Shitiping

At Shitiping the coastal rock is tilted volcanic and sedimentary bedding that the sea has worn along the softer layers, leaving a terrace of broad steps running down into the water like a staircase, along with potholes, tidal pools and a small fishing harbour. Paths run along the terrace and up onto the grass above, and a campsite sits on the headland. The tidal pools hold enough life that the site is used for teaching.

What you actually see

• The rock steps - tilted beds worn into a giant natural staircase into the sea.
• The tidal pools - potholes and basins full of marine life at low tide.
• The fishing harbour - a small working harbour at the northern end.
• The clifftop paths - walks on the grass above the terrace.

When to go

October to April is the most comfortable; summer on the rock is very hot. Low tide is when the pools are worth exploring. High surf makes the lower terrace dangerous.

Honest expectations

The rock is sharp and slippery and there are no barriers; people have been swept off by waves. There is little shade. The campsite is basic and exposed.

Nearby

Mataian is inland, and the Hualien coast runs north and south.