Yongmeori Coast lies at the foot of Sanbangsan (Sanbang Mountain) in Seogwipo, on the southwestern shore of Jeju Island. Its Korean name means "dragon's head" coast, describing the sandstone cliffs that plunge toward the sea like a dragon dipping its head into the water. Layered tuff and sandstone deposited by hydrovolcanic activity around a million years ago have been carved by wind and waves into striking curved cliffs, making it one of the flagship geosites of the Jeju Island UNESCO Global Geopark; a short, otherworldly walking path along the wave-cut rock terrace loops the coast in about 30 minutes.
Dramatic curved cliffs with vividly banded strata, formed as sandstone and tuff layers were eroded by the sea over hundreds of thousands to millions of years
A unique walking route along the wave-cut rock platform that loops between the cliffs and the sea
Sweeping views of Sanbangsan rising directly above, with a linked Sanbangsan-Yongmeori geological trail
Haenyeo (female free-divers) selling freshly caught sea snails, sea cucumber and sea squirt from small stalls along the shore
The nearby Hamel Ship Exhibition Hall, commemorating the Dutch trading ship Sperwer that wrecked here in 1653 and stranded Hendrick Hamel's crew
Good to know
SafetyThe wave-cut rock terrace is wet and slippery. High heels and slippers are dangerous; wear comfortable, non-slip shoes such as sneakers.
SeasonOpening hours change every day with the tide. During high tide the walking path floods and access is closed, so time your visit for low tide.
SafetyIn bad weather (strong winds or high waves) the coast may be fully closed for safety and you might not be able to enter at all. Waves can surge suddenly, so do not get too close to the water's edge.
RulesThis is a protected geological site within a UNESCO Global Geopark. Do not damage or take rocks or rock layers, and stay on the designated path.
MannersBuying seafood from the haenyeo stalls is usually a cash, eat-on-the-spot transaction; confirm the price first and bargain politely.
Practical info
Admission, opening hours and whether the site is open all change frequently with the daily tide and weather, so always confirm the latest before visiting. Adult individual admission is reported to be around KRW 2,000 and KRW 1,000 for youths/children, but this may change; check the day's opening window with the Seogwipo public-attractions office (+82-64-794-2940) or the tourist help line 1330. A combined ticket with Sanbangsan is also available.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
