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A Summer Day Trip to Yeongdo: Busan’s most underrated Island

Written by Nextstopkorea

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I’ve been to Busan more than 25 times - and every single visit surprises me in the best way. Just when I think I’ve seen it all, this city throws something new at me. On my most recent trip, I decided to skip the usual hot spots like Haeundae and Gamcheon and spend a full summer day exploring Yeongdo, the quiet little island just across the bridge from the bustling city center.

Most people know Yeongdo for Taejongdae, the dramatic cliffs and iconic lighthouse, or for Huinnyeoul Culture Village with its coastal alleys and artsy vibes. But this time, I wanted something different - less touristy, more relaxed, and a little off the radar.

Here’s how my perfect Yeongdo day went.

First stop: Yeongdo Sky Observatory

Tucked away on the southern edge of the island, the Yeongdo Sky Observatory doesn’t always make it onto the typical tourist trail - but it really should.

A glass-floored skywalk juts out over the sea, giving you panoramic views of the coastline and the glittering water below. It’s a peaceful spot, even in the summer, with just the sound of waves and the occasional seagull overhead.

Right next to the observatory, I found a scenic walking path that winds down toward the water. The path leads to a hidden little beach - quiet, clean, and perfect for dipping your feet in or just sitting on the rocks to enjoy the breeze. It felt like I had stumbled across my own private seaside corner of Busan.

Yeongdo Sky Observatory

Address : 321 Jeoryeong‑ro, Dong Sam‑dong, Yeongdo‑gu, Busan
Transportation : Walkable via Jeoryeong coastal trail (Haerang‑Gil); reachable by city tour bus via Yeongdo Haneul Park stop
Hours : Open year‑round, 24/7

Relaxation & Adrenaline at one place: Thrill on the Mug Café & Taejongdae Zipline

After soaking up the ocean air, I headed to the Thrill on the Mug Café - a spot that’s been getting some buzz lately on social media, and for a good reason. First of all, the view: floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the open sea, with cozy seating and some seriously photogenic drinks. Apparently they also hold live music events there in the evenings!

But the best part? There’s a zipline right on top of the café! So you can not just sip your iced Americano, snap a few pictures for Instagram, but then also gear up and fly across the water. It’s a short ride but such a fun little adrenaline rush - and the contrast between the calm vibes of the café and the thrill of the zipline makes it a must-try combo.

Thrill on the Mug Café & Taejongdae Zipline

Address : 55 Haeyang healing‑ro, Yeongdo‑gu, Busan
Transportation : From Nampo Station (Line 1), transfer to Bus 8, 30 or 17 at Yeongdodaegyo, then a ~22‑minute walk to the park. Parking available
Hours : Zipline operation daily 09:00-18:00 & Café operation daily 10:00-21:30
Website : Taejongdae Ocean Flying Theme Park operator

A quiet moment at Bokcheonsa Temple

Mid-afternoon, I wanted a change of pace, so I visited Bokcheonsa, a small temple tucked into the hills of Yeongdo.

It’s the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress.. but it still leaves such a memorable impression in the end. Surrounded by trees and soft mountain air, the temple grounds have a gentle atmosphere, with little dogs padding around and monks occasionally passing through.

One of the best photo spots at the higher end of the Temple Grounds overlooks the rooftops, ocean and city beyond - especially stunning around sunset, but honestly, it’s beautiful any time of day. Just remember, Bokcheonsa is a sacred space, so be mindful during your visit: speak quietly, dress modestly, and take a moment to simply enjoy the stillness of it.

Bokcheonsa Temple

Address : 41 Sanjeong‑gil, Yeongdo‑gu, Busan
Transportation : From Nampo Station (Line 1), transfer to bus 82 or 85 at Yeongdodaegyo‑Nampo Station, alight at Shinseon Middle School stop and walk ~16 min. Taxi recommended uphill
Hours : Open 24 hours year‑round (popular sunset viewpoint but no fixed closing time)
Website : Bokcheonsa Temple

Sunset Streetfood on Yeongdo’s Pojangmacha Street

As the sun began to dip, I made my way to one of my favorite discoveries of the day: Yeongdo’s Pojangmacha Street.

It runs along the harbor with a perfect view of the Busan Tower in the distance. Just as the sky turned orange, I grabbed one of the famous red plastic stools at one of the street tents, ordered some grilled squid and clams - and some soju - and watched the boats drift by.

The vibe is relaxed, friendly, and very local. Groups of university friends were laughing over spicy tteokbokki, older couples sipped makgeolli, and the smell of sizzling seafood made it impossible not to order just one more dish or try to chat with the local ahjummas and ahjussis struggling to understand the strong Busan dialect. Loved every second of it!

Yeongdo’s Pojangmacha Street

Address : 42, Bongnaenaru-ro, Yeongdo-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea
Transportation : Located along the Yeongdo harbourfront; best reached via Yeongdodaegyo bridge, by bus or taxi from Busan Station
Hours : Typically active from spring through fall, evening until late night (exact hours depend on individual stalls; generally from 17:30)

Final Thoughts

Yeongdo might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip to Busan, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. While most visitors rush to the more famous sights, this quiet island offers a different kind of summer magic: peaceful temples, ocean views without the crowds, unexpected thrills, and sunset Streetfood by the harbor.
So if you’re craving a day that feels both refreshing and a little undiscovered: let Yeongdo surprise you. It certainly surprised me and somehow - after all my previous trips to Busan - it still managed to show me something new that made me fall in love with Busan even more.