Penghu (澎湖) is a volcanic archipelago in the Taiwan Strait, just 50 km off the main island of Taiwan — yet the atmosphere feels like a completely different world. Here you'll find Taiwan's finest white-sand beaches, basalt columns formed 12 million years ago, and a pair of double-heart-shaped stone fish traps famous across the globe. Add Taiwan's oldest temple, an international fireworks festival every summer, and a full lineup of water sports, and Penghu earns its place on any Taiwan itinerary.
#1 Twin Hearts Stone Weir, Qimei Island
These twin heart-shaped fish traps were built from basalt and coral more than 700 years ago by Penghu fishermen on the tidal flats. Today they rank among the world's most-photographed wedding backdrops. Seen from above at low tide, two interlocking hearts appear with striking clarity in the shallow water. The site is currently a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage listing.
- Reach Qimei Island by ferry from Magong's Mainan Pier — the crossing takes 50 to 60 minutes.
- Visit at low tide in the early morning for the clearest view of the hearts and the best light.
- While on the island, don't miss Little Taiwan — a rock formation shaped remarkably like the island of Taiwan itself.
#2 Tongpan Island Geology Park
Tongpan Island is the most complete example of basalt topography in Penghu. Hexagonal columns formed 12 million years ago line the sea cliffs all the way around the island, earning it the nickname 'the Yellowstone of Penghu.' On the southwest side, look for Lotus Terrace — a stepped rock basin — and Cat Rock, a honeycomb-textured boulder unlike anything else in Taiwan. The geology park opened officially in 2008.
- Rent a scooter on the island and circle it to see the basalt columns from every angle.
- Head to Lotus Terrace on the southwest side at low tide for the most dramatic view of the layered rock.
- Wear non-slip shoes — the rock surfaces can be slippery with sea spray.
#3 Penghu Tianhou Temple
Built in 1604, Tianhou Temple is the oldest Mazu temple in Taiwan. Every surface is carved by craftsmen brought from mainland China, and inside the temple a stone tablet from 1604 records negotiations between a Ming dynasty commander and a Dutch ship — one of the earliest written records relating to Taiwan. For over 400 years it has remained the spiritual heart of Penghu.
- Pick up local brown-sugar cake from the shops ringing the temple courtyard.
- The pedestrian street Zhongzheng Road runs directly opposite the temple — ideal for an evening stroll.
- The temple is open every day with no admission fee; dress modestly.
#4 Xiying Rainbow Bridge
This 200-metre pedestrian bridge, completed in 2004, spans a man-made bay alongside Guanyinting Coastal Park. After dark, neon lights in every colour of the rainbow illuminate the full length of the bridge, casting a vivid reflection on the water below. The surrounding park is also the main viewing area for the Penghu International Fireworks Festival, which runs every summer from May through August.
- Come after 7 p.m. to see the rainbow lights reflected in the water at their most striking.
- Guanyinting Park around the bridge is well suited for an evening bike ride along the waterfront.
- During the fireworks festival (May–Aug) crowds are large — arrive at least an hour before the show.
#5 Shanshui Beach
Shanshui is widely regarded as the finest beach in Penghu, with fine white sand, warm blue-green water, and plenty of space. It suits swimming, surfing, and windsurfing equally well. The water stays warm from April through October, and the surrounding area has a cluster of B&Bs right on the shore for travelers who want a relaxed beach stay.
- Mornings are quieter — the best time for photos and exercise along the waterline.
- Windsurfing equipment rental shops sit directly on the beach and cater to beginners.
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen — the Penghu sun is intense, especially in summer.
#6 Baisha Island — Coral Village
Baisha Island connects to the main island by bridge and is home to old fishing villages that still preserve their traditional coral-stone houses — an architectural style specific to Penghu that has become rare in the modern era. The northern part of the island has quiet beaches and snorkelling spots along the reef. World-class windsurfers compete here because the wind blows reliably all year.
- Visit Erkan Ancient Village, the best-preserved example of the old coral-stone architecture.
- Rent a bicycle to explore the island — the narrow roads are shaded and perfect for cycling.
- July and August bring strong winds, making it the prime season for windsurfing.
#7 Penghu International Fireworks Festival
The Penghu International Fireworks Festival launched in 2003 and has grown into a major global event. Shows run every Monday and Thursday from May through August, with fireworks fired from barges in the middle of the bay — the reflections double the spectacle on the water's surface in a way that's hard to find anywhere else. In 2026, the festival features a special Dragon Ball Z themed show.
- Book accommodation several months in advance if you're visiting during the festival — hotels fill up fast.
- Arrive at Guanyinting Park at least an hour early; the crowds are dense.
- Check the weekly schedule at penghu-nsa.gov.tw, as shows can shift due to weather.
Where to stay in Penghu for this trip
A well-located hotel means less commuting and more sightseeing. Here are real, top-rated stays in Penghu — compare Agoda · Booking · Trip.com in one click.
Nice Hostel
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Discovery Hotel
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Four Points by Sheraton Penghu
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Rainbow Hotel
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Tours, tickets & activities in Penghu
Day tours, attraction tickets and travel essentials for Penghu — book ahead on Klook with mobile e-tickets.
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Before You Pack
Penghu works for almost every kind of traveler — couples after something romantic, families who want a safe beach, and anyone fascinated by geology. Plan for April through October before the winter monsoon moves in.