Marvel at the curious rock formations of the UNESCO-protected Yongmeori Coast. This breathtaking section of Jeju Island’s coastline is the result layers of volcanic rock being forced up from the seabed and then eroded by waves. Yongmeori Coast means dragon (yong) head (meori), which refers to a supposed similarity to a dragon dipping its head in the ocean. Walk over the rocks, peer into tidal pools and learn about the voyages of explorers.
A winding trail travels down from the base of Sanbangsan Mountain to the dragon-like peninsula. Note as the green hillsides and bright canola fields gradually turn into more rugged terrain. An alternative entrance follows a steep stairway of boulders that leads to a black-sand beach.
Visit the Hamel Memorial, a reconstruction of a Dutch ship that ran aground here in 1653. It commemorates the capture of the ship’s crew, who forged strong relationships with the islanders before being sent to Seoul and later escaping to Japan. Among the crew was the Dutch East Indian Company bookkeeper Hendrick Hamel. He was the first Westerner to document life in Joseon-era Korea.
Step onto the rocky shoreline and experience an instant shrinking feeling as the primordial cliffs tower above you. The contours and multiple layers of the cliffs blend beautifully with the rippling emerald-green seawater. Spot barnacles, muscles and sea urchins growing on the rocks and around tidal pools. Stare at the cliffs long enough and your mind might conjure up images of mystical faces.
Women vendors sit along the coast and prepare sushi snacks such as fresh abalone, sea cucumber and sea squirt. Some of the women are also haenyeo, the female divers of Jeju Island who dive without the aid of oxygen.
The Yongmeori Coast is accessible during daylight hours and there’s an admission fee. Closure of the coastline occurs during high tides and extreme weather conditions. The coast is about a 30-mintute drive from both Jeju City and Seogwipo. Free parking is available at the base of Sanbangsan Mountain.