Korea360
Discover Korea from every angle — culture, travel, trends, and beyond.

Summer Vacation Recommended! Hidden Gems on the West Coast Beaches (Part 1)

This summer, escape the crowds and explore the tranquil beauty of Mallipo and Mongsanpo beaches on the West Coast, discovering unique activities and ~

This summer, escape the crowds and explore the tranquil beauty of Mallipo and Mongsanpo beaches on the West Coast, discovering unique activities and delicious local cuisine for an unforgettable vacation.

Embark on a Serene Summer Getaway to the West Coast's Beautiful, Secluded Beaches

The peak summer vacation season is fast approaching. If you're planning a tranquil and uncrowded getaway, the West Coast beaches offer an excellent choice. The West Coast boasts diverse attractions, including stunning sunsets, unique tidal flat experiences, and fresh seafood. Lesser-known, hidden beaches, in particular, provide genuine rest and rejuvenation. This article introduces two such gems on the West Coast: Mallipo Beach and Mongsanpo Beach. We'll delve into the activities you can enjoy at each, along with information on nearby culinary delights.

Mallipo Beach: The Romance and Vibrancy of the West Coast

The Allure of Mallipo Beach

Mallipo Beach stands as one of the largest and most renowned recreational beaches on the Taean Peninsula, a true highlight of the West Coast. Its gentle slope, expansive sandy shore, and calm waves make it especially suitable for families. Famously featured in the song "Mallipo Love," the beach is fringed by a protective pine forest, offering ample shade for comfortable summer visits. It is also an ideal spot to witness the breathtaking West Coast sunset. The harmonious blend of the sky and sea, painted in fiery hues as dusk settles, promises an unforgettable memory.

Activities to Enjoy at Mallipo Beach

Mallipo Beach offers a wide array of marine leisure activities. You can engage in exhilarating water sports like surfing, jet-skiing, and banana boating, or experience the simple joy of clamming and crabbing during tidal flat excursions. Surfing schools such as Mallipo Surfing School are located nearby, making it easy for beginners to learn the sport. Additionally, consider a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained coastal paths or rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding scenery.

Culinary Delights Near Mallipo Beach

The vicinity of Mallipo Beach is dotted with restaurants serving fresh seafood. Gegukji, a spicy crab and vegetable stew, stands out as a representative local dish of the Taean region.

  • Wonjo Ttukbaegi Sikdang (Original Clay Pot Restaurant): Specializing in Taean's signature dishes like Gegukji and soy-marinated crabs, this restaurant is celebrated for its fresh ingredients and rich flavors.

  • Eobu-ui Jip (Fisherman's House): This establishment offers a wide variety of seafood dishes, with fresh raw fish sashimi and assorted seafood platters being particularly popular.

Mongsanpo Beach: Nature's Untouched Beauty

The Charm of Mongsanpo Beach

Mongsanpo Beach, nestled on the southern part of the Taean Peninsula, is a hidden gem that retains its natural, untouched beauty. Quieter and more secluded than Mallipo, it's an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxed vacation. Its vast sandy beach, lush pine forest, and gentle waves create a perfect setting for camping and leisurely beach walks. The pine forest (Haesong Sup) is a hallmark of Mongsanpo Beach, providing excellent spots for shaded picnics or forest camping.

Activities to Enjoy at Mongsanpo Beach

Mongsanpo Beach is an ideal location for travelers looking to heal and reconnect with nature.

  • Camping: A spacious auto campsite is located right next to the beach, making it an excellent spot for camping. Spend a night under the cool pine trees, lulled by the sound of the waves.

  • Tidal Flat Experience: During low tide, the expansive tidal flats offer an opportunity to catch clams, razor clams, and other shellfish. It's a wonderful chance for families to learn about and enjoy nature together.

  • Beach Horseback Riding: Mongsanpo Beach also offers horseback riding experiences along the shore. Galloping across the vast sandy beach on horseback provides a unique and memorable adventure.

Culinary Delights Near Mongsanpo Beach

Near Mongsanpo Beach, you can find various restaurants offering fresh seafood and local specialties.

  • Mongsanpo Fisheries Market: Purchase freshly caught seafood at reasonable prices directly from the market, and have it prepared immediately at nearby restaurants.

  • Mongsanpo Hoetjip (Mongsanpo Raw Fish Restaurant): Specializing in fresh raw fish sashimi and other seafood dishes, this restaurant boasts a pleasant ambiance perfect for enjoying a meal with an ocean view.


Discover Your Own Summer Getaway on the West Coast

Mallipo Beach and Mongsanpo Beach, each with its distinct charm, are true treasures of the West Coast. If you seek vibrant marine leisure activities, Mallipo is an excellent choice. However, if a quiet, relaxing retreat in nature is what you crave, Mongsanpo is highly recommended. This summer, we encourage you to create unforgettable memories at these hidden gems on the West Coast. In the next installment, we will introduce even more captivating beaches along the West Coast.