The Most Beautiful Islands in South Korea

The most fabulous sunset over Jindo island in South Korea
The most fabulous sunset over Jindo island in South Korea | Photo by martin bennie on Unsplash
Mimsie Ladner

Although many associate South Korea with its bustling, neon-drenched metropolises like Seoul and Busan, the peninsula is also peppered with a number of islands – 3,358 of them, to be exact. Many have been transformed into protected marine national parks, some are operational centers for fishermen (and women), while others are renowned for their beaches and gorgeous coastal views. Here are some of the country’s most spectacular.

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CentralAmerica

GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

5 days . Mini
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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

5 days . Mini
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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

5 days . Mini
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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

9 days . Epic
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2. Peru

An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.
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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

10 days . Epic
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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

7 days . Culture
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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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Europe

COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

8 days . Culture
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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

10 days . Epic
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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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Asia

THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

11 days . Epic
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2. Thailand

From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.
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Asia

SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

Secrets Of Sri Lanka By Train

10 days . Culture
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3. Sri Lanka

A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price
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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

11 days . Epic
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1. Morocco

An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

9 days . Epic
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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

8 days . Epic
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3. Kenya

An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Jeju (제주도)

While just a ferry ride from bustling mainland South Korea, the island paradise of Jeju – one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature – feels worlds away. Canopied in thick pine forests, breathtaking rock formations, and breathtaking beaches, Jeju is a famous escape for adventurers and beach bums alike. Its most noteworthy attractions include Seongsan Illchulbong Peak, Hamdeok Beach, Halla Mountain, and Jeongbang Waterfall.

Ulleungdo (울릉도)

Situated 120 kilometers off the eastern coast of South Korea, Ulleungdo Island is known for its peaceful blue waves, revitalizing mountain scenery, and breathtaking sunsets. Often referred to as the “Mysterious Island,” this popular vacation destination is the major fishery of the eastern coast and draws tourists with its tantalizing seafood. It’s also a favorite spot for soaking up Korea’s natural beauty, which is best experienced on the Haengnam Coastal Walking Path, which stretches along the periphery of the island.

Hongdo (홍도)

Part of Dadohaehaesang National Park, the rocky, miniscule Hongdo Island was named for the crimson (“hong”) light that encapsulates the entire island at sunset. Its shores are lined with cliffs, each possessing its own unique formation, that tower over the South Sea’s blue oceans. The island’s 6.47 square kilometers are home to approximately 270 subspecies of evergreen including rare reeds, as well as about 170 species of animals.

Geojedo (거제도)

Geojedo (거제도), South Korea

Connected to the mainland by the Busan-Geoje Fixed Link bridge and tunnel, Korea’s second-largest island is reputed not only for its colossal shipbuilding industry, but also its natural beauty. Geojedo’s coastal scenery deviates between pastoral and industrial, with the best views in and around the Haegeumgang rock formations. Other representative attractions of the island include its grassy green hill by the sea, the “Hill of the Wind,” and Hakdong Black Pearl Mongdol Beach, a black pebble beach that comes to life in the summertime.

Oedo (외도)

Hallyeo Maritime National Park’s Oedo Island is often called the “Paradise of Korea,” and for good reason. Essentially a giant botanical garden, Oedo was established in the 1970s by Lee Chang-ho and his wife. Since then, it has been transformed into an exotic attraction of more than 3,000 plant species including many subtropical plants, such as cacti, palm trees, and gazanias. Adding to the scenery are Mediterranean-style buildings and statues, which have been used as the backdrop for a number of Korean dramas.

Jindo (진도)

Jindo, the third-largest island in Korea, is particularly famous for the Jindo dog, a gorgeous breed known for its unsurpassed loyalty and “Jindo Arirang,” Korea’s best-known folk song. But the Miracle Sea Road Festival is certainly the biggest draw of Jeollanam Province‘s most popular island. During the annual festival, which takes place for a few days during the spring, visitors can watch as the sea mysteriously “parts,” and can walk along the revealed 2.8-kilometer-long road from Jindo to nearby Modo Island. The occurrence, as magical as it seems, is actually a natural tidal phenomenon.

Udo (우도)

Udo Island, South Korea

Situated off the eastern coast of Jeju Island, Udo Island boasts a unique local heritage and a number of visit-worthy natural attractions. Home to Seobin Beach, South Korea’s only coral beach, black lava cliffs, and a lighthouse with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, it’s no surprise that Udo is a favorite Korean destination. The small island is also famous for its haenyeo strong, resilient, and often elderly female divers who make their living by diving for seafood.

Seonyudo (선유도)

Named for its 100-meter-tall mountain, Seonyu Peak, which many believe resembles two gods playing Go, Seonyudo Island is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Korea’s west coast. Popular sites include the peaceful port of Munyeo, Jangjagyo Bridge, and Mangjubong Hill, where the island’s sunsets are particularly spectacular.

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