A resort on the tip of the island, Kenting is reason enough to want to live in South Taiwan. Kenting means 'plowman,' referring to the early farmers from Mainland China that settled in Hengchun Peninsular. Hengchun is 9 kilometers south of Kenting where the island's first national park, Kenting National Park, was opened in 1984.

Kenting is best known for its water recreation. The weather is warm enough for year-round swimming, although it can be a bit on the nippy side in the winter. Sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, and wind surfing are all available. The beaches are the best in Taiwan, but beware of strong currents in certain parts.

Kenting is famous for its coral that stretches 60 kilometers along the southern tip, its unusual rock formations and the recreation area that houses 1,280 different species of fauna originating from many parts of the world.

The town of Kenting is small, though the locals will tell you it's getting too big. A main street is lined with tourist shops supplying sun block, sunglasses, and other beach necessities, and there are plenty of options for good food, Chinese and Western. Finding a place to stay in Kenting is not a problem, except on weekends and holidays, when reservations are imperative. Camping is also a popular option, and many campsites will rent out tents.