Kenting Travel Guide: Getting There & Around and Things to Do Alone

Kenting is the area that includes Kenting National Park and all the small townships, including Hengchun, in southern Taiwan. And there are many things to do in Kenting, especially if you are a first-time visitor. From the most beautiful beaches in Kenting to the unique coral and limestone landscape, Kenting National Park has to be one of the most interesting places I have ever been to in Taiwan.

However, Kenting has no train networks, which is my favourite way to travel solo. But getting to Kenting can still be quite simple if you are going from Kaohsiung. Plus there are several ways to get around Kenting even if you don’t drive.

Follow my Kenting Travel Guide and learn how you can get to Kenting, travel around the national park as an independent traveller and see some of the best highlights in Kenting National Park.

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Before you visit Kenting in Taiwan

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

Here are a few quick tips for travelling solo to Kenting:

• Southern Taiwan, including Kenting, is safe for solo female travellers.
• Bring your international motorcycle license if you plan on renting a scooter. Otherwise, you can rent an electric scooter.
• There are many types of activities in Kenting, such as swimming, kitesurfing, jet-skiing, kayaking, snorkelling, surfing, and hiking.
• Surf schools are near beaches and in the town of Hengchun. Many people surf during the colder months, especially in the windy winter.
• Plan your visit to Kenting with these festivals and events:
  • Kenting Music Festival (April) – biggest music event in Taiwan
  • Pole Climbing Competition (during Ghost Festival) – unique folk cultural event at the vertical shed in Hengchun

How to get to Kenting Taiwan

The easiest and fastest way to get to Kenting is to first get to Kaohsiung City. Then, take the Kenting Express Bus 9189 from Zuoying Station to Kenting, which stops at Hengchun Bus Station and various spots in Kenting (Kenting Arch, Kenting Police Station, and Xiaowan). The bus ride is about 2 hours and runs every 30 minutes.

Kenting Express Bus 9189

Take Exit 2 at HSR Zuoying Station and find the ticket booth outside the door. You can buy a ticket for the next bus at the booth or order one on Klook and exchange it for a physical ticket there. The Express bus runs every half an hour from 8:15am to 7:30pm.

FYI – if you buy a return ticket, you can use it within seven days. However, you must specify which day you want to return to Kaohsiung and redeem the ticket at the ticket booth.

After you get your bus tickets, take the escalator down and find the bus 9189 at platform 2.

How to get around Kenting for Solo Travellers

There are several ways to get around Kenting on your own. You can bike around the park, take the shuttle bus or rent a scooter or electric scooter. Every option has its perks.

1. Youbike

YouBike is a point-to-point electronic bike-sharing program popular in many Taiwanese cities, including Kenting in Pintung County. It is a fun way to get around Kenting as you can pick up a bike at one location and drop it off at another. 

First, register your EasyCard or iPass online. You will need a local mobile number, so get a Taiwan SIM card. And when you are ready to rent a Youbike, go to one of 22 Youbike locations in Kenting. I included a map below of all the Youbike rental locations in Kenting, which you can also find on Google Maps and the Youbike app.

As for pricing, the first 30 minutes are free. Then it costs NT$12 for every 30 minutes after that. 

2. Kenting Shuttle Bus

Kenting Shuttle Bus has several routes which connect Hengchun, Kenting, and other popular destinations in Kenting. Below are the three most popular routes:

• Bus 101 (orange) – Xiawanlitong – Hengchun – Nanwan – Kenting – Xiaowan – Eluanbi
• Bus 102 (blue) – Hengchun – Baisha – Mobitou – Houbihu – Nanwan – Kenting – Xiaowan
• Bus 103 (green) – Hengchun – Chuhuo – Jialeshui

Below is a photo of the Kenting Express Line Transfer Guide Map. It shows the bus routes 101, 102, 103, and others.

You can also check the schedule, fare and route map in front of the Hengchun Bus Station or on the Pingtung Bus website.

To take the shuttle buses, buy a one-day pass on Klook so you can take them as often as you need in one day. When you buy a bus ticket for the express bus from Kaohsiung to Kenting, you can redeem the shuttle bus ticket for an actual ticket at the same ticket booth.

Alternatively, you can use your EasyCard or iPass to take the shuttle bus and pay individual fare.

3. Scooter or electric scooter

The best way to get around Kenting is by scooter. Many scooter rental shops are in Hengchun and on the main street in Kenting. A scooter rental costs about NT$450-550 per day.

