Shitiping Coastal Rock Formations

A World-Class Outdoor Geology Classroom

At the southern tip of Shiti Bay in Hualien County, this vast coastal terrace is one of Taiwan's finest showcases of marine erosion. Sea-carved platforms, uplifted coral reef, sea trenches, and cliffs are all on display, and the terrace's famous pothole formations are considered the best of their kind on the island.

Life in the Intertidal Zone

The rocky shelf beneath the camera is a living laboratory: crabs, sea cucumbers, hermit crabs, and shoals of colorful reef fish move through the tide pools as the Pacific surf rises and falls. A camping ground sits just above the eroded bench, giving visitors a front-row seat to this constantly reworked shoreline.

Birthplace of Taiwan's Whale Watching

Shitiping's harbor still sends out fishing boats each day, but the same waters are historically significant as the starting point of whale watching in Taiwan. Whales and dolphins regularly surface offshore, drawing boat tours out to follow their path along this rugged stretch of coastline.