Both of them have private paths or tunnels under the highway to Xiaowan beach. However, the public can also access and use the beach by taking a small flight of stairs down from the highway – watch for the sign that says 小灣沙灘 on an upright surfboard.

Swimming is allowed at this beach and there’s a small bar on the beach. It’s romantic at night.

For a small adventure, walk from Kenting Main Beach to Lover’s Beach (情人灘 here ), a small hidden beach on the peninsula between Main Beach and Xiaowan.

The Kenting Express from Kaohsiung goes here, plus the Orange and Blue shuttle bus lines .

There are two resorts at Xiaowan: Caesar Park Kenting (see on Booking / Agoda ) and Howard Beach Resort Kenting (see on Booking / Agoda ).

Both resorts have seen better days, but between the two of them, Caesar Park is a little nicer. The resorts are right next to each other, with Caesar Park being the closer one to town – it only takes 5 minutes on foot to reach the eastern end of Kenting Night Market.

Both resorts are kid-friendly, with lots of activities, swimming pool, and beach access.

Sail Rock Beach

Sail Rock Beach (船帆石沙灘 or Chuanfan Beach) is named after a large sail-shaped coastal outcrop 500 meters down the coast from the beach.

This beach is similar to South Bay in terms of size, popularity, and amenities – meaning it can also get quite crowded at busy times. It also has one 7-Eleven and 20+ B&Bs across the highway from it, plus a few resort options.

One downside here is that it’s a little further away – you’ll have to travel past Kenting Main Street to get here. But as a result, it does feel a little more away from it all than South Bay or Main Beach.

The Kenting Express from Kaohsiung goes here, as well as the Orange shuttle bus line .

For a guesthouse with sea-facing balconies, Sasa Nor Lamour B&B (see on Booking / Agoda ) is right across from the beach. For a more secluded option, Hotel Everyday Life (see on Booking / Agoda ) is further down the coast near Sail Rock, but rooms also have sea views.

Kenting 4 Sisters Hotel (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a beautiful property with amazing views. It’s a little ways from the beach, but they offer a shuttle. Guests rave about the amazing breakfast.

Fullon Resort (see on Booking / Agoda ) is a resort option with pool. Red Garden Resort (see on Booking / Agoda ) has Balinese vibes.

Other Things to Do in Kenting National Park

Besides the beaches, here are some more fun things to do in Kenting. Again I’ll cover these in the order you’d encounter them coming in from Kaohsiung.

National Museum of Marine Biology

Kenting Museum of Marine Biology (國立海洋生物博物館), also commonly called Kenting Aquarium, is Taiwan’s largest aquarium.

The aquarium is in a remote spot on the coast west of Hengchun.

Some highlights of the aquarium include whale-shaped water fountains for kids to play in, a simulated underwater shipwreck , sea stars and hermit crabs you can touch, beluga whales , and a giant tank filled with sharks and rays.

I personally found this aquarium to be a little dated ( Xpark in Taoyuan is smaller but has much newer facilities).

A lot of facilities here looked quite old or were out of order when I visited. The huge water tank was darker and murkier than the one at Xpark, so it was harder to get a good picture of it. Yes, this aquarium is huge, but I found a lot of space there is just filler.

From Kenting Main Street, it’s a 30-minute drive or 45-minute bus ride on the Orange Line .

If you do make the trip out there, book your tickets online here. They also offer a penguin encounter and overnight sleepover experience .

Kenting Capybara Park

The small Capybara Park (墾丁鹿ㄦ島水豚生態園區, location ) is outside the national park, just before Hengchun when you’re driving down from Kaohsiung. It is one of the best places in Taiwan to meet capybaras , the world’s largest rodent.

This was probably my best capybara experience in Taiwan – it’s nowhere near as busy as Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm in Yilan .

Besides interacting with and feeding the capybaras, you can see sika deer, giant tortoises, and a dedicated capybara shrine. And unlike any other capybara place in Taiwan, you can swim with the capybaras here (extra fee). Book your tickets here .

Paradise of Deer

Near the capybara place, there’s also this similar and longer-running one called Paradise of Deer (鹿境梅花鹿生態園區, location ) focusing mainly on sika deer, but they also have a few capybaras.

Note that if you’re visiting with kids, the deer can be a little aggressive as they try to get food from the tourists. My kids didn’t love visiting them because of this. The capybaras are actually much more chill.

There are some cute deer stuffies for sale. You can book tickets online here .

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Houbihu

If you join any snorkeling tour ( like this one ) or scuba diving ( like this one ), they will most likely take you to the shore just south of Houbihu Seafood Harbor (後壁湖), not to one of the beaches in Kenting, where the waves are too big.

The main snorkeling and scuba spots are here , here, and at Little Bali (小巴里島岩), which is also a semi-secret swimming spot.

Maobitou Park

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Kenting is Maobitou Park (貓鼻頭公園). Mao (貓) means cat , so there’s a large cat statue here (and I found a couple live cats lazing around, too).

The view from the observation deck is nice. You can see the most of the Kenting coastline from here on a clear day. When I visited, this place was busy with busloads of domestic tourists, so I didn’t love it.

There’s a TWD 30 entry fee. You can get there on the shuttle bus Blue Line .

Guanshan Sunset Viewing Park

Many local visitors go to Guanshan Sunset Viewing Park (關山夕照觀景園) to watch the sunset. This is an elevated spot between Baishawan and Kenting Aquarium.

After reading the reviews, I decided not to bother. You need to pay and it sounds like it gets crowded . You can only get here by car or scooter.

I once enjoyed a lovely sunset view from Eluanbi Lighthouse (see below), which is also on a hill with view down the coast, so that is a decent sunset alternative which is accessible by bus.

Otherwise, sunset is a nice time to be on pretty much any beach in Kenting, though all of them face south.

Kenting National Forest Recreation Area

Kenting National Forest Recreation Area (墾丁國家森林遊樂區) is a beautiful slice of pristine nature only a few minutes’ drive from Kenting village.

The large park features walking paths through the jungle (I spotted several macaques and huge butterflies!)

The forest here is growing atop an uplifted coral reef with unique karst topography. This includes some cool coral reef tunnels and caves – the most impressive of which is Fairy Cave .

There’s also a elevated Viewing Tower. It provides an expansive view looking down on the jungle canopy, coast, and mountains in all directions, including iconic Mt. Dajian. There’s even a small restaurant with a view inside.

It takes 1-2 hours to walk to the above two spots and back to the entrance, or longer if you visit even more caves and features in the park. Entrance is TWD 150.

Unfortunately, you’ll need a car or scooter to get here. Buses don’t go and it’s too steep for electric bicycles.

Shadao Ecological Reserve

Between Sail Rock Beach and Eluanbi Lighthouse, you’ll notice a small parking lot for Shadao Ecological Reserve (砂島生態保護區). The parking lot here overlooks a stunning, pristine beach which is inaccessible to the public . It is a nesting ground for sea turtles and other wildlife.

Although you can’t get to the beach, the coast in front of the parking lot is fun to explore . There are rows upon rows of coral pools here where you can spot crabs or even (carefully, as the coral is sharp) take a dip in the water.

Once many years ago, when my friends and I were hungover between two days at Spring Scream music festival, we spent a whole day lazing in the sun and pools here. And yes, we all got sun burns.

Eluanbi Lighthouse

Eluanbi Lighthouse (鵝鑾鼻燈塔) is a historic lighthouse dating to 1883. The fortified white lighthouse a symbol of Kenting and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Taiwan .

While you can’t enter the lighthouse itself, the hill-top park around it offers stunning views down the coast – these are the grounds where the legendary Spring Scream music festival used to be held.

There are several trails down to lookouts beside the sea, including one to the actual southernmost point of mainland Taiwan . Entrance to the area is TWD 60 and there’s a huge parking lot with some small shops and a 7-11 just around the corner.

One trail leads to Longkeng Ecological Reserve (龍坑生態保護區), but this can only be visited on a guided tour. Bookings can be made here (Mandarin only).

There are a few small B&Bs near the lighthouse – we used to stay in them for going to Spring Scream, but today I wouldn’t stay here because there’s no beach nearby. There are several campgrounds near the lighthouse – search 露營區 on GoogleMaps to find them.

Eluanbi the last stop of the Kenting Express from Kaohsiung and the Orange shuttle bus line before they turn around and go back.

Longpan Park

Just up the coast as it veers north from Eluanbi, Longpan Park (龍磐公園) has a small boardwalk trail to an amazing view up coast . It’s a must-stop, but once you’ve seen the view, that’s about it.

None of the Kenting shuttle buses come here or to the next spot. There’s an infrequent bus from Hengchun (only 3 per day) – in other words, the only viable way to get here is to drive or ride a bike.

Fengchuisha

Fengchuisha (風吹沙) offers another fine view further up the coast. There are beautiful coastal sand dunes here . Once when I visited many years ago, the sand dune were even blowing onto the highway.

Gangkou & Jialeshui

Not many visitors make it past Fengchuisha these days, especially ever since Gangkou Suspension Bridge (港口吊橋) further up the coast closed. When I visited Kenting for the first time in 2008 with my friends, we rode scooters up to this point (see below pic).

On my most recent trip, I had a look, and the once popular bridge is totally falling apart, so I don’t know if it will ever be fixed.

There’s a small and remote surfing community at Gangkou Beach (港口海灘). Try this surf hostel if you want to check it out. Swimming is not allowed on the beach, but this spot has the best surfing in Kenting.

You can get there on the Green Line from Hengchun – get off at stop G16 . From Kenting Main Beach, you’d have to take the bus to Hengchun first then transfer to the green line.

Ride the same bus to the last stop, G17 , for Jialeshui (佳樂水). This is a remote but picturesque stretch of coastline with cool rock formations.

Qikong Waterfall

If you like adventure activities and getting off the beaten-track, drive to Qikong Waterfall (七孔瀑布). Qiking means “7 holes”, as there are seven pools of water below waterfalls which you can hike up to here.

You can swim in several of these pools. The waterfalls form natural infinity pools , which you can climb down into using ropes.

You only have to hike 5-10 minutes to reach the first two, but the trail is a little tough and requires some scrambling and hanging onto ropes.

An elderly man living next to the parking lot charges TWD 20/60 for scooter/car parking. If you drove this far from Kenting Main Beach, then consider continuing on Highway 200 all the way to Hengchun, making a big loop, instead of driving back the way you came. That’s what I did! 

You could get here by bus (Green Line from Hengchun to Chunxing Intersection stop here , stop G6 on the bus route map), but then you’d have to walk 40 minutes up the car road to reach the trailhead.

What to Eat in Kenting

Where you eat in Kenting will be dictated by where you stay.

At Nanwan , Pizza Rock (run by a fellow travel blogger) and Piccolo Polpo Italian Restaurant (must reserve) stand out.

Kenting Main Street has by far the most dining options, not to mention Kenting Night Market. See my Kenting Night Market guide for all my food stall recommendations.

For sit-down restaurants, there are a lot of international options, including Singaporean , Indonesian , Thai , Korean , Japanese , Italian , and Tex Mex . There are also several quick fry (Taiwanese seafood) restaurants.

For fresh seafood, you can consider driving or riding the bus over to Houbihu Fishing Harbor . Two buildings here right beside the harbor are full of fresh seafood restaurants.

However, when I visited on my own, I wasn’t able to buy a small plate of sashimi as a snack (the pictures were so tempting and prices were good!) – all the restaurants have minimum orders. They basically want you to sit down for a full meal, unlike many other seafood markets in Taiwan, where you can just buy smaller samples. It’s on the shuttle bus Blue Line.

There are also several seafood restaurants nearby in Houbihu village, like this one and this one .

If you stay at Sail Rock Beach , there are only a few cafes, a 7-Eleven, this seafood restaurant , and this small restaurant down the highway .

Near Eluanbi, this little restaurant has some of the best seafood in Kenting, but it’s out of the way.

In Hengchun , Hengchun Night Market takes place on weekends only. Vegetarians may consider going to Hengchun for the unique dragon fruit wraps with veggie meat and other dishes at this vegetarian restaurant.

Near the vegetarian restaurant, this famous vendor sells delicious deep fried green onion cakes with egg ( dan su bing ). There are also some popular mango shaved ice shops around it.

A special local variety of water chestnuts (菱角) are sold around Fangliao and Checheng. You may see shops selling them along the highway. Locals call them “bats” due to their bat-like shape – watch for signs with a bat-shaped symbol.

Eryanping & Tea Mist Trail: Two Amazing Hikes En Route to Alishan

Visiting taipei & taiwan in january 2024, 2 thoughts on “a guide to kenting national park at the southern tip of taiwan”.

Thanks so much for all your detailed guides. They definitely help give peace of mind when planning a trip to Taiwan.

My husband and I will be travelling to Taiwan in March 2024 and I am wondering how important it is to book bus tickets from Fangliao -> Kenting for the 9189 Kenting Express bus ahead of time (or if it is possible to even book this ticket online ahead of time?) or if it is fine to just buy the tickets once we arrive same day? We will be travelling on a Tuesday in March. Thank you for your help!

I don’t think it’s even possible to book. You just show up and buy a ticket then board the next bus that passes by.

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2 Days in Kenting, Taiwan: Itinerary with Top 17 Things to Do

Kenting National Park, Taiwan: top things to do

Visiting Kenting ,  Taiwan ,  means discovering  the most visited national park on the island.

With its  heavenly beaches  and  splendid natural landscapes , we understand better why  Kenting Park  is truly a must for a  trip to Taiwan!

In this  complete guide , I have prepared for you all  the things to do and see in Kenting . I will also give you  all the practical information and advice  on how to organize your visit.

And at the end of the article, you will find  my selection of the best hotels to sleep in  according to your budget as well as a  map with all the places not to be missed.

So,  where to go and what to do in Kenting?

Table of Contents

Kenting Park: a must-see for a stay in Taiwan

What to do and see in kenting.

As there are many places to visit, we will start with  the things to absolutely see  during your  visit to Kenting National Park.

1. Kenting Forest Recreation Area

In the heart of Kenting National Park, I suggest you go for a walk in  the forest part of the park.

Several  well-marked paths  allow you to  discover the tropical forest and its fauna . Keep your eyes  peeled for monkeys and birds endemic  to the island. There are also some  caves  where you can observe  stalactites and stalagmites. 

Don’t miss  the park’s tower , the top of which offers a  panoramic view of the entire south of the island.

Access to the Kenting Forest Recreation Area is chargeable , between NT$100 and NT$125. At the entrance, you will be given  a map of the site with the paths.

Tips for your Kenting itinerary:

During your  tour in Taiwan , you will notice that there are tons of places marked  “recreation areas” . These are  developed areas with parking, toilets  and  marked trails  which lead to one or more places of interest.

If you see “recreation area” on the map, you are sure that there is always  a nice little walk to take  or  a viewpoint to admire.

Access can be paid or free.

2. Jialeshuei Area

Jialeshuei  is located on  the east coast of Kenting.

The area brings together several  rocks in the shape of animals  (frog, pig) or unusual rocks sculpted by erosion. One of them even represents  the exact shape of the map of Taiwan . At the end of the route, we discover the  Jialeshui waterfall.

This visit is done  only in a small shuttle  containing around twenty people and with  comments and stops  to locate the rocks.

It takes  around 1/2 hour  for  NT$80 per person  + car parking at NT$50.

3. Gangkou: Surfing in Kenting

If you want  to go surfing  during your stay in Kenting, head to  the place called Gangkou.

After passing this small  town with a few restaurants , and before the Jialeshuei site, you will find  several beaches where all the surfers gather  to tame the wave.

No underwater rocks and warm water in all seasons, and you will have  the best surf spot in Southern Taiwan!

In Gangkou, it is also possible to  rent kayaks  and enjoy a  beautiful view of the bay by taking the suspension bridge  (NT$20).

Trying surfing is truly a  must-do activity in Kenting.

4. Fongchueisha

Visiting Kenting  also means enjoying some very  beautiful views.

At Fongchueisha, a  clear panorama of the coast  awaits you.

If you take a  road trip to Taiwan , you will notice that this part of the coast is really different from the rest of the island, there is less jungle and vegetation.

It makes the landscape truly unique and for me it is  one of the most beautiful panoramas in southern Taiwan.

5. Longpan Park

Just past Fongchueisha, you will have  another beautiful view  of the Pacific Ocean at  Longpan. 

Be careful not to get too close to the edge of the cliffs as the rock is very crumbly and it is often very windy.

If you are an early riser, feel free to head to Longpan for sunrise.

6. The Southernmost Point of Taiwan

Then continue on the road past Longpan and you will arrive at the  southernmost point of Taiwan.

A short  walk of around 1/4 hour,  most of which is in the forest, will allow you to reach  a monument  built on a wooden platform and symbolizing the end of the island. You can  admire the rocky coast and the Pacific Ocean.

Paid parking at  NT$50.

