The lagoon was historically used as a naval airbase by the Japanese during the colonial period, evidenced by the remaining sea plane hangar.
The Dapeng Bay Bridge features a unique 'sail' design and is the only bascule bridge in Taiwan capable of opening to let tall ships pass.
The wetlands were specifically engineered to treat wastewater from surrounding aquaculture farms before it enters the bay.
The area is home to a significant population of the rare red-masked parakeet, which is not native to Taiwan but has established a breeding colony here.
It is the only national scenic area in Taiwan that integrates a large-scale lagoon with specialized man-made ecological wetlands.
Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area is Taiwan's largest inner lagoon, formed by a single bay mouth sandbar. It encompasses a massive man-made wetland system designed for water purification and ecological conservation. The area features a unique lifting bridge that pivots to allow boat traffic passage. Visitors can explore extensive mangrove forests and interconnected cycling paths surrounding the lagoon. The site serves as a hub for recreational water activities, including sailing and canoeing. Much of the infrastructure occupies land formerly used for military sea plane operations. It is a critical habitat for various migratory birds and diverse marine life. The scenic area is positioned along the southwestern coast of Pingtung County.
The pedestrian viewing platform near the Dapeng Bay Bridge provides the best angle for capturing the bridge and the lagoon's expanse.
Bring polarized sunglasses to better observe marine life in the shallow lagoon waters.
Rent a bicycle to navigate the extensive perimeter paths, as walking the entire lagoon is physically demanding.
Check the daily bridge-opening schedule in advance if you wish to see the bascule mechanism in motion.
Do not attempt to swim in the lagoon outside of designated, managed zones due to unpredictable currents and hidden maritime hazards.
Avoid feeding wildlife; stay on marked boardwalks to protect delicate mangrove root systems.
