South Korea is a country known for its rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. While many travelers flock to Seoul’s neon streets or Busan’s lively beaches, some of Korea’s most magical experiences lie along its coastlines. Whether you’re an avid hiker or someone who simply enjoys peaceful ocean views, South Korea’s coastal walks offer unforgettable scenery and a chance to reconnect with nature.
From rugged cliffs and hidden coves to traditional fishing villages and turquoise waters, the Korean coast is lined with trails that are as beautiful as they are calming. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through ten of the most breathtaking coastal walks in South Korea, each offering its own unique charm.
1. Jeju Olle Trail (Jeju Island)
Jeju Island, often called the “Hawaii of Korea,” is a volcanic island just off the southern coast of the mainland. The Jeju Olle Trail is a network of 27 walking routes that stretch over 400 kilometers around the island. Each route offers a different experience, but all share the same core elements: stunning sea views, unique lava rock formations, tangerine orchards, and traditional stone walls.
Walking along these trails, you might find yourself wandering through quiet fishing villages, shaded forests, and coastal cliffs where the wind from the sea carries the scent of salt and fresh air. One of the most popular segments is Route 7, which hugs the coast and offers views of Jeju’s iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak). The best part? You can pick and choose which segments to walk depending on your time and energy level.
2. Haeparang Trail (East Coast)
Stretching from Busan all the way up to Goseong in Gangwon Province, the Haeparang Trail is a long-distance walking route that spans the entire east coast of Korea. It’s a massive trail, divided into multiple sections, totaling over 700 kilometers. But you don’t have to walk the whole thing to appreciate its beauty.
One particularly stunning section lies near the city of Samcheok. Here, the trail takes you along wooden walkways built into rocky cliffs that rise directly above the ocean. The views are simply jaw-dropping, especially at sunrise when the sky turns into a canvas of pinks and oranges. This part of Korea’s coastline is also home to hidden beaches and scenic fishing harbors, making it a great place to take your time and explore.
3. Igidae Coastal Walk (Busan)
Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city, is well-known for its beaches and seafood. But tucked away in the southeastern part of the city lies the Igidae Coastal Walk, a hidden gem that’s easily accessible and full of surprises. This 4.7-kilometer trail runs along the cliffs of Igidae Park, offering panoramic views of Haeundae Beach, Gwangan Bridge, and the endless blue sea.
The trail is well-maintained and includes sections of wooden boardwalks, rocky paths, and forested areas. It’s an easy to moderate hike, perfect for a half-day escape from the urban hustle. What makes this trail special is its contrast—the soothing natural environment with the glittering skyline of Busan just across the bay. Sunset here is particularly beautiful, casting golden light over the cliffs and water.
4. Guryongpo Coastal Walk (Pohang)
In the southeastern city of Pohang, the Guryongpo Coastal Walk is one of the most underrated coastal paths in the country. It follows a dramatic coastline with jagged rocks, deep blue waves, and occasional lighthouses that look like they belong in a storybook.
This trail also passes through the Japanese Colonial House Street, an area preserved to show what the town looked like during the Japanese occupation. It’s both beautiful and historically fascinating. Walking here feels like stepping into another time, with the waves crashing beside you and quiet wooden houses lining the path.
The calmness of the Guryongpo coast, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, makes this walk ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowds and immerse themselves in both nature and history.
5. Janghohang Village Coastal Trail (Samcheok)
Known as the “Napoli of Korea,” Janghohang is a small fishing village with one of the most scenic coastal walks in Gangwon Province. What makes this place so special is its crystal-clear waters and picturesque harbor that feels more Mediterranean than Korean.
The trail hugs the coastline and includes a unique glass-bottomed observation deck that stretches out over the sea. You can look straight down into the water and see schools of fish swimming below. The cliffs here are covered in lush greenery in summer, and in spring or autumn, the surrounding hills explode in colors.
This trail is especially enjoyable because it combines coastal scenery with the charm of village life. Local fishermen mend their nets by the shore, and small seafood stalls offer the freshest catches. It’s a serene, authentic experience that invites you to slow down and soak in the moment.
