Best things to do in Hengchun

The oldest park of its kind in the country, Kenting National Park encompasses the southern tip of Taiwan and features mountains, lush vegetation, and rugged coastal stretches. Pay a visit to this popular national park to explore the wild extremes of the Hengchun Peninsula, where rocky cliffs meet the churning waves. Use the network of paths and trails to view the jungle and its wildlife, including a population of native monkeys. Keep in mind that the park also offers a number of sandy beaches where you can kick back and admire ocean views. Try hitting the waves, or go snorkeling to view the park's colorful offshore coral. Renting a bike or a scooter makes for an efficient way to sightsee around the park, and also helps to reduce fatigue in the tropical climate.

Part of a national park, Eluanbi remains an ideal spot for strolling and visiting a historic lighthouse providing scenic views of the ocean. The history of the area is closely associated to the Japanese colonial rule, war shipping, and whale hunting. Sharks and sea turtles inhabit the waters around the cape, while its shores provide a home for an old-growth forest and land crabs.

Get away to experience the life of leisure at Xiao Liu Qiu. With friendly people and plenty of restaurants, the island serves as a destination for those looking to take a break from everyday life. Rent a scooter to explore the island, looking for the strange natural rock formations and caves. Soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, or go swimming or snorkeling in the clear waters around the island to see the typical marine life in the area. Don't worry about crowds, as the seclusion of the island provides plenty privacy.

Observe gigantic whale sharks and oddly shaped beluga whales at National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium. You'll encounter three main exhibit halls, including one themed after the water systems of Taiwan and featuring local aquatic animals and a touch pool. Explore multiple coral reef habitats, ranging from shallow waters to deep seas, complete with a sunken ship. The final exhibit will take you through the history of the oceans, featuring many interactive displays especially appealing to the youngest visitors.

The size of White Sand Bay attracts many visitors, as this white sand beach is uncrowded even during the peak of the season. Spend some time snorkeling and scuba diving to discover coral reefs along the 500 m (1,640 ft) long and 40 m (131 ft) wide beach; you can rent the equipment on site. On the north end of the beach, you will find area with cafes, restaurants, and shops. This area offers a mini-submarine theater that shows 3-D films.

Views of the Pacific Ocean and see coral reef cliffs draw people to Longpan Park. As you walk along, red soil leads you to the coral reefs and green grass. Coral reefs support both hard coral and soft coral here. In addition, the landscape also includes limestone caves. Take stroll around the site and stop at some great viewpoints. Be sure to wear warm clothes, as the wind often blows strongly here.

A visit to Chuhuo Special Scenic Area allows you to enjoy your own campfire without the hassle of having to actually build and light it. Thanks to flammable gasses that erupt from the earth, the area is dotted with small fires that have been burning for centuries. You can buy some raw food from onsite shops, cook it on the fire, and enjoy a memorable picnic with family or friends. According to local superstition, anyone who jumps over the fire will enjoy luck and success; if you feel brave enough, give it a try.

One of Taiwan's best-preserved historical towns, Hengchun Old Town retains its original city gates and ramparts. Stroll along parts of the original 2,500 m (8,202 ft) long, 13 m (42 ft) high city wall that once completely surrounded the city. When passing through, make sure to visit each of the gates and take in views over the entire city from the watchtowers above. Throngs of tourists give the old quarter a distinct buzz, which carries over in its vibrant nightlife and pristine beaches.

Join the numerous visitors who come to Maobitou Park to try to discern the peculiar shape of the rock formations. Use your imagination as you try to recognize animal shapes, such as fish, cats, elephants in the distinctive rocks. Once you've spotted all the rocks' hidden characters, take a refreshing walk by the ocean, and, on a clear day, enjoy sweeping views stretching all the way to the opposite side of the bay. Finish your walk by dining in one of the restaurants, renowned for their fish and other seafood dishes.

Sheding Nature Park (traditional Chinese: 社頂自然公園; simplified Chinese: 社顶自然公园; pinyin: Shèdǐng Zìrán Gōngyuán) is a nature park within Kenting National Park, in Hengchun Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan.