Course Overview
Heonhwaro is a roughly 6 km coastal road stretching from Geumjin Beach in Okgye-myeon to Jeongdongjin Port in Gangdong-myeon, Gangneung. The Geumjin-Simgok section, opened in 1998, was built by filling in the sea, offering Korea's only driving experience where waves crash right beside your car.
The approximately 2 km stretch between Simgok Port and Geumjin Port runs precariously between coastal cliffs and the sea, and is consistently named one of Korea's 100 Most Beautiful Roads. Combined with the Jeongdongjin sunrise, it makes for a spectacular early morning drive.
Section Highlights
Section 1: Geumjin Beach to Simgok Port (approx. 4 km)
The core section that feels like driving on the sea. Granite cliffs and emerald waters unfold on both sides. On days with high waves, spray shoots over the road for an exciting experience.
Section 2: Simgok Port to Jeongdongjin Port (approx. 8 km)
After Simgok Port, the road detours inland toward Jeongdongjin. The Hourglass Park at Jeongdongjin Station and the Sun Cruise Resort are landmarks.
Driving Tips
- The coastal section may be closed on high-wave days, so check weather conditions
- Starting from the free Geumjin Beach parking lot is recommended
- For the Jeongdongjin sunrise, depart around 5 AM (winter)
- The Simgok Badabuchae-gil walking trail along Heonhwaro is also worth exploring