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Discover Yeonggwang, South Korea, with our 2026 day trip guide. Enjoy Gulbi Jeongsik, drive the scenic Baegsu Coastal Road, relax at an ocean-view cafe, and explore the historic Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site.
Recently, my colleagues and I took a delightful day trip to Yeonggwang, a charming coastal city in South Korea. It was a perfect escape from the daily grind!
We arrived just in time for lunch, indulging in a traditional Gulbi Jeongsik (dried yellow croaker set meal), followed by a scenic drive along the Baegsu Coastal Road, a relaxing stop at an ocean-view cafe, and a visit to the historic Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site.
Join me as I walk you through each stop, complete with photos!
Yeonggwang Day Trip Key Information
1. Yeonggwang Gulbi Jeongsik (Beopseongpo Restaurant Street)
Address: Beopseongpo-ro area, Beopseong-myeon, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do
Cost: Gulbi Jeongsik per person
~$14 ~ ~$28 (varies by restaurant)
2. Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site
Address: 101 Baekje Sangjing-ro, Beopseong-myeon, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do
Hours: 9:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM
(Winter until 5:00 PM)
Phone: 061-350-5992
Admission: Free
3. Baegsu Coastal Road & Ocean View Cafe
Address: Haean-ro area, Baegsu-eup, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do
Features: Selected as one of Korea's 100 Most Beautiful Roads, with numerous ocean-view cafes dotted along the route.
📍 Yeonggwang Gulbi Street
Beopseong-ri, Beopseong-myeon, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do
📍 Cafe Noeul
565-9 Haean-ro, Baegsu-eup, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do, Cafe Noeul
📍 Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site
828 Jinnae-ri, Beopseong-myeon, Yeonggwang-gun, Jeollanam-do
Beopseongpo Gulbi Jeongsik
Our Yeonggwang adventure kicked off with a delicious meal, because as they say, "Even the most beautiful scenery is best enjoyed on a full stomach!"
When you think of Yeonggwang, the first thing that comes to mind is often Beopseongpo Gulbi Jeongsik, and I highly recommend it.
The salty, flavorful Bori Gulbi (dried yellow croaker cured in barley) served with an array of banchan (side dishes) that practically cover the entire table makes for an incredibly satisfying start to your trip.
The Ultimate Drive
Baegsu Coastal Road
The absolute highlight of any trip to Yeonggwang is undoubtedly a drive along the Baegsu Coastal Road.
This breathtaking road, stretching for over 10 miles (approximately 17 kilometers), winds along the picturesque Chilsan Sea, offering spectacular views around every bend.
Don't forget to pull over at one of the many observation decks along the way. Taking a moment to gaze at the expansive ocean is a surefire way to melt away any stress.
Healing Time at an Ocean View Cafe
Cafe Noeul
Mid-drive, make sure to stop at one of the lovely ocean-view cafes located right along the Baegsu Coastal Road.
Just enjoying a cup of coffee while admiring the endless blue sea through the panoramic windows is enough to make everyday worries disappear. These days, the Baegsu Coastal Road area is also home to many large cafes with delicious bakeries, as well as pool villas and pensions, making it a fantastic destination for a family getaway.
Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site
On your way back, I highly recommend visiting the Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site. This historic location is where the Indian monk Marananta first introduced Buddhism to the Baekje Kingdom, and its exotic architectural style is truly captivating.
With its Gandhara-style pagoda and sweeping views of the Yeonggwang Bridge, it's an ideal spot to capture some stunning photos.
Practical Tips for Your Yeonggwang Trip
1. As Yeonggwang is a coastal area, the wind can be quite strong, especially in the evening if you're visiting to catch the sunset. It's a good idea to bring a light jacket or an extra layer.
2. Popular Gulbi Jeongsik restaurants can have long waiting lines during weekend lunch hours. Consider making a reservation in advance or arriving a bit earlier to avoid the rush.
3. The Baekje Buddhism First Arrival Site is quite expansive, so wearing comfortable walking shoes will make your visit much more enjoyable.
Accommodation Recommendation
While this is a day trip itinerary, for those considering an overnight stay to fully soak in Yeonggwang's beautiful sunset, I'd like to recommend a place that caught my eye (I stumbled upon it while looking for a cafe!).
What do you think of the Yeonggwang day trip itinerary I've shared today? Why not spend this upcoming weekend with your loved ones, enjoying delicious Gulbi and finding peace by the beautiful sea?
If you know of any other hidden gems in Yeonggwang, please share them in the comments below!
The Ggulbi Jeong식 ranges from ~$14 to ~$28 per person, with prices varying by establishment. During weekend lunch hours, there can be long waits, so it's recommended to make a reservation in advance or visit a bit earlier.
The Baekje Buddhist Temple's First Arrival Site operates from 9 AM to 6 PM, and during winter, it closes earlier at 5 PM. Admission is free, and since the site is extensive, wearing comfortable athletic shoes will help with your visit.
The Baeksu Coastal Road is a drive course approximately 17km long, selected as one of Korea's 100 Most Beautiful Roads. Ocean-view cafes are concentrated throughout the road, making it a great place to relax while enjoying the Chilsan Sea.
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