Discover Sinji Island (신지도): A Hidden Gem in Wando
- mellinegalani
- Jul 28
- 3 min read
Summer, the season we wait for all year, has arrived in Korea with sunshine, energy, scorching heat and also endless possibilities. It's the time for vacations, golden tans, and seaside escapes that sometimes feel straight out of a travel magazine. Sure, the heat and humidity are intense, but the rewards make it all worth it. As a peninsula, Korea offers the best of both worlds: peaceful mountain retreats for those craving calm, and breezy coastal towns for sunseekers and ocean lovers. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, exploring hidden beaches, or just soaking in the summer mood, Korea in summer is pure magic.
On a blazing hot Saturday, I was craving an escape from the heat, somewhere with a cool breeze and the soothing sound of waves. That’s when I stumbled upon one of the best-kept secrets in South Jeolla Province. The western coast of Korea is famous for its maze of islands, winding shorelines, and rich mudflats teeming with marine life. The water here isn’t always crystal clear, but if you know where to look, you’ll find hidden gems that are absolutely worth the trip. Picture this: a quiet island where golden sand stretches as far as the eye can see, the ocean sparkles in shades of emerald, and the beach literally sings beneath your feet. No, this isn’t a tropical daydream, it’s Sinji Island (신지도), a hidden paradise just a short drive over the bridge from Wando’s mainland, offering the perfect summer escape for anyone craving sea breezes, quiet nature, and wide open skies.
At the heart of the island is Sinji Myeongsasipri Beach (신지 명사십리 해수욕장), and trust me, it’s not your average beach. This stunning stretch of sand goes on for 4km, with super soft grains that actually sing when you walk on them (yes, really!). The name “Myeongsasipri” means “forty li[1] of singing sand,” and it’s one of the few beaches in Korea where you can experience this rare natural sound. And that’s not all, this beach has been Blue Flag certified for eight years straight, meaning pristine waters, eco-friendly facilities, and some of the cleanest shores in Korea.
But the magic doesn’t stop at the sand. Behind the beach, a fragrant pine forest offers shady trails and cozy camping spots, while the nearby Wando Marine Healing Center lets you unwind with seawater therapy and rejuvenating seaweed baths. Just opened in November 2023, this healing center has already become the place to unwind after a day at Myeongsasipri Beach—or to treat yourself to a full wellness getaway! In less than a year, it’s turned into a favorite for anyone craving a break from the daily grind.
Surprisingly, for a summer weekend, the beach was calm and not crowded at all. Aside from a large group attending a CrossFit private event and another group from the wellness center, most visitors were just small families or couples making it feel peaceful and relaxed.
As any seaside location fresh seafood delights are the star here. From raw fish platters (hoe - 회) to marinated crab (gejang- 게장) and local specialties like braised hairtail fish (galchi jorim- 갈치 조림), you’ll find dishes made straight from the catch of the day in nearby restaurants. I am not a fan of raw fish or other raw seafood so I opted for a Korean-style cooked seafood that was delicious and fresh.
Overall, I spent a wonderful day here enjoying the sand, the water while feeling healed by the sound of the sea and the cooling breeze. And let’s not forget the views—whether you’re watching the sunset paint the sky in pastels or gazing at the horizon where mountains meet sea, every moment here feels like a postcard.
Photos by Melline Galani
[1] Li (also spelled Ri) is a traditional Chinese unit of distance from the Han dynasty. One li is about 392.72 meters (www.wikipedia.org)
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