6. Taejongdae Resort Park (Busan)
Another gem in Busan, Taejongdae is a scenic resort park located at the southern tip of Yeongdo Island. The trail through this park leads visitors along a rugged coastline with towering cliffs, rock formations, and a famous lighthouse. It’s a relatively short walk, but it’s packed with breathtaking scenery.
One of the highlights is the observation deck near the Taejongdae Lighthouse, where you can gaze across the ocean and even see the coast of Japan on a clear day. The sound of crashing waves against the rocks below adds a dramatic atmosphere to this already cinematic landscape.
During the summer, the area is alive with wildflowers and pine trees, while the cooler months bring a quiet, almost mystical ambiance. It’s a popular spot, but the size of the park allows you to find peaceful corners away from the crowds.
7. Dadohaehaesang National Park Coastal Trail (Yeosu)
Dadohaehaesang is South Korea’s largest national park and includes hundreds of islands and countless kilometers of coastline. The coastal trails in Yeosu, one of the park’s key cities, are especially popular for their beauty and accessibility.
A walk here offers incredible diversity—you’ll pass by tiny villages, lush pine forests, rocky shores, and even traditional temples nestled in the hills. One of the standout routes is the trail that leads to Hyangiram Hermitage, a cliffside temple overlooking the sea. The path is steep in parts, but the view from the top is worth every step.
What makes Dadohaehaesang unique is its sense of untouched nature. Despite being near cities like Yeosu and Tongyeong, many sections of the trail feel wild and secluded. It’s a place where land and sea come together in perfect harmony.
8. Songjiho Coastal Trail (Goseong)
Near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in the far northeast of South Korea lies the Songjiho Coastal Trail. It’s a place few tourists venture, but those who do are rewarded with one of Korea’s most peaceful and unspoiled coastal landscapes.
The trail circles Songji Lake before following the coastline with views of the East Sea. The area is known for its wide skies, crystal-clear water, and birdlife. In spring and autumn, migratory birds fill the skies, adding an extra layer of beauty to the scene.
Walking this trail feels different from others—perhaps it’s the proximity to the DMZ, or the vast openness of the land and sea. It invites contemplation and offers a deep sense of quiet, making it ideal for those looking to escape the noise of everyday life.
9. Gyeokpo Coastal Trail (Buan)
Located in Jeollabuk-do, the Gyeokpo Coastal Trail is part of the Byeonsanbando National Park, which is known for its dramatic sea cliffs and geological formations. The trail takes you past sandstone cliffs, sea caves, and wave-carved inlets that tell a story millions of years old.
One of the highlights is Chaeseokgang Cliff, where layered rock formations stretch like pages of a giant stone book. At low tide, you can walk along the base of the cliff and explore tidal pools filled with marine life.
Sunset here is nothing short of spectacular, as the sun dips into the ocean and casts golden light on the red and gray rocks. It’s a trail that offers both natural wonder and geological curiosity, appealing to photographers and nature lovers alike.
10. Mokpo Coastal Walk (Yudal Mountain Area)
Mokpo may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of coastal beauty, but this southern city is home to one of the most scenic urban coastal walks in Korea. Beginning near Yudal Mountain, the trail loops along the water’s edge, weaving through parks, sculpture gardens, and marinas.
What makes this trail unique is its blend of natural and urban landscapes. You’ll pass by traditional markets, fishing boats, and art installations, all set against the backdrop of the open sea. At night, the path lights up with colorful LED lights, creating a romantic ambiance perfect for evening strolls.
If you’re looking for a gentle coastal walk that still offers rich visuals and a bit of city life, Mokpo delivers in an unexpected and charming way.
Bottom Line
South Korea’s coastal trails are a beautiful secret waiting to be discovered. While the country is often celebrated for its bustling cities, mountain hikes, and temple stays, its coastline offers a quieter, more contemplative kind of travel. Each of the walks mentioned above has its own story to tell—from volcanic islands and windswept cliffs to peaceful fishing villages and ancient temples overlooking the sea.
So, whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer trip, be sure to include at least one of these stunning coastal walks in your itinerary. You might find that the best memories come not from the places you arrive at, but from the peaceful steps you take along the way—where sea meets sky, and time slows down just enough to appreciate it all.
