We are pretty sure that you have heard about Korea, its food and its popular music. However, not many people are aware that Korea also has more than 3350 islands. Most of them were formed due to the volcanic activity in the east region of Asia.
And while many have heard about Jeju or Dokdo, today we will be writing about the less-known Daebudo (대부도). Daebudo, is one of South Korea Islands that is located in the Yellow Sea and it can be easily accessible from Seoul.
Therefore, last week we took a day trip to Daebudo (대부도) to appreciate nature.
We found out that Daebudo (대부도) is divided in several parts in itself and the part where we visited is called Gubongdo (구봉도).
HERE’S OUR EXPERIENCE OF DAEBUDO
THINGS TO DO IN DAEBUDO
TAKE A HIKE OR WALK
As soon as we started to walk to the entrance we saw many seagulls flying low to get some food. Kids were running around feeding them and enjoying a day on the beach.
The island has around 4 to 5 hiking trails that you can enjoy that will take you all over the island. They are small hikes but make sure to take comfortable shoes for the hike.
Helpful tip: there are certain times that the tide is high and will cover the walkway path. Make sure to go when the tide is at its lowest so you can get to the other parts of the island.
While hiking I am sure you will find a lovely man selling popsicles at the top of the cliff right after crossing the bridge. After such a long walk the popsicles were perfect to eat.
If you are not up for the hikes do not worry, there is a walking path along the island next to the beach. A must-see on the walking path are the Grandmother and Grandfather of the rocks. Two giant rocks sticking out of the sea.
Also on the walking path we found this fun area where they checked your waist based on your age. Let me tell you that this was too funny and difficult to get through.
In Gubongdo (구봉도) there are also a few spots to picnic while taking a break from the hike or walk.
At the very tip of the island and where the walking and hiking trail will lead you to the Sunset Observatory (낙조전망대). This is the point where you know you have made it! As it says in the name, it would be best to stop when there is a sunset.
Overall, this place makes it a good family destination or a fun date course (데이트코스) for a day trip outside of Seoul.
THE ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB
There is a popular country club in the area.
If you have time it’s an interesting experience in Daebudo for those who like to golf.
BEST TIMES TO GO TO DAEBUDO
This South Korea islands is very popular among couples and young families. We really recommend you to try to arrive very early in the morning.
We went to Daebudo in summer because the sunlight lasts longer during this season but we are sure the experience and the scenery during spring or fall will also captivate you.
Try to avoid July because the rainy season in Korea makes it difficult to do any travel
WHERE TO EAT
There are tons and tons of restaurants on the island. If you like seafood this is such a great place to be at but if you love your meat don’t be discouraged because you will find lots of Korean bbq places here.
A korean must eat food though while in Daebudo would probably have to be the Haemul Kalguksu (해물칼국수). We stopped at a restaurant in Bangameori Food Town and it was totally worth it.
The place is super clean and very friendly. The portions are quite big so make sure to take that into account when ordering.
They even offer you free Makgeolli! It was a great way to end the day trip.
GETTING TO DAEBUDO
Getting to this South Korea islands by car is one way and we recommend you put Gubong-do in the GPS instead of Daebudo. The trip to get there from Seoul usually takes around 2 hours.
Helpful tip: Make sure to take into account that it is only one road that leads you to the island therefore it gets extremely congested during traffic time.
If you want to go by public transportation, we suggest the following option of around 40 minutes from Oido Station (Subway Line 4):
– Take the bus 790 or 123 near Exit #1 or #2
– Get off at Bangameori 1st Parking Lot
You will now be in Daebudo(대부도) Bangameori Food Town where you can find a variety of seafood. The one way bus cost will be around ₩1,250 (around $1)
MORE INFORMATION
https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1751677