You can also book a scooter online ahead of time because it is a bit cheaper. But make sure you can provide an international motorcycle license because you will need it to rent one.

If you don’t have a license, you can rent an electric scooter. It is just as fun but requires a battery change every 45km. You can change the battery as many times as you need. I rented an electric scooter from 哈特佛租車行 in Kenting, and it costs NT$800 per day. The photo below is the price list for both scooters and electric scooters.

Kenting Map: Kenting National Park and Activities

Kenting National Park’s boundary surrounds the southern tip of Pingtung County. In the Google Maps below, I highlighted the park boundary in orange. I also pinned all of the places mentioned in this post so you can easily find them.

Main attractions in Kenting National Park

1. Kenting National Forest Recreation Area

The Kenting National Forest Recreation Area has some of the most impressive attractions in Hengchun Peninsula. The area was once a forest ecosystem with coral reefs and rock formations that formed thousands of years ago. That’s why the park is full of unique landscapes like limestone caves, cliffs, and canyons.

Follow the a network of walking trails and you will see 17 scenic points including the Fairy Cave, Silver Dragon Cave and the 27m tall Sea Viewing Tower. Pay attention to the unique tree species like White Banyan Trees, Looking Glass Tree with buttress roots and Stranger figs. And you may even see a few deers in the bushes (I did!).

2. Cape Eluanbi and the southernmost point of Taiwan

When you visit Kenting National Park, you can actually see the southernmost tip of Taiwan. And it is located at Cape Eluanbi.

Once you arrive at the parking lot, walk across and find the hiking trails surrounded by the grassy park. The trail will lead you to several observation decks and the southernmost point which is marked with a concrete monument.

Before you leave the cape, visit Eluanbi Lighthouse. It was built in 1883 after many shipwrecks occurred there.

3. Kenting Long Keng Ecological Reserve

One thing you must see in Cape Eluanbi is Kenting Long Keng Ecological Reserve. However, you can only tour the reserve with a guided tour, which you must book online (on their Chinese website). Otherwise, show up at the office (which I did), and hopefully, they will have a spot for you.

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

Best Kenting Beaches

4. Nanwan Beach

There are numerous beaches in Kenting National Park, but I will only highlight the ones I think are worth visiting.

Nanwan Beach, or South Bay, is the first beach you see when you drive towards Kenting Town. Because of its accessibility and central location, Nanwan is the busiest beach in Kenting. Plus, you can swim and participate in watersports here.

Moreover, there are several excellent restaurants on the main road if you are hungry. Or you can enjoy a cold beer and watch the sunset at one of the fantastic beach bars at the South Bay Recreation Area.

5 & 6. Kenting Beach and Xiaowan Beach

If you are staying in Kenting, two beaches are within walking distance.

Kenting Beach is located just south of the main road in Kenting. It has a long stretch of golden sand from Shiniu Beach to the west and Frog Rock Marine Recreation Park to the east. However, it is not a swimmable beach. But you can take a long romantic stroll.

To the east of Kenting Beach is a small, clean beach called Xiaowan, aka Little Bay Beach. It has a similar vibe to Nanwan but is quieter. You can swim and enjoy food and drinks at the beach bar.

7. Baishawan Beach

Moving back to the western peninsula, you will find Baishawan Beach, which means “White Sand Bay Beach” in Chinese. The beach is a bit less crowded than other beaches because it is not part of the route to Kenting Town, so it is a bit off the beaten track. But it is still worth visiting.

Baishawan Beach is one of the few beaches in Kenting where you can swim. The water is calmer and clear. And no crazy waves or strong winds. There are changing and shower facilities and local food stalls nearby.

Highlights on the east coast of Kenting

8. Longpan Park

Located between Cape Eluanbi and Fongchueisha is Longpan Park, an area with extensive grassland and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Rain eroded the area, creating an interesting topography consisting of jagged limestone cliffs, sinkholes, and caves.

When you drive up the main road, you will see signs and parking on the right. Park your scooter, walk across the wooden boardwalk to the end, and enjoy the coastal view. This is an excellent spot for sunrise in the morning and a beautiful spot for stargazing at night.

9. Fongchueisha

As you drive further up the East Coast, you will see areas off the main road where you can stop and see the coastal views. This area is called Fongchueisha. In Chinese, it means “windblown sand”. Because it is so windy in this part of Kenting National Park, the strong wind blows the sand from the shore and forms a series of sand hills.

