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9 Best Beaches in Kenting for Swimming, Snorkeling or Surfing

Written by Lydia|Updated: 2025-07-23

Kenting lives up to its reputation as Taiwan's premier beach getaway.

Whether you're dreaming of swimming in crystal-clear waters at White Sand Bay Kenting, snorkeling among vibrant coral at Little Bali Bay, or catching the perfect wave at South Bay, Kenting Beaches offer something special for everyone!

As your local friend, I will lead you through the 9 best beaches in Kenting, guiding you pick your ideal spot, maximize your fun, seamlessly fit beaches into your Kenting itinerary, and even explore nearby regions.

Head for the sun-kissed Kenting Taiwan beaches with me now!

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  • triangleTaiwan Kenting Beaches on Map, How to Pick?
  • triangle#1. White Sand Bay (Baishawan) - The Best Natural Swimming Beach in Kenting
  • triangle#2. Little Bay (Small Beach) - An Easy to Access Swimming Beach in Kenting
  • triangle#3. Kenting Beach (Dawan Beach Taiwan) - Public Beach Safety, Perfect for Family Swimming
  • triangle#4. Sail Rock - Kenting's Iconic Reef with a Tiny Swimming Beach
  • triangle#5. South Bay (Nanwan) - Not Just One of the Best Surfing Beaches, But Kenting's "Scream Harvester"!
  • triangle#6. Jialeshui Beach - Kenting's Year-Round Surfing Beach
  • triangle#7. Banana Bay Kenting - A Snorkeling Beach Requiring Professional Gear & Coach
  • triangle#8. Houbihu Fishing Harbour (Houbihu Marina) - Kenting's Hub for Snorkeling and Seafood!
  • triangle#9. Little Bali Bay kenting - The Snorkeling Beach with the Best Visibility!
  • triangleHow to Plan a Trip to Cover Kenting Beaches
  • triangleTravel with Asia Odyssey Travel, Explore Kenting (Taiwan) Beaches

Taiwan Kenting Beaches on Map, How to Pick?

So, with all these amazing Kenting Beaches, how do you pick your perfect spot? It all depends on what kind of day you're dreaming of!

Taiwan Kenting Beaches on Map
Map of Kenting Beaches

To help you navigate the options among the 9 best beaches in Kenting of Taiwan, here's a map of Kenting beaches:

Beaches in Kenting Water Activities Best for Who? My Rating
White Sand Bay Kenting Swimming, Snorkeling, Sailing Beginners, Families, Tranquility Seekers, Couples ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Small Beach Swimming, Snorkeling Families, Convenience Seekers, Hotel Guests ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dawan Beach Taiwan Swimming, Beach volleyball, Sunbathing Families, Casual Travelers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sail Rock Swimming (smaller beach), Sightseeing Families (wading), Convenience Seekers ⭐⭐
South Bay Surfing, Banana Boating, Parasailing Young Adults, Groups ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jialeshui Beach Surfing Adventurers, Surfing Beginners ⭐⭐⭐
Banana Bay Snorkeling (professional guidance) Explorers, Diving Enthusiasts ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Houbihu Fishing Harbour Semi-submarine, Diving Eco-lovers, Foodies ⭐⭐⭐
Little Bali Bay Snorkeling, Safe water play for families Secluded Spot Explorers, Snorkeling Families ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you're planning a fun family day by the water, Dawan Beach Taiwan or Little Bay are top choices. For incredible photos and snorkeling, head straight to White Sand Bay Kenting.

If thrilling water sports are what you crave, South Bay is your go-to. And for exploring marine life, Houbihu or Banana Bay offer fantastic ecological adventures.

Related Article:11 Best Beaches in Taiwan: Taipei to Kenting (with Map)

#1. White Sand Bay (Baishawan) - The Best Natural Swimming Beach in Kenting

Kenting Baisha Bay
Kenting Baisha Bay
White Sand Bay, the Best Natural Swimming Beach in Kenting
White Sand Bay, the Best Natural Swimming Beach in Kenting

When our locals talk about the best beaches in Kenting, White Sand Bay Kenting (Baishawan) is often number one, and you'll quickly see why!

This 500-meter stretch of magic boasts fine, shimmering seashell sand. Step barefoot onto the soft, warm sand; it's like sinking into marshmallows.

At sunset, the ocean glows with a golden hue – truly "Kenting's most beautiful sunset spot," far surpassing any artificial beach!

Movie buffs, this is that beach from "Life of Pi!" where the tiger disappeared into the jungle. Ring a bell?

The water here is an unbelievable "Tiffany blue," staying calm and crystal clear year-round, even on cloudy days.

Water Activities to Expect Here:

  • Swimming: Clear, calm waters perfect for beginners and families.
  • Snorkeling/Diving: Rich coral reefs, explore underwater caves and arches.
  • Sailing, Jet Skis: Easy to enjoy thanks to the calm surface.

Just a reminder! The entrance can be tricky to spot, so look for "Baisha" signs. Or, hop on the direct "Kenting Express Bus" from Hengchun.

#2. Little Bay (Small Beach) - An Easy to Access Swimming Beach in Kenting

Xiaowan, an Easy to Access Swimming Beach in Kenting
Xiaowan, an Easy to Access Swimming Beach in Kenting
Little Bay Kenting, also called Xiaowan or Small Beach
Little Bay Kenting, also called Xiaowan or Small Beach

Little Bay Kenting, or called Xiaowan or Small Beach, is a convenient beach right by Caesar Park Hotel. The sand here is as fine as flour, and the facilities are excellent, with sun lounger rentals and showers available.

If you're staying at Caesar Park, remember to snag a front-row beach chair around 4 PM – the light creates a stunning, Maldives-like scene!

The shallow waters are calm and safe, making it ideal for a relaxed dip. Don't just swim – grab your mask! You can easily snorkel here and get up close with tropical fish and coral near the shore.

Heads Up! It's just a 10-mins walk to Kenting Street, so you can easily rinse off and head straight to the night market for some delicious Taiwan food. I'm talking about seamless fun!

#3. Kenting Beach (Dawan Beach Taiwan) - Public Beach Safety, Perfect for Family Swimming

Dawan Beach in Kenting, Taiwan
Dawan Beach in Kenting, Taiwan
Dawan Beach, Perfect for Family Swimming
Dawan Beach, Perfect for Family Swimming

Right across from Kenting Street, you'll find Dawan Beach Taiwan!

The sand is silky, waves are mellow, and the water is so clear you can see the bottom. This long, gentle, shallow beach has no hidden reefs, making it perfect for a romantic evening stroll.

Imagine running from your guesthouse in your bikini and hitting the waves in just 30 seconds! You won't even finish your bubble tea from Kenting Street before your feet are in the water! LOL!

As one of the best beaches in Kenting for swimming, it boasts public beach-level safety, making it perfect for families. Kids can play in the sand while you chill on a sun lounger, scrolling on your phone – that's what vacation is all about!

Prefer staying on land? Beach volleyball and sunbathing are also popular choices here.

At dusk, the entire bay turns a dazzling champagne gold, giving your sunset photos a built-in movie filter! The golden hour is from 5 PM to 7 PM!

#4. Sail Rock - Kenting's Iconic Reef with a Tiny Swimming Beach

Sail Rock, Kenting
Sail Rock, Kenting
Sail Rock, Kenting
Sail Rock, Kenting

Sail Rock Kenting is famous for its colossal coral reef, resembling a sailboat or even former US President Nixon's profile! It's a must-see!

This landmark coral reef is covered in wildflowers and shrubs, making it a home for birds. Next to the main rock, there's a lovely, small sandy patch perfect for wading.

For activities, you can take a relaxing stroll along the coastal boardwalk for scenic views (about 30 mins) or enjoy shallow water play, which is perfect for families.

Just Note:

  • Serious snorkeling or diving requires other beaches.
  • It's free and open all day with many guesthouses nearby.
  • You can take the Kenting Express Bus Orange Line (holidays).

#5. South Bay (Nanwan) - Not Just One of the Best Surfing Beaches, But Kenting's "Scream Harvester"!

South Bay (Nanwan), Kenting's
South Bay (Nanwan), Kenting's "Scream Harvester"
South Bay, Kenting's Core for Water Activities
South Bay, Kenting's Core for Water Activities

South Bay Kenting (Nanwan) is a 600-meter bay with fine white sand and Kenting's core for water activities. It's a "scream harvester" because of all the thrills!

Banana boats, jet skis, parasailing, kayaking – they have it all. It's also a paradise for beginner surfers with moderate waves; a half-day lesson is about TWD 500.

In the evening, do grab a juice at a beach bar and watch the sunset – pure Kenting Nanwan chill!

Keep in mind: It gets crowded in summer. For that "jellyfish sea" look, avoid Nanwan on cloudy days; head to White Sand Bay instead. In autumn/winter, check warning flags (red = no swimming).

Just a local secret for surfers! Waves are steadiest after 3 PM for beginner surfers.

#6. Jialeshui Beach - Kenting's Year-Round Surfing Beach

Jialeshui Beach, Kenting's Year-Round Surfing Beach
Jialeshui Beach, Kenting's Year-Round Surfing Beach
Surfing in Jialeshui Beach
Surfing in Jialeshui Beach

Jialeshui Beach is a unique Kenting surfing spot known for geological features and consistent waves – a surfer's dream that works year-round!

The coastline here is a natural art gallery of beehive, checkerboard, and mushroom rocks, dubbed "Seagod's Playground." It also features a mountain-sea waterfall, blending mountain and ocean scenery.

This is a surfing paradise with stable waves and a wide-open water area, with beginner lessons available. You can also enjoy geological exploration by taking a guided tour bus or exploring on foot/bike.

Limitations: Less sandy beach area; main activity is surfing and sightseeing. Not ideal for swimming!

Transportation & Facilities: Open 7:30 AM-5:30 PM, requires an admission ticket (TWD 80 full price), and is accessible by car along Provincial Highway 26, with parking available.

#7. Banana Bay Kenting - A Snorkeling Beach Requiring Professional Gear & Coach

Banana Bay Kenting, a Snorkeling Beach for Pros
Banana Bay Kenting, a Snorkeling Beach for Pros
Have Fun at Banana Bay, Kenting
Have Fun at Banana Bay, Kenting

Banana Bay Kenting is a hidden gem known for pristine coral reefs and a stunning underwater world, but it's for the more adventurous! This is an untouched, raw coral reef coast with dense mushroom corals thriving underwater.

For activities, you'll need professional gear and a coach for snorkeling or diving to explore the incredible reef ecosystem, including a 7-meter deep blue hole, coral tunnels, fluorescent fish and a shipwreck.

A local treat after diving? Freshly shucked sea urchins with beer from Granny's shop!

Just Remember! The reefs here are sharp, so casual swimming without special gear is prohibited. Families with young children should choose Banana Bay with great caution, opting for Dawan Beach's shallow waters instead.

#8. Houbihu Fishing Harbour (Houbihu Marina) - Kenting's Hub for Snorkeling and Seafood!

Houbihu Fishing Harbour
Houbihu Fishing Harbour
Taiwan Seafood
Taiwan Seafood

Houbihu Fishing Harbour is a great choice if you want to combine the freshest seafood with your water adventures – a real two-in-one spot in Kenting!

This is Taiwan's largest yacht marina, cleverly doubling as both a bustling seafood market and a lively base for all sorts of water activities.

Here you can take a sightseeing semi-submarine to view coral reefs and fish (50-min ride), or enjoy thrilling speedboat and banana boat rides with great group package value.

No diving certification? No problem! You can still experience Houbihu snorkeling by joining a coached, guided session.

A local tip: after activities, you must try the Houbihu sashimi – incredible value at just TWD 100 per plate!

#9. Little Bali Bay kenting - The Snorkeling Beach with the Best Visibility!

