Kenting Overview
Kenting, the stunning backdrop for the scene in Life of Pi where Pi finally reaches the shore, symbolizes victory over self and the start of a beautiful life. Located at the southern tip of Taiwan, this paradise is graced by breezes from the Pacific Ocean and features pristine beaches that captivate visitors with their turquoise waters.
Kenting is not just about natural beauty; it also boasts vibrant cultural events like the “Spring Scream” music festival, which embraces originality and individuality. The atmosphere here is a blend of Greek romance and Hawaiian passion, all wrapped in a refreshing artistic vibe.
Most of the major attractions are within Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s first national park. During the season when the trade winds blow, many rare birds from the north migrate here for the winter. The underwater coral landscapes are another highlight of the park, showcasing the rich marine biodiversity.
The popularity of movies like Cape No. 7 and Life of Pi has further elevated the fame of Hengchun and Kenting, drawing even more visitors to this enchanting destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Kenting offers an unforgettable experience.
Attractions in Kenting
Most of the attractions in Kenting are located within the boundaries of Kenting National Park. This park, which is Taiwan’s first to encompass both land and sea, is surrounded by the ocean on three sides, making it a perfect destination for those seeking sandy beaches, unique rock formations, and vibrant underwater worlds. Popular spots in the area include Cape Catnose, South Bay, Baisha Bay, Eluanbi Park, Jialeshui, Fongchueisha, and Shetopping Park.
South Bay (南湾)
South Bay is the most vibrant water sports hub in Kenting. Stretching over 600 meters, its white sandy beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, diving, and sailing. The area is home to various corals and tropical fish, making it a premier diving destination.
- Address: No. 223, Nanwan Rd., Hengchun Township, Pingtung County
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Contact Number: +886-8-8892894
- Getting There: Take a bus from Kaohsiung Station (Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Zhongnan, or Guoguang Bus) to Hengchun, then transfer to the Kenting Shuttle (Orange Line) and get off at South Bay. Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours.
Whether you want to relax on the beach or dive into exciting water activities, South Bay is a must-visit spot in Kenting!
Longluantan (龙銮潭)
Longluantan, often referred to as the “Paradise for Water Birds,” transforms into a stunning landscape each autumn when flocks of migratory birds come to rest. The expansive lake, lush wetlands, and abundant herons create a picturesque scene. Additionally, there are 12 high-magnification monoculars available, along with bird identification guides, allowing visitors to observe and learn about the various species of ducks and geese that inhabit the lake.
- Address: No. 86, Lane 250, Caotang Rd., Hengchun Township, Pingtung County
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Contact Number: +886-8-8891456
- Getting There: Take a bus from Kaohsiung (Kaohsiung, Pingtung, Zhongnan, or Guoguang Bus) to Hengchun Transfer Station, then switch to the Kenting Shuttle (Blue Line) to Longluantan. Alternatively, from Hengchun, drive along Highway 26, turn right in front of Swan Lake Resort, and after about 3 minutes, Longluantan will be on your right. Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours.
Whether you’re a birdwatching enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery, Longluantan is a lovely spot to visit!
Baisha Bay (白沙湾)
If you’ve seen “Life of Pi,” you won’t forget the breathtaking scenes of floating islands and the stunning beaches of Mexico—those were actually filmed at Baisha Bay. Known for its calm waters year-round, Baisha Bay is perfect for swimming, diving, sailing, and other water sports. On land, visitors can enjoy barbecuing, camping, or cycling along the scenic trails. During autumn and winter, you can catch stunning sunsets over the sea, and at night, the sky is illuminated with twinkling stars.
- Address: Northwest coast of Maobitou, Hengchun Township, Pingtung County
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- Contact Number: +886-8-8861321
- Getting There: Take the Hengchun Peninsula Tourist Shuttle (operated by Zhongnan Bus) from Kaohsiung Train Station to reach Baisha Bay. Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply a relaxing day at the beach, Baisha Bay offers something for everyone!
Kenting Street (垦丁大街)
The legendary Kenting Street stretches between the “Kenting National Park Archway” and the “Kenting West Hotel” along Kenting Road. This short stretch of less than 2 kilometers transforms into a bustling hub of activity at night, illuminating Kenting’s evenings with vibrant lights and lively energy. It’s now a must-visit spot for tourists enjoying the nightlife in Kenting.
- Address: Kenting Road, Hengchun Township, Pingtung County
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM (most shops’ operating hours)
- Contact Number: +886-8-8898112
- Getting There: Take Kuo-Kuang Bus or Zhongnan Bus from Kaohsiung Train Station to Kenting. Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours.
