Yongmeori Coast

Yongmeori means dragon's head, and the formation is a headland of sedimentary tuff below Sanbangsan that runs out into the sea in a shape people read as a dragon plunging in. The rock was laid down in layers by an underwater eruption and then cut by the sea into shelves, arches, hollows and stacked bands with the strata clearly visible - it is the oldest volcanic formation on Jeju and a geological set piece, part of the island's UNESCO Global Geopark. The visit is a walk at the waterline along the shelves and through the cuts, a loop of a few hundred metres on uneven rock with the sea alongside. Access depends entirely on the tide and the sea state: the path is closed at high water and in any swell, and it closes often, so a wasted trip is a real possibility. Haenyeo sell shellfish on the rocks. A replica of the Sperwer, the Dutch ship wrecked on Jeju in 1653 carrying Hendrick Hamel, sits above the shore.

The landscape

• The layered cliffs - tuff strata cut into shelves and arches.
• The waterline walk - the route along the rock at sea level.
• The haenyeo stalls - divers selling shellfish on the rocks.
• The Hamel ship - the replica above the shore.

When to go

April to June and September to October, and only at low tide in calm conditions - check the day's opening, since closures are frequent.

Things to know

Closed at high tide and in swell, which happens often - always check before making the trip. The rock is uneven and slippery. Ticketed, and separate from the Sanbangsan temple fee.

Nearby

Sanbangsan and its grotto temple are directly above; Songaksan and Marado's ferry are along the coast.

Key facts