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If you have done the things to do in South Korea, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Donghae.
Come explore Donghae, where the lulling sound of the waves will draw you to the endless sandy beaches, the towering mountains and forests will calm the soul, and the vibrant culture will intoxicate your senses.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Donghae:
1. Mukho Port
A small fishing port located on the eastern coast of South Korea in the city of Donghae.
What to see or do: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants lining the harbor, watch local fishermen unload their catches, take a stroll along the scenic promenade, and visit the nearby Mukho Lighthouse.
Don’t miss: The annual Mukho Snow Crab Festival, held each winter to celebrate the abundant crab harvest.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to catch the freshest catches of the day, and be sure to dress warmly in the winter months when visiting the port and lighthouse.
Consider taking a ferry or boat tour to explore the surrounding coastal areas and nearby islands.
2. Mukho Lighthouse Observatory
A lighthouse turned observatory in Donghae, South Korea.
What to see or do: Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains. Explore the exhibits in the observatory to learn about the history and culture of the area.
Enjoy a picnic or take a hike in the nearby Mukho Port area.
Don’t miss: The sunset view from the observatory is said to be especially stunning, so make sure to time your visit accordingly.
Insider travel tips: Admission is free, but the lighthouse is closed on Mondays.
The observatory can get crowded during peak season, so consider visiting during a weekday or in the morning to avoid the crowds.
3. Mangsang Beach
A popular beach destination located in Donghae, South Korea.
What to see or do: Mangsang Beach provides endless opportunities for beach activities like swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby Mangsang Market for some local shopping and enjoy fresh seafood at the numerous restaurants in the area.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the stunning view of the sunrise at Mangsang Beach. It’s a must-see!
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful day at the beach. Also, bring some cash along as some vendors in Mangsang Market may not accept credit cards.
4. Cheongok Cave
Cheongok Cave is a stunning natural wonder located in Donghae, Gangwon Province, South Korea.
What to see or do: Explore the mesmerizing beauty of this limestone cave as you wander through the maze of stalactites and stalagmites. You can take a guided walking tour or opt for the more adventurous underground river and cave exploration.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the cave’s largest chamber, the Star Lake, where the water reflects the twinkling of the cave’s ceiling.
Also, check out the impressive “Angel Wing” formation and the “Stalagmite of Hope” which is believed to grant wishes.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip, as the cave can be slippery and uneven.
5. Hajodae Beach
Hajodae Beach is a picturesque beach located in Donghae city, Gangwon province of South Korea.
The beach boasts crystal-clear water and offers stunning views of nearby cliffs, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and surfing at the beach. The nearby cliffs provide an ideal spot for hiking and sightseeing.
There are also plenty of food options to satisfy your cravings, including local delicacies such as raw fish and squid.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the sunset over the East Sea from the beach. It is a truly mesmerizing sight that you won’t forget anytime soon.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit would be during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm.
6. Chotdaebawi Rock
What to see or do: Marvel at the impressive natural sculpture formed over millions of years and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the coast from the top.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to take some stunning photographs of the rock with the sea as the backdrop.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring some water as the climb to the top can be steep and challenging. Best to visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
7. Donghae Central Market
A bustling traditional market located in Donghae City, South Korea.
What to see or do: Wander through the market stalls offering fresh seafood, produce, and traditional Korean snacks. Watch the vendors skillfully prepare dishes right in front of you, and sample some of the local delicacies.
The market also features a wide variety of clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Don’t miss: The seafood section, where you can find some of the freshest catches straight from the nearby Sea of Japan. Try the famous Donghae squid, grilled or raw, for a savory treat.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning for the best selection of seafood and to avoid the crowds. Bargaining is accepted, but be respectful and don’t be too aggressive.
Bring cash, as many vendors may not accept credit cards.
8. Chotdaebawi Park
A seaside park located in Donghae, South Korea.