7. Eluanbi Park

This is one of  the most famous places to visit  in Kenting National Park:  Eluanbi Park and Lighthouse.

You will get there by always following the same route after having discovered the southernmost point.

This large park allows  you to walk in the middle of the jungle  along  developed paths.  There are also some unmissable places with  specially shaped trees and caves  .

Several belvederes also offer  beautiful views of the sea and the volcanic rocks  torn by the wind.

The other attraction of the park is its  small white lighthouse , which you can climb to the top to  enjoy the panorama . There is also a small museum next door.

Entrance to Eluanbi Park costs  NT$60 per person  + car parking at NT$40 (scooter NT$10). The park is generally  open every day  (except closed Mondays) from  7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m./6:30 p.m.  depending on the season.

8. The Beaches of Kenting

If many people choose to  visit Kenting  during their  stay in Taiwan , it is mainly to  enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches.

They are very popular because you can  swim all year round  on this part of the island. Taiwanese love to come to Kenting for their vacation. And it must be said that they are right because these are truly  the most beautiful beaches in Taiwan!

Here are the beaches  where you can go swimming in Kenting:

• Baisha Beach or White Sand Bay:  a large sandy beach where you can rent jet skis or go banana riding. It is also very popular for snorkeling. For me, it is the prettiest beach in Kenting.
• South Bay/ Nanwan:   a long sandy beach + water activities. It is the most popular and the most touristy. This is where you will find the majority of hotels and restaurants.
• Little Bay Beach:  a small beach located before the village of Kenting arriving via the Eluanbi road.

Not to mention a real beach, you also have several  famous spots for snorkeling  in Kenting: at  Sail Rock,  towards  Banana Bay  or at  Little Bali Bay.

Some scenes from the  film “Pi’s Odyssey” , which won 4 Oscars, were  filmed on Baisha beach.

9. Maobitou Park

Maobitou  is located in the  southwest of  Kenting National Park.

The attraction of the park is its  rock in the shape of a cat  which is about to pounce on its prey, which also earned it its name. Maobitou actually means  “Cat Nose” . This rock is  THE selfie spot  for all Chinese tourists!

Apart from this rock formation, you will also find in Maobitou some  beautiful views of the sea and the  Taiwan Strait.

The place is renowned for being one of the  best places in Kenting to watch the sunset. 

Paid parking at  NT$40  (scooter NT$10). Entrance to Maobitou Park is free.

10.Hengchun

Hengchun  is the  only small town  located within the national park.

There isn’t much to do in Hengchun, apart from a  quick tour of the old town  surrounded by its walls.

The fortified city is above all a  good base for visiting Kenting . There are  restaurants, hotels  and there is a  night market  every Sunday evening.

If you have children, you can also take them to see the island’s  endemic deer at  “Paradise of Deer”.  They will be able to feed them and take care of them.

Just  a few kilometers north of Hengchun , you can see a rather unique phenomenon:  an eternal fire.

Thanks to the presence of an  underground gas pocket , the  Chuhuo  area is home to several  small fires that burn constantly.

If you can, it is better  to see it at night  so that it is more spectacular but personally I did not find it essential and not that interesting. There was only a small flame when I passed.

At least  parking and access are free , so if you drive past, why not.

12. Cikong Cascades

Continuing on the road after Chuhuo and taking the left fork, you will reach the start of the path leading to  Cikong Waterfalls.

The path, which at times requires  climbing using ropes  (and yes it’s quite sporty!), provides access to  several natural swimming pools  fed by waterfalls. Stop whenever you want for a well-deserved  refreshing swim !

This is one of the few places in Kenting that is still a little off the beaten track, as you have to walk a bit to get to the first pools and waterfalls. Bring at least some sneakers to go there.

13. The National Marine Biological Museum/Kenting Aquarium

If you are doing this  Kenting tour with your children , I recommend taking them  to visit the National Marine Biological Museum.

It is  the largest aquarium in Taiwan . In particular, you can  observe whales, belugas, sharks  and of course all kinds of  tropical fish. 

And for those who would like  to treat themselves to a VIP experience , I even suggest spending  the night at the aquarium!

You can  visit the museum with a guide  once all the other tourists have left and  sleep just below the glass tunnels  where the animals roam. Dinner and breakfast are also included in the price.

14. Other Activities to Do in Kenting

If you want to add some  cool activities  to this list of things to do in Kenting, I recommend:

• An all-inclusive package of 8 water activities in Kenting.

The best way to  spend a fun day  doing  towed tubing ,  banana  boating and  jet skiing.  There are also several  inflatable platforms  on the water.

Access is unlimited  and you can do as many tours as you want!

• A 2.5 hour cruise  to enjoy the sea and admire the Kenting National Park from another angle.
• A first dive.

What to do around Kenting National Park?

As the park is located  in the very south of Taiwan , it is a little isolated.

We can’t really say that there are things to see around Kenting but I have prepared for you my  selection of the closest places to visit  (which are still at least 1 hour 45 hours away by transport).

15. Kaohsiung

It is  the largest city located around Kenting  and the 3rd largest in Taiwan.

It is approximately  1 hour and 45 minutes by car from the national park.

Things to see and do in Kaohsiung:

• Discover  the Tiger and Dragon Pagoda  on Lotus Lake
• Climb  the Sky Tower  and enjoy the panoramic view
• Stop at  Formosa metro station  and admire its dome of light made up of 4,500 glass panels
• Stroll around  Cijin Island
• Take a walk or boat ride on  the Love River
• Visit Bywood and Sugar Factory,  an old disused sugar factory left as it is with all the machinery.

16. Liuqiu Island (or Lambai Island)

This very small island is located  in the northeast of the national park.

To reach it, you will first have  to go to Donggang  (about 1 hour 20 minutes by car) and  take the boat . The journey takes  only 30 minutes.

To  visit Liuqiu , which is only 7 km², it is best to  rent a scooter, electric bike  or small golf cart when you arrive.

You can then  go around the island , stop  to swim on the beautiful beaches  and enjoy water at least 25° all year round.

Liuqiu is also famous for  its snorkeling spots  where you will have the chance to  observe sea turtles  and swim with them.

17. Taitung

Taitung  is the largest city around Kenting located  on the east coast of Taiwan . It is still  more than 2 hours away.

There aren’t necessarily many attractions to see in Taitung but many travelers choose to stop there during their  itinerary in Taiwan  because it is  the ideal stopover to spend 1 night.

The city is indeed located  between the Taroko Gorges and Kenting Park  and there are not really any other major cities on the route.

If you have some time to  visit Taitung,  you can  stroll through the Taitung Forest Park , visit  the National Museum of Prehistory  and enjoy one of the  3 night markets  for dinner.

Accommodation in Kenting

To visit Kenting National Park, you have  2 places to stay:

• Hengchun,  the largest city in the park.
• Kenting Street,  a long seaside road where you will find only restaurants and hotels.

In both cases, try to  book your hotels in Kenting as far in advance as possible  because it is really touristy and a lot of Chinese and Taiwanese come there on vacation.

To help you choose, I have prepared  my selection of the best hotels to stay in Kenting:

Best accommodation in Hengchun

• HUA B&B:  located 300 meters from the old city walls. Very spacious and warm double room from €50, breakfast included. The best: close to the center, bike rental, warm welcome.
• Chillax Inn B&B:  located 2 minutes drive from the old town. Design and warm room from 60€, breakfast at 5€. The best: the comfort, the great welcome, the good breakfast.  A very good choice for accommodation in Kenting National Park. 
• Kenting Amanda Hotel:  located between Hengchun and Kenting Street. Surprising hotel for Taiwan since the decoration is Moroccan! The rooms are really nice and recreate the Arabian Nights atmosphere very well. From 95€, breakfast at 11€. The pluses: the Spa, the indoor swimming pool, the garden, the decor.
• Kenting Ocean Paradise Resort:  located west of Hengchun, by the sea. Very large rooms with terrace and sea view from 160€, breakfast included. The pluses: the view, the calm, the private parking.
• Kenting Grand Bay Resort Hotel:   located in the old town. This hotel is particularly suitable for a stay with children thanks to these family rooms starting from €130 per night, breakfast included. The extras: the huge games room with ball pool, climbing wall, slide, the large indoor swimming pool, the children’s swimming pool.  This is the ideal hotel for a family vacation in Kenting!

The best hotels in Kenting Street

• Kenting My Home:  Hostel located just 3 minutes walk from the beach. Dormitory bed from €20, breakfast at €3. The pluses: the impeccable cleanliness, the location to enjoy the beach, the friendly staff.  The best cheap accommodation to stay in Kenting!
• Kenting Sea Wall 112:   located 100 meters from the beach. Modern and comfortable double room with large bay windows and balcony overlooking the sea from €50, breakfast included. The best: the location, the view, the friendliness of the staff.  An excellent choice for where to stay in Kenting!
• Bai Sha Tan Cottage:  located 250 meters from Little Bay. Double room with balcony and comfortable bedding from €70. The pluses: the staff speaks French, the rooftop, the geographical location.
• Hotelday+ Kenting:  located 5 minutes from the beach and night market. Spacious and well-equipped double room from €85, breakfast included. The most: the swimming pool, the varied breakfast, the friendliness of the staff.
• Caesar Park Hotel Kenting:  located opposite the beach, this 5* complex offers large rooms with large bay windows and a balcony with sea or garden views, from €170, breakfast included. The pluses: the large swimming pool, the private beach with deckchairs and parasols, the excellent breakfast.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Kenting!

How to visit Kenting National Park: practical information

To finish organizing  your visit to Kenting Park,  I will now give you  some practical information,  particularly on how to get around Kenting.

To discover all the places of interest in Kenting, you will  need a means of transport.  Here are the different options:

Visiting Kenting by car  allows you to be  completely independent  and go everywhere. You won’t have  any problems parking,  there are parking lots at all the spots.

And there is no risk of getting lost since almost all of Kenting’s must-see attractions are located along the main road or are well signposted.

To rent a car in Taiwan, you need  an international license  in addition to your “normal” driving license.

The  scooter  has the same advantage as the car:  moving everywhere and easily. 

You will find  scooter rentals in Hengchun and Kenting Street . Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel for advice, they will always have someone to recommend.

You will have the choice between  2 types of scooters:

• Those with gasoline  which require an international license and the mention ticked above stipulating that you can drive a two-wheeler.
• Electric scooters  for which you do not need an international license because they are limited to a maximum of 35km/h.

Several  shuttle buses  crisscross the national park and reach  the main places to see  that I mentioned above.

A  day pass  allowing  unlimited travel  costs around  NT$100.  It is also possible to  take the 2-day pass. 

You will find the bus  route map , stops served and  timetables  by clicking here:  Kenting Shuttle Bus Timetable.

During my  trip to Taiwan , I noticed that there were  a lot of cycle paths  and that this means of transport (outside of the big cities) was quite popular.

You will find  bike rental companies in Kenting  if you want to discover the park by pedaling. The roads are rather flat and in good condition but Kenting being still vast, you will not be able to do everything, unless you plan to spend 3 days there.

And it still remains a little dangerous with the many buses, scooters and cars circulating.

How many days to visit Kenting?

I recommend that you plan  at least 2 full days  to visit the national park. And even more, if you want to quietly enjoy the beaches.

When is the best time to visit Kenting?

The  best time to visit Kenting  is from March  to May.  It’s warm but not stifling and the water temperature is perfect.

Between June and September , I recommend  that you avoid Kenting and even Taiwan  in general. Quite simply because it’s  typhoon season  and it’s scorching hot!

From October to February , you can also  visit Kenting Park  but it is possible that you will be treated to  rain and especially quite a bit of wind.

The water temperature is not that cold (at the beginning of February people were swimming) but the currents can be very strong and swimming is not recommended. But if you want to discover the places without spending your days at the beach, it can be a good option.

How to get to Kenting?

As I told you,  Kenting is located in the very south of the island , completely opposite to  the capital Taipei,  which is located  in the very north.

So I end this Kenting guide by giving you the  different ways to reach the national park.

From Kaohsiung

From Kaohsiung , it takes  about 1 hour 45 minutes  to drive 110 km to Kenting National Park. Still  departing from Kaohsiung , you can also  take the bus  to go to Kenting.

The  Kenting Express Bus  departs from  Kaohsiung Airport  and  Zuoying High Speed ​​Rail Station . There are buses approximately  every 30 minutes.

It takes about  2 hours to go to Kenting by bus  from Kaohsiung. The bus stops at Hengchun and Kenting Street.

There is no  train between Kaohsiung and Kenting.

From Taipei

To  go to Kenting from Taipei,  you will first need  to take the train to Kaohsiung.

There are  2 types of trains:

• The HSR  (High Speed ​​Train) which allows you to cross a large part of the island  in just 1h30!
• The classic train  (Normal Train) which takes  between 5 and 6:30 hours. 

Once  you arrive in Kaohsiung , you can  follow the instructions  I gave you just above for the bus.

From the east coast of Taiwan (Taroko/Hualien/Taitung)

From Hualien  (towards Taroko Gorge)  and Taitung , you will have to  take the train to Fangliao,  a town located 1 hour south of Kaohsiung.

From Hualien, the train journey takes between 4 to 5 hours, and from Taitung, around 2 hours.

In Fanglio,  you will then have to  take the bus  at the  Fangliao Station Bus Stop  to go to Kenting. It takes  about 1 hour  to reach the national park.

By car, Taitung is a 2-hour drive from Kenting.

Kenting National Park Tourist Map

To help you visualize the places a little better, I have made a   tourist map of Kenting   listing all the places to see and which I mention in this article. You can view the map legend by clicking the button at the top left with a small arrow.

And you, are you planning to visit Kenting during your stay in Taiwan? 

Are you going to Taiwan? Read also:

• 1 Week Taipei Itinerary: Top 25 Things to Do
• Top 23 Things to Do in Taiwan

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What to do in Kenting – A complete 3 day guide

What to do in kenting.

Welcome to the most southerly point on the island of Taiwan. Stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches and beautiful sunsets are the order of the day. There is more than enough to see and do to keep you busy for 3 or more days. Half of the pleasure comes from exploring the winding coastal roads. Use our guide to help you plan what to do in Kenting. 

Getting there and away

Located at the very southern tip of the island, the town of Kenting itself is tiny, with a decent smattering of guesthouses and restaurants. Its close proximity to the beaches, hiking trails and scenic spots that make up the stunning Kenting National Park means that this is where most travellers head to, us included.

The only way the get to Kenting is from Kaoshuing (高雄), Taiwans second city. There are direct buses from bus stations outside both the main and high speed rail stations. The journey from Kaoshuing itself can take anything from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and how many people are getting on and off along the way. From Taipei it took us about 8 hours, however if we’d taken the high speed train it would have shaved a couple of hours off of our travel time.

Where to stay

We stayed just off the main street close to the beach at Liang Qin Hai hotel . This street is gets you away from the music and hubbub coming from the night market and bars on the towns only street. There are a number of guesthouses further down the peninsula however it is much quieter and harder to reach without your own set of wheels.  

Getting around

Public transport here is not great, whilst there are buses their service is limited and they are not very regular. You are best off with your own set of wheels here. For this you have 2 options, an e-bike or a scooter. Usually the rules in Taiwan are very strict; no IDP, no scooter. However you can rent an e-bike with your national driving licence. Sadly my IDP (International Drivers Permit) had expired, but our guesthouse was quite happy to rent it out to me with my UK license, much to my surprise. I must stress this is certainly not the norm. Pretty much every other traveller we saw was on an e bike. 

The roads are in good condition and the traffic is very light, however do watch for the gargantuan tour buses hauling mainland Chinese tourists around. However the network of roads is so vast that the chances of you actually encountering them is pleasantly rare.

What to see and do

There is a lot to see in this rarely visited region of Taiwan. Stunning beaches, excellent walks and great food make it a very popular place for those fortunate enough to make it down this far. All of the places we visited required a scooter, be it battery or petrol powered. Apart from the beach close to the night market nothing else is walking distance from the main town of Kenting itself. 

We spent three days in Kenting exploring the area and could have quite happily spent longer. Below is the itinerary we put together with each day spent exploring a different part of the peninsula. 

We spent our first day exploring the western portion of the region. This area is quiet even by Kenting’s standards. It’s littered with stunning beaches, a gorgeous coastline and possibly one of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve ever seen.

Maobitou Park

This geological park perched right on the coast offers some spectacular views of the Kenting peninsula and the likelihood is that you will probably have the whole place to yourselves. 

North west of Maobitou park is the stunning Baisha beach. Umbrellas and loungers can be rented from the hut close to the beach. The former is especially necessary when you consider we were there in November and it was over 35 degrees.

The largest town on the Kenting peninsula, Hengchun is everything you would expect a quiet coastal town in Taiwan to be. The south gate which you will more than likely enter through is certainly worth a stop.

Home to a flame that has been burning for years that started without human intervention. Whilst its a pleasant place for a wander, there are probably more interesting things to be found in the area.

