Things To Do
in Jeonghae
Jeonghae is a quiet coastal town on Korea's southern coast, renowned for its fresh seafood and scenic shoreline. The town blends traditional markets with modern cafés and a laid-back, maritime atmosphere. Narrow streets wind between fish harbors, pastel houses, and small temples that hint at a slower pace of life.
It offers easy access to nearby islands and coastal hiking trails for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Jeonghae Confucian Academy, where you can admire the traditional Korean architecture and learn about Confucian teachings. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, taking in the beauty of the old wooden houses and vibrant local markets. Don't miss out on a refreshing breakfast at a local café, where you can sample a traditional Korean rice cake and tea.
After a leisurely morning, visit the Jeonghae Folk Museum to immerse yourself in the region's rich cultural history through its engaging exhibits. Enjoy a walk along the nearby river, where you can relax and watch local artists paint the serene landscape. For lunch, indulge in Jeonghae's famous grilled mackerel at a cozy restaurant by the riverbank.
As the sun sets, head to the Jeonghae Night Market, where you can explore a wide variety of street food options and handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and try delicacies like tteokbokki and hotteok while enjoying the lively atmosphere. Conclude your day by visiting a nearby tea house to unwind with a traditional Korean herbal tea.
Begin your day with a peaceful hike in the lush hills surrounding Jeonghae, where you can savor the crisp morning air and the sounds of nature. The scenic trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints that overlook the town and the beautiful coastline. Be sure to bring along some snacks for a mid-hike breakfast while enjoying the panoramic views.
After your hike, visit the Jeonghae Arboretum, a serene oasis filled with diverse plant species and tranquil walking paths. Spend your afternoon strolling through meticulously designed gardens, taking time to relax by the ponds or enjoy a picnic under the shade of a tree. For lunch, explore a nearby café that serves fresh, locally sourced dishes.
As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the Jeonghae coastline, where the sunset casts a golden glow over the water. Find a cozy spot on the beach to sit and reflect on your day while listening to the gentle waves. For dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the catch of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚆One-way public transit fare | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🧭Souvenirs/market snacks | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Good value for money compared to bigger cities
- Accessible day trips to islands and parks
- Limited nightlife and cosmopolitan dining
- Weather can be humid and windy in summer
- Public transport outside city centers can be sparse
- Smaller international flight options compared to major hubs
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "실례합니다" - Excuse me
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "메뉴 주세요" - Please give me the menu
- "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "도와주실 수 있어요?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Jeonghae
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections on calm water with boats and fishing nets creating a classic coastal scene.
Timeless maritime silhouette against the horizon; ideal for long-exposure shots at dusk.
Rugged sea cliffs and wind-sculpted pines with expansive views of the coastline.
Food in Jeonghae
Jeonghae Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasoned whole mackerel grilled over charcoal, served with rice, a squeeze of lemon, and fresh greens.
Must-Try!
Sliced raw fish served with sesame oil, gochugaru, and dipping sauces, best enjoyed with fresh vegetables and rice.
Crab marinated in soy sauce, a briny treat often served with steamed rice and banchan.
Sweet-spicy braised squid with vegetables and a glossy glaze that coats every bite.
Crispy pancake studded with mixed seafood, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market where you can sample grilled skewers, fresh sashimi portions, and seasonal sea vegetables right by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintain orderly lines at markets, bus stops, and elevator doors; avoid pushing or cutting in.
Dress modestly, speak softly, remove hats, and follow local guidance; photography may be restricted in some areas.
Remove shoes in homes and some traditional spaces; treat footwear with care when entering indoor areas.
Safety
Tipping in Jeonghae
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; rounding up is appreciated but not expected. In tourist spots, small tips may be offered for exceptional service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Naver Pay, Kakao Pay) are common. Some markets and smaller shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flowers; perfect for coastal walks and market visits.
Warm and humid with occasional monsoon rain; seas are inviting but currents can be strong.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; excellent for hiking and photography.
Cool to cold with coastal winds; seafood markets stay busy and cafés provide cozy refuges.
Jeonghae at Night
Hiking in Jeonghae
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged paths with dramatic sea views; best during low tide for rock formations and photography.
Forest-lined trail with gentle to moderate climbs; suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Jeonghae by plane.
Main gateway for the region with domestic and limited international flights; about 60-90 minutes by car.
Nearby regional airport offering domestic flights; roughly 1.5-2 hours by road.
Larger hub connecting to major Korean cities; about 2-2.5 hours away by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The town's traditional core; tight-knit communities with strong family ties.
Rural areas show a higher proportion of older residents; younger people often move to larger cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Commonly played on school fields and community parks; local clubs participate in regional leagues.
A popular pastime with informal pick-up games and local team events.
Widely practiced; many studios offer beginner classes for visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jeonghae.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose tofu and vegetable dishes; ask for vegan-friendly broths, and request dishes prepared with vegetable stock; many places can omit seafood sauces upon request.