Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju’s west coast has a lot to offer but nothing tops its mesmerizing sunsets, colorful skies painted in pink, purple, and red. In addition to tropical sunsets, many beaches on the west side of Jeju allow you to soak your feet in clear waters, walk on soft white sand, and enjoy the ultimate island life tanning by the beach. So join me for a late summer day’s trip to the west coast of Jeju and visit some of the hidden local restaurants near the beach. Since this is a very much delayed post, and it is now very cold and snowy here, but it might spark inspiration for your next summer trip to this paradise island.
Transportation
As mentioned in my previous Jeju blog, the island does not offer a variety of public transportation, hence driving is the best way to get around. Thankfully, my friends are nice enough to drive me around but if you are coming to visit only for a few days, renting a car is highly recommended.
Gwakji Beach
Located in the famous Aewol district, Gwakji is one of the best beaches to tan, swim, and watch the sunset. It has a wide strip of soft sandy beach that is perfect for tanning but also for a small picnic dinner around sunset or a quick swim before dinner. I spent my time tanning and swimming during the day, absorbing as much Vitamin D as I could, then watched the sunset in the evening while painting the colorful skies. Definitely one of the most tranquil experience at a beach. There are a lot of surfers and paddle boarders, and during the summer it gets quite crowded with tourists, but still it is a great place to hang out.
Geumneung Beach
This beach reminded me so much of Cebu with its long strip of beach that connects all the way up to Hyeopjae, another famous beach on the west coast. Whereas Hyeopjae is a touristy beach, Geumneung is more of a local beach, popular for tanning and its view of Biyang island. When I went to tan, I saw many foreigners hanging out, tanning, enjoying the last bits of summer. It felt like Hawaii as the waters were so blue and crystal clear, soft sandy beach without seaweed (which is pretty common to spot at other beaches), and a more international crowd compared to other local beaches.
Maruna Kitchen
So this restaurant was an unexpected finding, which turned out to be located in a very peaceful village with amazing fields of plants I do not know the name of (haha yes I grew up in the city what a surprise) and an amazing sunset view with windmills as its backdrop. So much green to enjoy – let your eyes rest for a bit and take in a huge breath of fresh air!
Panpo Pogu
Only 10 minutes away from Maruna Kitchen is this beautiful area called Panpo Pogu, where you are met with unbelievable sunset colors and calming windmills. The sky turns completely pink when the sun kisses the horizon, offering a bespoken view of Jeju’s sunset. I spent a good half an hour staring at the sky, completely mesmerized by the scenery. This was probably the best sunset that I have seen in Jeju, no doubt.
Summary
Overall Jeju’s West side has a lot to offer, especially during the sunset. If the weather allows, I’d even recommend renting a bike and driving along the coast, visiting all the places introduced above until the sun hits the ground. It truly is a wonderful area of the island, and a more peaceful and scenic neighborhood compared to Jeju si, the busy city area where I live. As 2021 is right around the corner, I wish you all a very happy new year and hope you stay safe and sound over the holidays!
Travel with Mon 