This tiny little piece of beach is known locally for its excellent snorkelling and diving as well as it’s gorgeous sunsets. We spent the afternoon snorkelling with plenty of fish before hopping out of the ocean to watch the sunset. Gear can be hired from the dive shops close to the beach if needs be. The currents are minimal and there are plenty of fish beneath the waves. 

Most people with end up at Guanshan for sunset and it is certainly popular, however it can get quite busy. We stumbled across sunset at Wanlitong purely by chance. Lady luck was obviously looking out for us. 

We spent the day exploring southern part of the peninsula which is littered with gorgeous beaches and quiet country walks. 

This famous rock formation which unsurprisingly looks like a sail is surrounded by stunning coastline. There are certain areas that a not accessible so as to prevent environmental damage to the fragile eco system. The area is very quiet and aside from a few fellow travellers with scooters or e-bikes.

Continue following the road along the coast from here and you will pass a number a truly stunning beaches where you can just relax or take a dip. The likelihood is that these beaches will be far quieter than the beaches north of Kenting town, due to the fact that there is far less public transport heading to the south than to the north.

Eulanbi Park

Close to the southern tip of Taiwan is this gorgeous park that is most famous for it’s lighthouse that was built in the late Qing Dynasty, modernised by Imperial Japan and further enhanced by the Nationalist Government after they fled to Taiwan. This was probably the busiest place we visited in Kenting, although that’s not really saying much. There are a number of short walking trails through the park, although the hill leading down to trail heads offers gorgeous ocean views and trees to shade you from the scorching sun, which we took full advantage of. 

The trails themselves are between 30-45 minutes tops, so they are certainly not demanding, but do watch out for snakes. We encountered a 2 metre long snake that according to a guy we asked in a restaurant was venomous. 

The lighthouse itself is probably not as stunning as the coastal views on offer, but it has a good exhibit with plenty of English. 

Taiwan’s most southern point

A short drive from Eulanbi park Taiwans most southern point. From the car park it’s 30 minute or so walk down to the viewing point itself. 

We finished our day by returning to Wanlitong to watch the sunset again and it was just as pretty as the previous night. 

Day 3 

We focused on the central and eastern regions, probably the two quietest parts of the peninsula. The centre is filled with the Kenting National Forest Park which offers a number of nice walks whereas the eastern side is dominated by stunning coastal scenery. 

Kenting National Forest   Park 

Located around 20 minutes drive from the town of Kenting itself, the park is famous for its stunning views over the peninsula and it’s diverse flora and fauna. The hikes here not difficult at all and in truth a more akin to a stroll than a hike. The viewpoints punctuate the vast tree coverage which is a welcome escape from the peninsulas searing heat.

Eastern Coast Road 

This portion of the peninsula is low on particular things to see but on the wow factor for scenery. Whereas the western side is made of beautiful beaches and rock formations the east is dominated spectacular cliffs plunging into the ocean. 

Longpan Park 

Offering some of the best views on the peninsula, you will know where this park is by the handful of people snapping photos. The views here are sublime but it can be very windy. 

Chuifengsha 

A view point looking down over a unique sand formation. 

From these two points carry on heading down and you will get to the end of the road offering views back up the coast. 

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The Best Things To Do In Kenting National Park, Taiwan (2023)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Taiwan

Kenting National Park is one of the 9 National Parks in Taiwan and is located on the southern tip of Taiwan.

Kenting Park is known for its lush forests and splendid beaches and after 3 days in the city of Kaohsiung , we felt it was time for some nature.

So we made our way down to the beautiful green Kenting National Park, which was one of the highlights of our one-month trip in Taiwan .

Altogether we spent 3 days exploring Kenting on a scooter, but we could easily have stayed longer as there are many things to do in Kenting National Park!

Top things to do in Kenting National Park, Pingtung County

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

What is the best time to visit Kenting National park

We visited Kenting in May , which in my experience is a great time to visit as temperatures are (usually) still below 30 degrees Celsius and there isn't much rain.

The summer months (June until September) in southern Taiwan can be very hot and typhoons may occur. During winter (December until February) the average temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius but it can be as low as 10 degrees. It can be very windy as well.

Altogether, the best months to visit Kenting are March until May and October/November.

Plan your Taiwan trip like a pro with these tools: ? Pick up an EasyCard for cashless payments and to use public transport. ? Book discounted tickets for Taiwan's high-speed rail. ? Stay connected with a  Taiwan Wifi router . ? Plan your journey with the  T aiwan Lonely Planet . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Klook or Get Your Guide . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

How to get around Kenting National Park

How to travel from Kaohsiung to Kenting?

It's very easy to get to Kenting National Park from Kaohsiung because of the great public transport system in Taiwan.

We hopped on the Kenting Express bus from Kaohsiung Main Station (buses also leave from Zuoying Station), and it took about 2.5 hours to get to Hengchun township.

Buses depart pretty much every 30 minutes, however, if you want to make sure you can travel on a certain date I recommend making a reservation online .

Note that you will have to pick up your actual ticket at the Kenting Express Line counter at one of the two Kaohsiung stations (KHH Airport or Zuoying High Speed Rail Station).

Alternatively, you can also book a private transfer from Kaohsiung to Kenting .

How to get around Kenting National Park?

The best way to get around Kenting is by your own transport ( rental car or scooter). Our plan was to rent a regular scooter, but in Taiwan, that's not easy to do as a foreigner.

Rules are strict and you either need a Taiwanese license or an International Drivers License which clearly states you can drive a motorcycle .

We have an International Driver's License, but we don't have a license to drive a motorcycle and thus rented an electric scooter instead.

This was no easy feat either because the shop owner did not speak any English.

With the help of a friendly girl who was in the scooter rental shop too we eventually managed to get an electric scooter for 500NT per 24 hours.

You can find the location of the scooter rental place on the map below.

Kenting itinerary

Wondering where to go in Kenting? In the Kenting map below, you can find the Kenting attractions we visited during our 3-day itinerary in Kenting National Park, as well as our hostel ( Kenting Light Blue Bed and Breakfast ).

Click here for the interactive map.

What to do in Kenting National Park

• Rent a scooter
• Explore Hengchun town
• Admire the four old city gates in Hengchun
• Drive around Longluan Lake
• Visit Maobitou Park
• Watch the sunset on the West Coast of Kenting National Park
• Eat your way around the Hengchun night market
• Explore Kenting village
• Drive around the South and East Coast of Kenting National Park
• Eat more delicious snacks in Henchung

Kenting tourist attractions: day 1

What to do in hengchun.

After getting our electric scooter (read more below on how to rent one), the first thing we did was make a circle around Hengchun town. The 4 old city gates are still standing and we drove through them all!

From Hengchun town we drove to Longluan Lake, passing through beautiful green fields and open grassland.

Longluan Lake

It was already late in the afternoon and we were the only ones at the lake.

Maobitou Park

We stopped to admire the ocean views and interesting rock formations at Maobitou Park, one of the most scenic spots in the area.

Because we arrived after 5 pm there was no entrance fee, however, usually, the fee is 60NT.

West Coast of Kenting National Park

From Maobitou Park we followed the main road along the west coast, enjoying a beautiful sunset on the way…

What to eat at Hengchun night market

We ended our first sightseeing day with a stroll over the Hengchun night market.

Pro tip: park your bicycle or scooter before entering the market. It can get very busy making it impossible to maneuver through the crowds with a scooter.

There are many food stalls serving delicious local cuisine and tasty snacks at the Hengchun night market. We sampled some fried chicken, noodles, and some meat sticks. Of course, we washed everything down with bubble tea.

If you've got more time, also visit Kenting Night Market for more local snacks and street food.

Kenting things to do: day 2

Kenting town and kenting's beautiful beaches.

On our second day, it was only a short drive south to the town of Kenting where we passed some of the most beautiful beaches.

Pictured above is Little Bay Beach, which is perfect for swimming, relaxing, or catching the sunset (when visiting in the evening).

And not just white sandy beaches, but some rough and rocky ones too. The color of the water was breathtaking.

South and East coast of Kenting National Park

We made a very scenic route through Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, Sheding Natural Park, the South Coast (be sure to stop at Eluanbi park, Eluanbi Lighthouse, and the Southernmost tip of Taiwan) and East coast (Longpan Park).

As you can see in the picture below it was very busy on the provincial highway.

From the east coast, we drove back to Hengchun and ate more delicious street food. A perfect end to our second sightseeing day!

Kenting National Park things to do: day 3

Our third day in Kenting National Park went a little differently than planned. You see, our electric scooter didn’t agree with our plan of crossing the hills between Manzhou Township and Hengchun.

The drive to Manzhou Township went smoothly but there our problems began…

For the first couple of kilometers, our scooter bravely tried to conquer the increasingly steep hills. But we climbed slower and slower until our scooter said POOF and came to a stop.

We tried to revive it, but nothing worked.

We had no other option but to drive slowly downhill without any power.

Eventually, we made it back to the foot of the hills. Which was still in the middle of nowhere …

Lucky for us David, the awesome owner of our Kenting accommodation , came to our rescue! With his help, we were able to restart the scooter.

Unfortunately, this ended our scooter road trip, we didn't dare to give the hills another try. So much for electric scooters.

Instead, we drove back to Hengchun and sampled some more local dishes.

Kenting National Park travel budget

I've written about our travel budget for Taiwan  and our budget for Taipei , Kaohsiung ,  Tainan , and Hualien .  Compared to those budget breakdowns, our average daily costs for Kenting National Park were slightly higher.

The main reason for the higher daily budget is that I've included the costs to travel from Kaohsiung (and back) in this budget breakdown.

The second reason for the slightly higher average daily budget is we rented a scooter to explore Kenting. That being said, we still only spent  €70 per day for us as a couple.

Where to stay in Kenting on a budget

Looking for the best place to stay in Kenting? While there is lots of accommodation available in Kenting town, consider staying in Henchun instead.

Hengchun feels less touristy but does have all the facilities you need within easy walking distance. We stayed in Hengchun as well and I preferred this location over Kenting town.

Also, I highly recommend staying at Kenting Light Blue Bed and Breakfast :

• It's very centrally located : 50 meters to a Kenting express bus stop, 50 meters to 7-11 & Family Mart, and 50 meters to an electric scooter rental shop.
• We had a very large room with super comfortable beds (tiny downside: we had 2 single beds instead of a double).
• The shared bathroom was very clean and towels were included.
• On the 1st floor, there is a hot and cold water dispenser.
• What really made our stay was David, the awesome guy who runs the B&B. He helped us out with all our questions and as I said above, he even came to our rescue when our electric scooter died on a hill that was too steep. Mind you, we were 20km away from the B&B in an area where nobody spoke any English, I'm not sure what we would have done without his help.
• Altogether, this great place offers excellent value for money and I would love to stay there again.

Kenting what to do: in conclusion

That wraps up this Kenting National Park travel itinerary, I hope it has given you an idea of what to see in Kenting during your trip!

I always love having my own wheels and Kenting is the perfect place for a scooter road trip: beautiful, green, great roads, nice vibe, and plenty of places to see.

I hope this Kenting trip itinerary will inspire you to visit the natural wonders of Kenting National Park in Taiwan, it's really worth a visit!

Looking for more Taiwan travel inspiration? Read my posts about Taichung , Taitung , and the best day trips from Taipei .

This post was updated in January 2023 .

Saturday 16th of November 2019

Hi Lotte. Thank you for your excellent blogsite. Very well put together and very useful information. I'm planning my visit for next year and you really helped. I also like your interactive map. Thank you. Ken

Monday 18th of November 2019

Thank you very much for your kind words, I'm happy to hear the Kenting post has helped you plan your trip:-) Have a great time in Taiwan,

Wednesday 17th of July 2019

He Lotte! We are also Dutch. Going to Taiwan for the summer with our 7 year old son. We have arranged the International driver’s license. And the man from the ANWB wrote also mopped on the document :-) We were thinking about taking the bicycle helmet with us for or son because last year we didn’t find any helmet that fitted correct. Think that would be oke? This week I have some drivers lessons because I never been on a scooter myself:-) If you have any tips for us let me k now! We also staying in Hengchung. I’m vegetarian…is that a big problem in Taiwan? All I see is meat dishes:-) Love hearing from you!

Saturday 20th of July 2019

So great you are traveling to Taiwan with your son! I'd definitely take the bike helmet with you as I'm pretty sure there are no helmets in suitable sizes available at rental shops. Driving a scooter isn't hard, I'm sure you'll get the hang of it quickly:-)

Regarding vegetarian dishes, there are lots of options available (such as vegetable dumplings or tofu dishes) but you should check before ordering. As not everybody speaks English I'd download Google Translate and use this in restaurants to make sure you are ordering a meatless dish.

Have a great trip! Lotte

Monday 8th of October 2018

Hi Lotte! My boyfriend and I were wondering if we can rent only one electric scooter for both of us ? Because he's the only one having the international driver's license! Thank you!! Stephanie

Saturday 13th of October 2018

Hi Stephanie,

Yes, no worries! We also only rented one electric scooter for the two of us:-) Enjoy your trip to Kenting!

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Hi Lotte, Thanks for your great blog, it's helped my girlfriend and I plan our upcoming trip to Taiwan a lot! We plan to hire electric scooter too. I was wondering if you hired one scooter for both of you or you hired a scooter each? I don't want to over load the scooter. Thanks again! Anthony.

Hi Anthony,

Thanks, happy to hear you like my blog! About the scooter, we rented only 1 scooter for the two of us but like I mentioned in the article, it died on a steep hill so it may be better to rent one each;-). Have a great trip! Lotte

Saturday 6th of January 2018

Hey, thanks so much for the informative post! Just wondering, if i do not have an international driver's license can i still rent an electric scooter? and do you think it is safe for a first time rider( i'm a student doing a solo trip). Was there a minimum age for rental as well?

Monday 8th of January 2018

Thank you for your comment and I'm happy you liked the post! I do think you need an International Drivers license (or a Taiwanese license) as they are pretty strict in Taiwan. Perhaps if you have a license in Chinese that would be okay too since they would be able to read it. The rental company did not accept our Dutch licenses but with the international one we could rent the electric one.

There was no minimum age as far I am aware of but please know the owner of the rental shop only speaks Chinese and we communicated with him via a friendly girl who was also in there and kindly translated for us. Taiwanese people are super-friendly and willing to help so if you can't make yourself understood try Google translate or asking for help from someone nearby;-).

Enjoy! Lotte

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Kenting National Park Travel Blog (Pingtung, Taiwan)

Situated on the southern-most tip of Taiwan lies Kenting National Park ( 墾丁國家公園 ), the favorite summer playground of the island nation. Famous for its scenic beaches and dramatic coastline, the park has long been a premier travel destination for both locals and foreigners alike. Having visited Kenting National Park in November 2016, let us share with you on how to best plan your trip to this coastal wonderland. We’ll touch on how to plan your itinerary, what are the best places to visit, and the travel tips that we’ve picked up during our trip. So, go ahead and share this Kenting National Park Travel Blog with your travel buddies!

Related posts:

• Pingxi and Jiufen Travel Guide
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Kenting National Park: Taiwan’s favorite summer destination

Established in early 1984, Kenting National Park is the oldest of Taiwan’s eight national parks . Believed to be submerged ten million years ago, the area is now home to rugged shorelines, sandy deserts and lush inland forest.

Kenting’s coastline is dotted with golden beaches with turquoise waters. In addition, more than 60% of the known coral species  (plus numerous species of reef fish) can be found just offshore of Kenting National Park. Little wonder that the park attracts more than 5 million visitors in 2016 , ranking top amongst other national parks in Taiwan.

Popular activities include hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, go-karting and jet-skiing.

Fun Fact: Part of Ang Lee’s movie, Life of Pi (2012), was filmed in Kenting National Park.

Our random images from Kenting National Park

When to visit Kenting National Park

Kenting has a tropical monsoon climate , typically warm/hot all year-round. Therefore, it is suitable to visit the park during most times. Except of course, during periods of bad weather system.

It is worth noting that June to October (summer months) is typhoon (hurricane) season for Taiwan. Historically, Kenting National Park also receives most rainfalls between June and Sept. Having said, the water/surface temperature during the summer months naturally makes it more conducive for water-related activities, provided the typhoon stays away.

As with any other popular tourist destinations, Kenting National Park gets crowded during weekends/holidays. Best avoid visiting during these periods.

Most interesting way of getting around Kenting National Park

One of the most exhilarating and refreshing way to explore the park is via renting a motorbike or electric scooter. Finding your way around the park is relatively easy. As there is only one major coastal road looping around the entire park.

Riding along the coast at leisure speed, with winds through your hair and scenic coastal views at every turn. Surely, your holidays couldn’t get any better than this.

Note: For higher resolution of the images in this Kenting National Park Travel Blog, refer to our Facebook Page .

