When I imagine my ideal vacation destination, I think of a blue sky and turquoise beach. I have a deep connection to the sea and have always loved to go to the beach. When I think about beautiful beaches in Asia, some popular destinations such as Jeju Island or Bali come to mind rather than the Korean peninsula. However, much to my surprise Korea offers many beach destinations where you can enjoy the sun and the sea.

This time, I decided to visit Wando Island in Jeollanam-do. If you are like many tourists who only know of Jeju Island as a beach destination in Korea, you will surely be impressed by the beauty of Wando Island.

Sunset time in Jiri Beach

Wando Island is 5 hours from Seoul by express bus, which you can take at the Seoul Central City Bus Terminal (Honam Line) to Wando Bus Terminal. Although five hours may seem like a long time, my phone kept me company and the time passed quickly.

I decided to do an early check-in at the hotel in order to take advantage of the beauty of the island as much as I could. The hotel staff was kind enough to allow me to do so, and after they led me to my room, where I was immediately struck by the view - I could see the sea from my balcony! It took only one glance at that view to make me forget my exhaustion. After taking many pictures, I decided to write down all the things I wanted to do that day. After a short power nap, I was ready to visit my first destination.

Inside the Film Set of Cheonghae port

I got the number to the taxi driver from the hotel, and the driver came right away after I called him. He took me to the bus terminal, where I took a public bus to my first destination - Jiri Beach. I could clearly feel that the lifestyle of the people on Wando Island was completely different from that of a big city - in a word, simple and calm. We passed many rice farms and other fields along the way. After arriving at Jiri Beach, I could easily understand why it is a great vacation spot for families and a popular vacation destination. Jiri Beach is especially known as one of the best beaches in Cheongsan-do Island, renowned for its clean water and beautiful sunset views.

Jiri Beach

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Overall view of the Film Set of Cheonghae port from up the hill

After spending some quality time on Jiri Beach, I took a public bus to my second destination, Wando Tower (2,000 won for adults, 1,500 won for teenagers and 1,000 won for children, with special group prices). I had already heard that Wando Tower offers a beautiful view of the island and the surround islands due to its location on the top of Dongmang Mountain. The view was incredible, especially at night.

As it was already night, I decided to head back to the hotel. I called the taxi driver and he drove me back to the resort. I decided to have some snacks in the cafeteria and go back to my room.

Wando tower from outside

Sea view inside Film Set of Cheonghae port

In the morning, I drank coffee while relaxing on the balcony, gazing out at the beautiful sea, contemplating its beauty. My final destination for the trip was the Film Set of Cheonghae Port (5,000 won for individuals, 4,000 won for groups; 7:30 am-7:30 pm in the summer, 8:00 am-6:00 pm in the winter). The taxi driver was waiting to take me. He also recommended to try the seafood at a restaurant at the filming site, so I took his advice and ordered some ramen, which was delicious. The Film Set is the location of many TV dramas, movies, and commercials, including “Emperor of the Sea” and “Admiral: Roaring Currents”.

Wando Tower

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The Oneness Resort is about 30 minutes from Wando Bus Terminal. When you arrive at the resort, you will be amazed at the size.

When you arrive at the resort, you will be amazed at the size. The resort is a popular destination for families, especially in the summer, thanks to its seaside location.

The hotel staff were friendly and gave me detailed information about places I could visit. After exploring the hotel, I noticed all of its unique qualities - they even have a wedding area for your big day. How beautiful is that? A wedding in front of the sea. I couldn’t hide my excitement.

On the way to my room, I passed a coffee shop in the hotel. This was convenient, considering the hotel was isolated on top of a hill with no other convenience stores nearby. The room was large and had a beautiful view of the sea, and I could also see the large outdoor swimming pool.

Indoor coffeshop inside oneness resort

In the room, the bed was large and soft. There was a TV and a large refrigerator, and the room was comfortable and calm. From the balcony I could feel the freshness of the ocean and the bright sun, and imagine how beautiful the view would have been in the summer.

Inside the room

To my surprise, this resort fulfilled all my expectations. I was excited to come here. Even though I came by myself, I was able to get assistance with my travel plans, which made my travel as easy I would like it to be. At reception, they gave me a phone number of a taxi driver. He was my life saver; and I would strongly recommend taking a taxi rather than a bus, as there are only two buses, and they don’t come often.

The resort was very near some famous tourist places, which are all easily accessible by car. Some of the places you can get to nearby include Wando Tower, Wando Fishery and the Folklore Museum. Sinji Myeongasimni Beach is also easily reachable by public bus. I am looking forward to coming again next summer, but next time I will be sure to bring my family with me!

The sea view from the room