One awesome day along Kenting Coast

Jia Le Shui

And now it’s time to check out what Kenting (墾丁) is famous for. The popular beach destination is known for its sunny weather, blue skies, sandy beaches and gorgeous coastlines. I can attest to all of that especially the sunny part – get ready your sunblock. The ocean and landscape here in Kenting are 100% breathtaking!

From our hotel, we travelled along the southernmost road in Taiwan and the first beach we visited was Shadao Eco-Protection Area (砂岛生态保护区). Come to think of it, I don’t remember seeing that many public buses or taxis around. With Kenting National Park is spread out across the southern tip of Taiwan, it would be challenging to move around without some mode of transport.

Shadao info

Shadao carpark

At Shadao, a part of the shore here is being cordoned off, to protect the beach filled with ‘shell sand’ (贝壳砂). The rare sand is formed naturally from the debris of seashells caused by powerful waves and erosion over a long period of time. It’s a pity that we cannot get close to the ‘shell sand’ beach, but at least the measure ensures that it will be well preserved. For those who want to see and touch the rare sand can proceed to the exhibition room next to the preserved beach.

Shadao Eco-Protection Area

The rest of the beach is open to public and the reef rocks are amazingly beautiful. Just remember not to wander into the protected area else there will be a fine imposed. Anyway, just look at the gorgeous views here!!

Scenic Shadao

Sha dao

Ship afar

Sha dao

Eluanbi Lighthouse

Moving along the coastal road and we arrived at Eluanbi Park (鹅銮鼻公园). The most well-known landmark here is none other than Taiwan’s southernmost lighthouse – Eluanbi Lighthouse.

Eluanbi national park

Eluanbi lighthouse

Other than that, there isn’t really much to see around the park. So we took a stroll along the seashore path which leads to nice coastal views and kissing rock formation.

Sea shore Path at Eluanbi national park

Seashore Path at Eluanbi national park

Kissing rock of Eluanbi national park

There’s this nice pavilion (沧海亭) which is a great place to take shelter from the bright sun while enjoying the amazing Pacific ocean view.

Pavilion at Eluanbi

Before going for lunch, we stopped by one random beach. No wonder Kenting is a paradise for those who love the sea and into water sports, the beaches here are absolutely beautiful.

Beach

Jia Le Shui

The last coastal stop for us is Jia Le Shui (佳乐水) known as one of the two best-surfing meccas in Taiwan (the other is in Taitung). But we are here during the winter month which means the beaches are virtually empty. That’s not too bad too since we have almost the whole beach to ourselves. But if you are here for surfing hunks and bikini babes, do choose the correct months to come ya.

Jialeshui rock

Another reason people come here is to see its unique rock formation, caused by the sea erosion and strong winds. Somewhat similar to those in Yehliu Geopark. We took a tour bus ride (included in the entrance fee) which brought us along one stretch of the road beside the rock formation.

Jialeshui tour bus

The driver will stop briefly each time and point out the unique rock shapes. Rabbit rock, frog rock, beehive rock, Taiwan rock and some other names which I cannot remember. Actually, how the rocks resemble are totally up to one’s imagination lah.

Jia le shui shores

Jia le shui rock formation

This is the so-called Taiwan rock at Jia Le Shui.

Jialeshui rock formation

We are free to roam around at the last stop where more interesting rock formations can be found. Those who want to stay longer can board the next round trip bus. Truly, a scenic place which I think it’s a must visit when coming to Kenting National Park.

Beautiful Jialeshui

Jialeshui rock formation

Jialeshui rock formation

Jialeshui rock formation

Was told that Guanshan (关山) is a great place to watch the sunset in Kenting and so we went. But sadly, we were greeted by cloudy skies before it started pouring cats and dogs. We ended up spending our last night in Kenting back at Howard Beach Resort and looking forward to Kaohsiung next.

Guanshan in Kenting

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What are your thoughts about Kenting? Leave a comment and share it with me.

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By Alex

A Singapore Travel Blog about one guy, his camera and an irresistible impulse to travel. Join his adventures to find travel reviews and tips @ WanderLex.com. Read more

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