Coastal Camping: A Family Discovers Serenity at Jajakdo Beach

Seeking a tranquil escape, the author's family journeyed to Jajakdo Beach in Goseong, Gangwon Province, a destination that had captured their imagination after reading about its serene beauty. The trip, inspired by a book that lauded the beach's quiet charm, marked a departure from their usual travel patterns.

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The large stone island visible on the right is Baengdo. You can see smaller stone islands next to it, right? It's called Jajakdo because large and small stone islands are gathered closely together.

Arriving after a five-hour drive, the family found the beach lived up to its reputation. Unlike the bustling scenes often associated with peak vacation season, Jajakdo Beach offered a sense of spaciousness and calm. Children played in the sand, couples enjoyed snorkeling, and surfers rode gentle waves, all contributing to a peaceful tableau that rewarded the long journey.

The beach's name, Jajakdo, derives from the numerous small islets, including the larger Baengdo, that dot the coastline. These islets act as natural breakwaters, creating the unusually calm waters that make the beach particularly suitable for families with young children. A local resident explained that this sheltered environment is why Jajakdo's sea is gentler compared to other beaches in Goseong.

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The low stone islands clustered around the towering Baengdo islet create the name 'Jajakdo Beach.'

As the family set up camp, the weather shifted, with a brief rain shower adding to the atmosphere. Despite the unexpected downpour, the experience was cherished, with the children expressing their delight and a desire to return. As the rain subsided and the sun began to set, the sound of gentle waves and the children's excited chatter about future activities like snorkeling filled the air, capping off a memorable camping trip.

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This place is so nice. Let's come again next time!