South Korea’s West Coast (Yellow Sea) is home to numerous beautiful islands, each offering unique attractions, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking serene beaches, spectacular sunsets, or authentic local experiences, the West Coast islands provide it all. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular islands along the West Coast, detailing their location, size, tourist attractions, filming sites, accommodations, accessibility, and ferry routes. Let’s dive into these must-visit destinations!
1. Anmyeondo (안면도)
- Location: Taean County, South Chungcheong Province
- Size: Approximately 113 km²
- Famous Filming Sites: The island was a key filming location for the K-drama "Sad Love Story".
Tourist Attractions
- Kkotji Beach
Famous for its stunning sunset views, Kkotji Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches on the West Coast. - Anmyeondo Natural Recreation Forest
A vast pine forest with well-maintained hiking trails, perfect for nature lovers. - Anmyeon Temple (Anmyeonam)
A serene temple located near the sea, offering peaceful views of the coastline.
Accommodations
- Anmyeondo Resort: A luxury resort offering family-friendly amenities and beautiful sea views.
- Kkotji Beach Pensions: Various cozy pensions near the beach, perfect for couples and families.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
Anmyeondo is connected to the mainland via Anmyeon Bridge, making it accessible by car without the need for a ferry.
2. Daenanjido (대난지도)
- Location: Seokmun-myeon, Dangjin City, South Chungcheong Province
- Size: Approximately 6.8 km²
- Name Origin: The island’s name comes from the abundance of orchids and asters.
Tourist Attractions
- Nanjido Beach
A quiet, sandy beach surrounded by beautiful coastal flowers. - Coastal Walkways
The island offers peaceful walking trails with scenic views of the sea.
Accommodations
- Nanjido Pensions: A variety of family-run pensions close to the beach.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
- Take a ferry from Janggo Port in Dangjin.
Ferry Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
3. Sapsido (삽시도)
- Location: Boryeong City, South Chungcheong Province
- Size: Approximately 2.46 km²
Tourist Attractions
- Myeongjangseom Beach
A quiet, serene beach perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. - Coastal Trails
Sapsido offers some of the most scenic coastal trails on the West Coast.
Accommodations
- Sapsido Guesthouses: Traditional guesthouses run by locals.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
- Take a ferry from Ocheon Port in Boryeong.
Ferry Time: Approximately 50 minutes.
4. Oeyeondo (외연도)
- Location: Boryeong City, South Chungcheong Province
- Size: Approximately 7.24 km²
- Unique Feature: The island is part of the Oeyeon Archipelago, known for its stunning views.
Tourist Attractions
- Oeyeondo Beach
A clean, beautiful beach with crystal-clear water. - Oeyeon Archipelago
A group of small islands surrounding Oeyeondo, offering spectacular boat tours.
Accommodations
- Oeyeondo Homestays: Local residents offer traditional homestay experiences.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
- Take a ferry from Daecheon Port in Boryeong.
Ferry Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
5. Gukhwado (국화도)
- Location: Hwaseong City, Gyeonggi Province
- Size: Approximately 1.02 km²
Tourist Attractions
- Gukhwado Beach
Ideal for mudflat experiences and shellfish collecting. - Sunset Viewing Platform
Gukhwado is known for its spectacular sunsets over the West Sea.
Accommodations
- Gukhwado Pension: Beachfront pensions offering beautiful sunset views.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
- Take a ferry from Jeongok Port in Hwaseong.
Ferry Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
6. Hongdo (홍도)
- Location: Heuksan-myeon, Sinan County, South Jeolla Province
- Size: Approximately 6.47 km²
- Famous Filming Sites: K-drama "Baker King, Kim Tak Goo" was filmed here.
Tourist Attractions
- Gitebong Peak
The highest peak on the island, offering panoramic views. - Hongdo Coastal Scenery
The island is famous for its 33 scenic coastal rock formations, which can be explored by boat.
Accommodations
- Hongdo Resort: A luxury resort catering to families and couples.
- Local Guesthouses: Affordable guesthouses run by local residents.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
- Take a ferry from Mokpo Port.
Ferry Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
7. Seokmodo (석모도)
- Location: Ganghwa County, Incheon
- Size: Approximately 46 km²
- Famous Filming Sites: K-dramas "Secret Garden" and "Sunny" were filmed here.
Tourist Attractions
- Bomunsa Temple
A famous Buddhist temple with beautiful sea views. - Seokmodo Mineral Hot Springs
Known for its healing properties and relaxation.
Accommodations
- Seokmodo Resort: A full-service resort with on-site amenities.
- Traditional Hanok Stays: Experience traditional Korean culture by staying in a hanok.
Accessibility and Ferry Information
- Accessible by car via Seokmodo Bridge from Ganghwa Island.
Conclusion: The Beauty of South Korea’s West Coast Islands
South Korea’s West Coast islands offer diverse experiences, from tranquil beaches and dramatic coastal cliffs to traditional cultural experiences and unique local attractions. Each island has its own charm, making them perfect destinations for weekend getaways, family trips, or solo adventures.
Whether you're drawn by the breathtaking sunsets, the rich cultural history, or the peaceful nature, these islands provide a glimpse into the natural beauty of South Korea. Explore these hidden gems and enjoy everything the West Coast has to offer!
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