Handam Beach Jeju along the coastal walk of emerald water and basalt

Overview

Handam Beach is a beach stretch that runs along the coast from Aewol to Gwakji in northwestern Jeju, and it is a representative coastal attraction that can be enjoyed together with the Handam Coastal Walk. A 2 km walking trail runs close to the sea, showing Jeju’s distinctive scenery where the emerald sea and black basalt blend together. This place is also known for its high scenic value, having been selected by Jeju City in 2009 as one of the “31 Hidden Scenic Spots.” It is especially recommended for foreign travelers who want to comfortably enjoy the natural beauty of Jeju’s west coast.

Highlights

• Aewol to Gwakji coastal walking trail
• Transparent emerald-colored sea
• Black basalt coastline
• 2 km beach walk
• Transparent kayak and snorkeling

Best Time to Visit

Handam Beach is best visited in spring and autumn. The weather is relatively mild and comfortable for walking, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll along the coast.

The most recommended time of day is early morning. Especially during peak season, nearby parking can become crowded quickly, so arriving early makes getting around and parking much easier.

A weekday visit is the most convenient. On weekends and during peak season, visitor numbers can be high and the area may become crowded, so Monday through Friday is best if you want a quieter atmosphere.

In short, a weekday morning in spring or autumn is the most pleasant time to enjoy Handam Beach.

How Long to Stay

If you are just taking a quick look around, 15 to 30 minutes is enough. If you want to enjoy the scenery and take a break along the coastal trail, about 45 minutes to 1 hour is appropriate. If you plan to visit nearby attractions such as Gwakji Gwamul Beach as well, it is best to allow about 1.5 to 2 hours.

How to Get There

Handam Beach is located on Handam Coastal Road in Aewol, Jeju. Since Jeju Island does not have a subway, foreign travelers will usually find airport buses and walking the most convenient options.

Subway

Jeju Island does not have a subway.

Bus

The easiest way is to depart from Jeju International Airport. Go to Gate 3 at the airport, then take Express Bus 102 on the Seobu-Ilju route. After heading toward Aewol, get off at the stop near the starting point of Handam Coastal Road / Handam Walking Trail.

Some guides also mention using Bus 100, but from the airport toward Handam Beach, Bus 102 is generally faster. The electronic information boards at bus stops support language switching, so they are easy for foreign visitors to use.

Walking

After getting off the bus, walk toward the sea along Handam Coastal Road to reach Handam Beach and the Handam Coastal Walk. The route from the bus stop to the beach is relatively easy to find; just follow the coastal road.

Photo Spots

• Canola flower spot at Aewol Handam Park: This is the area marked as “Aewol Handam Park” on Naver Map. Stand facing the sea so that the flower field, the ocean, and the walking trail all appear in the background. The best time is morning to late morning, when the light is soft and there are relatively few people.
• Ocean-view section of Handam Coastal Walk: In sections where the sea opens up right in front of you, it is good for capturing the waves and coastline in a wide view. Stand along the coast and shoot toward the west or toward the sea so that both the walking trail and the ocean are included. The best time is late afternoon.
• Section overlooking the cafe street: This is around the cafe street where several buildings are clustered in drone photos. If you photograph from the walking trail so that both the cafe street and the sea are visible, you can capture the unique atmosphere of Handam Beach. The best time is around sunset, when the colors of the buildings and sea look warm.
• White-sand beach and wave point: Near the sandy beach of Handam Beach, try photographing the waves and blue sea straight on. If you include people in the shot, have them stand facing the sea rather than with their backs to it, so you get a cleaner travel photo. The best time is a clear morning.

Night View

The night view at Handam Beach is most beautiful after sunset. The area around the walking trail is softly lit, making the sea and coastline look more romantic, and it is a good place to enjoy the night ocean in a calm atmosphere.

The recommended visiting time is from after sunset until around 9 p.m. It is a nice place for a light walk after dinner, and if you take photos after dark, the lighting and sea will be captured together nicely.

During peak season, there may be simple snack areas nearby where you can enjoy the nighttime atmosphere, making it a good place to have snacks or drinks while looking at the sea. However, operating hours may vary by season, so check on-site information.

Late at night, some sections may be quiet and the wind may be strong, so it is a good idea to bring comfortable shoes and a light outer layer.

Seasonal Guide

Handam Beach is a great place to enjoy Jeju’s west coast scenery throughout all four seasons. Since the atmosphere changes with each season, it is especially recommended for walking and photography.

• Spring: A great season for walking along the coastal trail, and a good time to visit together with flower viewing all over Jeju. During cherry blossom season, it is even better when combined with a nearby driving route.
• Summer: This is when the clear, beautiful sea scenery stands out the most. It is a good time for light beach activities such as walking on the beach, enjoying the ocean view, and resting at a cafe. The sun is strong, so bring a hat and sunscreen.
• Autumn: Thanks to the cool weather, this is the most comfortable season for walking. The silver grass scenery unique to Jeju and the autumn colors blend together, making it ideal for a relaxed coastal walk.
• Winter: Although it is a cold season, it is a great time to feel the clear and beautiful charm of Jeju’s sea. It is also good to include in a winter Jeju travel course together with snowy views of Mt. Halla and tangerine experiences. In some areas, you can also enjoy winter lights and a nighttime atmosphere.

The most popular seasons are spring and autumn, and if you want a quieter atmosphere, a winter visit is also a good choice.

Local Tips

• Handam Beach and Handam Coastal Walk are known for their sunset scenery, so it is a good idea to plan your visit around sunset.
• When visiting the Handam Coastal Walk in Jeju City, renting a car is the most convenient option.
• Public transportation in Jeju Island is relatively less developed, and the distances between tourist sites are long, so if you plan to visit several places together, traveling by car is practical.