You may have heard of Seonyudo Island located in Seoulโs Han River, but did you know there is another โ much larger โ Seonyudo Island off the coast of North Jeolla Province?
Seonyudo, like other islands in North Jeolla, is easily accessible from the coastal city of Gunsan. In fact, there are 20 islands that make up the Gunsan coast line, but Seonyudo, Munyeodo, Jangjado and Daejangdo are the most popular.
Seonyudo Beach
Of course, the obvious place to go on Seonyudo is the beach. Seonyudo beach is a relaxing place to visit, with parasols and float rentals available. There is also beachwear and accessory stores nearby if you forget your swimsuit.
As expected, island weather is a little unpredictable. The skies are grey in my photos but the temperature was really pleasant! Perfect for paddling in the water.
Seonyudo Beach Address: Seonyudo-ri, Okda-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
Bike and ATV Rental
As for getting around Seonyudo, I recommend renting a bike or electric bike. You can also rent an ATV, but they are a little more expensive. My friends and I rented bikes nearby the Jangjado Tourist Information Centre. Bike rental was 10,000 won for the whole day and electric bike* rental was 20,000 won.
*Note: Electric bike battery power lasts 2 hours
Use the bikes simply to get around or take one of the recommended bicycle routes. If you are a keen cyclist, there is 23km course that passes through both Munyeodo and Seonyudo islands!
As for the ATV, it costs 25,000 won for 2 hours and 50,000 won for the whole day. While this is more expensive than the bikes, it is certainly worth the money if youโre after a more unique experience during your trip. You can rent both bikes and ATVs at M2 Bike.
Seonyudo M2 Bike Address: 10-14 Munyeodo-ri San, Okda-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do Operating Hours: 9:00am - 7:00pm everyday Website: m2bike.com
Fishing and Clam Digging
Another great island activity is fishing! Many travellers like to fish at Jangjagyo Bridge or take a fishing boat out to sea. Whatโs more, during low tide, you can dig for clams and other shellfish in the mudflats! For just 5000 won you can rent all the equipment you need and take part in this special experience.
Digging around in the mud may not sound appealing but I thought it was super fun. Moreover, it is satisfying to see your basket fill up with clams you dug yourself! Once finished, you can take the clams home to cook or give them away to the staff.
Seonyudo Recreational Fishing Village Address: 43 Seonyudo 3-gil, Okda-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do Clam Net + Spade Rental: 10,000 won Adult; 5,000 won Child Boot Rental: 2,000 won
Island Cruise
If youโre looking to see it all in a day, I recommend a cruise tour. The tour that we chose took us around all 20 islands surrounding Gunsan! There are several cruise courses available, and take an average of 1h 30m. The fare is 20,000 won and once youโve got your tickets, you can choose to sit inside the boat or out on the deck with the fresh sea air.
Saemangeum Cruise Ship Address: 50 Seonyudo 3-gil, Okda-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do Operating Hours: 10:00am - 4:00pm everyday Reservation: Text 010-7480-2050
Seonyudo Zip Line
The Seonyudo Zip Line seems to be one of the most famous attractions. It provides an exhilarating experience along with a panoramic view of Seonyudo Beach against a mountainous backdrop. Zoom across the sky along 700m of zipwire, 45m above sea level!
You wonโt miss the ticket booth as it is located in front of the tall building with โSeonyudo Ziplineโ written on the side. Tickets are 20,000 per adult and 16,000 won per child. After you buy your ticket, the staff will guide you in putting on all the safety equipment. After that, its into the elevator and up to the 12th floor where the platform is located.
On the platform, youโll probably feel a little uneasy because of the height. Take it from me, the scariest part is looking down below, but once youโre flying on the zipline youโll be so preoccupied with the stunning view and breeze to worry! Whatโs more, the zipline doesnโt go too fast, so its not scary and you have more time to enjoy the scenery.
Seonyu Sky Sun Zip Line Address: 136 Seonyubuk-gil, Okda-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollbuk-do Operating Hours: 9:00am - 6:00pm everyday Admission: 18 ~ 20,000 won Adult; 14 ~ 16,000 won Child
Food and Drink
There are many restaurants and cafes with a sea view along Seonyudo beach. One of them is the franchise, Angel-in-us. This branch features a floor-to-ceiling glass window, showcasing the view perfectly, and an outdoor terrace. Most of the restaurants on the beach front are sashimi restaurants, undoubtedly a popular delicacy by the sea!
Conclusion
Seonyudo Island is the perfect destination to explore with the theme of adventure! Whether your adventure takes you across the sky on a zipline, on the dirt road by ATV or to a raw fish restaurant, youโre sure to have a memorable experience here. Enjoy stunning views and fresh sea air with your family or friends!
Location and Getting There
Address: 34-22 Seonyunam-gil, Okdo-myeon, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
Getting There
- Via Bus: From Gunsan Bus Terminal or Gunsan Station, take bus 7 or 85 to Gunsan Coast Passenger Terminal (~40 min). Take the ferry to Seonyudo Island (~1 hour.) The ferry typically runs 7 times a day. However, be sure to check the schedule before you go as it is subject to change depending on the season and weather conditions.
- Via Car: It takes ~45 min to get to Seonyudo Island via car from Gunsan city centre. However, depending on the date and time of your visit, the journey can take longer.
