Hyeopjae Beach
Hyeopjae Beach: A Jeju gem with stunning emerald waters, white sands, and views of Biyangdo Island. Perfect for photos and relaxation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds
Hyeopjae Beach
Best Time
Calm waters & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hyeopjae Beach: A Jeju gem with stunning emerald waters, white sands, and views of Biyangdo Island. Perfect for photos and relaxation.
"The emerald color of the water was absolutely stunning. From the shore, you can see Biyangdo Island up close."
🚗 Parking & Traffic
Expect traffic jams on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for easier parking and access.
🌊 Cold Water Alert!
The ocean is beautiful but can be quite cold, even in warmer months. Be prepared before you jump in!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Emerald Waters & Biyangdo Views
Main beach area
Crystal-clear turquoise waters meet white sands, with Biyangdo Island as a picturesque backdrop. Perfect for photos!

Low Tide Beachcombing
Shoreline during low tide
Discover tiny sea creatures like shrimps and crabs in the shallow pools left by the receding tide. Fun for kids!

Haenyeo Divers
Offshore (seasonal/chance encounter)
Witness the legendary Haenyeo, Jeju's female divers, a unique cultural spectacle. A truly unforgettable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Embrace the Tide for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Traffic
Expect traffic jams on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for easier parking and access.
🌊 Cold Water Alert!
The ocean is beautiful but can be quite cold, even in warmer months. Be prepared before you jump in!
Jeju Island recommendations
What's the most popular beach in 제주도 and why??
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The emerald water and Biyangdo Island views are incredibly photogenic. Morning light is best!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Alleys
While food options directly on the beach are limited, explore nearby alleys for more dining choices.
Jeju places to stay?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Traffic
Expect traffic jams on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for easier parking and access.
🌊 Cold Water Alert!
The ocean is beautiful but can be quite cold, even in warmer months. Be prepared before you jump in!
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The emerald water and Biyangdo Island views are incredibly photogenic. Morning light is best!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Alleys
While food options directly on the beach are limited, explore nearby alleys for more dining choices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hyeopjae Beach is celebrated for its breathtakingly beautiful emerald waters and picturesque views of Biyangdo Island, making it a photographer's paradise. Visitors love the opportunity for beachcombing during low tide and the charming cafes nearby. However, many note that the beach can become overwhelmingly crowded, significantly detracting from its serene potential, especially on weekends.
"Beautiful and popular beach. During low tide, many went to do beach combing - can find shrimps, hermit crabs and crabs there.
Public toilet is easily accessible and facilities outside the toilets for beach goers to wash their feet as well."
Miranda Koh
"Paradise Lost in the Crowds: A Stunning Beach, Overrun by Tourists
This beach is undeniably stunning: the pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters are truly breathtaking. However, be warned - the sheer volume of tourists significantly detracts from the experience. We visited on a Saturday afternoon, and it was overwhelmingly crowded, both on the beach itself and in the surrounding area, which was plagued by traffic jams. If you're seeking a secluded paradise, this may not be it. Ideal for those who enjoy a lively, bustling beach atmosphere, but those seeking tranquility, look elsewhere."
Jo Lee
"The beach is clear green and blue, very nice for taking a pictures and playing in the water. The water is quite cold. There are many coffee shops and gift shops but not many choices of restaurants for foods, found a good one after walking for a while thru the alley."
Jovan Kun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Jeju City, you can take a bus (e.g., routes 702) towards Hyeopjae Beach. The journey can take around 1-1.5 hours. Taxis are also available but will be more expensive. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Jeju and reaching the beach easily.
Yes, Hyeopjae Beach is accessible by public transport. Several bus routes stop near the beach, making it a viable option for those without a car. However, schedules can be infrequent, so planning ahead is recommended.
Walking is great for exploring the immediate beach area and nearby cafes. For venturing further or reaching other attractions, consider renting a scooter, car, or utilizing local buses.
While there aren't dedicated shuttle services specifically for Hyeopjae Beach, many tour operators on Jeju Island include it as a stop on their itineraries. Check with local tour providers for package deals.
Yes, there are parking lots available near Hyeopjae Beach. However, they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is advised to secure a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hyeopjae Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand, sea, and views for free.
Hyeopjae Beach is open 24/7 as it's a natural public space. However, facilities like public restrooms and nearby shops have their own operating hours, typically from morning to early evening.
There are no tickets to book for the beach itself. However, if you plan to engage in water sports or rent equipment, you would book those directly with the vendors on-site.