Certain spots of the road are elevated, which is excellent for taking photos of the coast, but you can’t walk to the beach. If you keep driving north, you can dip your feet in the water at Manzhou Beach, which Google Maps refers to as 滿州沙灘.

10. Gangkou Suspended Bridge

Located in Manzhou Township, the Gangkou Suspended Bridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Kenting. It offers a good view of the Gangkou River. I visited the bridge several years ago and was able to walk across. But in 2024, the entrance to the bridge is blocked. It is temporarily closed.

However, you can still check out the area around the bridge. To the east of the bridge is a surfing beach called Gangkou Beach. I saw many surfers park their cars on the road and walk up to the beach with their surfboards. It is a quieter beach than the ones mentioned already.

Unique attractions in Kenting National Park

11. Qikong Falls

In Manzhou Township, there is a fun little waterfall called Qikong Falls. The name means “Seven Pools Waterfall,” as the name implies, it has seven pools.

After parking your scooter in the parking lot, hike up the path along the river, and soon enough, you will see the first pool. The higher you go, the more pools you will see. After about ten minutes or so, a small cascading waterfall appears. You can even swim in the pool and relax over the rocky edge.

You don’t have to hike to the top to experience the best of Qikong Waterfall. The first few pools are some of the best. Just be careful hiking up; the path is very steep.

12. The ChuHuo Eternal Flame

The ChuHuo Eternal Flame is a fun and quirky sight near Hengchun. It is an area where a small amount of natural gas seeps through the ground and is burned continuously. This “eternal flame” comes up from the ground in several places.

During peak times, vendors sell popcorn so you can pop it over the eternal flames. It’s a fun attraction with yummy treats!

Places to visit in southwest Hengchen Peninsula

13. National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium

Marine enthusiasts must visit Kenting National Park’s west coast and the National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium. The Kenting Aquarium has three main aquatic exhibits to learn about aquatic life in Taiwan. Also, walk through the 84m underwater tunnel to see the coral reef and the world’s highest tank, which stands 10m tall.

If you want to explore the area, Houwan Beach and Guishan Beach are nearby. You can also take a short hike on the Checheng Guishan Trail to the top of Mount Guishan.

14. Guanshan

Guanshan is a 152m high mountain near the coastline and part of the Guanshan Scenic Area in Kenting National Park. It is a short hike to the top, and the view is spectacular. It is considered to be the best sunset spot in Kenting.

It is said that the top of the Guanshan mountain was underwater thousands of years ago, which is why the temple is made of coral stone. Also, take note of the cave and divine turtle rock; they are both naturally formed coral reefs as well.

15. Mobitou Park

Mobitou Park is on the western side of the Hengchun Peninsula between the Taiwan Strait and the Bashi Channel. It is located on one of Taiwan’s southern tips (besides Eluanbi). The park is known for its coral and limestone cliffs and a gorgeous view of the peninsula.

Walk up a few steps to the observation deck and see the blue water and dramatic coral on the rocky shore. There are many interesting rock formations, including the most famous one resembling a crouching cat. This is why the area’s name is Mobitou, which literally means cat nose head or cat rock.

Visiting the park is free, but you must pay NT$10 to park your scooter. Bus 102 makes a stop here as well.

16. Houbihu Harbour

Houbihu is the largest fishing harbour in Kenting National Park and Taiwan’s first yacht wharf. Visitors to the harbour stroll through the pier, see the fishing ports and enjoy a variety of watersports, including snorkelling, jet skiing, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.

South of the harbour is a long coral beach with shallow water. This area is excellent for seeing corals in the clear water.

However, the highlight of visiting Houbinhu has to be eating local seafood. The main building at the pier has several seafood restaurants, each serving a variety of steamed, fried, and fresh seafood. I had a small sashimi platter at 後壁湖澎派水產surging, and it only cost NT$100! It is super cheap and super fresh!

Other things to see outside of Kenting National Park area

17. Hengchun

Hengchun was the central business district in the former ancient town. The community consisted of affluent people with government jobs and businesses.

Today, Hengchun is one of the two main towns in Kenting. You must pass through Hengchun before entering Kenting National Park. Moreover, it is an excellent home base for exploring Kenting. There are a variety of accommodations, restaurants and a few sights that you should not miss:

• Hengchun South Gate – also known as the Ancient City Gate at the big roundabout 
• City Wall – walk the elevated old fortress walls between Hengchun East, North & West Gate
• Vertical Shed – climb up the vertical shed and see a view of Hengchun
• Hengchun Old Street – visit restaurants and shops in refurbished ancient houses
• Hengchun Night Market – opens every Sunday

Where to eat in Kenting

18. Taiwanese night markets

The best place to try many types of Taiwanese food is at a local night market. And in Pingtung Country, there are two night markets.

