Explore Shihtiping on the East Coast of Taiwan

Getting There:

The entrance to Shitiping is clearly marked off of Highway 11, which runs down the east coast of Taiwan. It takes about an hour to get there from Hualien, the closest major city. If you don't have your own vehicle, scooter rentals go for about 500NT ($15 USD) for 24 hours. The drive there is beautiful in and of itself - it's the PCH of Taiwan.

Exploring Shihtiping

There is plenty of parking once you pass the visitors center. Try to find a spot closest to the bathrooms - the coolest rock formations are around there. You can spend hours here exploring the coast. Changing currents and high tides have created some pretty cool cliffs/outcrops, so just walk around and explore the area. You'll see plenty of critters and fish - there are tide pools everywhere. Fisherman sit for hours in the morning, smoking and chatting. I was offered a spare rod, and joined them for an hour or so. Everyone's super friendly so don't be afraid to approach them. I found some sturdy(ish) rocks, pitched my hammock, and spent the whole afternoon there. With the mountains on one side, the Pacific on the other, this is great place to just hangout.

What I wish I knew:

• Popular tour bus spot, so go super early. Specially if you have a bike, you have your own flexibility, so beat the crowds.
• Bring food and water. There's food/water at the restaurant by the visitor center, but that can get pricey.