Travel Guide: 白海民宿 Lunar Mare Inn, Xiaoliuqiu, Pingtung County

Introduction

Tucked away on the sun-drenched coral island of Xiaoliuqiu off Pingtung County’s southwest coast, 白海民宿 Lunar Mare Inn offers travelers a quiet, authentic escape from Taiwan’s crowded mainland tourist hubs. Named for the lunar mare—the dark, dreamy plains of Earth’s moon—this cozy family-run guesthouse leans into Xiaoliuqiu’s laid-back, ocean-focused vibe, prioritizing comfort and local connection over flashy luxury. Whether you’re here to chase turquoise coves, spot sea turtles, or unwind far from city noise, Lunar Mare Inn positions you perfectly to explore one of Taiwan’s most beloved island getaways.

Hotel Overview

Lunar Mare Inn is located at No. 65, Shanban Road, right in the heart of Xiaoliuqiu’s quiet central neighborhood, steps from the island’s main cycling paths and a 10-minute walk from the nearest beach. The inn offers tidy non-smoking rooms and spacious family suites ideal for groups or traveling parents. Every room is fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, coffee/tea making facilities, an electric kettle, and a mini-fridge. En-suite private bathrooms come stocked with free toiletries, a hair dryer, soft towels, and slippers. Many rooms open up to lovely views of the island’s lush interior hills, and the property features a small, fragrant garden perfect for morning coffee or evening stargazing. The inn’s owner hosts paid guided cultural tours and water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing, and windsurfing, for guests who want to explore the island’s waters. Additional convenient services include luggage storage and on-site scooter rental, the main mode of transport on Xiaoliuqiu. Note that Lunar Mare Inn does not offer on-site parking or Wi-Fi, a intentional choice that encourages guests to disconnect and soak in the island atmosphere. Only Chinese is spoken by staff.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable spots sit within easy cycling distance of the inn:

• Vase Rock: Xiaoliuqiu’s most iconic landmark, this naturally eroded coral formation rises from the turquoise ocean, shaped like a giant porcelain vase. Low tide exposes tidal pools teeming with small fish and sea urchins, and the surrounding boardwalk offers panoramic views of the Taiwan Strait at sunset.
• Beauty Cave: A hidden sea cave carved by centuries of wave action into the island’s coral limestone. The cave’s opening frames the ocean in a perfect natural arch, and the shallow, clear water inside is ideal for a refreshing swim on hot afternoons.
• Green Sea Turtle Habitat at Zhongao Beach: Xiaoliuqiu is one of the best places in Taiwan to spot wild green sea turtles, and Zhongao Beach’s shallow, protected waters are a regular feeding spot. Snorkelers can often see gentle turtles grazing on seagrass just a short swim from shore.

Travel Tips

First, since Xiaoliuqiu is car-free and Lunar Mare Inn offers no on-site parking, leave your car on the mainland at Donggang Port and book the inn’s scooter rental in advance—this is the easiest way to get around the island’s compact network of cycling paths. Second, all water activities arranged by the inn require advance booking, especially during peak summer season, so confirm your trip at check-in to secure a spot. Finally, the inn is only accessible by stairs to upper floors, so travelers with mobility issues should request a first-floor room when booking. Bring a portable Wi-Fi device if you need to stay connected, as the property does not offer internet access. Book early during summer weekends and Taiwanese public holidays, as rooms fill up fast.