下水堀 xià shuǐ kū is a small fishing village located not far south of Houwan.
To the south of the fishing port is a slightly narrow coral reef coast, and above the coastal road is a large flat plateau of ancient coral reefs.
下水堀 location is near Houwan in Checheng Township
The coast gradually expands into a wide coral reef platform near Wanlitong, with many tidal channels and tide pools scattered on it.
In addition to many sea cucumbers inhabiting the area, there are also abundant species of seaweed and marine creatures, making it the richest place in terms of coastal marine resources in Taiwan.
Therefore, the coastline between Xiashuiku and Wanlitong has been designated as a marine ecological protection area in the Kenting National Park project. Without permission, no one is allowed to fish or catch marine life in the area.
In winter, this place is sheltered from the wind and is suitable for observing marine life. However, due to the construction of a large resort center around the year 2000 without proper soil and water conservation measures, a large amount of sediment and mud was washed into the sea by heavy rain, causing massive coral death due to suffocation and destroying the ecology of the coral reef.
下水堀 Xiaxuiku – During spring low tide, a vast intertidal zone is exposed on the north side of Wanlitong.
During spring low tide, the intertidal zone of Wanlitong is filled with brown algae.