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!