When international travelers plan an island getaway in South Korea, Jeju Island is almost always the first destination that comes to mind. While Jeju is unquestionably famous for its volcanic landscapes and beaches, South Korea is actually home to over 3,000 islands scattered along its southern and western coasts. Many of these lesser-known gems remain largely undiscovered by global tourists.
If you are looking to escape the crowds, experience authentic fishing village culture, and walk across dramatic ocean footbridges, venturing off the beaten path is a must. In this 2026 travel guide, we showcase the top 5 hidden islands in South Korea that offer breathtaking coastal scenery, rich local history, and serene landscapes—completely beyond Jeju.
1. Geumo-do Island (금오도) – Yeosu’s Cliffside Coastal Trek
Located off the coast of Yeosu in Jeollanam-do province, Geumo-do is famous among local hikers for its spectacular Bireong-gil Trail (비렁길). “Bireong” is the local dialect word for “cliff,” and this network of 5 coastal hiking courses traces steep ocean bluffs, bamboo forests, and secluded coves.
Why You Should Visit
- Breathtaking Ocean Cliffs: Walk along sheer coastal cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the South Sea.
- Camellia Blossoms & Camellia Oil: The island is covered in wild camellia trees that bloom with vibrant red flowers in late winter and early spring.
- Authentic Local Cuisine: Sample local delicacies like fresh sea bream, octopus, and fresh mountain greens prepared by island residents.
How to Get There
From Yeosu (Sinwol-dong or Yeosu 연안여객선터미널), board a passenger ferry to Geumo-do (Hamgumi or Yeocheon Port). The ferry ride takes about 30 to 50 minutes.
2. Oedo Island (외도) – Geoje’s European Botanical Paradise
Situated near Geoje Island in Gyeongsangnam-do, Oedo Botania is a marine botanical garden that feels like a Mediterranean fantasy floating in the middle of the Korean sea. Once a barren rocky island, it was transformed over decades by a private couple into a lush paradise featuring over 3,000 plant species, Greek-style statues, and manicured terraced gardens.
Why You Should Visit
- European-Style Terraced Gardens: Stroll through marble colonnades, Venus gardens, and lush palm groves framed by panoramic views of the open ocean.
- Haegeumgang Rock Formations: Ferry tours to Oedo typically stop at nearby Haegeumgang, a dramatic cluster of rock pillars rising out of the sea.
- Perfect Photo Opportunities: Every corner of the island offers picture-perfect backdrops ideal for travel photography.
How to Get There
Take an express bus from Busan or Seoul to Geoje Island (Jangseungpo or Dojangpo Port), then board a tourist ferry directly to Oedo Island.
3. Ulleung-do Island (울릉도) – The Untamed Volcanic Fortress
For adventurous travelers seeking pristine wilderness, Ulleung-do is South Korea’s premier offshore destination. Located roughly 120 km off the eastern coast in the East Sea, this rugged, volcanic island features towering sea stacks, ancient cedar forests, and dramatic coastal ring roads.
Why You Should Visit
- Dramatic Coastal Walks: The Haengnam Coastal Walking Path winds along natural sea caves, volcanic bridges, and emerald-green ocean waters.
- Nari Basin (나리분지): A unique volcanic caldera crater surrounded by mountain peaks, offering traditional wooden houses (Tumbajip) and wild mountain herb dining.
- Fresh Seafood Specialties: Ulleung-do is world-renowned for its fresh squid (Ojingeo), raw fish soup (M 물회), and wild mussel rice (Honghap-bap).
How to Get There
Board a high-speed passenger ferry from Gangneung, Mukho, Pohang, or Hupo Port. The ferry journey takes between 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on ocean conditions.
4. Sado Island (사도) – The Island of Dinosaurs and Stepping Stones
Located in the Yeosu archipelago, Sado Island is a tiny, peaceful haven rich in natural marvels and pre-historic history. Famous for preserving over 3,000 fossilized dinosaur footprints, the island offers an off-the-grid experience where time seems to stand still.
Why You Should Visit
- Prehistoric Heritage: Walk along rocky shorelines where real dinosaur footprints from the Cretaceous period remain embedded in stone.
- Traditional Stone Walls: Explore tranquil village lanes lined with ancient, lichen-covered stone walls (Doldam-gil).
- The “Moses Miracle” Tide: During specific spring tides, low water levels reveal natural sandbars and stepping stones connecting Sado to its neighboring islets.
How to Get There
Board a ferry from Yeosu Passenger Ferry Terminal to Sado Island. The ferry trip takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
5. Deokjeok-do Island (덕적도) – Incheon’s Sandy Coastal Escape
If you are staying in the Seoul Metropolitan Area and want a fast island getaway without traveling to the far south, Deokjeok-do is an ideal choice. Located in the Yellow Sea off the coast of Incheon, Deokjeok-do offers expansive sandy beaches, pine tree forests, and gentle coastal trails.
Why You Should Visit
- Seopotri Beach: A crescent-shaped beach surrounded by a 300-year-old pine forest, ideal for swimming, camping, and beach relaxation.
- Easy Access from Seoul: Reachable via subway or taxi to Incheon Port, making it an accessible weekend escape.
- Bijak-do Sandbar Day Trips: Take a short local boat ride to neighboring Saseungbong-do or Bijak-do to walk on vast sandbars that emerge only at low tide.
How to Get There
Take the subway to Incheon Port International Passenger Terminal, then board a high-speed catamaran ferry to Deokjeok-do (approx. 1 hour 10 minutes).
Essential Tips for Visiting Korean Islands
- Always Carry Your Physical Passport: By Korean maritime law, foreign passengers cannot board any ferry without presenting a physical passport at the ticket counter and boarding gate.
- Check Weather and Sea Conditions: Ferries can be canceled on short notice due to high waves or dense fog. Always check weather forecasts and confirm return ferry schedules with terminal staff.
- Carry Korean Cash (KRW): While credit cards are widely accepted across mainland Korea, small island shops, local fish stalls, and village buses often operate strictly on cash.
- Use Naver Map for Ferry & Bus Routes: Standard foreign map applications will not show small island ferry routes or village bus schedules. Use Naver Map set to English for precise travel routing.
Final Thoughts
While Jeju Island remains a fantastic destination, South Korea’s smaller offshore islands offer incredible natural beauty, rich local traditions, and peaceful atmospheres that few international visitors ever get to see. From the towering volcanic cliffs of Ulleung-do to the Mediterranean gardens of Oedo, make sure to add one of these hidden islands in South Korea to your next travel itinerary!