Goseong's Baekseom Marine Observatory: A Top Snorkeling Spot

Baekseom Marine Observatory, Goseong

On a recent trip, I visited the Baekseom Marine Observatory. I went without much expectation, but I was genuinely surprised by its beauty – the water was incredibly clear, and the scenery absolutely stunning. I almost regretted not discovering this gem sooner!

It's also a renowned snorkeling spot!

But even if you're not planning to get in the water, I highly recommend this scenic destination as a must-visit place in Goseong, Gangwon Province. Let me tell you all about it.

Baekseom Marine Observatory Essential Information

The Baekseom Marine Observatory is a picturesque boardwalk connecting Geojin Port to Baekseom Island, established in 2020. The most captivating feature is undoubtedly the deck that literally floats over the sea!

It's located quite far north in Goseong, about a 20-minute drive from Songjiho Beach. While it might seem a bit out of the way, it's absolutely worth the scenic drive.

Personally, I recommend visiting on your first or last day of travel, depending on your accommodation's location.

* For me, it was a 30-minute drive from Cheonjin Beach.

A Must-Visit in Goseong, Gangwon Province:

Baekseom Marine Observatory

Honestly, I debated whether to visit the Baekseom Marine Observatory because it added an extra hour to my drive home. But I'm so glad I did; the views were so spectacular, I would have truly missed out.

Note that while there's a long stretch of parking along the coastal road for Baekseom Marine Observatory, space is quite limited. I recommend parking closer to the entrance of Geojin 1-ri Beach, where the coastal deck walk begins, and walking up from there.

* No parking fee

Once you've parked and stepped onto the deck, the Baekseom Marine Observatory comes into full view : ) The distance from the entrance to the observatory itself is 265 meters (about 870 feet)! It might look far, but it's just a 5-minute stroll.

As you follow the path, you'll naturally find yourself walking over the ocean. The deck even changes color to mimic the sea, creating the sensation of walking on water. What a thoughtful design!

From the observatory, you can take in panoramic views of Geojin Port, the coastal road, and the remarkably clear ocean where you can see straight to the bottom.

While the observatory isn't particularly high or expansive, it offers fantastic photo opportunities with Baekseom Island as your backdrop, all while standing over the beautiful sea. Even with a breeze, it gets hot during peak summer, so a parasol is essential!

Goseong's Best Snorkeling Spot

What was even more exciting was discovering that the area around Baekseom Marine Observatory is a snorkeling spot I hadn't known about until now.

If you follow the coastal road from the Baekseom Marine Observatory, you'll find many people setting up tents and enjoying serious water activities. It looks quite exotic, almost like a scene from a tropical island.

The water is so incredibly clear, it barely feels like the ocean – making it absolutely perfect for snorkeling. There are also showers and restrooms nearby for convenience.

I went to Kota Kinabalu for my honeymoon, but honestly, I could have just come to Goseong for snorkeling!

* Showers are available for a fee

However, even if you don't plan to snorkel, the clear waters and stunning coastal drive along the East Sea are reason enough to visit. You won't regret experiencing this beautiful part of Korea : )

Filling your map with cherished places is one of the true joys of travel.

With that in mind, I truly believe many will fall in love with Baekseom Marine Observatory, which is why I wholeheartedly recommend it as a must-visit spot in Goseong, Gangwon Province.

Especially for those who love snorkeling, if you haven't been yet, make sure to add Baekseom Marine Observatory to your 2026 travel plans!

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