Must-see places in Kenting National Park

Most of the must-see places in Kenting National Park are conveniently located along the coastal road ( Provincial Highway 26 ) looping the park. As such, the easiest way to cover all the attractions would be to make a counter-clockwise loop of the road (starting from Kenting Street).

We’ve listed the eight must-see places in Kenting National Park below, in sequence of their location on the counter-clockwise loop. These eight attractions can be comfortably covered within a single day trip. Start the journey early morning from Kenting Street, and end the day by watching sunset at Guanshan (see map above).

How do we know this itinerary works? Simply because this is the actual travel log of our Nov-2016 trip! =)

#1: Sand Island (砂島)

Start your trip in a counter-clockwise loop from Kenting Street in the morning. Travelling 7km south-east along Highway 26, you’ll reach Sand Island.

Contrary to its name, Sand Island  is not an island. Instead, it is a small bay with a shell sand beach. Shell sands are tiny fragments of corals and shellfish, which were broken down by weathering. Kenting National Park has a total of eight shell sand beaches. Sand Island stands out as it has the highest percentage of shell sand (of the eight beaches).

Unfortunately, as of Nov-2016, Sand Island is closed to the public. The shell sands on the beach were found to be depleting and the authorities had to close it for conservation and regeneration. Luckily, the coral beach adjacent to Sand Island is still open to public access.

360-degree picture : Below is our 360-degree picture of Sand Island

#2: Eluanbi Lighthouse (鵝鑾鼻燈塔) and Eluanbi Park (鵝鑾鼻公園)

Eluanbi Lighthouse  and Eluanbi Park is located at Cape Eluanbi , the southernmost point of mainland Taiwan.

Prior to the lighthouse, a number of shipwrecks had occurred around the cape due to hidden reefs. Thus, the Qing government  ordered the construction of Eluanbi Lighthouse in 1882. Eluanbi Lighthouse is 21.4 metres tall and has a range of 27.2 nautical miles .

Before the construction, animosity had existed between the indigenous tribe in the area and the Qing government. As such, government troops had to be deployed during the lighthouse’s construction. In addition, to protect the eventual lighthouse and its operators, a fort and moat was built around it. Hence, enabling Eluanbi Lighthouse to have the honors of being the only fortified lighthouse in the world.

The current version of the lighthouse was re-built in 1962. Nowadays, the grounds around Eluanbi Lighthouse is converted into a park (Eluanbi Park) with excellent coastal views.

Ticke ts are required. See prices in picture below.

Fun Fact: Eluanbi Lighthouse earned the nickname “The Light of East Asia” due to it having the highest intensity of all lighthouses in Taiwan.

Our images at Eluanbi Lighthouse and Eluanbi Park

More info of Eluanbi Lighthouse and Eluanbi Park

360-degree picture: Below is our 360-degree picture of Eluanbi Park

#3: Taiwan Southernmost Point (台灣最南點)

Geographically, the actual southernmost point of mainland Taiwan  is actually located approximately 1km southeast of Eluanbi Lighthouse.

To get there, drive out of Eluanbi Lighthouse visitor centre carpark and turn right onto Highway 26. Drive a mere 400m down the road and look out for the right-turn road-sign to “Southern Most Point” or “Observation Deck” ( see Google Street View below ). Turn right following the road sign and arrive at the carpark.

Unfortunately, the park was closed for renovation during our visit in Nov-2016.

However, from what we read online, there is a 5-10 minutes’ trail from the carpark that leads to a coastal viewing deck (see Google Street View below). At the viewing deck, there is a stone marker proclaiming it is the southernmost point in mainland Taiwan.

#4: Longpan Park (龍磐公園)

From the carpark of Taiwan Southernmost Point, turn right and continue on Highway 26 for another 3.5km to Longpan Park. The parking area of Longpan Park is just along Highway 26 and marked by a green board. Relatively small, the park is on the Pacific Ocean side of Kenting National Park.

Longpan Park is a coastal limestone plateau that resulted from the uplifting of coral reefs millions of years ago. Over time, the ocean further erodes the resultant limestone coastline. Resulting in dramatic cliffs, caverns and fissures.

Nowadays, Longpan Park is an open grassland complete with a short network of coastal trails on top of the limestone cliffs. Due to its wide and unblocked coastal views, the park is ideal for catching sunrises/sunsets and stargazing.

Note: Strong winds are common along this stretch of the coast. Young kids and elders should be cautious during such times. In addition, ride slowly and be careful when opening/closing car doors.

Our images at Longpan Park

#5: Fengchuisha (風吹沙)

From Longpan Park, get back onto Highway 26 heading north. Fengchuisha is approximately 2.4km drive from Longpan Park. Look out for a small parking area on the coastal side (right side) of the road. Similar to Longpan Park, the carpark is marked by a green board.

Another tip to identifying Fengchuisha’s parking area is the presence of sand on the road at this specific point on Highway 26.

Fengchuisha  (in Chinese) translate into “wind blow sand”. At this particular spot on Highway 26, the seasonal northeast winds (during winter) tend to blow the sand (from the shoreline) back onto the road and grassland beyond.

True to its name, we experienced really strong winds at Fengchuisha during our Nov-2016 visit. The gale was blowing sands right into our faces. Indeed, the winds were so strong that we could hear sands hitting the front lens of our DSLR camera.

Tip: Take precautions to protect your camera/gears that are sensitive to dust/sand. It is no fun having sand particles jamming up your gears. In addition, do have some form of eyewear, for obvious reasons.

360-degree picture: Below is our 360-degree picture of Fengchuisha

#6: Pingtung Manchurian Port Drawbridge (屏東滿州港口吊橋)

From Fengchuisha, continue heading north via Highway 26 for another 5km. You’ll then pass over a road bridge. At this point, the red-white Pingtung Manchurian Port Drawbridge can be seen on your right, running in parallel to the road bridge.

Spanning across Gangkou River, we estimate the bridge to be approximately 150m long. Although officially categorised a drawbridge , it really appears to be a suspension bridge instead.

Pingtung Manchurian Port Drawbridge was originally built to facilitate the locals in interacting with the wider region. Before the bridge, locals could cross the dried riverbed during winters. However, during wet seasons, access across the river was either impossible, or else limited to making a difficult detour along the beach at the river mouth.

The current bridge is a 1994 reconstruction of the earlier one. Tickets are required to access the bridge and can be purchased at a small office next to it.

During our Nov-2016 visit, the entry fee was 10 TWD (NT$10). However, we’ve noted from other travelers that the price might have increased to 20 TWD since our visit.

Tip: For those renting electric bikes. During our Nov-2016 visit, we saw an electric bike charging station beside the bridge. However, do check with your rental company if the charging station is still operating during your visit.

Our images at Pingtung Manchurian Port Drawbridge

360-degree picture: Below is our 360-degree picture of Pingtung Manchurian Port Drawbridge

#7: Maobitou Park (貓鼻頭公園)

From Pingtung Manchurian Port Drawbridge, use County Route 200 to drive inland and head west towards the western coast of Kenting National Park. Maobitou Park is approximately 24km away. For those riding e-scooter, please consider the range of your e-scooter.

There are actually two promontories at the southernmost end of Taiwan, namely Eluanbi and Maobitou. Of the two, Eluanbi is at the eastern side of the peninsula (bordering Pacific Ocean) and stretches further south. In contrast, Maobitou is located on the western side of the peninsula and is the separation point between Taiwan Straits  and Bashi Channel .

Maobitou (in Chinese) translate into “Cat Nose Cape”. The name is derived from a rock that resembled a cat lying on its stomach. The rock is a short distance off the coast at Maobitou Park and is the result of a collapsed sea cliff. See if you can identify the rock when you’re there. We tried, but unfortunately were one of the few visitors that failed to see the “cat”.

Maobitou Park is also home to many interesting coastal features, and thus, is one of the most popular attractions in Kenting National Park. The park is frequently filled with tourist whom comes in the busload. There is an elevated viewing platform along the coast that offers splendid panoramic views of the entire coastline.

Tick ets are required. See prices in picture below.

Our images at Maobitou Park

#8: Guanshan (關山)

A short 6km drive north of Maobitou Park is Guanshan, one of the most famous sunset viewing point on the peninsula.

Guanshan is a coastal hill that came from the uplifting of coral reefs, which was submerged thousands of years ago. It currently stands at an elevation of 152m above the sea level.

From the parking area at the foot of Guanshan, visitors could make a short and easy hike to the top of the hill. A small Buddhist temple (Kaoshanyan FuDe Temple) occupies the summit. At the front of the temple is a large viewing area facing north into the peninsula. It offers wide and unblock view of the surrounding flatlands.

360-degree picture: Below is our 360-degree picture taken at the viewing platform in front of Kaoshanyan FuDe Temple

More notably, Guanshan is renowned for its sunset view. In fact, Guanshan was listed on CNN’s “12 other superb sunset spots around the world” . The Sunset Viewing Platform on Guanshan is a short walk from both the temple and carpark. Facing west towards the Taiwan Strait, the platform offers excellent sunset views with Kenting’s scenic coastline in the foreground.

Map/Picture: Google Map Photo Sphere of the Sunset Viewing Platform at Guanshan. 

Best place for cheap seafood: Houbihu Fishing Port (後壁湖港)

A short drive from both Maobitou Park and Guanshan is the largest fishing port in Kenting, Houbihu Fishing Port . Located near the juncture of cold and warm ocean currents, Houbihu is blessed with rich fishing resources.

Houbihu is extremely popular with both locals and tourist alike due to its cheap and fresh seafood. In fact, most restaurants in the area source their seafood from Houbihu.

For those looking to dine-in at the port, there are several seafood restaurants in Houbihu. Diners could simply select from the wide range of fresh seafood on offer and have the chefs cook the seafood immediately.

From our experience, though the seafood (cooked) at Houbihu is extremely fresh, the prices are however average. The only exception is the sashimi, which is both fresh and insanely cheap! Freshly cut and served in large portions at irresistible low prices, the sashimi here is worthy of being an attraction in itself. If you’re into sashimi as we are, do not miss this for the world.

Where to stay and shop in Kenting National Park

Within the park, Kenting Street  is where most accommodation, F&B and retail establishments are concentrated. During the evenings, it transforms into Kenting Night Market and most visitors would congregate here for meals, shopping and entertainment. In fact, Kenting Night Market is one of the most popular night markets in southern Taiwan.

Kenting Street (see Google Street View below) is 1-2km long. Starting from the MacDonald’s  in front of the white colored gate to Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, till Caesar Park Hotel . Parking can be challenging during the evenings, especially so during weekends and holidays.

Plenty of accommodation options can be found within walking distance of Kenting Street. This is definitely the most convenient place to stay while at Kenting National Park.

Getting to and around Kenting National Park

Kaohsiung  is the nearest major city to Kenting National Park. It is approximately 100km away.

Regular buses  depart from Kaohsiung Main Station  and HSR Zuoying Station  (High-Speed-Rail) for Kenting National Park. Alternatively, it is possible to take a cab from Kaohsiung to Kenting National Park. Cab fares in Taiwan are generally affordable. Taking a cab to Kenting National Park can be especially cost-effective when in a small group or shared with other travelers. Do check with your accommodation for more information about the cabs.

Once in Kenting National Park, the easiest way to get around would be to rent an electric scooter. The park is not particularly large and can be explored in parts if on an electric scooter. However, do note that the eastern coastline of the park can experience strong winds during certain periods . As such, do ride with caution and seek advice from your rental company. Refer to this website for more info on the electric scooter rental .

For those driving rental cars, Kenting National Park can be comfortably explored in a single day. However, while at the eastern coastline, do be cautious when opening/closing car doors if there are strong winds.

Renting a car in Taiwan?

Needless to say, if you have the budget and are able to rent a car in Taiwan, self-diving can be a cost-efficient and convenient way to explore the island. This is especially so if you’re visiting places outside the major cities.

The central highlands, east coast, northern (e.g. Jiufen/Shifen ) and southern (e.g. Kenting) parts of Taiwan can be easily explored via self-drive. However, if your itinerary predominantly revolves around the major cities, then you’re better off taking public transports. Public transportation systems in Taiwan are affordable and convenient. Moreover, traffic conditions in major Taiwanese cities can be hectic and should be best avoided for the tourist driver.

For our Nov-2016 self-driving trip, our extended family rented two sedans for eleven days. We drove from the northern tip ( Jiufen ), via the east coast (Yilan, Hualien, Taitung), to the southern-most point (Kenting National Park) and back. Covering a total distance of 1,470km. Subsequently, we returned the vehicles at the outskirts of Taipei city, before taking public transport into Taipei for the rest of our holiday. (If you want to know which car rental company we used, just send us a message via our Facebook page .)

For more Taiwan related Travel Blogs

This Kenting National Park Travel Blog is part of our Taiwan series of travel blogs. Below is the list of our travel blogs on other popular destinations in Taiwan.

• Places to see on Green Island, Taiwan
• Green Island Scuba Diving VLOG, Taiwan

For our Japan related Travel Blogs

We’ve written an entire series of travel blogs covering Japan’s most popular travel destinations, refer to the list below:

• 11-Days Free & Easy Itinerary for Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hakone)
• Tokyo Highlights (Free & Easy Japan)  
• Osaka Highlights (Free & Easy Japan)
• Kyoto Highlights (Free & Easy Japan)
• Hakone Highlights (Free & Easy Japan)
• 4 Great Tips for your Japan Holiday

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A First Timer’s Guide to Kenting National Park

• taiwanscene

At the very southern tip of Taiwan is Kenting ( 墾 丁 ). A national park with stunning white sand beaches, beautiful forested areas, scenic mountains , and not to mention a wonderfully tropical climate, it is without doubt one of the very best places to visit in all Taiwan. A world away from the hustle and bustle of Taipei and even nearest big city Kaohsiung, the park is located on the Hengchun Peninsula in Pingtung county and its combination of sunshine, incredible natural scenery and chill vibes results in it being one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations; annually attracting people by the million. From soaking up the sun on the beach, to hiking through the park’s forest recreation area, to speeding over to its famous lighthouse by scooter, here is what to do on your next trip to Kenting National Park. ( Read more: Pingtung: Expect the Unexpected (Part one of two) )

Hit the beach

A paradise for lovers of sun, sand, and sea, Kenting is the perfect coastal escape. With 152 square kilometers of sea around the park, its beaches and bays are surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Taiwan Straight and the Luzon Straight, making it a great place for watersports, boat rides and diving.

– Baishawan/White Sand Bay (白沙灣)

A quiet, peaceful bay, Baishawan’s main attraction is a wonderful white sand beach (hence the name White Sand Bay in Chinese), which stretches along the coach for about 400m. The water is clean and clear and great for swimming and snorkeling (best in summer and autumn), but do be wary of the occasional medium-sized wave popping up every now and then. You can rent beach umbrellas, snorkeling equipment and buy towels, while there are food vendors to the western side of the beach, as well as a tiki bar where you can grab a drink and really get into tropical beach mode while you sip by the sea. ( Read also : Go Deeper: a guide to diving in Taiwan )

– Dawan/Big Bay Beach (大灣)

Dawan Beach, translating to Big Bay Beach, is within walking distance of Kenting’s main tourist strip and night market street/Kenting Avenue ( 墾 丁 大街). Rip currents result in swimming being prohibited here, but surfing is allowed as long as you know what you’re doing . Not as lively or vibrant as the likes of Baishawan, Dawan still has wonderful sand which is soft beneath your feet and is a great place to enjoy the sea air.

– Xiaowan/Little Bay Beach (小灣)

Little Bay Beach, just off Kenting’s main strip near the Caesar Park Hotel , is yet another popular beach. Clean, soft sand and pleasant waters, there are few waves here due to a natural barrier formed by a small peninsula to the west of the beach, making Xiaowan a great place to take a dip and enjoy some time in the sea . You can rent beach umbrellas and have a few drinks at the beachside bar, while the is also the opportunity for jet ski and banana boat rides, as well as kayaking. The clear waters here also make it a great option for snorkeling.

– Nanwan/South Bay (南灣)

The first beach you’ll see as you drive into Kenting, the area here is big and often busy. Around the beach y ou’ll find cafes, bars, restaurants and places to rent umbrellas and surfboards, as well as a 7-Eleven. Nanwan is a great spot for surfing when the waves are right, but don’t expect any joy if you want to snorkel.

Other seaside places of interest you should definitely visit are Maobitou Cape (貓鼻頭) , known for a unique piece of coral sticking out of the sea resembling a crouching cat (Maobitou translates to cat’s nose and head), and Eluanbi Lighthouse (鵝鑾鼻) at Cape Euanbi, the southernmost tip of Taiwan. Open to the public all year round, the lighthouse was rebuilt in 1947 and was once designated as one of the “8 Views of Taiwan” (台灣八景) during Japanese occupation.