While not a regular occurrence, local festivals or events might be held at Hyeopjae Beach during certain times of the year. It's best to check local Jeju tourism websites for any upcoming events.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early mornings on weekdays. Weekends and public holidays can get very busy. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) can also offer a more peaceful experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The main beach area with the emerald water and Biyangdo Island in the background is iconic. During low tide, the tidal pools create unique reflections. The cafes lining the coast also offer great vantage points.
Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination and fewer people. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide stunning colors, though it might be busier.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current local drone laws and restrictions for Jeju Island before flying. Always prioritize safety and respect privacy.
Enhancing the natural emerald and turquoise tones of the water often works well. A slight boost in saturation and contrast can make the colors pop. Consider a cooler tone for a refreshing feel.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful if you plan to get close to the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Directly on the beach, options are mostly cafes. For more substantial meals, explore the alleys behind the beach where you'll find local restaurants serving Korean cuisine, seafood, and more.
Yes, Jeju is known for its fresh seafood. While not abundant right on the beach, a short walk into the nearby town will reveal several restaurants offering delicious local catches.
Vegetarian and vegan options might be limited, especially in smaller cafes. It's best to look for restaurants that offer traditional Korean dishes like bibimbap (ask for no meat) or vegetable side dishes.
Try Jeju's black pork, fresh seafood like abalone or sea urchin, and local specialties like 'gogi guksu' (pork noodle soup). Many cafes also offer unique Jeju-themed desserts.
You can certainly have a picnic on the beach! There are no designated picnic areas, but many visitors bring their own food and find a spot on the sand. Remember to clean up after yourself.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can enjoy beachcombing during low tide, take photos of the stunning scenery, and relax at the numerous cafes. Kayaking and paddleboarding might be available seasonally.
Yes, Hyeopjae Beach is generally good for swimming, with clear, relatively shallow waters. However, the water can be quite cold, and currents can sometimes be present, so always be aware of safety conditions.
Yes, public restrooms are available and are generally well-maintained. There are also outdoor shower facilities for rinsing off sand and saltwater after swimming.
Hyeopjae and Geumneung beaches are adjacent and share a similar stretch of sand and sea. Hyeopjae is often considered slightly more popular and can be busier, while Geumneung offers a similar beautiful experience with potentially fewer crowds.
Rental services for beach chairs and umbrellas are typically available during the peak season. You can inquire with vendors located directly on or near the beach.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Public restrooms and outdoor showers are available, making it convenient for families. While food options directly on the beach are mostly cafes, exploring the nearby alleys can lead to family-friendly restaurants. Consider bringing beach toys and snacks for a more enjoyable day.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles, especially during low tide when the water recedes to reveal interesting patterns and reflections. The vibrant colors of the sea and sky are best captured with a polarizing filter. Don't forget to explore the charming cafes along the coast for unique perspectives and framing opportunities.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money on food, pack your own snacks and drinks, or explore the local markets and convenience stores for affordable options. While there are many cafes, look for smaller eateries in the back alleys for more budget-friendly meals. Public transportation is also a more economical way to reach the beach compared to taxis.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Hyeopjae's Emerald Waters
The view of Biyangdo Island just offshore adds another layer to the beach's charm. This small, uninhabited island provides a perfect focal point for photographs and a sense of natural beauty. You might even spot the legendary Haenyeo, Jeju's female divers, working in the waters nearby, a testament to the island's rich maritime heritage.
While the beauty is undeniable, be prepared for its popularity. The beach can become quite crowded, especially on weekends and during summer. For the most serene experience and the best photographic light, an early morning visit is highly recommended.
Exploring Hyeopjae and Geumneung: Twin Gems
While Hyeopjae might have a slight edge in terms of name recognition and the number of cafes lining its shore, Geumneung often provides a slightly calmer atmosphere. Visitors seeking a similar picturesque experience with potentially fewer people might find Geumneung to be their preferred spot. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference for the level of activity and the specific vibe you're looking for.
Both beaches are excellent for swimming, sunbathing, and simply soaking in the Jeju island atmosphere. The shallow, calm waters make them suitable for families, and the low tide reveals fascinating tidal pools perfect for exploration.
Beyond the Beach: Cafes and Local Flavors
When it comes to more substantial meals, the immediate beachfront might be limited in restaurant choices. However, venturing into the alleys behind the beach reveals a more diverse culinary scene. Here, you can find local eateries serving Jeju's specialties, including fresh seafood, black pork, and traditional Korean dishes. Exploring these side streets is a great way to discover authentic local flavors away from the main tourist drag.
Jeju is famous for its fresh seafood, and the Hyeopjae area is no exception. Look for restaurants offering grilled fish, abalone, or sea urchin for a true taste of the island. Don't forget to try some of the local Jeju snacks or desserts available in the cafes and shops.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit