Kenting Street, also known as Kenting Main Street (墾丁大街), is the vibrant heart of Kenting, a coastal town at the southern tip of Taiwan in Pingtung County. As the epicenter of Kenting National Park, this bustling street is famous for its lively night market, diverse dining options, and proximity to some of Taiwan’s most stunning beaches. Whether you’re a foodie, a beach lover, or an adventure seeker, Kenting Street offers a perfect blend of tropical charm, nightlife, and cultural experiences. This guide will help you plan a memorable visit to this iconic destination.
A Travel Guide to Kenting Street
Why Visit Kenting Street?
Kenting Street is the lifeblood of Kenting’s tourism scene, offering a compact yet dynamic area packed with attractions. By day, it’s a gateway to pristine beaches like Kenting Main Beach and Xiaowan, while at night, it transforms into a bustling night market filled with street food, souvenirs, and entertainment. The street’s tropical vibe, influenced by Kenting’s year-round warm climate, makes it a unique escape from Taiwan’s urban centers. Its proximity to natural wonders, such as Eluanbi Lighthouse and Longpan Park, also makes it an ideal base for exploring Kenting National Park. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, Kenting Street’s energetic atmosphere and diverse offerings cater to all.
How to Get There
Kenting Street is located in Kenting town, within Kenting National Park, approximately 90 kilometers south of Kaohsiung. Here are the main ways to reach it:
From Taipei: High-Speed Rail (HSR) + Bus: Take the HSR from Taipei Main Station to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung (1.5 hours, ~NT$1,490). From Zuoying, catch the Kenting Express Bus (Line 9188 or 9189) to Kenting (2–2.5 hours, ~NT$350). Buses drop off directly on Kenting Street. Total travel time: ~3.5–4 hours. Book HSR tickets via Klook or the TPE HSR website and bus tickets at Zuoying or online. Regular Train + Bus: A cheaper but slower option is the Taiwan Railway (TRA) from Taipei to Fangshan Station (4–5 hours, ~NT$600–800), followed by a bus to Kenting (20–30 minutes, ~NT$112–150). Avoid slower trains like Chu Kuang for efficiency.
From Kaohsiung: Kenting Express Bus: Departs every 30 minutes from Kaohsiung Main Station or Zuoying HSR Station to Kenting Street (2–2.5 hours, ~NT$350). Buy tickets at the station or via apps like BusTracker Taiwan. Shared Taxi: Available outside Zuoying Station or Kenting Street for ~NT$400–500 per person, offering a faster alternative (2 hours).
By Car: Rent a car in Kaohsiung or Taipei and drive via Freeway 3 and Provincial Highway 17 to Kenting (2–2.5 hours from Kaohsiung). Parking is available near Kenting Street, though it can be crowded on weekends (~NT$50–100/day).
From Hengchun: If staying in nearby Hengchun (10 km north), take a local bus (Line 101 or 9188, 15–20 minutes, ~NT$30) or a taxi (NT$200–300) to Kenting Street.
Tip: Book bus tickets in advance during peak seasons (March–May, October–November, or festivals like the Kenting Music Festival in April) to secure seats.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (October–November): These months offer warm, pleasant weather (20–28°C) with minimal rain, ideal for beach activities and exploring the night market. Crowds are manageable except during holidays.
Summer (June–September): Hot and humid (28–35°C), with occasional typhoons. Beaches are at their peak, but check weather forecasts, as rough waves may close some areas.
Winter (December–FEBRUARY): Mild (18–25°C) but windy, with fewer crowds. Swimming is less appealing due to cooler water, but the night market and indoor dining remain vibrant.
Crowd Tip: Visit early in the morning or after 3 PM to avoid tour groups, especially at the night market. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Tickets and Opening Hours
Kenting Street: Free to explore, as it’s a public street. The night market typically operates from 6:00 PM to midnight, though some stalls open earlier. Shops and restaurants are open from morning to late evening (10:00 AM–11:00 PM).
Nearby Attractions: Some attractions near Kenting Street, like Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, require tickets (~NT$150). Check specific sites for hours and fees.
What to See and Do
Kenting Street is compact but packed with activities, dining, and access to nearby attractions. Here’s a breakdown:
Kenting Night Market: The highlight of Kenting Street, this nightly market stretches along the main road, offering a dizzying array of street food like gua bao (steamed buns), stinky tofu, dragon fruit smoothies, and pokeball-shaped sweet potato balls. Try 墾丁蕭記脆皮湯包 for crispy soup dumplings or 章魚一番 for fried octopus. Beyond food, browse souvenir stalls selling swimwear, local crafts, and quirky trinkets. Expect lively music, games, and a festive atmosphere. Note that the street remains open to scooters and cars, so stay alert. Cost: Food items range from NT$30–150. Bring cash, as many vendors don’t accept cards.
Beach Access: Kenting Main Beach: A 5-minute walk from the street, this swimmable beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports like jet-skiing and banana boating. Umbrellas and chairs are available for rent (~NT$100–200). Xiaowan (Small Bay): East of the night market, this smaller beach is accessible via a staircase near an upright surfboard sign. It’s quieter, with a beach bar serving drinks. Public swimming is allowed, though it’s adjacent to resorts like Caesar Park. Lover’s Beach (情人灘): A short walk from the eastern end of Kenting Street, follow a path to this secluded spot near Frog Rock for a romantic or peaceful escape.
