Gimnyeong Seongsegi Beach
Gimnyeong Seongsegi Beach (김녕성세기해변; map) lies on Jeju Island’s eastern shore. It features pristine white sands and shallow waters and is favored by locals as a quieter alternative to busier destinations like Hamdeok or Jungmun Beaches.
The beach sits atop large lava rock slabs overlaid by fine white sand. This gives the beach its distinct flat aesthetic. Displaying part of Jeju’s volcanic heritage, the surrounding area is part of a UNESCO Global Geopark.
It’s also a key highlight on the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path, making it a perfect stop for cyclists.
Activities & Attractions
With shallow waters and a calm current, Gimnyeong Seongsegi Beach is great for families with children. The soft sand and clear water make it a favorite spot for wading and beachcombing. Lifeguards and safety measures during peak season (July–August) ensure a safer experience.
Fishermen frequent the rocky shores for striped beakfish and spotty-belly greenlings, using traditional rope-fishing methods. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts are drawn to the crystalline waters and marine biodiversity.
A short distance from the beach, visitors can cool off in Manjang Cave, Yongcheon Cave, or Dangcheomul Cave. These lava tubes maintain a steady temperature below 20 °C year-round, making them a natural retreat from the summer heat.
Tide note: At lower tides, lava shelves and tide pools emerge along the margins—beautiful but slippery. Reef shoes help on sharp basalt, and care is needed to avoid algae-covered rock.
Gimnyeong Wind Farm
The wind turbines of Gimnyeong Wind Farm, visible from Gimnyeong Seongsegi Beach, symbolize Jeju’s push toward renewable energy and serve as a popular backdrop for photography.
Cyclists on the Jeju Fantasy Bike Path can stop at the Gimnyeong Seongsegi Beach Certification Center (김녕성세기해변 인증센터; map) to stamp their Bike Passports. Located near the parking area, it’s a restful waypoint with nearby amenities.
Gimnyeong Geotrail
Nearby, visitors can explore the Gimnyeong Geotrail (김녕 거트레일), which links the villages of Gimnyeong and Woljeong. This 14.6-kilometer route is split into two sections: Deureu-bille-gil (9 kilometers, across fields and batdam dry-stone walls) and Badang-bille-gil (5 kilometers, along the shore). (In Jeju dialect: deureu = field; badang = sea; bille = flat basalt.)
Following wayfinding boards and ribbons, visitors can see Seongsegi (Segial) Beach, freshwater springs, the Hwanhae Coastal Fortification Wall, sand dunes, and volcanic rocks.
The trail is part of Jeju’s UNESCO Global Geopark geotrail program and intersects nearby Jeju Olle courses.
Visitor Information
- Facilities: Restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and parking are available near the beach. During peak season, rentals for parasols and tents are offered; small cafés and convenience stores sit within a short walk.
- Hours: Accessible year-round; safety patrols are present in summer.
- Admission: Free.
- Access: The parking area connects to the shore via paved paths; some sections transition to packed sand and lava rock.
Practical Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or evenings are quieter and offer terrific views of cobalt-blue water. Weekdays outside peak season are especially calm.
- Safety: Wear life vests for water activities, and watch for jellyfish in midsummer. Observe flags and lifeguard guidance when posted.
- Photography: Sunrise and sunset yield the best color contrast—white sand, emerald water, and turbines on the horizon. After rain, water clarity may temporarily drop; clearer days follow settled weather.
- Leave No Trace: Tide pools host fragile life. Avoid stepping on living coral or seagrass, and pack out all trash.
