Travel Guide: Sun Moon Star Homestay (日月星民宿), Chiayi County

Introduction

Tucked away on Chiayi County’s quiet Budai Coast, Sun Moon Star Homestay (日月星民宿) is the perfect escape for travelers craving unrushed coastal charm far from Taiwan’s crowded mountain hotspots. This family-run homestay puts you steps from the Taiwan Strait’s tidal flats, serving as a laid-back base for exploring the unique wetlands, fishing villages, and salt flats that make Budai Township one of Chiayi’s most underrated gems. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for a digital detox by the sea, this cozy spot delivers authentic local hospitality.

Hotel Overview

Sun Moon Star Homestay is conveniently located at No. 155, Xinnan Road, Budai Township, putting you just a five-minute walk from the waterfront. The homestay specializes in spacious, comfortable family rooms ideal for groups traveling with kids or extended family, and all rooms come with air conditioning and en-suite private bathrooms for maximum privacy. There is no on-site internet, which makes this an ideal spot for a digital detox to disconnect from daily stress and connect with the natural surroundings.

Other convenient amenities include free, unreserved public street parking near the property, so you never have to worry about finding a spot for your rental car. Common areas include a shared lounge and TV zone for meeting other travelers, and a dedicated travel consultation desk where the hosts—native Mandarin speakers with deep local knowledge—can share hidden spots and itinerary tips tailored to your interests. As the name suggests, unobstructed ocean views mean you can watch sunrises over the water and bright, starry nights away from city light pollution right from the property.

Nearby Attractions

Three standout local destinations are all within a 20-minute drive of the homestay:

• Budai Salt Flats: One of Taiwan’s most stunning photo spots, these vast, reflective salt flats turn into a mirror-like surface at high tide, with unbeatable views at sunset. Wander the mounded salt formations and visit the nearby salt museum to learn about Budai’s century-old salt production history.
• Dongshi Fisherman’s Wharf: A 15-minute drive north, this working wharf offers fresh, cheap seafood from daily catches, a scenic coastal bike path, and glass-bottom boat tours that let you spot the area’s diverse tidal flat marine life. Don’t miss the grilled squid and milkfish balls from street vendors here.
• Zengwen River Mouth Wetlands: Taiwan’s most important migratory bird habitat, this Ramsar-designated wetland draws thousands of birdwatchers every winter to spot rare species like black-faced spoonbills. Wooden boardwalks wind through the marshes for easy, low-impact walks through the ecosystem.

Travel Tips

Since the homestay does not offer internet, download offline maps and any entertainment you want before you arrive. The hosts only speak Mandarin, so having a translation app downloaded offline is helpful for international travelers. If you plan to explore the tidal flats or salt flats, bring sturdy closed-toe shoes to avoid cutting your feet on sharp oyster shells or salt crystals, and pack sunscreen and a hat—there’s very little shade along the coast. Book your room well in advance during the winter migratory bird season (November to March) and summer weekends, as the homestay fills up quickly with birdwatchers and family travelers.