Famed for its emerald pine trees and beautiful beaches, Anmyeon is one of the largest islands in South Korea. It originally formed part of the adjacent peninsula and has a fascinating history pertaining to Japanese pirates.

Things to do

Backed by an attractive strip of pines, Sambong Beach is one of the most accessible stretches of sand on Anmyeon Island. It’s named after the three rocks that are visible from the shore and is an ideal spot to swim or soak up the laid-back beach atmosphere.

Famed for its Halmibawi and Halabibawi, meaning “Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks”, Kkotji Beach is a popular spot to photograph the sunset. Enjoy a coastal walk along its three-kilometre-long stretch and feast on freshly-caught seafood in one of the restaurants at nearby Port Bangpohang.

Spend an afternoon exploring the Anmyeondo Recreational Forest, a 100-year-old pine forest that was once managed by the Goryeo Dynasty royal family. Learn about the importance of this forest to the Korean people in the Forest Exhibition Hall, as well as the many uses of pine timber in South Korea today.

If you’re in need of a little indulgence, visit the unique water park of Aqua World that is supplied with therapeutic sulphur waters pumped from more than 400 metres below the ground. Relax with a treatment in the mud beauty spa centre or enjoy a long soak in the on-site spas and pools.

Getting around

Anmyeon Island is connected to the South Korean mainland by the 200-metre-long Yeonnyukgyo Bridge, with the journey into Seoul taking around 2.5 hours. Buses travel throughout the island, but having your own vehicle is a more convenient way of getting around.