Things To Do
in Yeosu
Yeosu is a picturesque port city on Korea’s southern coast, spread across peninsulas and islets that cradle the sparkling sea. Its waterfronts, bridges, and islands create dramatic maritime panoramas year-round. Rich in history, it blends historic fortifications and temples with modern harbors and cable cars offering sweeping views.
Visitors flock to Odongdo Island, Dolsan Park, and the Yeosu Maritime Park for photo-worthy sunsets and fresh seafood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline. Afterward, wander through the historic streets of Yeosu, taking in the traditional architecture and vibrant local culture. Don’t miss out on a cozy café for a cup of Korean coffee to fuel your adventures.
In the afternoon, explore the Yi Sun-sin Plaza, dedicated to the famed Korean naval commander. Visit the nearby Turtle Ship, a replica of the innovative vessels used during the Imjin War. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes characteristic of Yeosu’s coastal cuisine.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Yeosu waterfront, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water. Stop by the Yeosu Night Market for a variety of street food, from tteokbokki to hotteok, while soaking in the lively atmosphere. End your evening by visiting a local bar for a taste of Korean soju under the stars.
Kick off your day at the stunning Hyangiram Beach, known for its clear waters and beautiful scenery. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters and spot colorful marine life. After some fun on the water, enjoy a picnic breakfast on the sand, taking in the fresh ocean breeze.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the beach or trying out various water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides. If you prefer a more laid-back option, find a cozy spot to sunbathe while reading a book or enjoying the views. For lunch, try a beachside café that offers fresh seafood and local delicacies.
As the day winds down, take a sunset cruise to fully appreciate Yeosu’s stunning coastline. Feel the gentle sea breeze and capture breathtaking photos as the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink. After returning, indulge in a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, featuring the catch of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $5-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and island hopping
- Fresh seafood and vibrant markets
- Compact size makes it easy to explore in a few days
- Accessible day trips to nearby islands and temples
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions are seasonal and may require ferry trips
- Limited English signage in more remote areas
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "영어 할 수 있어요?" - Do you speak English?
- "이거 얼마예요?" - How much is this?
- "화장실 어디에 있어요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "맛있어요" - It's delicious
Places to Visit in Yeosu
Visit one of these nice places.
A lush camellia-lined loop with coastline views and a lighthouse, offering chance to shoot waves, rocks, and distant mainland horizons.
Stunning harbor panoramas with modern sculpture, quay perspectives, and sunset reflections on the water.
Cliffside walkways and a dramatic red bridge framing the bay—ideal for sunset silhouettes and cityscape shots.
Craggy shorelines, temple steps, and sea-backdropped cliffs—great for atmospheric temple-to-ocean photography.
Panoramic aerial shots of the harbor and surrounding islands with the coastline as a backdrop.
Food in Yeosu
Yeosu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seasonal delicacy featuring fresh crab marinated in soy sauce, best enjoyed with rice and seaweed kimchi.
Must-Try!
A variety of sashimi-grade fish served with dipping sauces; pairs well with a cold beer by the harbor.
A Yeosu-style bibimbap with crisp toppings and a flavorful gochujang sauce, cooked in a hot stone bowl.
Crisp-on-the-edge pancake studded with seafood, perfect as an appetizer or main along the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh seafood stalls, sizzling street bites, and local specialties to sample on the spot.
Night markets and stalls offering skewers, hotteok, eomuk (fish cake), and bite-sized treats with a sea breeze backdrop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly on public transport and in quiet areas; avoid loud conversations in taxis and trains.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove hats and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Wait for elders to start eating, use two hands when passing items, and try shared dishes with spoons and chopsticks in a courteous manner.
Safety
Tipping in Yeosu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea. If a service exceeds expectations, a small tip is appreciated in some tourist areas, but it is not expected in most settings.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller shops. Mobile payments (Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, Samsung Pay) are common in urban areas; be prepared to show cards or scan QR codes in shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming flowers; great for outdoor walks along Odongdo and harbor sunsets. Pack a light jacket for cool mornings.
Warm to hot with high humidity and frequent coastal breezes; expect showers in the monsoon season. Hydration and sun protection are essential.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for coastal hikes and photography with golden-hour light.
Cool to chilly with mild coastal winters; seas can be rough—layered clothing and a windbreaker are recommended.
Yeosu at Night
Hiking in Yeosu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged coastline with panoramic sea views and photo vantage points.
Forest trails with varying difficulty, offering green canopies and quiet viewpoints.
Easy to moderate coastal loops with pleasant sea breezes and camellia groves.
A scenic clifftop trek linking coastal scenery with temple sites.
Airports
How to reach Yeosu by plane.
Domestic airport serving regional routes; easy access to central Yeosu by taxi or bus.
Larger airport with more international connections; typically reached by a bus or train transfer from Yeosu area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily ethnic Koreans with a growing number of domestic tourists and families exploring the coast.
Smaller international presence, mostly through tourism, study, and work programs; English commonly understood in major tourist zones.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A natural fit for Yeosu’s coastal setting, with local clubs and rentals along the harbor.
Popular among locals and visitors; local matches and parks available for casual play.
Water sports common in calm bays and coastal areas around Yeosu.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yeosu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Korean vegetarian options exist around temple towns; look for tofu-based stews, kimchi (check for fish sauce), and vegetable banchan. When dining out, ask for ‘ 채식 가능합니까?’ (chaesik ganeunghapnikka) or simply request no meat/seafood in dishes.