What to see or do: Enjoy the scenic views of the sea and cliffs, go for a walk or hike on the trails, have a picnic or barbecue, and take photos with the iconic Chotdaebawi rock.
Don’t miss: Seeing the magnificent Chotdaebawi rock, which is a towering 35-meter tall rock formation shaped like a candlestick. It’s a popular spot for photos and is even more striking at sunset.
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen and insect repellent, and wear comfortable shoes for walking or hiking. It’s recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Also, bring your own snacks and drinks as there are limited food options available in the park.
9. Daegeumgul Cave
A limestone cave located in Donghae city, Gangwon Province.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful stalagmites and stalactites that have formed over millions of years; explore the various chambers of the cave, each with their own unique formations; learn about the history and geology of the area through guided tours.
Don’t miss: The crystal clear underground lake in the cave, which reflects the stunning formations above it.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the cave can be slippery; bring a light jacket as it can get chilly inside the cave; visit during the week for fewer crowds.
10. Haegasa Temple
A Buddhist temple located in the city of Donghae, Gangwon Province, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the various halls and structures that make up the temple, including the main hall, bell pavilion, and Buddha statues.
The temple also offers meditation classes and temple stay programs, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience Korean Buddhist culture.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the East Sea from the temple grounds. Visitors can also participate in the temple’s temple stay programs to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist life.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the temple grounds are quite large and there is a fair amount of walking involved. It is also recommended to visit during the week to avoid crowds.
If you are planning a temple stay, make sure to check the schedule in advance as availability may be limited.
11. Mangyeongdae Pavilion
Mangyeongdae Pavilion is a historic site located in the city of Donghae, South Korea.
What to see or do: At Mangyeongdae Pavilion, visitors can see the birthplace of Kim Il-sung, the founder of North Korea. There are several buildings and monuments on the site, including a museum dedicated to Kim Il-sung’s life and achievements.
Don’t miss: Be sure to walk around the picturesque garden surrounding the pavilion, which features stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Insider travel tips: To avoid crowds, visit Mangyeongdae Pavilion during the weekdays. Additionally, consider hiring a local guide who can provide a more detailed history of the site.
12. Samhwasa Temple
Samhwasa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located on the beautiful East Sea coast in Donghae, Gangwon Province, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and explore the temple complex, which includes several buildings and pagodas. One of the highlights is the main sanctuary, which houses a statue of Buddha and intricate paintings on the ceiling.
There is also a bell pavilion, a three-story stone pagoda, and a meditation hall.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the beautiful scenery around the temple, including the nearby rocky coast and dense forest. There are also several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a more peaceful experience.
13. Woljeongsa Temple
Woljeongsa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Donghae, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the intricate architecture of the temple and participate in various activities such as meditation and tea ceremonies.
Don’t miss: The temple’s main hall, known as Daeungjeon, houses a stunning statue of Buddha. Also, make sure to take a walk through the beautiful surrounding forest.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch a glimpse of the morning rituals.
Additionally, be sure to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering any temple buildings.
14. Haeoreum Art Village
Haeoreum Art Village is a cultural space located in Donghae, a coastal city in South Korea. It was established by a group of artists and locals to promote community art and cultural exchange.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the village and view a variety of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. There are also several art workshops and classes available, ranging from pottery to papermaking.
In addition, the village hosts various cultural events and performances throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Haeoreum Café, which offers panoramic views of the East Sea and serves delicious homemade snacks and beverages.
Insider travel tips: Entrance to the village is free, but some workshops and classes require a fee.
15. Mukhohang Port Lighthouse
Mukhohang Port Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Donghae City, South Korea.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding harbor and coastline. The lighthouse is also surrounded by a beautiful park area, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take some incredible photos from the top of the lighthouse. The views of the ocean and surrounding landscape are truly breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: The lighthouse is especially beautiful at sunset, so try to plan your visit for the evening if possible. There is also a small cafe near the lighthouse where you can stop for a drink or snack.