Head into Nature

Kenting isn’t just about relaxing by the beach. There are also some fantastic natural landscapes and mountains and a whole load of flora and fauna to see during your time here. Sheding Park (社頂公園) is a former settlement of Taiwan’s indigenous Paiwanese people and is home to in excess of 300 species of plants and animals, including Formosan Sika Deers (台灣梅花鹿) and more than 50 varieties of butterfly. The park also features a dozen stalactite caves to be explored across its 128.7 hectares. There are also the grasslands and coral limestone tableland of Longpan Park (龍磐公園) , a great location to enjoy the sunrise and sunset. However, we want to concentrate on Kenting’s forest recreation area . ( Read more: Pingtung: Expect the Unexpected (Part two of two) )

– Kenting National Forest Recreation Area (墾丁森林遊樂園區)

A truly stunning part of Taiwan, a drive along the winding roads up to Kenting National Forest Recreation Area is the perfect juxtaposition to those lazy afternoons spent lounging on Kenting’s sandy beaches. Home to more than 1,000 species of plants, including a variety of tree species, the park has 17 scenic spots to visit, all linked by designated walkways . There’s the 400-plus years old Looking-glass Tree and its fascinatingly formed buttress roots, and also the charming Fairy Cave, an underground cave of stalactites and stalagmites where it’s so quiet you could hear a pin drop. A unique forest ecosystem rich in ecology, the park boasts monsoon rainforest, uplifted coral reef forest and banyan trees. A stunning recreation area complete with the freshest air, no visit to Kenting is complete without a trip into the forest.

Take in Some Culture and History

Kenting isn’t just about relaxing by the beach and getting lost in the forest. Nearby Hengchun (恆春) gives you a firsthand glimpse into Taiwan’s past. A national historical site, the city walls and gates here were built in the mid-to-late 1870s by the Qing government to strengthen the area’s coastal defenses, in particular against the Japanese (following the Mudan incident in 1874) and other colonizing nationalities. Hengchun is also a great place to try the traditional Taiwanese snack Lu Dou Suan (綠豆蒜) , a type of mung bean soup.

If you happen to find yourself in Hengchun on the 15 th day of the seventh lunar month , you’ll witness the township’s Ghost Festival , including several customs such as a traditional pudu (passage ceremony), a raffle ticket grab, and an amazing tower climbing race where competitors race to pluck a flag from atop a tall tower. Nowadays, this is a friendly sporting competition and folk custom, while in the past it was a much more violent affair where competitors races to get food. ( Read also: Traveling to Taipei During Ghost Month )

H ow to get to Kenting

Most people heading to Kenting head there via Kaohsiung. There is the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus from the HSR station (NT$401 one way; NT$650 roundtrip) as well as a bus from Kaohsiung’s TSA station (NT$341 one way). You can also drive yourself, taking exit 424 off National Freeway 3 (國道3號).

Getting around Kenting

While buses do run between popular tourist spots, renting a scooter is by far the easiest way to get around Kenting. The main tourist street ( 墾 丁 大街) has several very affordable rental shops and there is ample scooter parking at places of interest. ( Read more : Riding a scooter in Taiwan: Best places to explore by scooter )

While Traveling to Kenting, You Can Also Visit…

• Hiking in Taiwan: A Seashore Trek along the Alangyi Historic Trail
• 3 More Things to Do on a Day Trip to Kaohsiung
• Cruise Kaohsiung Taiwan Part 3: Kezailiao Fish Market Tour

Related Topics

• Kenting National Park
• nature in taiwan
• southern taiwan

Taiwan Scene is an online travel magazine. We publish stories introducing readers to the culture, scenery and travel possibilities of our homeland, articles to help travelers make the most of their time in Taiwan, and occasional interviews with movers and shakers from Taiwan’s ever-expanding creative scene. 一切關於有意思的台灣

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Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園; Kěndīng Guójiā Gōngyuán) drew lots of attention first as a setting for Taiwanese director Wei Te-sheng’s blockbuster Cape No. 7, and later for Ang Lee’s Life of Pi in 2012. But long before this cinema-fuelled tourism spike, the park, which occupies the entire southern tip of Taiwan, was drawing in flocks of visitors who came to swim, surf, snorkel, dive, hike and enjoy a little nightlife – all year round. The average January temperature is 21°C and it's usually warm enough for you to swim. In July it can get to a scorching 38°C.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kenting Forest Recreation Area

Once an undersea coral reef, this forest area is now a quirky landscape of limestone caves, narrow canyons and cliff walls strangled with the roots of…

Sheding Nature Park

This well-protected expanse of scrubby hills and open grasslands is a favourite with picnickers, hiking families and ecotourists. A pathway runs through…

Eluanbi Lighthouse

Kenting's best-known landmark – a still-functioning lighthouse built in the 1880s – is at Eluanbi Cape, the southernmost end of Taiwan's Central Mountain…

The admission fee buys you a half-hour tour-bus ride (and back) along a 2.5km-long stretch of coral coastline, as the driver explains to you the monikers…

Taiwan's Southernmost Point

Just so you can say you've been to Taiwan's southernmost point, there's a stone marker showing exactly that. It's about 1.2km southeast of Eluanbi Park…

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Jun 5, 2018 • 6 min read

Tropical southern Taiwan is a land of turquoise waters and rocky coasts, night markets and beach bars, succulent seafood and fresh produce. One of…

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20 Awesome Things to Do in Kenting National Park, Taiwan

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

Kenting National Park in Pingtung county lies at tropical, southern tip of Taiwan. It is the country’s prime holiday spot, attracting long weekend crowds to its golden beaches.

There’s a whole lot more to Kenting than just the beach, from scuba diving and other water activities to night markets, capybaras, hikes in pristine nature.

In this article, I’ll introduce a more enough Kenting sights and activities to fill many weekends – take your pick and start planning your next vacation in the sun! I’ve also got a more general guide to visiting Kenting on my other website, TaiwanObsessed.

Table of Contents

Kenting National Park Quick Tips

Here are some general tips for planning your Kenting trip.

When to Visit

• Kenting is tropical, so it’s warm enough to swim in the sea year-round.
• Winter is very quiet and crowd-free. Spring, and especially the long weekend at the beginning of April , are very popular, so try to avoid weekends. Summer is also busy but oppressively hot. Fall is also lovely and crowd-free.
• Spring Scream and some other past music festivals made Kenting the country’s spring break party capital. Nowadays, the local government puts on a free music festival on Kenting Main Beach on that weekend.

Getting There

• The best way to get to Kenting is to take the Kenting Express shuttle bus from Zuoying HSR station in Kaohsiung. The ride takes 2-3 hours.
• If you’re coming from the east coast of Taiwan, take the train to Fangliao, where you can board the above bus. Buy your ticket here in Fangliao , then cross the street and catch the bus here .
• Once you’re there, either stay put at the beach you chose or explore the national park on the network of local buses. You can buy a day pass for these buses (same link as the Kenting Express bus above). See a map of the bus routes here .
• You can also rent electric bikes (no license needed) or scooters (IDP needed) from several shops in Kenting village.

Orientation

• Hengchun in the largest town in the area. You’ll drive through it just before reaching the national park. Three of the local bus lines start here.
• Kenting Main Beach/Village is in the middle of the national park. It has the highest concentration of hotels and restaurants, plus Kenting Night Market. The beach is nice but swimming is not technically allowed.
• To the west of Kenting Main Beach, South Bay (Nanwan) is a smaller beach which allows swimming. Further west, Houbihu is the main snorkeling/scuba spot, Baishawan Beach is more remote, and National Museum of Marine Biology (Kenting Aquarium) is quite a ways down the coast.
• Each of Kenting Main Beach, Sail Rock Beach (Chuafang Rock) is another swimmable beach, while Eluanbi Lighthouse is at the actual southern tip of Taiwan.
• After the lighthouse, the road follows the coast north past some coastal parks, then loops back to Hengchun and Kenting Main Beach.

Where to Stay in Kenting

For even more details and suggestions than I’ll provide here, please visit my Kenting accommodation guide .

Kenting Main Beach (墾丁大街) is the most popular place to stay in Kenting. It has the most restaurants, hotels, a nice beach, and night market.

I recommend Kenting Space Capsule (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) for low budget or Kenting Moon Bay Hotel (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) for mid-range travelers.

For a resort option, I recommend Caesar Park Kenting (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ). The resort has a pool and direct access to a small beach called Xiaowan, which allows swimming and has a beach bar.

Gloria Manor (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) is the most luxurious hotels in all of Taiwan – it’s in a secluded spot up the hill from town.

At South Bay , the first beach the bus will pass when arriving at Kenting, I recommend First Nanwan Hostel (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ), Meet You Nanwan (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) for families, or Cat at Greece (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ).

At Sail Rock beach , I recommend Sasa Nor Lamour B&B (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) for proximity to the beach, Red Garden Resort (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) for Balinese vibes, and Kenting 4 Sisters Hotel (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor) or Fullon Resort (see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ) for a fancier getaway.

Things to Do in Kenting

 Now it’s time to get down to business – what are the best things to do in Kenting National Park? I’ll start with Kenting Main Beach, then sections on Hencgchun and the areas to the west and east of Main Beach.

Kenting Main Beach Area

Kenting Main Beach goes by many names: Kenting, Kenting village, 墾丁大灣 (Kenting Big Bay), or 墾丁大街 (Kenting Main Street).

You could enjoy a whole weekend stay in Kenting National Park without actually leaving the main beach area. Here are some ways to pass the time.

Stroll Kenting Main Beach

Kenting Main Beach (墾丁海水浴場) is the longest beach in Kenting National Park, at almost 2 km from end to end.

While there are no lifeguards and swimming isn’t technically allowed here, some people will still play in the water, especially at the far ends where no one will notice. Because of the rule, the beach here is pleasantly free of motorboats and jetskis like the other beaches in the park. It’s especially nice around sunset.

The main town is just up from the eastern half of the beach – locals call it “Kenting Main Street” (墾丁大街).  

From the eastern end of the beach, you can follow a small road then path to the secret Lover’s beach (情人灘, here ) on a cape called Frog Rock.

Watch the Sunset at Small Bay Beach Bar

Small Bay (小灣 or Xiaowan) is a small beach just east of Main Beach and Frog Rock. It is mainly used be Caesar Park and Howard Resort , both of which have private paths to it.

However, the general public can swim here, too, and there’s even a proper Beach Bar (rare in Taiwan!) Umbrellas can be rented for small fee.

To get to the this beach, just walk east along the highway through Kenting town. Just past the end of town and the night market, watch for an upright surfboard sign on the beach side of the road. Beside it, there’s a short staircase down to the beach bar and beach.

Have a Cocktail at Kenting Night Market

Kenting Night Market is Taiwan’s southernmost night market. It is also the only night market in the country that has decidedly beach party vibes.

There’s no other night market where you can see vendors wearing beach attire. It definitely has the highest concentration of take-away cocktail stalls, many of which blast electronic music to set the vibe.

Locals will tell you that Kenting Night Market is “expensive”. As a visitor, though, you probably won’t notice any difference from other night markets in Taiwan.

The night market runs along either side of the highway in the town area. Click here to find my recommendations on what to eat at Kenting Night Market .

Get into Nature at Kenting National Forest Recreation Area

While Kenting itself is a national park, it also has a National Forest Recreation Area (墾丁國家森林遊樂區) inside it (other famous National Forest Recreation Areas in Taiwan include Alishan and Taipingshan ).

The park features walking trails through the jungle (I spotted many macaques!) and several coral reef tunnels and caves. The best one is Fairy Cave. Another highlight is the tall viewing tower, which provides a commanding view of the whole coast, jungle canopy, and surrounding mountains. Budget around 2 hours of walking to visit these.

The park is only a 7-minute (uphill) drive from the western end of Kenting town (watch for the large arch entrance gate). Unfortunately, buses don’t go up there and the road is too steep for electric bikes, so you’ll have to try to find a ride in town. Entrance is TWD 150.

Hengchun Area

Hengchun is the largest town in the Kenting area. You’ll drive through it just before reaching the national park. There are a few things to do in and around Henchun. It’s also the starting point of the shuttle bus orange, blue, and green lines, so it’s a transportation hub.

Make Capybara Friends at Capybara Paradise

In the last few years, capybaras (the world’s largest rodent, from South America) have become hugely popular in Taiwan. There are dozens of places to meet capybaras around Taiwan , but this spot in Kenting is one of the best.

Luyu Island Capybara Ecological Park (墾丁鹿ㄦ島水豚生態園區, here , also called Kenting Capybara Paradise) is a small capybara petting zoo along the highway just north of Hengchun (you’ll pass it about 10 minutes before reaching Kenting).

I enjoyed this capybara center more than others because it wasn’t too busy, there were lots of capybaras, and there’s even a capybara shrine. The capybaras are surprisingly chill creatures. And, if you really want to get down to business, you can pay extra to swim in a pool with the capybaras!

There are also a few sika deer and giant tortoises on site. The ticket includes a discount on ice cream at the end.

Meet Sika Deer at Kenting Paradise of Deer

Near the capybara place, Kenting Paradise of Deer (鹿境梅花鹿生態園區) is a very similar place but more focused on the deer (although they have a few capybaras, too.

While Taiwan’s sika deer are beautiful creatures, I don’t love visiting them at tourist attractions like this. They can be become a little aggressive when trying to get the food you’re given to feed them, so young children are sometimes afraid of them.

Anyways, if you’re into deer, they do sell some cute deer stuffies, and of course, ice cream, too.    

See the Henchun Old City Gates, Old Street, and Night Market

For history buffs, Hengchun has some of the best-preserved old city gates in Taiwan. Henchun South Gate is the one you’re most likely to pass on the way through town – it’s in the middle of a traffic circle. But there are also north, east, and west ones.

Hengchun Old Street (恆春古城魅力商圈) has lots of food stalls in the daytime, while Hengchun Night Market (恆春夜市) is on Sundays only. It’s more local than Kenting Night Market.

West of Main Beach

You can ride the Kenting shuttle blue line to explore several spots along the coast west of Kenting Main Beach.

Be Lazy at South Bay

South Bay (南灣 or Nanwan) is a smaller beach west of Kenting Main Beach. If arriving in Kenting by bus or car, you’ll pass South Bay first before reaching Main Beach.

South Bay is popular for lying under umbrellas on the beach, swimming, and water activities. There’s a small bar on the beach. Right across the highway, there’s one convenience store and around 20 small guesthouses.

South Bay is close enough to Main Beach that you can easily hop on a bus for five minutes to go to the night market. But it’s small enough that you barely have to do any walking.

One downside of this beach is the nuclear power plant on the side of the bay – just try not to think about it…

Besides the blue shuttle, the orange one also stops here before heading towards Hengchun.

Feast on Seafood at Houbihu Harbor

Houbihu Harbour (後壁湖) is the main fishing harbor in Kenting National Park. You can see collections of traditional Taiwanese fishing boats docked in the harbor.

The main reason to come here is to eat a meal of super fresh sashimi and other seafoods. Two buildings here contain around a dozen simple seafood restaurants.

Unfortunately, you can just buy a snack, like a small tray of sashimi just to try it (like at most other seafood markets in Taiwan). When I visited, I found none of the restaurants would let me do this, even though they had pictures advertising such dishes.

The sashimi prices were super low, but all of the restaurants have a minimum charge – basically they want you do sit down for a full meal, not just one dish or plate of sashimi to go like at many other seafood markets in Taiwan.

There are also several popular seafood restaurants in Houbihu village nearby, like this one , this one , and this one .

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Houbihu

The coast just south of Houbihu is the main snorkeling and scuba diving spot in Kenting National Park.

I don’t recommend to just show up at one of the shops, though, as they aren’t near the beach. Instead, book your snorkeling or scuba experience online , then follow the instructions for how to meet up with them.

Overlook the Coast at Maobitou Park

Maobitou (貓鼻頭公園) is a coastal park which is very popular among large tour groups (for that reason, I didn’t really love it).

A short walk there leads to a few cliff-top observation decks. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Kenting Main Beach and even Eluanbi Lighthouse.

Because mao (貓) means “cat”, there are a few cat statues, and I did manage to spot one (live) cat by the snack stalls.

Get Away from it all at Baishawan Beach

Baishawan is the most remote of the “main” beaches on the Kenting coast. Compared to Nanwan, Main Beach, or Sail Rock Beach, it only has a handful of accommodations and no 7-Eleven (the horror!)

This beach’s main claim to fame is that a scene from Life of Pi was filmed here (director Ang Lee, one of the most well-known Taiwanese celebrities , was actually a native of Pingtung!)

Don’t expect a totally pristine beach, though. It still has the usual umbrellas, jet skis, and a bit of trash.

Meet Sea Creatures at National Museum of Marine Biology

National Museum of Marine Biology (國立海洋生物博物館 or “Kenting Aquarium”, see official site ) is the largest aquarium in Taiwan.

Some highlights at the sprawling complex beluga whales, a simulated underwater shipwreck, a huge tank filled with sharks and rays, and whale fountains for kids to splash around in.

While it is undeniably large, I personally found that a lot of the space there is just filler and the facilities are getting old. I had a better experience at the smaller but much newer Xpark in Taoyuan , which is also much easier to get to.

