Ride through Kenting’s West Coast on a light bike and encounter the beauty of the southern land

Damp and chilly weather always makes one long for the warmth of the sun. Kenting in southern Taiwan is undoubtedly a paradise for a winter escape. In addition to its world-class natural scenery, the area weaves a beautiful tapestry of green hills, verdant meadows, blue skies, sapphire seas, coconut groves, and golden sands — all of which are utterly captivating. With the current popularity of cycling, biking through Kenting offers an even more intimate way to connect with its natural splendor. To experience the beauty of Kenting’s West Coast, begin your journey at Longluantan, pedaling toward the Nature Center, Guanshan, Baisha, Cape Maobitou, Hongchai Water Country, and the ancient city of Hengchun, making it your own special Kenting vacation.

Longluantan is one of the important lakes within Kenting National Park. When full, it spans 175 hectares and serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds. Every autumn and winter, large flocks of migratory birds gather here, filling the lake with a diverse and abundant array of species, making Longluantan one of Taiwan’s premier bird-watching spots. The Kenting National Park Headquarters has established the “Longluantan Nature Center” by the lake, the first exhibition facility in Taiwan dedicated specifically to bird research and viewing. It's about a 750-meter walk from the entrance to the center, where you can observe waterfowl up close through high-powered monocular telescopes positioned behind floor-to-ceiling windows. Additionally, the center also houses static exhibits on avian ecology.

“Guanshan” is one of the best spots in Taiwan to watch the sunset. Also known as “Gaoshan Rock,” this coral reef plateau sits at an elevation of about 152 meters. Its elevated and barrier-free position makes it one of the finest places to admire the setting sun. Located northwest of Cape Maobitou, Baisha earned its name from a stretch of snow-white sandy beach approximately 500 meters long and 40 meters wide. The purity of its white shell sand is second only to that of Shadiao Beach. Walking barefoot on the sand is not sharp or scorching, but gentle and mild. For travelers seeking a tranquil and serene beach, Baisha is absolutely worth a visit.

Over time, erosion by ocean waves has shaped Cape Maobitou into what from afar resembles a cat crouching in the sea — hence its name. The best way to take in the view of Cape Maobitou is to follow the hiking trail laid out by the Kenting National Park Headquarters up to the lookout platform. Not only can you clearly see the rocky outcrop of Cape Maobitou, but you’ll also be greeted by a feeling of boundless openness. Within the park, there’s a trail leading to the shoreline where you can spot various coral reef erosion formations such as reef pillars, erosion grooves, potholes, and interlayer caves.

Nestled in Hongchai Cave, Hongchai Water Country is Kenting’s most secluded seaside spot. Covering an area of five hectares, the Spanish-style designed park creates an environment where “the sea feels within reach.” It’s a water-lover’s paradise, famous for its spa treatments, snorkeling, sunset coffee, and intertidal activities — offering as many as 26 different types of spa facilities alone. Hengchun, historically known as “Langqiao,” means “Land of Orchids” in the Paiwan language. As Taiwan’s southernmost town, it features four well-preserved city gates, forming the best-maintained fortress structure in Taiwan and a second-grade historical site. The movie “Cape No. 7” brought the ancient city of Hengchun back into the limelight. Why not hop on a bike and explore this town, which offers a completely different vibe from the rest of Kenting?

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