Kenting Street is the perfect place to indulge in local street food, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this beautiful coastal destination!
Kenting Street is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a plethora of colorful stalls and must-try local delicacies, as well as a variety of tantalizing international and Southeast Asian dishes. Each restaurant boasts unique and eye-catching decor, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. One standout is “Didi’s Snacks,” which requires a reservation to dine there. It’s a popular spot among food enthusiasts who seek out this international cuisine when visiting Kenting Street.
Staying in a guesthouse has become one of the most popular activities in Kenting. Throughout the main tourist spots, you’ll find a variety of unique guesthouses that attract travelers looking to experience local culture while keeping their budget in check. The diverse range of guesthouses along Kenting Street continually strives for improvement and attentive management to enhance the visitor experience.
In addition to these charming accommodations, Kenting also boasts high-end hotels with luxurious amenities and breathtaking ocean views. For those who enjoy the finer things in life, these upscale options provide a perfect opportunity to indulge in a romantic seaside getaway.
Food Recommendations
Being by the sea, Kenting is a paradise for seafood lovers, and you definitely shouldn’t miss out on the fresh catches. Beyond seafood, you can also find plenty of Taiwanese flavors here, with famous spots like Little Du’s Dumplings and Didi Snacks being prime examples.
If you’re in the mood for something international, you’ll be pleased to know that Kenting has restaurants specializing in various cuisines, including Mexican, Thai, and German dishes.
Kenting’s seafood is renowned for being both affordable and delicious. The seasonal seafood is plump and fresh, with different dishes available each time you visit. You can even customize how your meal is cooked to suit your preferences. If you’re unsure about what to choose, the staff is more than happy to offer suggestions to help you decide!
Entertainment Activities in Kenting
Kenting is a vacation paradise in southern Taiwan, perfectly capturing the essence of relaxation. Whether you’re enjoying water activities, surfing, indulging in seafood, or experiencing a forest bath, you’ll feel the full spirit of a leisurely getaway. In the evening, you can catch fireworks by the beach, adding a touch of romance to your night. The Spring Scream Music Festival held every April attracts many international visitors, making it an event you won’t want to miss.
Water Sports
Kenting’s stunning beaches draw numerous visitors each year for water fun. Popular beaches for water activities include Nanwan, Xiaowan, Baisha, Shiniuxikou, and Manzhou.
Surfing
Surfing spots are not fixed and primarily focus on Nanwan and Jialeshui. Surf shops near the East Gate of Hengchun at Nanwan offer surfing lessons.
- Longboard (suitable for beginners): Half-day NT$500, Full-day NT$800
- Shortboard: Half-day NT$400, Full-day NT$600
- Bodyboard: Half-day NT$250, Full-day NT$400
Diving
Only individuals with a diving license can rent diving equipment, but many dive shops now offer “experience diving.” After a brief tutorial, a professional instructor will guide you through the underwater world, making it accessible even for non-swimmers.
Recommended Diving Locations:
- Dapingding Plateau: The western side of the cliff offers clear waters and diverse underwater topography, featuring cliffs, canyons, and tunnels, with various coral species and schools of fish to discover.
- Guanshan High Coral Reef: The area from the west of Guanshan to Baishan Nose is home to majestic underwater scenery, dense coral growth, and a rich variety of coral fish, shellfish, sea lilies, and starfish, covering an area of 63 hectares.
- Banana Bay to Sand Island: The seafloor features long, banded coral reefs, separated by channels or sand gullies, with abundant coral, fish, and shellfish.
With all these exciting activities, Kenting is sure to provide unforgettable experiences!
Best Time to Travel
Kenting features a tropical climate with an average annual temperature of 24°C, making it suitable for year-round travel. Every April, the Spring Scream Music Festival attracts many young music lovers to gather and enjoy the festivities. The summer months can be quite hot, while from October to April, the climate becomes slightly cooler, resulting in fewer tourists. This off-peak season often sees lower prices for guesthouses, with additional promotional discounts available. However, it’s important to note that this period may also bring in the “fall wind,” which can be as powerful as a light typhoon, so travelers should exercise caution.
Clothing Recommendations
- Temperature: The average annual temperature in Kenting is 24°C.
- Winter (January): It is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 15°C. Even during winter, it feels warm and comfortable compared to northern regions, so a simple jacket or light sweater is sufficient.
- Summer (July): This is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 33°C. Lightweight cotton short-sleeve shirts or T-shirts are ideal.
Regardless of the season, the sun in Kenting is intense, so make sure to wear a sun hat and apply sunscreen. During the rainy season, it’s advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat for sudden showers. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful destination!
