Famed for its flowering camellias, Odong Island lies just off the coast from the Yeosu World Expo Park. It’s crisscrossed by walking trails and topped by an iconic lighthouse, sitting on the doorstep of Yeosu’s collection of family-friendly attractions.

Things to do

Spend an afternoon walking around Odong Island, passing through its bamboo forests and towering camellia trees that are in bloom between February and March. Witness the dramatic Dragon Cave and photograph aptly-named Seal Rock, with plenty of designated spots where you can stop and admire the views.

Stroll along the causeway of Odong Island and stop at the musical fountain that looks out over Yeosu Expo Bay. Its elaborate water sprays are synchronised to music and ignited in different colours once the sun goes down.

For a bird’s-eye view of the island, ride the elevator to the top of the Odong Island Lighthouse, which offers 360-degree ocean views. Witness the “Big O” and theme pavilion of the Yeosu World Expo Park, as well as the fishing boats that cruise in the surrounding waters.

Get up close to some of the marine species inhabiting the waters surrounding Odong Island at the Hanhwa Aqua Planet in Yeosu, one of South Korea’s largest aquariums. Learn about the ecology of piranhas and penguins, then attend one of their presentations about the rare beluga whales and Baikal seals that reside there.

Getting around

Yeosu Expo Station is connected to Seoul by regular trains and buses, with the journey taking around four hours. Odong Island is reachable by foot from the Yeosu World Expo Park or onboard the family-friendly tourist train.