Getting There and Around in Penghu

Part of the Penghu travel guide — see every topic in All Penghu Guides.

Penghu is easy to reach by air from many cities in Taiwan, and by ferry in the warmer months. Once you arrive, the three main islands are joined by bridges, so you can explore them by scooter, car or taxi. The outer islands need a boat. The weather matters more here than almost anywhere else in Taiwan. Strong winter wind and summer typhoons can stop boats and sometimes flights, so plan some extra time.

Flying to Magong

Penghu Airport is just east of Magong town, a short taxi ride from the center. Domestic flights arrive from several cities in Taiwan, including Taipei Songshan, Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan and Kaohsiung, and also from Kinmen. Most flights take under an hour. Flying is the fastest and most reliable way to reach Penghu, especially in the windy season, when ferries often stop. Flights fill up fast on weekends, holidays and fireworks nights, so book early. Small flights also connect Magong or Kaohsiung with the outer islands of Qimei and Wang-an, but seats are few.

Ferries from Budai and Kaohsiung

Fast ferries run from Budai port in Chiayi County to Magong in the warmer months, mostly from spring until about mid-October. The crossing takes about 90 minutes. Budai is not easy to reach by public transport, so many people take a bus or taxi from Chiayi. A ferry also runs from Kaohsiung to Magong, which takes several hours, with more sailings in summer. The sea in the strait can be rough, so take seasickness medicine if you need it. Ferries are often cancelled for wind or typhoons. Check the schedule a day before and again on the morning you travel.

Scooters, cars and tours

Most visitors rent a scooter in Magong. It is the easiest way to see the bridges, beaches and basalt sites. To rent one, you need a Taiwanese driving licence or an International Driving Permit that is valid in Taiwan, plus your home licence. Electric scooters are common too. Cars with drivers and taxi tours are good for families or for the windy season. Some rental shops do not accept foreign licences, so ask before you arrive. In summer, a seasonal tourist bus may run loops to the main sights; check locally. For the outer islands, book a boat tour through your hotel or at the piers.

The windy season

From about October to March, the northeast wind blows strongly across Penghu almost every day. It can feel cold, even when the temperature is mild. Bring a windproof jacket, and hold on to hats and phones. Riding a scooter in strong side winds is hard, especially on bridges and open coastal roads, so ride slowly or take a taxi instead. Many boats to the outer islands run less often or stop completely in this season. Some shops and tours close for winter too. On the plus side, the islands are quiet, hotels are cheaper and the light is clear.

When to go

For island hopping, beaches and fireworks, go from about April to September. Spring, around April and May, is often the most pleasant time, with warm days and fewer crowds. July to September is hot and busy, and typhoons are possible, which can stop boats and flights for a few days. For windsurfing and kitesurfing, go from about October to March. Whatever the season, keep one spare day at the end of your trip, so that a cancelled flight or boat does not ruin your plans. Magong is also a pleasant small town to explore on a slow day, with seafood restaurants and harbour walks.

Getting There and Around at a glance

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