Pingtung Dapeng Bay Round-the-Bay Route: A Flat Coastal Ride at Taiwan's Southern Tip

Introduction

Located beside Donggang Township in Pingtung County, Dapeng Bay is Taiwan’s only lagoon-type national scenic area. This enclosed bay, surrounded by land, features crystal-clear blue waters, with tropical casuarina trees and mangroves lining the shore, forming one of southern Taiwan’s most distinctive coastal wetland ecosystems. The Dapeng Bay round-the-bay cycling path stretches approximately 13 kilometers with smooth, nearly flat terrain, making it the most suitable leisure half-day cycling route in southern Taiwan, and a perfect complement to a nearby Xiaoliuqiu (Little Liuqiu) excursion.

Route Planning

The round-the-bay route starts at the Dapeng Bay Visitor Center and loops around the bay, with dedicated bike lanes on some sections and shared scenic roads on others:

The full loop is 13 km, with an average riding time of about 1–1.5 hours. However, if you take ample time to stop at each attraction, it can extend into a leisurely 2–3 hour experience.

Dapeng Bay’s Natural Ecology

The most unique aspect of cycling around Dapeng Bay is the chance to encounter wetland ecology at every turn:

• Mangrove Reserve: The Kandelia obovata mangroves on the north shore form one of Taiwan’s largest mangrove areas. During autumn and winter, large numbers of migratory birds gather here to feed, including precious species such as egrets, shovelers, and sandpipers/plovers.
• Lagoon Fish Farms: Numerous traditional fish farms surround the bay area, making it an important region for grouper and oyster farming in Taiwan. Along the way, you can see farmers busily tending their ponds.
• Flying Fish Season (Spring/Summer): The waters off Donggang are a famous flying fish migration area in Taiwan. From April to June each year, you can witness the traditional sight of fishing boats heading out to catch flying fish from the shore.
• Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival: Donggang hosts its bluefin tuna season from April to June each year, the largest fishery cultural festival in Taiwan. You can combine this with your cycling itinerary.

Integrating Nearby Attractions

The Dapeng Bay round-the-bay route pairs well with nearby attractions to create a full one-day itinerary:

• Donggang Fishing Harbor: Taiwan’s most important offshore fishing port, where the morning fish market bustles with activity. This is the most authentic place to taste Donggang’s three treasures (bluefin tuna, mullet roe, and sakura shrimp).
• Xiaoliuqiu Day Trip: Dapeng Bay is just a 10-minute drive from the Xiaoliuqiu ferry terminal. You can purchase an additional ticket to bring your bike aboard, ride around the island (approximately 12 km), and return for a fulfilling full day.
• Linbian Wetlands: Riding north along the coastline for about 5 km brings you to the Linbian River estuary wetlands, an important habitat for black-faced spoonbills (autumn/winter).

Supplies and Facilities

• Dapeng Bay Visitor Center: Bicycle rentals (including e-bikes), food stalls, and restrooms are all available
• Scenic Restaurants Along the Way: Several restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes line the bay shore, where you can dine while enjoying lagoon views
• Donggang Town: About a 5-minute drive from Dapeng Bay, offering convenience stores, seafood restaurants, and a wide variety of local snacks

Practical Tips

Dapeng Bay has a tropical climate and can be ridden year-round, but autumn and winter (October to March of the following year) are the most comfortable, with cool temperatures, moderate winds, and the peak season for migratory birds. Summers are hot with typhoons, so check the weather before riding. It is recommended to rent a bicycle at the Visitor Center to avoid the hassle of transporting your own bike.

Conclusion

Cycling around Dapeng Bay is the most soothing easy route at Taiwan’s southern tip. Blue skies, emerald waters, mangroves, and soaring egrets, paired with southern Taiwan’s signature warm sunshine, make every pedal stroke a delight for the soul. Whether you’re riding solo, on a date, or with the family, Dapeng Bay will leave you with unforgettable memories of a southern ride.

Related Reading

• Cycling Southern Taiwan: Tropical Scenic Bike Routes in Pingtung and Kenting
• Taiwan Cycling Around the Island – Southern Section: A Tropical Riding Experience from Pingtung to Taitung
• Kenting Peninsula Loop: The Complete Guide to Southern Taiwan’s Wind and Coastline
• Kenting Peninsula Cycling Loop: Sunshine, Sea Breeze, and Slow Riding in Southern Taiwan