National Parks of Taiwan

Surrounded by the sea on three sides, the Hengchun Peninsula’s 75-kilometer coastline predominantly consists of coral reef growing on limestone terrain. The coastal geological formations include breathtaking natural landscapes such as reef pinnacles, sea grooves, marine potholes, and interstratified caves. With rising and receding tides, the coast’s intertidal zone exposed is known to be the perfect classroom for environmental education! When the tide is low, tide pools of various sizes emerge as nature’s treasure trove, where fish, shrimps, crabs, starfish, and sea slugs are thriving. Cloaked in splendid colors, these amazing sea creatures will entice people to explore the wonders of the ocean.

Fun at Hengchun Peninsula, Sustainable Development of Marine Recreation

The Daguang community used to cultivate large plantations of sisal, which was an important product for export. Together, onions, sisal, and Gangkou tea constitute the three treasures of Hengchun. As sisal twine and ropes are gradually replaced by nylon ropes, the Daguang community turns to fishing harbor tourism for development. Since then, many seafood restaurants have emerged. In this regard, the Daguang Community Development Association has been proactively promoting eco-tourism in recent years. These efforts are made in the hope of changing the stereotypical impression of which “Houbi Lake = fresh seafood cuisine.”

In addition, located in the Daguang community, Houbi Lake serves as Kenting’s base camp for water activities. With a well-developed reef system and safe waters, many tourists often come here for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and standup paddleboarding (SUP). The wide expanse of shallow shore offers close-up viewing of the sea creatures, making it a fun experience for the whole family.

Surfing Waves in Pursuit of Stunning Sights Worthy of National Geographic

In addition to eco-tourism itineraries promoted by the community, the Kenting National Park Headquarters also organized the “Blue Sea Intertidal Fun” event. Surfers would follow a guide to explore the intertidal zone, where they were invited to carefully observe signs of organisms hidden in rock crevices. After all, there are surprises to be found in every nook and cranny here, while a spectacular seascape is right at the horizon.

Before setting off, participants of the tour would first meet at the visitor center to learn about how tides would form and precautions of the tour. The precautions included safety tips when walking on coral reefs, identifying poisonous creatures, and most importantly, not turning over rocks, not touching coastal creatures, and not taking away any shells or organisms, so as to prevent destroying precious habitats and the balance of nature.

Diurnal and Nocturnal Wonders Showcase Vitality of Life

The “Blue Sea Intertidal Fun” tour offered two sessions, one during daytime and the other during nighttime. While the day session took place under the heat of the sun, it offered clearer visibility and was relatively safer, making it easier for observing and filming nature. Participants would be able to focus on the details by their feet, observe marine life up close, and gain knowledge about the ocean and conservation. As the tour was both educational and fun, it attracted many parents to bring their children along. The tour itinerary would end with beach cleanup. After witnessing the beauty of the marine world, participants were shocked to discover how garbage affects every inch of the coastline. They reflected on how plastic garbage would enter the food chain, causing severe marine pollution. They came to realize that each person has the power to make a change.