Shueijiaowei Sea Erosion Platform Introduction
Located between Xiaochijiao and Chima areas in Xiyu Township, Xuezaiwei reveals a broad intertidal zone and rocky terrain with the changing tides. During low tide, a wealth of intertidal organisms, including a multitude of shells, can be found on the wave-cut platform; alongside, there is a large sandy beach. The wave-cut platform at Xuezaiwei is one of the natural secrets of Penghu. The area around Chixi and Xuezaiwei in Xiyu Township is primarily made up of silicic basalt terrain, featuring basaltic columnar joints along with small volcanic craters and low-lying volcanic features in its geology. Scholars suggest that the wave-cut platform at Xuezaiwei was originally formed from a massive lava lake of a shallow volcanic crater, which, through coastal erosion, has led to the gradual retreat of the cliffs, creating a flat rock platform almost at sea level. Scattered around the wave-cut platform are small low-lying volcanic craters or vents, as well as tidal pools and conduits formed by the erosion of seawater. In addition to the unique geological formations created by volcanic and erosional processes, Xuezaiwei's wave-cut platform features a vast intertidal zone. The intertidal area in the waters of Penghu is broad and geologically diverse, submerged during high tide and revealed when the tide recedes. The alternate wet and dry conditions of the tidal seawater, combined with abundant sunlight in Penghu, result in a diverse and thriving range of intertidal organisms. The wave-cut platform at Xuezaiwei hosts an extensive intertidal zone where local residents can be seen collecting shells during low tide; also visible are hermit crabs and black sea cucumbers. At high tide, the seawater inundates the wave-cut platform, and the adjacent raised reef area resembles a small island connected by coral fragments. During low tide, this raised reef area becomes a fishing paradise for rock fishermen due to its complex and deep underwater topography, which often harbors a rich variety of aquatic flora and fauna - an excellent spot for fish to forage and spawn, resulting in abundant fish resources. Visiting the remote Xuezaiwei, besides experiencing the unique wave-cut platform terrain and the rich biodiversity of the intertidal zone, this location is also a vantage point for wave-watching. Strolling along the adjacent sandy beach, one can admire the vast expanse of sea and sky, where the world seems to consist only of the sound of the tides and one's heartbeat, providing a tranquil escape from worldly concerns. 【Recommended stay time】1 hour
Xuezitou Sea Erosion Platform and Vast Sandy Beach