You can also feed penguins there or even spend the night in the aquarium !

Kenting Aquarium is quite a ways down the coast from the rest of Kenting. It feels like you’ve left the national park, but it’s actually still in the park because a thin strip of national park extends down the coast to it.

The blue line does go all the way there, but it’s a long ride.

East of Main Beach

There are a few more attractions along the coast east of Kenting Main Beach. The Orange Line shuttle bus and Kenting Express from Zuoying (Kaohsiung) go as far as Eluanbi Lighthouse before turning back, so that’s the furthest most tourists make it.

If you drive, you go further up the coast and even make a big loop back to Hengchun and Kenting Main Street.

Beach Vacay at Sail Rock Beach

Sail Rock Beach (船帆石沙灘 or Chuanfang Beach) is named after a large sail-shaped rock down the coast from it. The beach is similar in size and popularity to South Bay, but minus the nuclear plant.

You’ll find all the beach activities here, too, but no bar (don’t worry, there’s a 7-11). There are also a couple dozen guesthouses and a few resorts near the beach.

The downside is that you’ll have to travel a little further to get here – or you may see its remoteness as a plus.

See Kenting’s Prettiest Beach at Shadao Ecological Preserve

The most beautiful beach I’ve seen in Kenting National Park is at Shadao Ecological Reserve (砂島生態保護區). There’s only one catch – you can’t go on it. This is an ecological/wildlife reserve, including a nesting ground for sea turtles.

Still, you can admire the beach from the small parking lot here. You can also play on the coast next to the parking lot, which has some cool water pools formed by coral reef – just watch your step!

Stand on the Tip of Taiwan at Eluanbi Lighthouse

Eluanbi Lighthouse is Taiwan’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of Kenting National Park. The historic lighthouse is fortified (to protect it from attacks in the past by local aboriginals) and dates to 1883.

The large grassy hill around the lighthouse offers stunning views along the coast. You can also follow a series of trails down through the grounds of the former Spring Scream Music Festival. One of them leads to an observation deck on the true southern tip of Taiwan.

There’s a TWD 60 entrance fee and it’s closed on Mondays. The Kenting Express from Zuoying (Kaohsiung) and the Kenting Shuttle Orange Line end here before turning back.

View Coastal Sand Dunes at Longpan and Fengchuisha

If you drive, you can go further up the coast to Longpan Park (龍磐公園). A short boardwalk trail leads to an impressive viewpoint of the coast.

Past it, another view with coastal sand dunes is at Fengchuisha (風吹砂).

Go Surfing at Gangkou Beach

The best place to go surfing in Kenting is at remote Gangkou Beach (港口海灘). There are a handful of surfer’s hostels like this one in a tiny village nearby.

Swimming is not technically allowed on the beach due to the strong current.

You can get here by riding the Green Shuttle Bus from Hengchun. It’s one of the last stops. The terminal stop is Jialeshui, a coastal park which few tourists ever make it to.

Swim Under Waterfalls at Qikong

After Gangkou, Highway 200 veers inland and loops back to Hengchun. By car or scooter, you can veer off the highway to Qikong Waterfall (七孔瀑布, literally 7 Holes Waterfall).

This is a stream with a series of waterfalls which you can swim under. It only takes a few minutes to follow the trail up through the jungle to the first one, but the second and third ones are the best. You’ll need to use the ropes to pull yourself up some steeper parts.

The swimming holes are natural infinity pools, where you can gaze into the jungle from the top of a waterfall. This is a true hidden gem!

An old man charges a small fee (20 for scooter or 60 for car) for parking here at the trailhead . You could get here by bus if you take the Green Shuttle from Hengchun to Chunxing Rd. Intersection and then walk 45 minutes up the road to the trailhead.

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Kenting National Park

• 1.1 Landscape
• 1.2 Flora and fauna
• 1.3 Climate
• 2.2 By train
• 3.1 By rental motorbike
• 3.2 By rental car
• 5.1 Recreational activities
• 9.2 Resorts and hotels
• 9.3 Lodging
• 9.4 Camping
• 10 Stay safe

Kenting National Park [dead link] (墾丁國家公園 kěndīng gúojiā gōngyuán ) is in at the extreme southern tip of Taiwan . It is famous for its beautiful beaches and lush vegetation.

Understand [ edit ]

Although Kenting National Park is located in Kenting, these two places should not be confused as the same destination. Kenting is the wider area that includes small townships as well as the national park.

Landscape [ edit ]

Kenting National Forest Recreation Area is between 150 and 300 m above sea level and the total area is 466.8 ha. Since the landform of Hengchun Peninsula is complicated and the weather is highly changeable, it breeds abundant and special rare plant resources. The forest landscape is roughly divided into three layers. The first layer is arbores. Moraceae and lauraceae are dominant. The second layer is bushes, primarily small palmae. The third layer is chamaephyte. Low grasses and liana are dominant. It is a rich and adequate forest with more than 1,200 kinds of ornamental and conserved plants.

Rising high coral limestone is everywhere in Kenting National Forest Recreation Area. The limestone is primarily composed of sedimentation of corals, foraminifers and nullipores. According to research, this area is supposed to be under sea level ten millions years ago. After weathering and sea water erosion, the coral limestone has gradually become stalagmites, stalactite caves, columns, notches and stalactites. Especially stalagmites and stalactites, they are formed by deposition of calcium carbonate which is precipitated from mineralized water solutions. An average growth rate is 1 cm every 30 years. They are rare and precious stone resources.

Entering from the memorial archway in Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, along the forest trail, there are old trees on both sides of the road. Among them, there is a 300-year-old giant Chinese pistache. Heading inside the recreation area, everywhere, there are spots worth a visit. Aquatic plants area, stalagmites cave, Silver Leaves and Roots, Fairy Cave, Labyrinth Forest, Sky in a Line, Falling Banyan Valley, Silver Dragon Cave, No.1 Gorge, Umbrella Pavilion and Ape Cliff are geographic landscape that you can’t miss.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

Kenting National Forest Recreation Area is the only one tropical botanical garden in Taiwan and also one of the top 10 tropical botanical gardens in the world. There are thousands of tropical plants and adequate resources of butterflies, birds, insects and reptiles. Sometimes, you can see groups of Formosan macaques playing. Every autumn and winter, plenty of migratory birds including Chinese goshawks, oriental honey-buzzards, cattle egrets, falco subbuteos, brown shrikes and gray-faced buzzards roost at this place. It brings the original forest a more vivid ambience.

Climate [ edit ]

During typhoon season, the waves can get quite rough causing all beaches to be closed.

Get in [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ].

Buses travel every hour on the hour from Taipei Bus Station (get there via Taipei Main Station MRT) to Kaohsiung . UBus (United Bus), is a popular company that offers such a service for NT$430. There is no Wi-Fi, but the seats recline and there is a roughly 20" screen mounted on the ceiling of the bus every 4 rows. The trip can range from 5 to 6 hours.

From Kaohsiung to Hengchun and Kenting buses travel frequently – take the line 9188 from the Kaohsiung bus terminal (don't get confused with city buses). The price for a ticket is roughly NT$350. The transit time from Kaohsiung to Kenting is approximately 2½ hours. There is both a regular and express bus. The express bus arrives on the hour. It can be difficult to discern which bus is the express bus and it is also unlikely the driver will speak English.

Along the coast and passing by Fangliao and Fangshan (for transfer from Eastern Taiwan ) at least four different buses can be taken to get down to Hengchun and Kenting: 101, 9117, 9127, 9188, 9189. The price from Fangliao or Fangshan to Hengchun or Kenting is NT$112-150.

Note that GoogleMaps states travel times for the bus of 3-5 hr to Hengshun and Kenting from Fangliao – this is wrong. The buses take barely an hour to go down the coast, and about 20-30 min from Fangshan to Hengshun, since it does barely stop at any of the 60-80 official bus stops along the road.

By train [ edit ]

Kenting is accessible via the HSR , or High Speed Rail which connects Taipei with Zuoying, Kaohsiung . The total travel time from Taipei to Zuoying (Kaohsiung) via HSR is approximately 90 min. After arrival in Zuoying, exit the station and head outside where there is a bus stop. Line 88 bus to Kenting operates 24 hours/day, so getting back to the HSR on time is no problem. Ask your place of accommodation about shuttle buses, or you can take a taxi, which usually picks up passengers until it's full and then quotes a price per person for the trip.

It is advisable to reserve your HSR tickets by telephone or online if traveling on the weekend. Weekend trains are often sold out.

By car [ edit ]

Renting a car is not optimal, but nice if you wish to travel around the Kenting area. Having an automobile or renting a scooter in Kenting enables you to travel up and down the entire southern seaboard and visit both public beaches easily.

Get around [ edit ]

By rental motorbike [ edit ]

You should really rent a scooter to explore this region. Otherwise, it is much more hassle to see all the beautiful places, which are quite distant from each other. It is probably best to get 24-hr deal in Hengchun, which has better prices and also fuel scooter not just electric ones for people without international driving licence. From here exploring the Kenting National Park area and surroundings for a day is easy. As Taiwan has a motorbike helmet law, be aware that wearing a helmet is a requirement when operating or riding as a passenger on a motorbike.

In Hengchun , motorbikes can be rented from NT$300 per 24 hr, with international driving licence. Without, they will charge higher. Stand your ground if you got promised a cheap price and then are driven down the road to the real renting station where you will be demanded more money. Most rental stores are near the central bus stops in Hengchun.

In Kenting , motorbikes can be rented from NT$500-800 per 24 hr from many different store fronts. Most places here rent electric scooter, and the fuel powered ones are more expensive. The range of the electric ones is 80-100 km and they are relatively slow, but they can be recharged for free at the pickup station. Drivers must show a Taiwan or International motorbike drivers license and sign a rental contract before being given keys. Some places might be reluctant to rent to foreigners, therefore it can be useful to go with a Taiwanese to help in the process.

• 21.94708 120.79185 1 Pyng An Rent Car ( right next to the fuel station before entering Kenting ), ☏ +886 932301866 , +886 960301866 , +886 8 8861626 , [email protected] . They also have fuel powered scooters in Kenting and are quite decent with NT$500 per 24 hr, maybe can be bargained down to NT$450. They also have an "office" at 21.944956 120.799623 1 Ji Jing Guest House , which is run by her sister, and will pick you up there or in Kenting. Line / WeChat-ID: 0932301866 ( updated Nov 2017 )

By rental car [ edit ]

You can also arrange a rental car for pick up at the HSR Kaohsiung Zuoying station.

See [ edit ]

• 21.897633 120.857892 2 Southernmost point of Taiwan ( The entrance to the carpark is about 200 m further down the main road from the Eulanbi Lighthouse. ). A sculpture representing the southernmost tip of Taiwan. Famous with the locals for pictures and a great sunset spot. No admission, but parking fee NT$50 .  
• 21.90205 120.85258 3 Eulanbi Lighthouse ( 鵝鑾鼻燈塔 ). The surrounding park area is well worth the trip past Kenting. The lighthouse is pretty bland, but the easy hiking trails are pleasant and near the ocean. NT$40 .  
• 21.92722 120.84802 4 Longpan Park ( 龍磐公園 ). A scenic geological formation formed by levels of the coast separately lowering and getting washed away by the sea. Now, a very green and picturesque coast line and cliff. Also check out 21.92223 120.85384 5 this nearby location .  
• 21.946568 120.839948 6 Fongchueisha (Dune) ( 風吹沙 ). A large and picturesque dune. You can walk down it on its right flank.  
• 22.008293 120.757641 7 Chuhuo Eternal Fire ( 出火特別景觀區 ). An interesting sight where natural gas escapes from under the earth through porous rock. It is alighted and constantly burns. You can even alight smaller spots by yourself with a lighter – there are about 6-7 of them where gas emerges. Best time to come here is during sunset when the place dives into the night and allows for great pictures, given you have the right photo equipment.  
• 21.92062 120.73779 8 Maobitou ( 貓鼻頭 / 南海洞 ). A beautiful black cliff and coastal area, which is great for sunsets. The rock formation is supposed to look like a lying cat, with a lot of imagination. Nevertheless, the price is probably not worth the tiny walkway, seems more like a tourist trap. You should rather go for Longpan Park instead – equally or more beautiful. Parking NT$10-50, Entrance NT$30/15 full/concession .  
• 21.94512 120.74464 9 Houbihu (Marina) ( 後壁湖 ), Daguang Road, Hengchun Township . A mildly picturesque and small harbour. Just nearby, also a coral and power exhibition can be found – quite obvious with the nuclear plant right to the east.  
• 21.931207 120.823918 10 Chuanfan Rock ( Sail Rock ), Chuanfan . A huge rock at this stony beach, which allows for pretty pictures.  
• 22.00602 120.74397 11 Hengchun Town Wall . Nice for a stroll around the centre.  
• 22.00487 120.74274 13 Rocks Park (Hengchun) ( Hou Dong Shan Gong Yuan ), Hengchun . This is either coral or volcanic rock.  
• 21.9883 120.8418 14 Gangkou Suspension Bridge ( 屏東滿州港口吊橋 ).  

Do [ edit ]

• 21.95937 120.76298 1 South Bay ( 樂活南灣遊憩區 ), No. 223, Nanwan Road . Decent and beautiful beach to take a dip.  
• 21.9344 120.71783 2 White Sand Bay ( Baisha / 墾丁白沙灣海灘 ). Remote and beautiful beach.  
• 21.95659 120.81908 3 Sheding Natural Park ( 社頂自然公園 ), ☏ +886 8 8861821 . There is a free trail (about 1½-2 hours of walking) but you have to pay a small parking fee. The gorges are fairly interesting to look at and there are views of the southern tip of the coast.  
• 21.95906 120.81163 4 Kenting National Forest Recreation Area ( 墾丁國家森林遊樂區 ), No. 201, Gongyuan Road, Kenting ( apparently no public bus goes here ), ☏ +886 8 8861211 . 08:00-17:00 . A beautiful forest and jungle area, but it seems quite expensive, unless you are a botanist. The Stalagmite Cave closed as of Nov 2017. Also, the Fairy Cave does not seem to be open constantly – best to inquire at the entrance. If you must do this park, you definitely need to do the extend walk until the "First Ravine" – the backmost part is much more worth it. Parking: NT$20-50, entrance: NT$100/150 weekday/weekend . ( updated Nov 2017 )

Recreational activities [ edit ]

As in any tourist area, it is advisable to double-check prices. Kenting closes surprisingly early for Taiwan - most shops and stalls seem to shut down at 22:00.

• FuDog Surfing provides lessons at a reasonable price and in English.
• Afei Surf , No. 264 Nanwan Road , ☏ +886 8 889-6640 . Surf courses, tours and board rental. They also run two Balinese-style hostels, one in Nanwan, the other in Jialeshui.  
• Jet-skis can be rented at the more popular beaches, but will generally cost NT$1000/30 minutes during peak times. Inquire with shops that rent motorbikes for more reasonable rates.
• Scooter rides. Take a motorbike ride around the main roads in Kenting, which give you access to several tourist sites. Your motorbike rental operator should provide you with a map of the area; if not ask for one at your place of accommodation.
• Go-Karts . There are several fun and exciting Go-Kart tracks in Kenting that offer 18 cycles around the track for NT$100.
• Swimming . The ocean is open and safe for swimming at 2 public beaches and numerous (pay) private beaches. Sometimes, the beaches are closed due to high waves in typhoon season.
• Every evening the Main Kenting Strip turns into a night market with merchandise, games, restaurants, and street food.
• Scuba-diving and snorkeling . Kenting's coast has plenty of corals and a variety of ocean wildlife.

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ].

• 22.00336 120.74357 2 Hengchun Night Market , Hengchun . closes early at around 21:00-22:00 . Not as busy as Kenting, but worth while staying in Hengchun.  

Thai food is in vogue in Kenting, and virtually every restaurant now offers it. There are plenty of restaurants too - lots of Chinese (of course), Thai, and a little western. There is also a lot of fresh fruit available and plenty of seafood.

