17[Overnight Stay Itinerary] A Mysterious Sandbank and Ample Island Meals, A Small Paradise on the Sea: Daeijakdo Island
Incheon, often called the “land of many islands,” hides a small paradise within. Daeijakdo Island is blessed with a mysterious sandbank (Puldeung) that appears only at low tide, panoramic views from Buasan Mountain overlooking the island and a heart-shaped beach, and six ample island-style meals prepared by a hospitable lodge owner. What follows is the breathtaking sunset that paints the sea red. With the city’s noise left behind, a moment of peace awaits visitors who come here.
SPOT 1 Gateway to the Islands, Incheon Coastal Passenger Terminal
The first step to Daeijakdo Island begins at Incheon Coastal Passenger Terminal. As the gateway connecting countless islands of the West Sea, the terminal bustles daily with dozens of ferries coming and going. The spacious waiting hall resonates with the excitement of travel, while outside the windows, vessels line up awaiting departure.
The terminal is well equipped with ticket counters, waiting areas, restaurants, convenience stores, and a pharmacy. Its comfortable second-floor lounge is a great place to unwind before boarding. To get there, simply pass through the boarding gate and follow the pink line. Even first-time visitors can easily find their way to the ship bound for Daeijakdo Island.
From Incheon Port, it takes about two hours by regular ferry or just an hour and a half by high-speed ferry to reach Daeijakdo Island.
While gazing at the blue horizon, feeling the refreshing sea breeze, and watching seagulls soaring mid-air, you’ll find yourself immersed in the romance of travel even before you arrive.
[TIP]
- Departure Times: Weekdays 7:50 AM, 8:30 AM, 1:10 PM (extra departures during weekends, the summer vacation season, and Lunar New Year/Chuseok holidays)
- Official ID required for boarding
- In case of sea fog, strong winds, or other adverse weather, be sure to check service availability before departure.
- Complete boarding procedures at least 30 minutes before departure; check-in closes 10 minutes prior.
- Address70 Yeonanbudu-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon
- Inquiries1599-5985
- FeesRound trip KRW 27,300 (regular ferry), KRW 43,700 (high-speed ferry)
- Websiteisland.theksa.co.kr
SPOT 2 A Hidden Gem at the End of the Coastal Trail, Five Brothers Rock
The symbol of Daeijakdo Island is a rugged rock formation shaped by waves and erosion, known as Five Brothers Rock, which is located in “Keunmaeul (literally Big Village),” one of the island’s three villages.
From the pier, you will follow the colorful Rainbow Road to Keunmaeul, where clusters of orange-roofed houses huddle together. From the village, a short 10-minute walk along the coastal cliffside trail leads to the open sea and the sight of Five Brothers Rock.
Five Brothers Rock carries a sorrowful legend, according to which five devoted brothers eventually turned into stone after waiting for their parents who had gone out to fish. The bold shape of the rock, resembling five outstretched fingers, evokes the image of the brothers standing together, peering out to the sea.
- AddressSan 197, Ijak-ri, Jawol-myeon, Ongjin-gun, Incheon
- Websitehttp://daeijakdo.kr
SPOT 3 Island Viewpoint Embracing a Heart-Shaped Beach, Buasan Mountain
Rising 159 meters above sea level, Buasan Mountain is the best vantage point for taking in the island’s panoramic scenery. Its gentle slopes make it easy for families and novice hikers to climb, while the scent of the sea carried by the breeze and the lush green forest along the trail lighten each step.
From the summit, a breathtaking scenery unfolds as nearby islands, the harbor, and the deep emerald sea blend together. Most striking of all is the heart-shaped beach created by Daeijakdo and Soijakdo lying side by side, a landscape that leaves an indelible image. At the right timing, you can also catch sight of the golden sandbank.
Near the summit stands a Bongsudae, a beacon mound once used to alert enemy incursions, along with the Cloud Bridge, a legendary red-colored bridge,
said to be the path an immortal crossed to ascend to heaven.
At the base of the mountain is Samsingrandmother’s Well , believed to cure illnesses and bless couples with children.
Legends woven into the landscape make your trip to Daeijakdo Island all the more intriguing.
[TIP]
- The trail near the summit has rugged rocky sections, so it’s advised to wear comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes.
- AddressSan 217, Ijak-ri, Jawol-myeon, Ongjin-gun, Incheon
- Websitedaeijakdo.kr/
SPOT 4 The Golden Sandbank Emerging at Low Tide, Puldeung
In the middle of the sea southwest of Daeijakdo Island lies a golden sandbank that reveals itself twice a day for just over three hours. Formed over thousands of years by accumulated erosion from waves and wind, it is the largest of its kind in Korea. Usually hidden beneath the water, its slow emergence with the ebbing tide is nothing short of astonishing.
From the summit of Buasan Mountain, you can clearly see the sandbank stretching across the sea. For a closer view, you can head to Jageunpuran Beach where you feel like reaching out to touch it.
With luck, you can even board an exploration boat that takes you directly onto the sandbank. At least eight passengers is required for departure, and both the tide and weather must be favorable. It is advised to walk barefoot to fully experience the sandbank’s charm. By leaving the very first footprints on pristine sand, you can enjoy an oddly enchanting feeling.
- AddressIjak-ri, Jawol-myeon, Ongjin-gun, Incheon
- FeesPuldeung Ferry (community-operated) KRW 30,000 per person
SPOT 5 An Ample Six-Meal Overnight Stay, Morning Terrace Pension
“Morning Terrace Pension” is an all-in-one accommodation that offers lodging, meals, clam digging, and even fishing in one place. Its most famous offer is the “6 Meals Overnight Stay” package, which serves six ample meals a day, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus snacks and late-night dishes.
Each meal features Korean soul food favorites such as grilled pork belly, spicy fish stew, soy sauce marinated crab, grilled fish, and seafood Kalguksu. Exclusive specialties only savored here include fresh raw fish and seasoned raw fish made from the catch of the day straight from the waters around Daeijakdo Island.
Pickup service from the pier is provided as standard, and free transportation is available for visiting attractions that are a bit difficult to reach on foot. As an option, you can enjoy paid activities such as clam digging or boat fishing.
- Address42, Daeijak-ro 159-gil, Jawol-myeon, Ongjin-gun, Incheon
- FeesKRW 180,000 per person for the 6 Meals Overnight Stay package
- Opening HoursCheck-in 1:00 PM, Check-out 12:00 PM
- Websitemorningterrace.kr
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- 29 Jeonggak-ro (1138 Guwol-dong), Namdong-gu, Incheon 21554, Korea
- TEL : +82-32-120 / FAX : +82-440-3009
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