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Tongyeong

South Korea · Coast · KRW · 34.845800, 128.423600
Family friendly 7.2/10 · Rank 607 of 2 709
Best season: April-June, September-October

Best for

Tongyeong is an ideal place for seafood, island walks and scenic views lovers. It is recommended for couples, families and gourmets. Suitable for those who want to see the 'Naples of Korea'. Least suitable for vibrant nightlife lovers.

Best season

April-June, September-October

Daily budget
$96.00 (≈ 8 056 ₽ · ≈ 127 680 KRW)
For 7 days
$672.00 (≈ 56 394 ₽ · ≈ 893 760 KRW)
Tongyeong is a scenic port city on the southern coast, surrounded by numerous small islands, often called the "Naples of Korea". The city is known for its rich maritime culture, fresh seafood, and a cable car offering breathtaking views of the archipelago. This is the perfect destination for sea lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Summer
29.0°C
Winter
0.0°C
Sea
24.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Tongyeong residents are friendly and proud people, preserving maritime traditions. The atmosphere in the city is authentic and relaxed.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Panoramic view from the cable car
  • The best oysters in Korea
  • Unique Chungmu gimbap
  • Fewer tourists
  • Picturesque islands
  • Calm atmosphere
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • Limited nightlife
  • Infrastructure is poorly developed
  • Rainy season in July-August
  • Remoteness from the airport
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.8°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
29.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
29.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
2.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
7.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
0.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
24.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
24.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
July-August
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Tongyeong Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Tongyeong is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.

Sea urchins — details

  • Anthocidaris crassispina (purple sea urchin) — dominant species on Tongyeong coast, stings are painful but not fatal
  • Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus (short-spined sea urchin) — found on rocky substrates, special footwear recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Soft corals — found on remote island reefs in Hallyeohaesang National Marine Park, water is cleaner than mainland sites
  • Marine life diversity includes nudibranchs of several Korean endemic species

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months.

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the coastal waters of Tongyeong, South Korea, including the whitetip reef shark and grey shark. However, attacks on humans are extremely rare and not a characteristic problem for this region.
  • Local divers sometimes observe sharks on the reefs, but they are usually not aggressive and avoid contact with humans.
Attractions

Tongyeong Cable Car

A cable car to the top of Mireuksan Mountain (461 m) with a panoramic view of the Hallyeo Strait and 150 islands. One of the best views in East Asia.

Tongyeong Central Fish Market

The city's main market selling fresh oysters, sea urchins and seafood. A unique atmosphere.

Hallyeo Islands

An archipelago of 150 islands accessible for island tours. Scenic views and nature.

Yeongju Park

A city park with a temple and sea views.

Undersea Tunnel

An underwater tunnel connecting the islands.

Tongyeong Musical Fountain

An evening show with music and lights on the waterfront.

Best areas

Tongyeong Centre

The heart of the city with the market, waterfront and restaurants. The best area for tourists.

Cable Car Area

An area at the foot of the mountain with hotels and access to the cable car.

Must-try food

Hallyeo oysters

Famous oysters from the Hallyeo Strait, considered the best in Korea. Fresh, with lemon and soy sauce.

Chungmu gimbap

Small rice rolls with no filling, served cold with spicy radish kimchi, squid and radish water kimchi. A Tongyeong speciality.

Sea urchin rice bowl (uni)

Fresh sea urchin served over rice. A seasonal dish.

Banchan

Various Korean side dishes served with the main meal.

Where to go next

Hallyeo Islands

An archipelago of 150 islands. 1 hour by boat.

Goseong

A city with a national park and fortress. 30 minutes away.

Jinju

A city with a fortress and festivals. 1 hour away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Аэропорт Йосу (RSU).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free (K-ETA up to 90 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
April-June, September-October
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 39 900 KRW
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 79 800 KRW
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 133 000 KRW
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$160.00
≈ 13 427 ₽ · ≈ 212 800 KRW
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$130.00
≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 172 900 KRW
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 106 400 KRW
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$9.00
≈ 755 ₽ · ≈ 11 970 KRW
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$22.00
≈ 1 846 ₽ · ≈ 29 260 KRW
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 4 655 KRW
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 5 985 KRW
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 1 064 KRW
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 6 650 KRW
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 46 550 KRW
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 2 660 KRW
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 10 640 KRW
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 66 500 KRW
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 15 960 KRW
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 26 600 KRW
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 59 850 KRW
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$75.00
≈ 6 294 ₽ · ≈ 99 750 KRW
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽ · ≈ 73 150 KRW
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 15 960 KRW
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 19 950 KRW
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Frequently asked questions
Tongyeong: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-June, September-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Tongyeong: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +29.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Tongyeong: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +0.0°C, during the day — up to +7.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Tongyeong: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +24.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Tongyeong: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on July-August. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Tongyeong: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Tongyeong Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Tongyeong: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Tongyeong: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Tongyeong is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Tongyeong: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $96.00 (≈ 8 056 ₽ · ≈ 127 680 KRW) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Tongyeong: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $30.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $60.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $100.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $160.00 per night, an apartment — $80.00 per night, a villa — $130.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Tongyeong: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $9.00, dinner at a restaurant — $22.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.50, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Tongyeong: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $35.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $50.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Tongyeong: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Tongyeong Cable Car — A cable car to the top of Mireuksan Mountain (461 m) with a panoramic view of the Hallyeo Strait and 150 islands. One of the best views in East Asia.; Tongyeong Central Fish Market — The city's main market selling fresh oysters, sea urchins and seafood. A unique atmosphere.; Hallyeo Islands — An archipelago of 150 islands accessible for island tours. Scenic views and nature.; Yeongju Park — A city park with a temple and sea views.; Undersea Tunnel — An underwater tunnel connecting the islands.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Tongyeong: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Hallyeo oysters — Famous oysters from the Hallyeo Strait, considered the best in Korea. Fresh, with lemon and soy sauce.; Chungmu gimbap — Small rice rolls with no filling, served cold with spicy radish kimchi, squid and radish water kimchi. A Tongyeong speciality.; Sea urchin rice bowl (uni) — Fresh sea urchin served over rice. A seasonal dish.; Banchan — Various Korean side dishes served with the main meal.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Tongyeong: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Tongyeong Centre — The heart of the city with the market, waterfront and restaurants. The best area for tourists.; Cable Car Area — An area at the foot of the mountain with hotels and access to the cable car.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Tongyeong: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free (K-ETA up to 90 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Tongyeong: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Аэропорт Йосу (code RSU). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $35.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Tongyeong: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — KRW. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $96.00 (≈ 8 056 ₽ · ≈ 127 680 KRW). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Tongyeong: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Tongyeong: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Tongyeong: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Hallyeo Islands — An archipelago of 150 islands. 1 hour by boat.; Goseong — A city with a national park and fortress. 30 minutes away.; Jinju — A city with a fortress and festivals. 1 hour away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.2/10
Overall rank: 607 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 420

Best season

April-June, September-October

Useful information

Currency: KRW
Coordinates: 34.845800, 128.423600