Kenting National Park

Kenting Overview

Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園), located on the southern tip of Taiwan in Pingtung County, spans 131.8 square miles (341.3 square kilometers). This iconic park is Taiwan’s first national park, established in 1984, and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, stunning coastal landscapes, and tropical climate. Situated along the Hengchun Peninsula, the park serves as a meeting point for the Pacific Ocean and Taiwan Strait, offering breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems that draw millions of visitors each year.

The terrain of Kenting National Park is remarkably varied, encompassing white-sand beaches, rugged cliffs, coral reefs, grasslands, and forested areas. Notable features include Longpan Park, known for its rolling grasslands and panoramic ocean views, and Eluanbi Lighthouse, an iconic landmark near Taiwan’s southernmost point. The park is also home to Maobitou, a unique rocky cape that resembles a crouching cat, and the Kenting Forest Recreation Area, where visitors can explore limestone caves, lush tropical forests, and fascinating karst formations. Additionally, the coral reef systems along the coastline are some of the most biologically diverse in the region, supporting a vibrant marine ecosystem.

Kenting National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Its forests and wetlands host an impressive array of mammals, such as Formosan macaques, pangolins, and civet cats. Birdwatchers flock to the park to spot species like the black-faced spoonbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Chinese goshawk, especially during migratory seasons. In its marine areas, colorful coral reefs teem with life, including clownfish, parrotfish, and sea turtles. The intertidal zones and tidal flats provide critical habitats for countless crustaceans and mollusks, adding to the park’s ecological richness.

Visitors are drawn to the park’s stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities, especially in locations like Houbihu and Banana Bay, where clear waters reveal an underwater paradise of coral reefs. For those who prefer land-based exploration, hiking trails such as the ones in the Kenting Forest Recreation Area offer pathways through tropical forests and caves. The area is also a hotspot for water sports, including surfing and windsurfing, thanks to its consistent winds and excellent waves.

Despite its popularity, Kenting National Park faces challenges in conservation, including coral reef degradation due to tourism and climate change, as well as habitat loss from development. The park management has implemented measures to mitigate these issues, such as creating marine protected areas, promoting eco-tourism, and conducting regular biodiversity monitoring. These efforts have led to successes in coral reef restoration and increasing awareness among visitors about sustainable practices.