A Cool Summer Journey Through Wando

Wando, a peaceful island at the southern tip of Korea, becomes a perfect summer retreat when temperatures rise. Known for its pristine ocean views, gentle winds, and rich seafood culture, this region offers a refreshing mix of nature and cuisine to help you stay cool and at ease during the hottest months of the year.

A great place to begin your journey is Sinji Myeongsasimni Beach (신지 명사십리해수욕장), famous for its long shoreline and clean waters. The soft sand and gentle waves make it an ideal spot to relax, swim, and enjoy water games.

After spending time by the ocean, many locals and visitors often cool off with a bowl of mulhoe (물회) — a cold, spicy seafood dish served in an icy broth. It’s often made with raw abalone or white fish mixed with vegetables and vinegar, offering a sharp, tangy flavor. Pair it with chilled watermelon slices, and you’ll have a traditional favorite for Korean beachgoers.

However, if you want to experience a different kind of cool, head into the forest at Wando Arboretum (완도수목원) in Gunoe-myeon. This vast reserve is home to many native plants and trees, and its shaded walking paths provide relief from the heat. It’s the perfect place to take a slow walk or have a picnic. A great choice for a light forest snack is miyeok muchim (미역무침), a marinated seaweed salad served cold. Add some cold barley tea (보리차) for hydration, and you’ve got a healthy, refreshing outdoor snack.

Next, take a short ferry ride to Cheongsando (청산도), an island famous for its slow-paced lifestyle and beautiful scenery. The sea breeze and open views make it feel much cooler than the inland areas. After walking along the coast or kayaking in the calm waters, enjoy jeonbokjuk (전복죽), a warm but light abalone rice porridge known for its nourishing qualities. Another excellent choice, if available, is chogye guksu (초계국수) — chilled chicken noodles with a tangy, mustard-flavored broth that’s perfect for cooling down.

In the evening, visit Wando Tower (완도타워) on Dongmangsan Mountain (동망산). The view from the top is stunning, especially at sunset, when the light reflects off the sea and nearby islands.

 After watching the sun go down, stop by a nearby café for bingsu (빙수), a popular Korean summer dessert made from shaved ice and sweet toppings like fruit or red beans.

Before leaving Wando, explore the Wando Traditional Seafood Market (완도전통시장). This lively place offers fresh catches of the day, including abalone, sea cucumber, and oysters. Some restaurants near the market serve gul naengguk (굴냉국), a cold oyster soup that’s especially refreshing. Also, try cheonggak muchim (청각무침), a unique local dish made from a crunchy type of seaweed and seasoned with vinegar and spices.

To stay refreshed throughout your trip, drink omija tea (오미자차), made from a special Korean berry with five unique flavors. It’s served cold and helps balance your body temperature on hot days.

From its sun-soaked beaches to its shaded forest, Wando offers more than just scenic views. Whether you're swimming in the ocean or sipping omiga tea, visit Wando to cool off, slow down, and bask in the simplicities of life. 

Works Cited

“신지명사십리 해수욕장.” 해양치유완도, 2020, www.wandohealing.or.kr/www/tour/shinji_beach. Accessed 22 June 2025.

“소개.” 해양치유완도, 2025, www.wandohealing.or.kr/www/tour. Accessed 22 June 2025.

홍성표 기자. “완도군, 청정 해변 “신지 명사십리 해수욕장” 개장.” Chookjenews.kr, 11 July 2023, m.chookjenews.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=72739. Accessed 22 June 2025.

“완도타워.” 여기유, 2025, xn--ok0b236bp0a.com/place/12830. Accessed 22 June 2025.

이정웅. “[쿠킹] 말복엔 속까지 시원해지는 초계 국수, 간편 레시피.” 중앙일보, 15 Aug. 2022, www.joongang.co.kr/article/25094341. Accessed 22 June 2025.