Little Bali Bay, Kenting's own little Bali
Little Bali Bay, Kenting's own little Bali
Little Bali Bay in kenting, a Snorkeling Beach with the Best Visibility
Little Bali Bay in kenting, a Snorkeling Beach with the Best Visibility

Little Bali Bay Kenting is a natural swimming pool, hugged by coral reefs, where the water is that same "Maldives-like Tiffany blue." That makes it one of the top-notch snorkeling beaches in Kenting, offering Offer excellent underwater visibility; tropical fish and corals are practically within arm's reach!

It's calm, with waves barely there, and the water is only waist-deep – truly feeling like "Kenting's own little Bali." When the tide is out, you can explore the intertidal zone, observing sea stars, luminous snails, and maze-like rock crevices.

Not just adult-friendly. Its shallow, safe area with no big waves is ideal for kids to splash and play freely!

Just a heads-up: there are no commercial facilities here, so bring all your own gear, food, and drinks.

Related Article:Taiwan Famous Food: 13 Must-try Foods in Taiwan

Here's some limitations:

  • It's free to visit, but finding the entrance is a bit of a secret! From the Nuclear Power Plant's outflow, head towards Maobitou, then look for a red warning sign and a small, 20-meter path through the trees.
  • Also, there's no nearby showers, so pack some fresh water for a quick rinse.

How to Plan a Trip to Cover Kenting Beaches

Kenting (2 Days)

Eluanbi Lighthouse, Kenting
Eluanbi Lighthouse, Kenting
Longpan Park Grassland, Kenting
Longpan Park Grassland, Kenting

For a leisure Kenting trip that really covers the best beaches in Kenting, I'd suggest planning for at least 2 days:

Day 1: Dedicate this day to a stunning beach like White Sand Bay (Kenting Baishawan), one of the best beaches in Kenting.

Day 2: Explore other Kenting attractions like the Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, Sail Rock, Eluanbi Lighthouse, and Longpan Park Grasslands.

Connecting with Kaohsiung: (4-5 Days Total)

Maritime Building Café
Maritime Building Café
Donglong Temple
Donglong Temple

If you're including Kaohsiung in your itinerary, a 3-4 day trip is usually recommended for the whole adventure.

Kaohsiung itself can be comfortably explored in about 1 day, and the transfer from Kaohsiung to Kenting actually makes for another day with all the amazing stops you can make along the way!

See details in the table below:

Where to Go What to See Where to Stay
Kaohsiung Lotus Pond Scenic Area - Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung to Kenting Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area - Donggang Donglong Temple - Huaqiao Market - Local Seafood - Snacks (Mung Bean Garlic Soup) - Hengchun Ancient City Kenting
Kenting Kenting Baishawan Kenting
Kenting Kenting National Forest Recreation Area - Sail Rock - Eluanbi Lighthouse - Longpan Park Grasslands /

Best Season for Taiwan Beaches: Summer (Jun–Sept) is perfect for water activities (24-28℃). Autumn/Winter (Oct–Mar) means fewer crowds and more beautiful sunsets.

Safety Alert:

In autumn/winter, waves can be bigger. Always check warning flags (red = no swimming, yellow = cautious).

Some beaches (like White Sand Bay) don't have lifeguards. It's always safest to swim with a buddy and consider bringing your own personal flotation device.

Environmental Protection: Please use ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect our coral reefs. Avoid touching or stepping on them!

Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel, Explore Kenting (Taiwan) Beaches

Now, it's time to kick off your shoes, feel the fine sand between your toes, and let the beaches in Kenting whisper their magic. I promise, you won't want to leave this paradise!

While navigating cross-regional travel in Taiwan can be tricky with public transport, a private car service makes it a breeze!

Consider Asia Odyssey Travel's private car service and Taiwan tours. We partner with local guides, drivers, and hotels to ensure a deep experience, making your journey smooth and memorable.

For more insights, check out our Taiwan Travel Guide to transfer from Kaohsiung to Kenting, learn about things to do in Taiwan, understand Taiwan travel cost, or find the best time to visit Taiwan.

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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