The Moses Parting Sea at Kuibishan lies on the eastern edge of Nanliao Village, Huxi Township, Penghu — a seasonal geological phenomenon unique to the archipelago. When winter northeast monsoon winds intensify, wind-driven currents form a walkable pathway across the basalt platform extending into the sea, resembling the biblical account of Moses parting the Red Sea, which gave the site its name. The platform is entirely natural: an abrasion terrace left by volcanic activity around 15 million years ago, gradually revealed by the long-term erosion of monsoon winds, tides, and waves. Local residents and geologists have long been aware of the phenomenon, but it became one of Penghu’s most sought-after destinations only in the past decade as it spread widely on social media. Visitors range from geology enthusiasts and photographers to those looking for a striking photo opportunity — though the full experience comes only to those who respect tidal rhythms and heed safety guidance.
What to See
The heart of the site is a basalt abrasion platform roughly 300 metres wide, with a walkable pathway 20–50 metres across. At low tide, distinct columnar joints are visible — regular fractures that form naturally as volcanic rock cools, cutting vertically downward in strongly geometric patterns. The alternating layers of black basalt and grey or reddish-brown weathered rock record the volcanic history of the Penghu Islands. The platform surface is rough and pitted from prolonged wave impact and biological boring; tidal pools revealed at low tide occasionally shelter hermit crabs, sea stars, and small fish. The Kuibishan headland to the west is itself a basalt outcrop, with cactus and silver wattle covering the cape; it stands as the highest vantage point over Penghu’s inner waters — including Peng’ao Bay and Lijianei — with views north toward Tiewan Bay and south across the tidal flats and traditional settlement of Nanliao Village.
In winter, when the northeast monsoon and tidal currents work in concert, waves sometimes pile along the platform’s edges in white foam lines, making the pathway stand out even more clearly. Once the monsoon weakens or the wind shifts southward, however, the channel disappears and waves wash directly across the platform, making it impassable. This seasonal variability governs when the feature can actually be seen — which is why locals say “the Moses Parting Sea doesn’t appear every day.”
Getting There and Nearby
Nanliao Village is in the southeastern corner of Huxi Township, about 15 minutes by car from Magong city centre. By bus, alight at Nanliao Baoninggong (PEN299719, PEN300037) or Nanliao Community (PEN307611); the coastal site is approximately 15 minutes on foot from Nanliao Baoninggong and about 8 minutes from Nanliao Community. The walk passes through residential lanes and field embankments typical of Penghu’s rural landscape. Free parking within the village is limited; on weekends and public holidays spaces fill quickly, and arriving between 7:00–8:00 AM or 3:00–4:00 PM is advisable.
Among nearby attractions, Nanliao Old Settlement is the most representative: the village preserves traditional Penghu three-sided courtyard houses with whitewashed walls in good condition, making it a draw for documentary photography and architecture enthusiasts. Lintou Park to the northeast (10 minutes by car) overlooks Huayu Island and Hujing Island and has a viewing platform and washroom facilities. Guishan (Turtle Hill) to the north is a small basalt ridge; the hiking trail takes about 30 minutes round trip, and the summit looks out over Peng’ao Bay. Further along the Huxi Township coast are Guanyinting Seaside Park to the northwest and Jianshan Campsite to the south, which can be combined into a half-day or full-day itinerary.
There are no toilets or dining facilities at the Kuibishan site itself. Nanliao Village has no convenience stores; the nearest food options are in Huxi town centre, about 5 minutes by car. Bringing your own water and snacks is recommended. Guesthouses and farm-stay experiences are available within Nanliao Village for those wishing to stay overnight, though the number is small and advance booking is required during peak season.