• Gelato (?) , Nanwan ( 5-10 minutes North from the Kenting Strip, near Santosa restaurant ). Delicious gelato and a great place to have an afternoon snack. There is seating in front of the storefront. NT$40-110 .  
• Chinese Seafood ( Across from Cafe 85 ). The seafood is delicious and worth ordering the fish of the day. It is very reasonably priced unlike some of the other seafood eateries offering live fish. NT$200 per person .  
• Santosa Restaurant , Nanwan ( close to the 7-11 on the Nanwan strip ). Cheap Thai food that is delicious and filling. Try the seafood fried rice and the basil chicken. The restaurant owner is very friendly. About NT$150 per person .  
• Warung DiDi , No. 26 Wenhua Lane, Kenting Rd, Kenting ( Hidden down a narrow alley off the main road - follow the signs ). Seems to be the most popular restaurant in Kenting, serving a variety of pan-Asian food. A little hard to find, and fills up quickly, but worth a visit.  
• The Rock Garden ( when going from Kenting, the place is 300 m) off the main road before the bridge; at Jialeshui Beach ), ☏ +886 925751032 . Lovely place in a garden setting, great for a lunch outdoors.  
• Bossa Nova beach cafe , 100 Nan-Wan road-Nan-Wan beach-Hengchuen-946-TW , ☏ +886 8-8897137 . all day open . Cool beach cafe with one of the rare ocean view in the area. Solid menu with a large Asian selection and a western section as well. Wine, coffee, desserts. Look for Claire, the owner. She is a local and a longtime body boarder, always ready to help you with any info you might need.  
• Beach Bistro , No.230, Changfun Rd.Eluan village. Hengchun Township, Pingtung County ( Next to Chuanfanshih “Boat Sail Rock ), ☏ +886 919237280 , +886 8-8851281 . 10:00-22:00 . Beach Bistro is a Greek-style seaside restaurant which offers a mixture of Asian and European recipes. The owner, Chang Chung-Ho, was born in Kenting and travels to France every year, so his cooking inevitably has become French-oriented but with an own Asian touch, resulting in an Asia-Euro "Nouvelle Cuisine" with unique dishes in a particularly relaxed and friendly atmosphere. NT$200-400 .  
• Chez Papa , No.142 Kenting Street , ☏ +886 8 886-1197 . 09:00–01:00 . Moroccan-style restaurant which offers a mixture of Asian and European recipes. The owner, Gillou, was born in France, so his food is French-oriented, but with an Asian touch. Also features a big selection of Belgium beers and wines, and cocktails. Relaxed and friendly atmosphere. NT$180-450 .  
• 人和素食館 , No. 232 Hengnan Road, Hengchun ( 50 m south of the Old Town South Gate ), ☏ +886 8 889-2131 . This vegetarian restaurant offers succulent Taiwanese delicates. The mushroom-dish, a must try, is recommended by the owner. Your plate is weighed to calculate the price. A good plate costs about NT$100 .  

Drink [ edit ]

There are plenty of bars and stands to have a drink along Kenting Road in Kenting.

Sleep [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

• 21.94576 120.79672 2 Kenting Youth Hostel , No.243-1, Kending Rd, Kenting . Check-out: 11:00 . Cosy and clean with very friendly stuff. Free Wifi. NT$300 .  
• 21.9337 120.82427 3 Blue Sea Inn ( 墾丁藍海旅店 ), No. 10, Lane 692, Chuanfan Road, Chuanfan , ☏ +886 956726393 . Friendly young owner and decent location near the beach (300 m). All required standards for an unbeatable price in this region. Double from NT$650 . ( updated Nov 2017 )

Resorts and hotels [ edit ]

Since Kenting's popularity as a destination is rising, it seems like every plot of land that isn't already a hotel or restaurant is being turned into one, and many shops and restaurants have rooms upstairs too, so it shouldn't be too hard to find a place to sleep. The newer hotels are generally nicer but pricier, and you'll want to check there's no ongoing construction that might interfere with your sleep.

• Caesar Park Hotel Kenting , 6 Kenting Road, Hengchun , ☏ +886 8 866-1888 .  
• Château Beach Resort Kenting , 451 Kenting Road, Hengchun , ☏ +886 8 886-2345 . Made famous by the movie "Cape No.7". It is the only hotel in the area with direct beach access from terraced rooms.  
• Howard Beach Resort Kenting , 2 Kenting Road, Hengchun , ☏ +886 8 866-2323 .  

Lodging [ edit ]

• Ipanema Surf House , In a small village. Nice and cosy place for an escape from busy beach , ☏ +886 8 8866807 , [email protected] .  
• Kenting Nan Wan Resort Hotel , No.10, Nanwan Rd., Hengchun Town, Pingtung County .  

Camping [ edit ]

Camping is allowed in the National Park. It is advisable to contact the park directly to set up permits. Several bed and breakfast or small proprietor operations will rent tents and space for camping on their property.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Like all of Taiwan, the Kenting area is very safe from violent crime. Use common sense when protecting your valuables, and don't leave anything valuable in your car.

Stray dogs, while not violent or aggressive, are everywhere and likely harbor disease and/or parasites. Don't pet them!

During weekends, tourists park all over the sidewalks and entryways, making it very difficult for pedestrians to walk safely and out of street traffic.

Go next [ edit ]

Bus Line 88 runs 24 hours a day and will take you to Kaohsiung city. The bus will drop you off opposite the operator's storefront. There are usually taxis waiting there to take you to the ZuoYing HSR station for no more than NT$120.

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Located in Pingtung, a beautiful city in southern Taiwan, Kenting is a popular, enchanting holiday destination popular among travelers. Having a tropical climate, summer in Kenting is usually hot and mild in winter making Kenting a pleasant Taiwan holiday getaway all year round for the locals and foreign visitors. Kenting is the paradise of leisure and fun, as well as the home to tropical forests, meadows, and seaside cliffs. Besides visiting the Kenting National Park , Eluanbi Park , Nanwan (South Bay) , Maobitou , Longluantan , or simply just chill by the beach makes Kenting a must visit destination in Taiwan. Discover Kenting, the wonderful Taiwan tourist destination that enthralls travelers of all ages.

More Kenting News & Events Kenting News & Events

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The 11 Best Kenting Attractions: Top Travel Guide

Introduction

Reasons to visit kenting.

If the bustling city life of Taipei has left you dizzy, rest assured Kenting can offer the revitalizing change you’re after.

Nestled in the southern part of Taiwan, this charming resort town is a tropical paradise.

Well-known for its stunning landscapes, magnificent beaches, and serene national park, Kenting is a must-visit destination for every avid traveler!

Kenting Map

Essential Information for First-Time Visitors

When to visit kenting, taiwan.

Determining the perfect time to visit any destination boils down to your preference, and weather is a crucial factor.

• Mild Season (March-May): Soak in the best of Kenting during the spring season. The temperature hovers between 22°C – 30°C, optimal for beach visits and sightseeing. The lack of typhoon threat during this time is an added perk.
• Rainy Season (June-September): Perhaps avoid Kenting during these months. This period is typically typhoon season, and it can get incredibly hot. If you still choose to visit, take proper precautions for typhoons and heatwaves.
• Shoulder Season (October-February): Autumn and winter seasons in Kenting are quite windy, with a chance of rainfall. While the water temperatures can be chilly and currents strong, these conditions make for a top-notch surfing experience! For the best locations to swim in Kenting, check out this guide .  If swimming isn’t your main aesthetic, exploring Kenting in its cooler, quieter state can be wildly refreshing. 

That said, every rule has its exception, so be ready to embrace Kenting’s beauty at any season, with a touch of luck on your side against cyclones!

One of the most crowded beaches in Kenting that are kid- and swim-friendly is Nanwan Beach . 

How to get to Kenting from Taipei?

Embarking on the journey from the bustling city of Taipei to the serene, southernmost point of Kenting is made easy with Taiwan’s excellent public transport system. Here’s the easiest way to do it:

• Head to Taipei Main Station and take the HSR High-Speed Train to Kaohsiung, which ends at Zouying Station. Purchase a ticket at the station or online, and make sure to opt for a reserved seat for a comfortable journey. The trip on the HSR from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Once you reach Kaohsiung, move towards Exit 2 of the HSR station where the ticket office for the Kenting Express Bus is located. This bus is your next ride to reach Kenting. The bus service is frequent, departing every 30 minutes and taking about 2.5 hours to reach Kenting from Kaohsiung.
• Grab an open-ended return ticket so you can use the return ticket anytime. Remember that while the bus drivers may not be fluent in English, there are random announcements in English, so keep your ears peeled.

Tip: If you’re planning to buy a one-way bus ticket, consider using an Easy Card, which works out to be cost-effective.

Kenting Express Bus Stations

The Kenting Express operates a route starting from the Kaohsiung Zuoying Taiwan High Speed Rail Station, making its way to Kending with stops at several key locations including Dapeng Bay, Fangliao, Checheng , Nanbaoli, Hengchun, and Nanwan Beach . This efficient service allows passengers to reach the vibrant and tropical destination of Kenting in just 140 minutes.

Getting around in Kenting

Getting around Kenting is quite easy. Most facilities like shops, restaurants, and even the Little Bay beach are within walking distance from Kenting Street.

However, if you’re eager to explore attractions such as Maobitou or  Longpan Park , you will require a mode of transport.

• Scooter: Renting a scooter is the most convenient way to get around Kenting. Shops like Feng-Xiang Motorcycle Rental , which comes highly recommended for their English-speaking and super-friendly staff, offer scooters for rent at TWD 450-550 a day. Make sure you have a valid local license or an international driver’s license for scooter rental.
• Electric Bike: For those without the necessary license, some shops offer electric bikes for rent. They’re fun, albeit a bit slow uphill, and would require a battery change every 30km.
• Local Bus: If you prefer public transport, the local bus runs along the main road, going to attractions like Chuanfanshi and Nanwan Beach. Opt for a 1 or 2-day pass to make it easier to hop on and off as per your schedule.
• Tour: For places a bit further afield, joining a tour might be your best bet. 

However, if you choose to drive around Kenting, remember to be aware of your surroundings and obey Taiwanese traffic laws for a safe and memorable experience!

Dive into the Wonders of Nature

If sublime beaches and lush forests are your thing, you’re in for a treat at the Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s most southern and oldest national park.

This park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting dramatic cliffs, mountains, and coastal sceneries—from sharp rock formations that mirror other-world landscapes to splendid green vegetation, rare to find anywhere else.

Kenting National Park Areas and Landmarks

• Kenting Forest Recreation Area : Once a part of the undersea coral reef, this area now offers a mystic landscape of limestone caves, narrow canyons, and cliff walls, graced with roots of a dense forest.
• Sheding Nature Park : A perfect pick for nature enthusiasts, this well-protected chunk of scrubby hills and open grasslands is a hub for ecotourists, hiking families, and picnickers.
• Eluanbi Lighthouse : The key spotlight of the Kenting National Park, the Eluanbi Lighthouse, built in the 1880s, serves as an emblematic landmark of Taiwan. With a view as grand as Taiwan’s Central Mountain, capturing a picture here is a must.
• Jialeshui Coastal Area : This beautiful stretch along the coral coastline is accessible with a nominal admission fee. Grab a bus ride, and let the driver take you on a special tour.
• Taiwan’s Southernmost Point : Lastly, check out Taiwan’s southernmost point, marked by a stone marker.

Eluanbi Lighthouse

Sheding Nature Park

Virtual Tour in Jialeshui Scenic Area

Remember that the splendor of the park is spread across multiple areas, so start your day early and pack food and plenty of water to make the most of your visit to this enticing haven!

Longluan Lake Natural Reserve

Longluan Lake Natural Reserve is a gem of an attraction for nature lovers visiting Kenting. Known as Taiwan’s largest freshwater lake, it’s a splendid spot for picnics, leisurely hikes, and, most importantly, birdwatching.

Longluan Lake in Kenting national park

• Bird Sanctuary : The area serves as a fundamental natural habitat for migratory birds. Being a prime spot in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway makes it a top pick among birdwatchers. Get a close-up look at the birds for free at the Longluantan Nature Center observatory.
• Nature Center Observatory: The observatory provides a panoramic view of the expansive lake and wetlands, offering a glimpse of the diverse species that make the lake their home.
• Scenic Beauty : Lush fields and stunning greenery surround the lake, offering eye-catching scenery for snapshots and a peaceful setting for a relaxing picnic.
• Accessibility: Conveniently located just 5 miles from the popular Maobitou Park, you can easily hit two attractions on the same day!

Longluan Lake is a slice of heaven for birdwatchers and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Being one of the top attractions of Kenting, missing a visit to this serene bird habitat would be a shame!

Explore Unique Beaches and Coastal Areas

Beautiful beaches in kenting.

With crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and beckoning palm trees, Kenting is truly a paradise for beachgoers!

Here are some of the most beautiful beaches that you should not miss.

• Nanwan (South Bay) : South Bay is the first beach you see when you drive towards Kenting Village , and it is one of the busiest beaches. It garners a lot of attention due to its stunning views, accessible location, and versatile water sports opportunities.
• Little Bay (Xiaoqwan) : The antithesis of South Bay, this spot oozes tranquility. Perfect for swimming and relaxing or even catching the sunset, Little Bay is a beach lover’s dream come true.
• Kenting Beach (Dawan): Easily accessible from the main town, this beach is an all-time favorite among families for a relaxed day by the sea. The multitude of food stalls nearby makes for a perfect beach picnic spot. Unfortunately, you can not swim in Dawan Beach. 
• Sail Rock (Chuanfanshi): Apart from its picturesque view, Sail Rock is well-loved for its iconic ‘sailing ship’ rock formation. Both a phenomenal beach and a brilliant photography spot rolled into one.
• Baisha (White Sand Beach): One of the most popular but less crowded beaches, Baisha Beach offers a relaxed vibe and white sand. Pro-tip: An envious backdrop of lush mountains makes it an excellent spot for epic sunset pictures.

Nanwan Beach Virtual Tour – Full Walkthrough

Kenting Beach (Dawan Beach)

Xiaowan (Little bay) Beach

Chuanfanshi (Sail Rock)

Remember, to enjoy these beaches to the fullest, always check the weather forecast and avoid the beaches during typhoon season or when there are reports of strong currents.

Wear plenty of sunscreen, and stay hydrated to relish the beach day in a perfect manner!

Eluanbi Lighthouse and Park

Set within the gorgeous Eluanbi Park, the Eluanbi Lighthouse, known as “The Light of East Asia,” is not just a sightseeing spot but also a beacon of history and beauty.

• Eluanbi Lighthouse : Erected in the 19th century, the lighthouse wasn’t just a navigational aid but also fortified against indigenous attacks. Exploring the lighthouse offers a unique mix of naval history garnished with military undertones.
• Eluanbi Park: Blanketed with lush greenery and boasting panoramic ocean views, the park offers a cultural picnic spot. The park showcases an open-air museum featuring the indigenous people’s lifestyle and various walking trails leading to Instagram-worthy viewpoints.
• Coastal Pavilions: Amidst sprawling landscapes, you’ll find three pavilions—each providing a unique viewing point of the coast and the natural attractions, including the Shadow Valley and the narrow gorge.

The park entrance, including the lighthouse visit, is only NTD 60, undoubtedly a steal for the wealth of experiences it offers! Perhaps bring a packed lunch, choose a trail, and immerse yourself in a day full of adventure.

Virtual 360-degree walkthrough in Eluanbi Park Shopping Street and Small Eats area,

Remember to stay on the designated paths, as the park is known for its dense forest, and there could be snakes around!

Admire Breathtaking Views

Guanshan: a perfect sunset spot.

There’s something magical about watching the sun go down over the sea, and Guanshan is the perfect spot to witness this spectacle in Kenting.

• Mesmerizing Sunsets: Guanshan’s westward-facing position offers panoramic views of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Watch as the sky turns shades of pink, purple, and orange before giving way to a starry night.
• Famous Attraction: While it draws crowds, especially during the sunset, the breathtaking view from Guanshan is well worth the company.
• Nominal Fee : For a small fee of 60 NTD, you can access the hilltop and drink in the stunning vistas.
• Remember to bring bug spray. Even though it might not seem necessary, it could prove essential in enjoying an uninterrupted, sublime sunset.

Guanshan Sunset View Platform

Whether you’re an ardent photographer, in love with nature’s spectacle, or a tranquil seeker, making Guanshan part of your Kenting itinerary is a no-brainer!

Longpan Park's Southern Coastline

Situated a meager five-minute drive from the Eluanbi Lighthouse, Longpan Park offers a slice of Taiwan’s rugged coastline at its finest.

It expands over a sprawling roadside area and provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, commanding cliffs, and the verdant hills of Kenting National Park.

360-degree photo in Longpan park on rainy day

So whether you’re there to capture the first light of the day, observe the star-lit night sky, or just bask in nature’s creativity, Longpan Park justifies its position as a must-visit attraction in Kenting.

Remember, it can be quite windy here, so keep your valuable items secure and stay alert, especially if you’re close to the cliff edges.

If you are looking for more things to do in SE Asian, also check out The 21 Best Places to Visit in Thailand.

Unique Activities Only Available in Kenting

Experiencing kenting’s nightlife: funky truck bars.

When the sun sets in Kenting, the vibrant party scene wakes up. Nothing stands more unique in Kenting’s nightlife than the funky roadside truck bars. Here, the magic of music, liquor, and fairy lights weave together to form an enchanting and chilled-out atmosphere.

