In the Quiet Corners of Yeonggwang

To me, Korea as a whole is a travel destination. I’ve explored many parts of the peninsula, including some remote areas, and no matter where I go, I always discover something worth seeing or experiencing.

It’s difficult to choose favorites because each place has its own unique charm. In this article, I’d like to shine a light on the west coast, specifically the Yeonggwang area in South Jeolla Province. While the east coast is well-known for its golden beaches, clear blue waters, and popular resorts, the west coast often goes unnoticed. With its rocky shores, murky sea, and mudflats, it’s sometimes seen as the Cinderella of Korea’s coastline.

Still, many people are drawn to its quiet beauty. The raw, untamed landscapes offer a refreshing contrast to the fast-paced city life, wild, mysterious, and deeply authentic.

The sea in Yeonggwang is the closest to Gwangju, where I live and it has always been a destination for people in the surrounding cities when they want to spend some quiet time listening to the sounds of waves. In Yeonggwang-gun there is a small fishers’ village called Gamami which has nothing special compared to other fishers’ villages except one old restaurant that serves seafood noodles and pajeon.

There isn’t much to see in the area except a pontoon bridge but this an old-style Korean restaurant situated exactly near the sea with a wide terrace where customers enjoy a delicious meal while relaxing and listening to the sound of the sea is a destination in itself and worth the visit. On top of it, it’s very cheap and the food is amazing, being considered a “hot place” by le connoisseurs. And, after a delicious meal what can be better than a relaxing walk on the pontoon bridge enjoying the view and helping the digestion.

After a delicious meal, nothing pairs better than a good cup of coffee, and the Baeksu Coastal Road is just the place for it. Ranked among Korea’s top ten coastal drives and considered the most beautiful in the province, this scenic route offers plenty of cafés and restaurants to suit every taste. The area has seen thoughtful development in recent years, making it even more inviting for visitors looking to relax with a coffee or a light snack.

Stretching 16.8 kilometers along the coast, the road is especially popular for sunset views. One of the best spots to take it all in is the Noeul Observatory. Still, no matter where you stop, the entire drive offers breathtaking scenery, particularly on clear days, when the views are truly unforgettable.

Noeul Observatory and overview of the Baeksu coastal road.

One place that has gained a lot of popularity is a coffee shop near the sea, one with wide windows toward the sea and a perfect madang for amazing Instagramable photos. Consider yourself lucky to find to find empty seats during weekend since it is considered an attraction in itself and is always packed with people – it is what is called “a coffee with a view” and that view is worth the money.

The madang is equipped with stands and selfies sticks so the customers can take the best photos, not to mention bubble solution and other funny games for young lovers to enjoy their time together. If the weather is fine and the visibility good the infinite blue sea will surely cast a spell on you.

For those who like to drive the Baeksu Coastal Road is a must-do experience. The scenery is simply breathtaking, with wide-open views of the horizon and sunsets that are truly spectacular. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of parking areas and observation decks, making it easy to stop wherever you like and take in the beauty around you. If you’re traveling in Korea, make sure to add this spot to your list, you won’t regret it.