Pause your steps and enjoy a romantic seaside afternoon tea.

Text & Photos /Gui Xiaosun

My four-day East Rift Valley trip isn’t even written yet, and I’ve already returned from Kenting. Who knew my travel pace would outstrip my writing speed—turns out it can happen to me too.　

In Kenting during July and August, there’s a captivating kind of sunlight, but also an intensity of heat that almost makes you want to curse. Speaking of cursing, that’s what my dear old friend blurted out after three days with me. Her calm delivery of those words nearly made me burst out laughing. The directness of children—the most honest truth—made me admire her for not actually letting the curse words fly, hahaha~

Writing an article isn’t just about introducing a place. Lately, I’ve also been weaving in my recent mood. It reminds me that I’m not just sharing locations, but sharing a “moment in the now.” That’s why I started with this—content completely unrelated to Jinzun Coffee XD

Jinzun Coffee is a place you might easily overlook along Provincial Highway 11. At first glance, it could be mistaken for a roadside rest stop with restrooms or a deserted pavilion. Yet, it’s exactly this understated charm that makes it perfect for a romantic seaside afternoon—the real deal of coastal coffee. Sit here, and you’ll have a “land-tied island” right before your eyes. All you hear are foreign songs playing softly in the café, so laid-back you won’t want to leave.

Maybe the weather isn’t perfect yet, so you don’t get that crystal-clear blue and white, but the temperature is just right—you can sit here for ages without sweating buckets. Looking out, bougainvillea and cacti naturally decorate the scenery, lulling you into a daze.

The best photo spot is reserved for everyone. This area is marked “For Photography Only—No Loitering!” Thank goodness for that sign, or I’d never have gotten a seat.

The café has plenty of large wooden tables, great whether you’re alone or with a group. Nearby, you’ll find simple coffee and drinks. Order your favorite, relax for an hour or two, and you’ll remember the moment for a long time.

There’s no air conditioning, just sea breeze. There’s shade overhead, but not from bugs, so it naturally brings to mind those beachside daydreaming shelters in island nations. Even if a bird flies past, it doesn’t bother you.

We chose a spot near the sea, listening to the waves while gazing at the priceless Pacific Ocean. Waiting for our two drinks: Italian fresh fruit tea and mango smoothie. The breeze was gentle, and aside from us, only two other tables were occupied—all occasionally staring out at the sea.

The moment those two drinks arrived, we felt instantly refreshed. They were incredibly appealing—visually and taste-wise. Especially the rim of the fruit tea glass—how stunningly clear and beautiful. The mango smoothie was no letdown either, with both price and quality making it highly recommendable. I posted it on FB that very day to share the experience.

Beads of condensation carried a coolness that seemed to chill to the soul. Sunlight filtered through rings of lemon and lime as we sipped sip after sip. Cool and refreshing—that smile of the afternoon.

A small car drove by, making me realize just how vast and far-reaching the distance really is. Indeed, things aren’t always as they seem—and sometimes, that’s just right. Occasionally, we all ought to take an objective look at the little things that hold us back.

In truth, the truly happy are those who know how to enjoy life. Or perhaps it’s better to say, whether human or creature, a simple kind of laziness is the best way to live. A napping black cat slipped into my frame.

The ocean wasn’t the clearest blue and white, and we can’t promise what the weather will be when you go. But every journey carries some joy you can’t lose—simply enjoying the moment, that stretch of scenery.

Remember not to rush by. Don’t miss this hidden gem—a view you can enjoy with just one drink, a seaside café you can reach without any detours.

Remember, when you pass Provincial Highway 11, pause your steps. You’ll love this place just as much as I do.

【Jinzun Coastal Coffee】
136.5km mark on Provincial Highway 11

Article by:［Enjoy Life, No Boredom. Gui Xiaosun］