Hengchun Night Market (6pm-12am) has vendors selling meat skewers, savoury and sweet crepes, sizzling hot plates, roasted chestnuts, pastries, fried dumplings, bubble tea, papaya milk, and more. However, it is only open on Sundays.

But the highlight has to be Kenting Night Market (5-11pm). Food vendors line both sides of the main street, so watch out for cars and scooters—the street is not blocked off. I really liked the crispy soup dumplings at 墾丁蕭記脆皮湯包 and fried octopus at 章魚一番, but there are many other things to eat.

19. Restaurants in Hengchun and Kenting

The majority of restaurants and cafes are located in Hengchun and Kenting. FYI, many of these places only have Chinese names, so I added an English description to make it easier to figure out. Here are some of the few places I like:

Hengchun

• Taiwanese breakfast 包手 – a local Taiwanese breakfast joint
• Duck Rice 西門鴨香飯 – a local duck specialty restaurant
• Beef Noodles 寶順號 – try their beef noodles and small side dishes
• Taiwanese Food 對味美食小館 – good soup dumplings and beef rolls
• Seafood Restaurant 海珍珠海鮮恆春旗艦店 – if you don’t go to Houbihu Harbour for seafood, you can try fresh seafood here
• Mangia Pizza – the Taiwanese and Italian couple runs this little restaurant and serves delicious thin-crust pizza
• Coffee Shop 蒔嶼 まくしま Café – a Japanese-style cafe with tatami mats

Kenting

• Braised Food 一品滷味 – pick whatever you want to eat (vegetables, tofu, meat, etc.), and they braise it in a special soy sauce
• Seafood Restaurant 六少爺海鮮燒烤 – try fresh seafood at this popular restaurant in Kenting

Where to stay in Kenting as a solo traveller

There are accommodations all over Kenting, but if you travel alone, you should stay in either Hengchun or Kenting so you can be near different transportation modes like Youbike, scooters, and shuttle buses.

These two towns have a few budget and mid-range accommodations, including hostels, hotels and homestays (minsu). I stayed in both Hengchun and Kenting and can recommend these places:

Hengchun

Vivir House is a new homestay just outside of Hengchun. The superior double room is comfortable, spacious and clean. And there is a supermarket nearby. Check prices & reviews: Agoda and Booking

Kenting

Hido Hostel is a small hotel located 2-minutes from the main street in Kenting. Even though it is called a hostel, they only have private rooms for rent. The standard double room is sufficient for a short-term stay. But book the ocean view room if you want to wake up to the sound of ocean waves. Check prices & reviews: Agoda and Booking

Is Kenting worth visiting as a solo traveller

I definitely think solo travellers should consider taking a trip to Kenting. If you are willing to be flexible and comfortable with public transportation, there are many ways to get around the national park. And if you can, rent a scooter because it is so fun scootering around the area.

Let me know in the comments if you enjoy reading this post or have any questions about going to Kenting on your own.

Ready to plan your trip to Kenting? Here are some of my go-to travel planning resources:
* Book your flight: find flight deals on Skyscanner 
* Book accommodation: find the best Kenting accommodations on Agoda or Booking
* Buy insurance: Safetywing is my go-to provider for travel insurance, as it covers many things. I will never travel without the Nomad Insurance Package because it protects me against unforeseen events. Get a quote today.
* Order a SIM card: order a SIM card in advance, collect it upon arrival, and set up your mobile phone before arriving at your destination. Or find out how and where to get a SIM Card in Taiwan.
* Join tours: check Klook for the best tours in Pingtung.

Thank you for reading my solo Kenting travel guide

I have many posts on Taiwan, and 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

Southern Taiwan posts

• Best things to do in Chiayi Taiwan
• How to travel from Chiayi to Alishan
• Alishan 2-day solo itinerary 
• Things to do in Tainan as a solo traveller 
• Where to stay in Tainan: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Tainan Food Guide: What & Where to Eat
• 6 Best night markets in Tainan
• Top Things to do alone in Kaohsiung 
• Where to stay in Kaohsiung: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kaohsiung Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• 5 Best night markets in Kaohsiung
• Qishan Old Street in Kaohsiung City

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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!