When Laina was here visiting, we knew we needed to fit in a beach day. And, though it was only May and the weather wasn’t TOO hot yet, we thankfully did have a few days in the 80’s. We took full advantage and finally made it to one of the beaches that has been calling our names for a while: Mallipo.
A Day at Mallipo Beach
After running some errands in the morning, we loaded up the car with all the goods: sandwiches, snacks, drinks, beach chairs, towels, and beach toys. Then we drove the hour and a half to one of the most western points of South Korea where we found beautiful, tame waves along an empty beach. That’s one benefit to visiting the beach on a weekday during the spring – as opposed to a weekend in the summer. We parked on the street in front of an abandoned building (which sounds a lot shadier than it actually was) which would probably be more difficult during the busy season.
When the car was unloaded and everything was brought down to the sand, the kids wasted no time getting in the water. It had been a while since we’d been to a beach and they were all ready for it. And, while the Yellow Sea may not be the most beautiful body of water ever, there’s just something about a beach that is relaxing and fun.
A fun surprise at Mallipo was all the starfish that we found. Sure, they were significantly smaller than the ones we used to find in the Pacific Northwest (remember Penrose Point State Park!?) but they were stunning colors and many of them were as big as my hand. I hadn’t expected to find so many in this area, but apparently it’s something people come to Mallipo to see.
The kids had so much fun running around finding the starfish and playing in the sand. H enjoyed keeping the bag of Cool Ranch Doritos all to herself as she went about her business.
What’s your favorite beach in South Korea?
’til next time…
Ash
Tips for visiting Mallipo Beach
Directions: We just found a random address near the Mallipo Beach Resort. If you paste 충남 태안군 소원면 서해로 1 into Naver it will get you to the area – and then you just need to find parking.
Cost: Visiting Mallipo Beach is free, as is parking if you park on the street. In addition, the bathrooms and outdoor showers are also free of charge.
Amenities: There are restrooms near the location I posted in the “directions” section – paste 충남 태안군 소원면 만리포2길 138 into Naver for the public restrooms and outdoor showers. During the summer I’m sure there are many options for food in the area (and I hear it gets really busy). Because we went before “beach season” had really started – and because we went on a weekday – it was pretty dead without much in the way of food. But show up in the summer and I’m certain that wouldn’t be an issue.
