4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Hualien, Kenting

Saturday, October 7: Exploring Hualien

In the morning, start your adventure in Hualien by visiting Taroko National Park. Marvel at the stunning marble cliffs, serene rivers, and picturesque hiking trails. Spend the afternoon exploring Chihsingtan Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline with golden sands and clear blue waters. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Hualien Dongdamen Night Market, where you can indulge in local street food and shop for souvenirs.

• Taroko National Park: Estimated cost - $10 entrance fee, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Chihsingtan Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Hualien Dongdamen Night Market: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, October 8: Hualien to Kenting

Start your day by heading to Kenting National Park. Enjoy the beautiful beaches and lush forests, and don't miss the opportunity to go snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, which offers an interactive and educational experience for the whole family. End the day by taking a leisurely walk along Kenting Night Market, where you can sample delicious local food and find unique souvenirs.

• Kenting National Park: Estimated cost - $8 entrance fee, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium: Estimated cost - $15 per adult, $10 per child, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Kenting Night Market: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Monday, October 9: Discovering Kenting

Begin your day by exploring Eluanbi Park, a scenic area known for its lighthouse and breathtaking coastal views. Spend the afternoon at Sheding Nature Park, where you can hike through beautiful landscapes and discover diverse flora and fauna. In the evening, head to Longpan Park to witness a stunning sunset over the rugged cliffs and endless ocean.

• Eluanbi Park: Estimated cost - $3 entrance fee, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Sheding Nature Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Longpan Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Beaches and Adventure

Start your day by visiting Baishawan Beach, renowned for its white sandy shores and clear turquoise waters. Spend the afternoon at Kenting South Bay, where you can engage in various water activities like jet skiing, banana boating, and snorkeling. In the evening, take a relaxing walk along Nanwan Night Market, known for its local delicacies and lively atmosphere.

• Baishawan Beach: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Kenting South Bay: Estimated cost - Varies based on activities, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Nanwan Night Market: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Hualien, don't miss the opportunity to visit Liyu Lake. This serene lake offers beautiful views and the chance to rent paddleboats or bicycles for a fun family outing. In Kenting, make sure to visit the Maobitou Park, a unique coastal area with fascinating rock formations resembling a crouching cat. Kids will love exploring the Coral Museum, where they can learn about the underwater ecosystem and even touch live corals.