Scooter and Bike Rentals: Rent electric scooters (NT$300–500/day, no license needed) or fuel-powered scooters (NT$500–800/day, requires International Driver’s Permit) from shops along Kenting Street to explore nearby sights like Sail Rock, Eluanbi Lighthouse, or Longpan Park. Bicycles are also available (~NT$100–200/day). Helmets are mandatory. Tip: Electric scooters are slower and may struggle on hills, so opt for fuel scooters for longer trips.
Dining Beyond the Night Market: Kenting Street boasts diverse restaurants, including Thai, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Tex-Mex. Try Pizza Rock (run by a travel blogger) or Piccolo Polpo Italian Restaurant (reservations recommended) for international flavors. For fresh seafood, visit 巷子內海鮮熱炒 (no English name, check TripAdvisor for location) or head to Houbihu Fishing Harbor (10-minute drive) for sashimi and grilled dishes. Cost: Meals at sit-down restaurants range from NT$150–400.
Nightlife: Bars along Kenting Street, like the Xiaowan Beach Bar or reggae-themed spots, offer cocktails (~NT$150–300) and live music. The night market’s energy extends to late-night stalls and standing bars.
Nearby Attractions (Short Trips): Sail Rock (Chuanfanshih): A 5-minute scooter ride south, this sail-shaped rock is a scenic spot for photos and snorkeling. Eluanbi Lighthouse and Park: 15 minutes away, visit Taiwan’s southernmost point and explore trails with coastal views (~NT$60 entry). Kenting National Forest Recreation Area: 10 minutes by scooter, this tropical botanical garden features caves, trails, and wildlife like Formosan macaques (~NT$150).
Where to Eat
Night Market Stalls: Affordable and diverse, with must-tries like grilled seafood, bubble tea, and shaved ice (~NT$30–150).
Restaurants on Kenting Street: Pizza Rock: Popular for wood-fired pizzas (~NT$200–300). Piccolo Polpo: Upscale Italian with seafood dishes (~NT$300–500). Taiwanese Quick Fry: Local seafood joints offer stir-fried dishes (~NT$150–250). Houbihu Harbor: For the freshest seafood, though portions may be large (ideal for groups, ~NT$300–600).
Tip: Bring cash for night market vendors. Some restaurants accept cards or mobile payments like LINE Pay.
Where to Stay
Kenting Street is the most convenient base for exploring Kenting, with accommodations ranging from budget to mid-range. Book early for peak seasons:
Budget: Kenting Space Capsule: Hostel with capsule-style beds, ideal for solo travelers (~NT$600–1,000/night). Inn Kenting the Sky Tree: Basic but clean, close to the beach (~NT$1,200/night).
Mid-Range: Kenting Moon Bay Hotel: Comfortable rooms near Kenting Street (~NT$1,500–2,500/night). Chuanfanrock Haku Beach Days Inn: Boutique hotel with Sail Rock views (~NT$2,000–3,000/night).
Resort: Caesar Park Kenting: 5-star resort with pool and Xiaowan Beach access (~NT$3,500–6,000/night). Howard Beach Resort: Family-friendly with beach proximity (~NT$3,000–5,000/night).
Nearby Hengchun (10 km): Offers quieter guesthouses like Sasa Nor Lamour B&B (NT$1,500–2,500/night) or budget Airbnb options (NT$800–1,500/night).
Booking Tip: Use Booking.com, Agoda, or Klook for deals. Many B&Bs don’t require advance reservations, but confirm availability during festivals.
Tips for a Great Visit
Stay Safe: Kenting is very safe, but watch for scooters in the night market and protect valuables. Solo female travelers report feeling secure. Pack Accordingly: Bring swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes for beach and market exploration. Mosquito repellent is useful at night.
Cash is King: Most night market stalls and small shops only accept cash. ATMs are available at 7-11s on Kenting Street. Language: Many vendors speak limited English, so a translation app (e.g., Google Translate) is handy.
Eco-Friendly Practices: Avoid single-use plastics and respect beach ecosystems by not littering. Combine Your Trip: Spend 2–3 days in Kenting to pair Kenting Street with nearby beaches (Baishawan, Nanwan), parks, and activities like snorkeling or surfing.
Scooter Safety: Wear helmets (mandatory) and ensure your International Driver’s Permit is valid for fuel scooters. Electric scooters are beginner-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Kenting Street is a vibrant microcosm of Taiwan’s southern charm, blending the excitement of a night market with the laid-back allure of a tropical beach town. From savoring street food under neon lights to dipping your toes in nearby turquoise waters, this lively strip offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit during spring or autumn for the best weather, rent a scooter for flexibility, and dive into the eclectic mix of food, culture, and nature. Kenting Street is not just a destination—it’s a vibe that captures the essence of Taiwan’s coastal paradise.
Happy travels!
