KENTING (TVBS News) — Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園) officials emphasized on Monday (Sept. 2) that the umbrellas on South Bay (南灣) beach are rented by tourists, following renewed controversy over beach umbrellas. Officials revealed they might revisit the umbrella placement issue in a meeting on Thursday.
The controversy erupted after wide complaints about the chaotic placement of umbrellas by vendors. On Aug. 27, park authorities inspected several beaches in Kenting, removing 180 umbrellas over two days and issuing nine fines of NT$1,000 each. They also demanded vendors improve their practices.
Despite the recent enforcement, residents reported online that numerous umbrellas reappeared on South Bay, accusing local vendors of reverting to old habits. This prompted park officials to reiterate that South Bay hosts over 90 vendors who must operate under contract and maintain beach cleanliness.
Officials warned they would penalize any violations, and assured that areas are reserved for tourists to use their own umbrellas without being forced to rent.