Reggae bar truck in Kenting

• Distinctiveness: Every truck bar in Kenting is unique, with its own colorful decorations, quirky playlist, and blends of boozy concoctions, distinguishing each bar as a world in itself.
• Best Bars: Around the Ceasar Park Hotel and opposite Xiaowan Beach, you’ll find several top-rated truck bars, such as the laid-back Alex Reggae Bar. Known for its amazing cocktails, relaxing vibes, and splendid ambiance, you can’t miss this one!
• Move Around: There’s no rule saying that you have to stay at one bar all night. Since these truck bars are close together, you can stroll around and experience the aura of multiple bars in a single night.
• Food : Once you’ve soaked in enough of the liquid refreshments, head to the night market along the main street to devour some local and international delicacies.

Kenting’s truck bars combine two of life’s greatest pleasures—music and awfully good drinks. Whether you want to strike up a delightful conversation with strangers, relax after a long travel day, or just want to dance the night away, these truck bars got you covered.

Wedding Photo Locations in Kenting

Kenting’s posts straight out of a postcard make it an excellent choice for wedding photo shoots. Its natural beauty serves as a romantic backdrop, making your moments unforgettable. Here are some iconic spots to consider:

• Baisha Beach: Imagine you and your partner walking along the white sandy beaches against a backdrop of crystal blue waters; doesn’t that paint a pretty picture? Baisha Beach could be your ideal location.
• Kenting Forest Recreation Area: Capture the essence of your love amidst the lush greenery of the Kenting Forest Recreation Area for an intimate and romantic shoot.
• Kenting National Park: With picturesque sceneries at every angle, this national park offers memorable photo spots. Capture your love under the ancient Eluanbi Lighthouse or with the tropical setting of the coral coastline in the background.
• Maobitou Scenic Area : The astonishing beauty of the cliffs and rock formations provides an incredible, spellbinding backdrop for any romantic photo shoot.

Maobitou in Kenting National Park

Local Cuisine Delights

Indulge in unique taiwanese food culture.

Food in Southern Taiwan, especially in Kenting, is a lip-smacking marriage of traditional Taiwanese delicacies and fresh local ingredients, which is sure to titillate your taste buds.

• Beef Noodles: One cannot miss Street Beef Noodles, a renowned dish. The succulent meat, coupled with well-flavored broth, creates an unforgettable culinary experience. One of the places to try it could be here , while you are still on the way to Kenting. This restaurant makes them in southern style, which is important, since in north, flavours are not the same. 
• Vegetable Hotpot: Choose from a wide range of veggies, tofu, and meat and have them cooked in their special sauce. The best part is the customization it offers, catering to different palates and preferences.
• Mangia Pizza : Run by a Taiwanese and an Italian couple, this place churns out delicious thin-crust pizzas. Their margarita pizza is a delight – the crunchy base topped with tangy tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and fresh basil leaves will make you forget you’re in Taiwan!
• Xiao Long Bao: Don’t forget the iconic soupy dumplings at Kenting Night Market. Packed with juicy pork filling and served with savory broth, it’s worth every bite!
• Amazing Yulai Lovers Tears Mushrooms. “Rain Mushroom” which is rich in protein, multivitamin, and minerals (phosphorus, zinc, calcium, etc.) has black fungus-like appearance; but its taste contains mushrooms-like crispness. In addition, the cooking method is simple; it is very delicious either when it is blanched and rinsed to make salad or when it is stir-fried with pepper, garlic, shredded meat, and dried shrimp.

Lovers Tears mushroom is usually served with egg. Try it while visiting White Sand Beach , in this local seafood restaurant. 

Experiencing new foods is an inherent part of travel, and Kenting offers you abundant opportunities to dive deep into its culinary culture.

Embrace the skillful amalgamation of ingredients and flavors Kenting brings to your platter! Or, the best way would be just walk on your own in Kenting Nightmarket, to see what catches your eye! Here is the video of one my random walks in Kenting Nightmarket some 2 years ago:

Savor Tastes at Kenting Night Market

Kenting Night Market, one of the most famous markets in Taiwan, bustles with energy as the sun goes down.

Known for its vast array of local snacks, street food, and unique seafood, visiting the market is a must-try activity when in Kenting!

Watermelon milk stand in Kenting night market

• Seafood Galore: Name any seafood, and it’s highly likely you’ll find it here. The captivating variety includes fresh oysters, giant squid, clams, tiger prawns, to unique sea urchins.
• Must-try Street Food: Dig into the local delicacies, such as Korean spicy pork seaweed rolls and barbecued oysters. For dessert, don’t miss the Croffles (croissant waffles) – an absolute delight for those with a sweet tooth.
• Timing: The market opens around 5 pm, gets incredibly busy from 7 pm onwards, and goes late into the night. So, come hungry and prepared to join the lively hustle.
• Budget-Friendly : Local Taiwanese food available here is delectably cheap (well maybe now not any more) . You can sample a variety of dishes without causing a dent in your pocket, but you need be careful to not buy the most expensive ones. 

Kenting Night Market only adds to Kenting’s charm with its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic culinary treats. Grab a drink, stroll along Kenting Street, and immerse yourself in the local culture while indulging in some delicious street food!

Comfortable Accommodations in Kenting

Stay at the best kenting hotels.

A comfortable stay is key to elevating your trip in Kenting. From budget hotels to lavish beachfront resorts, Kenting offers a wide range of options.

Here’s a list of hotels one might find suitable:

• Hido Hotel (Budget) : A clean, well-situated place near Kenting’s main street, offering reasonable rates.
• Kenting Sea Wall 112 (Mid-Range): This hotel offers plush rooms and is located only a stone’s throw away from the beach.
• Howard Beach Resort (Mid-Range) : Comfortable rooms, good facilities, and a prime beachfront location make this resort a popular option.
• Caesar Park Hotel (Luxury): An international resort offering high-end services, including spa, pool, lavish rooms, and direct access to a private beach.
• Chateau Beach Resort (Luxury) : This luxury hotel lies on a private beach and offers spacious rooms, great views, and excellent hospitality.

Remember while booking, drill down into details, check the recent reviews, and see if the place fits your needs. An accommodation that aligns with your preferences can tremendously enhance your overall travel experience in Kenting! If you head over to our Interactive Kenting Tourist Map , you will see many virtual tours we made right in the Kenting hotels we visited ourselves!

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit kenting.

The best time to visit Kenting is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant with temperatures averaging around 22°C – 30°C.

This is the perfect weather for beach visits, outdoor adventures, or simply sightseeing. It’s outside of the typhoon season, thus ensuring fewer disturbances to your travel plans. However, Kenting has its own beauty throughout the seasons, so a visit anytime in the year could still be rewarding! read more about Kenting Weather here . 

Is it safe to visit Kenting?

Yes, overall, Kenting, and Taiwan in general, are considered to be very safe for tourists.

Taiwan has a low crime rate, making it one of the safest countries in the world. As a tourist in Kenting, ensure to exercise common safety measures such as keeping your valuables secure and remaining cautious on beaches or cliffs to prevent accidents. Are you a single female planning to visit Kenting? You might be interested in this article . 

What are the best things to do in Kenting National Park for a short trip?

On a short trip to Kenting National Park, these are the must-dos:

• Have a leisurely walk or bike ride in the Kenting Forest Recreation Area and soak in the beauty of the tropical forest.
• Visit the Eluanbi Lighthouse , the emblematic landmark that offers a panoramic view of Taiwan’s Central Mountain.
• Explore the Jialeshui Coastal Area and its fascinating rock formations via shuttle tours.
• For breathtaking sunset views, head to Guanshan , the perfect sunset spot.
• Visit the Eluanbi Park and end your day with a relaxed picnic amidst the lush greenery.

Time is indeed fleeting when you are in such a beautiful place, but even a short trip can provide a fulfilling experience!

What can I do in Kenting at night?

The fun doesn’t stop at sundown in Kenting—rather, it’s just starting!

Here’s what you can do:

• Visit the vibrant Kenting Night Market , offering an array of local delicacies and unique seafood. It’s a paradise for food lovers and shopaholics!
• Hit a roadside truck bar , such as the famous Alex Reggae Bar. Grab a unique cocktail, let loose, and soak up Kenting’s vibrant nightlife!
• Stargazing at Longpan Park could be an option if you’re interested in astronomy or just love looking up at the night sky.

Kenting offers a unique blend of activities that cater to everyone, and the friendly and safe ambiance adds to the charm. So, why wait? Step into the vibrant lights and enjoy the energetic nightlife of Kenting!

What is Kenting known for?

Kenting is renowned for its natural grandeur and vibrant culture.

• It’s home to the popular Kenting National Park , Taiwan’s first and most famous national park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
• It also boasts several beautiful beaches , such as South Bay, Little Bay, and White Sand Beach, perfect for water sports and leisurely strolls.
• Historical landmarks like Eluanbi Lighthouse are popular tourist attractions as well. 
• Kenting’s unique roadside truck bars ,  and the bustling night market , pulsating with aromas of local delicacies, add unique shades to its vibrancy.

In essence, Kenting is known for its subtropical beauty, clear blue waters, lively night markets, and a unique blend of serene and adventurous tourist spots.

How many days should I spend in Kenting?

Ideally, to make the most out of Kenting’s attractions, a stay of two to three days is recommended.

• You can spend a day exploring the Kenting National Park, visiting the local markets, and enjoying the nightlife.
• If you have an extra day, consider exploring the Kenting Forest Recreational Area or go relax and swim in one of Kenting Beaches . 
• If you are visiting during the summer, you might want to allocate another day for a relaxing beach visit, and consider snorkeling in Wanlitong Beach. 

Ultimately, the length of your stay should align with your personal preferences and the activities you wish to pursue.

Conclusion: Top Kenting Attractions

Brimming with verdant national parks, breathtaking beaches, picturesque landscapes, intriguing history, and delicious local cuisine, Kenting holds treasures aplenty!

The treasures range from natural wonders like Kenting National Park, Guanshan, and the beautiful Maobitou Park to culturally rich spaces like the local night markets.

Filled with adventurous activities, serene sightseeing spots, and engaging local experiences, Kenting is a destination that can satisfy any traveler’s appetite. It is safe to say that whatever the interest might be – nature, history, adventure, nightlife, or gastronomy – Kenting has something for everyone.

While the mystical attraction of Kenting is hard to convey in words, witnessing it firsthand is an absolute must for every travel enthusiast!

Remember, the attractions shared above are just the highlights, so embrace an open itinerary and open-mindedness, and prepare yourself for surprises and memories that Kenting is eager to line up your way. Happy Traveling!

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Explore Kenting National Park

Plan your trip to kenting national park: best of kenting national park tourism.

Essential Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park – Explore History & 7 Things to See and Do

Kenting National Park is among one of the most beautiful parks in Taiwan. It is located in the very south of the island and has a pleasant temperature all year round. An ideal way to explore the park is by scooter, so you can see the highlights on your own. And there are some! Apart from beautiful viewpoints, you will also find waterfalls, caves, temples and the most beautiful beaches in Taiwan. Do you already have this beautiful park on your list?

Are you planning to visit Kenting National Park? And would you like to learn more about the special history and culture of this beautiful park in southern Taiwan? In this travel guide, I’ll tell you more about its interesting history, read all about the best attractions and discover the best accommodation in town. The perfect visit to Kenting National Park starts here….

This Travel Guide to Kenting National Park contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking through one of the links on this website, Travel4history gets a small compensation for it. This does not cost you anything extra by the way!

In this travel guide…

• Practical Information – Best travel time and how many days?

History – What makes Kenting National Park historically interesting?

• Sightseeing – 7x Things to See and Do!

Accommodation – Where to stay at Kenting National Park?

• Transportation – How to get there?

Book your trip to Kenting National Park & Taiwan

• Accommodation:   Hotel of Hostel ?
• Activities:   Tickets & Tours
• Transport:   Bus & Traintickets or Flight tickets

Practical Information

Best travel time.

January to May and September to December

Kenting National Park is located in the extreme south of Taiwan. This means that the temperature here is pleasant all year round. It is around 20 degrees in the winter months and between 30 and 35 degrees in the summer. Summer does see the most rain, so the best time to travel is autumn (September to December).

For how many days?

Minimum 2 days

In one day you can already see much of the park. But it is recommended to stay here at least 2 days. Or maybe add a third day? If you love a beach vacation, the south of Taiwan is just right for you. Beautiful beaches, beautiful nature and the cozy town of Kenting are the ingredients for a visit to this region.

Kenting National Park was established in 1984, making it the oldest national park in Taiwan. After local farmers neglected the nature of the park, it was decided to establish a protected nature reserve.

The park consists of beautiful sandy beaches, some mountains with impressive limestone caves, beautiful views and stunning nature. Also, you will find a large amount of flora and fauna. The sika deer is one of the animals living in Kenting National Park, as well as a special number of birds including the buzzard.

Sightseeing in Kenting National Park – 7x Things to See and Do!

Looking for the best sights of this beautiful park in southern Taiwan? Below are some fun options to see and do during your visit to Kenting National Park.

Kenting National Forest Recreation Area

This area is located north of the town of Kenting. Here you will find a visitor center, a beautiful forest and some impressive caves to visit. The most famous of these is the Fairy Cave. Finally, you can also enjoy the view from the observation tower in the park. This one is not to be missed and definitely recommended. Take a walk through this area and enjoy this beautiful piece of nature in Taiwan.

The Eluanbi lighthouse

This is perhaps Taiwan’s most famous lighthouse. It is located almost at the southernmost tip of the island. It was built in 1883, so it already has a rich history behind it. The lighthouse was placed here because the current off the coast was strong and many ships sank here in the past. The lighthouse is also known as “The Light of East Asia,” because of the large amount of light it gives off. You can visit the lighthouse all year round.

Go to the southernmost tip of Taiwan

If you continue walking south at the lighthouse, you will arrive at the southernmost tip of Taiwan. After walking 500 meters along the footpath, you will arrive at a monument and you are there. From here you have a view of the sea and the beautiful coast of Kenting National Park.

Visit the National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium

Would you like to learn more about all the living things found in Kenting National Park? Then visit this interesting museum northwest of the town of Hengchun. You can also spot penguins, dolphins and other fish in the beautiful aquarium. The museum is open every day and highly recommended to learn all about Taiwan’s nature.

Jialeshuei is located in the east of Kenting National Park. At the entrance, you can buy a ticket that will take you on a half-hour bus ride along the beautiful east coast of Kenting. Beautiful rock formations and rugged coastline is what you get to see here. It takes you further along the frog rock and past the Jialeshui Falls.

Longpan Park

Looking for that beautiful view from the photo at the top of this article? Then you must be at Longpan Park. From here you have a beautiful view of the coast of Kenting National Park. There is not much else to see here, but drive down the road along the coast, because this is a really beautiful route.

The old town of Hengchun

Kenting is the nicest place in this region. Still, a visit to the town of Hengchun is highly recommended. Here you can stroll through the quaint streets and enjoy good food. But you can also discover a bit of history through a few historic buildings. You will find an old city gate and a piece of a city wall. You can even walk a bit over the latter. Hengchun is not a big place, but certainly fun to visit (and possibly stay overnight).

Would you like to visit this magnificent park in southern Taiwan during your trip? But not sure yet where the best place to stay is? Below you will find more information on the best place to stay in Kenting National Park.

Kenting: Surely the nicest picture in the far south of Taiwan is Kenting itself. From here you can best explore the National Park. You will also find the super fun Night Market here every night, and from your hotel or guesthouse you can easily visit Kenting’s beautiful beach. All within walking distance of your accommodation. Book your hotel or hostel in Kenting here.

Hengchun: I stayed in this place northwest of Kenting. In itself a great base for visiting Kenting National Park. The town has plenty of restaurants and some old city gates. But if you would also like to spend a day at the beach, you are better off in Kenting. In Hengchung, I rented a scooter to explore Kenting National Park on my own.

Transportation – How to get to Kenting National Park?

Kenting National Park is located in southern Taiwan. Like many places in the country, it is easily accessible by public transportation.

Plane: The nearest airport is Kaohsiung International Airport. From here, it takes about 3 hours to reach the park. In addition to Taoyuan International Airport near Tapei, Kaohsiung Airport can also be reached from many international destinations, especially from Asia.

Train: Kenting National Park cannot be reached by train. The southernmost station in Taiwan is Fangshan. From there, the train heads east toward Taitung. The best way to get to Kenting is by bus.

Bus: The bus to Kenting National Park leaves every 30 minutes in the morning from Kaohsiung Zuoying HSR station (高鐵左營站). This station is located near one of the city’s main attractions, the Lotus Pond. Kenting Express Bus takes about 2 hours and enters the main towns of the park, such as Hengchun, Nanwan and the town of Kenting as its final destination. Buses leave between 8:30 in the morning to 7 in the evening. Check the PTbus.com website for more information.

Do you have any tips, comments or ideas about Kenting National Park? If so, feel free to leave a message below.

Explore Taiwan

• Kenting National Park
• Taroko National Park

Historian and Backpacker/World Traveler. In Travel4history I write about special destinations from a historical point of view. How else can you get to know and understand the world better than by learning about its history....

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