The secret door that opens only at ebb tide, the mysterious charm of Goheung Hahwado
Have you ever imagined Sea parting, an island where a secret path opens up, walkable for only a few hours? Hahwado (Goheung), located in Bongam-ri, Doyang-eup, Goheung-gun, Jeollanam-do, is precisely such a place that offers such a mysterious landscape. Viewed from Geogeumdaegyo Bridge, this island, quietly nestled below two islands floating side-by-side like a painting, reveals another world with every low tide.
At high tide, they appear to be far apart from each other, but when the tide recedes, a 500m-long sea path is revealed, allowing free passage to and from the neighboring Sanghwado. Aren’t you curious about the special experience that can only be enjoyed during the short time nature allows?
Hahwado (Goheung), A Flower Blooming on the Sea at Low Tide
Hahwado (Goheung) is a small and humble island, barely visible on maps, but its name and hidden stories are anything but ordinary. It was named ‘Arekkoyiseom’ or ‘Hahwado’ because it is located below two islands resembling flower buds. The upper island is ‘Wikkoyiseom’, or Sanghwado. The tranquil identity of the island is fully contained within these names.
Island Embracing Time, Hahwado’s Yesterday and Today
Hahwado, where a person named Choi from Geumjin Village, Geumsan-myeon, first settled and formed a village in the late Joseon Dynasty, is composed of gentle hilly terrain with a maximum height of 45m. Thanks to the island’s quaint scale, it offers an even more intimate and comfortable atmosphere. Throughout the island, stories accumulated over a long time permeate like the wind.
Southern Sea’s Scenic Beauty at a Glance
- Front Yard-like View In front of the island, Sorokdo and the beautiful Nokdonghang Port come into view, offering a breathtaking landscape.
- Reliable Backdrop Behind the island, Geogeumdo unfolds like a screen, adding to the unique coziness of Hahwado (Goheung).
The Way to Hahwado, Cutting Through the Blue Waves of the Southern Sea
The journey to the beautiful island of Hahwado begins at Nokdonghang Port. Taking a boat from Nokdonghang Port, you can reach the island in about 15 minutes, making it very accessible. The boat ride, cutting refreshingly through the sea towards the island, is an exciting experience in itself.
Nokdonghang Port ↔ Hahwado Ferry Information
| Category | Operating Hours | Duration | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Departure from Nokdonghang Port | 10:00, 13:00, 16:00 | approx. 15 minutes | 3 times a day |
| Round trip Sanghwado-Hahwado | Inquire separately | 10 ~ 20 minutes | Linked with the sea path connecting the two islands |
Ferry operating hours may vary depending on weather conditions, so it is advisable to check the latest information before your visit. Ferry services are operated for a fee.
A Special Experience Only Allowed at Low Tide, The Walking Sea Path
The highlight of a visit to Hahwado is undoubtedly ‘walking the sea path’. Sanghwado and Hahwado are two completely separate islands at high tide, but at low tide, a 500m-long sea path opens up, allowing pedestrian passage between the two islands. The sight of the sea parting, like the Miracle of Moses, will provide an unforgettable memory.
Checklist for Fully Enjoying Hahwado
- Check Tide Times To walk the sea path, it is essential to check the low tide times in advance. Inquire with Goheung-gun Office website or local fishermen to ascertain the exact tide times.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes It is recommended to prepare comfortable shoes for island trekking and walking the sea path. Since they might get wet, bringing an extra pair of shoes is also a good idea.
- Camera Essential The sea path revealed at low tide and the beautiful scenery around the island are so captivating that you won’t want to miss any moment. Prepare sufficient battery and memory.
- Take Your Trash Back To preserve its natural state, please be sure to take your personal trash back with you. Our small efforts protect the beauty of Hahwado (Goheung).
- Relaxed Mindset On the island, it is important to surrender to the flow of nature and enjoy leisure rather than rushing. Take a leisurely stroll and savor the island’s ambiance.
Recommended Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Nokdonghang Port Around Nokdonghang Port, the beginning and end of the sea route, there are plenty of restaurants and attractions. Fill your stomach with fresh seafood and prepare for your next journey.
- Sorokdo Sorokdo, which holds a painful history while boasting beautiful natural scenery, is a good place to visit along with Hahwado. Located across the bridge, it also offers good accessibility.
- Geogeumdaegyo Bridge With well-maintained bicycle and pedestrian paths, it’s excellent for drives or walks. The scenery of the Dadohae Archipelago viewed from Geogeumdaegyo Bridge offers another kind of awe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where is Hahwado (Goheung) located?
Hahwado is an island belonging to Bongam-ri, Doyang-eup, Goheung-gun, Jeollanam-do, located south of the two islands visible side-by-side from Geogeumdaegyo Bridge, next to Sanghwado. It is about a 15-minute boat ride from Nokdonghang Port.
Q2. How are Hahwado and Sanghwado connected?
Normally they are separate islands, but at low tide, a 500m-long sea path opens up, allowing pedestrian passage between the two islands. It is important to check the tide times before visiting.
Q3. What are the ferry services to Hahwado?
Ferries from Nokdonghang Port to Hahwado operate 3 times a day at 10:00, 13:00, and 16:00. The travel time is approximately 15 minutes, and a round trip between Sanghwado and Hahwado takes about 10-20 minutes. Operating hours may vary depending on weather conditions.
Q4. Are there any recommended places to visit near Hahwado?
Yes, around Nokdonghang Port, there are various restaurants and convenience facilities, and Sorokdo, which holds historical significance and beautiful scenery, and Geogeumdaegyo Bridge with well-maintained bicycle paths, are also good places to visit in conjunction with Hahwado.
Q5. What should I be aware of when visiting Hahwado?
The most important thing is to check the low tide times to use the sea path. Additionally, it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes for island trekking and to maintain an environmental protection mindset by taking your personal trash back with you. Since facilities on the island may be limited, it is recommended to prepare in advance.
