Some stories don’t begin with love at first sight. When I first learned that I’d been placed in Pohang for my U.S. Fulbright Korea English Teaching grant year, my heart sank. While I knew Seoul was off the table for any first-year grantee, I had hoped to be placed at least somewhere nearby. Pohang felt like the opposite of what I wanted, on the complete opposite side of the country and far from what felt comfortable.
However, over time, the city grew on me. Coming from New York City, Pohang felt small and spread out. Yet the natural beauty of this coastal city was surprisingly healing. With the help of my partner, colleagues, and friends, I began to explore nearly every nook and cranny. From my perspective, here’s a glimpse into why I think Pohang is worth the trip.
An Overview of Pohang
At a Glance
Pohang is a coastal city bordering the East Sea in Gyeongsangbuk-do Province. In recent years, Pohang has gained popularity as a filming location for K-dramas such as Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and When the Camellia Blooms.
With a population just under 500,000, it is best known for its natural beauty and its thriving metal and fishing industries. The city is also home to POSCO, one of the world’s largest steel producers.
Best Times to Visit
Like many places in Korea it’s best to visit Pohang in the spring and fall, when the flowers are blooming or the foliage is in peak form. In the summer, Pohang’s humid subtropical climate is great for swimming, surfing and enjoying the nearby beaches. However the extreme heat can be tough to bear during the hottest of days. While winter might not be the ideal time to visit, the weather in Pohang is more mild than northern cities in Korea like Seoul
Transportation Options
Getting to Pohang is relatively easy by KTX or ITX trains, as well as via intercity bus terminals. However, the city and its surrounding area are quite large. So, if possible, I recommend renting a car and bringing your international driver’s license to make the most of your visit.
Otherwise, taxis and city buses are available, but depending on your destination, buses may run infrequently, especially on weekends. For more detailed information on transportation options and tips on traveling in Korea, check out this article I wrote that covers essential Korean travel advice.
Best Lodging Locations
Because Pohang is quite large, choosing the best area to stay in will make planning your trip much easier. For first-time or international visitors, I recommend staying near Yeongildae due to its convenient proximity to the train station and easy access to the ocean, cafes, and restaurants. To compare many options at once, check out sites like:
- Tripadvisor
- Agoda
- Klook
- Airbnb
If you don’t mind a bit of a commute and higher rental costs, Pohang offers some excellent pool villas and pensions (resorts) with fantastic scenic views. Just keep in mind that many of these places might not accommodate English speakers, so sites like Trip.com, Skyscanner, and Traveloka might be your best bet for foreign payments and services.
Escape Pool Villa (이스케이프 풀빌라)
- Address: 38, Hajeong-ro 138, Guryongpo-eup, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 구룡포읍 하정로 138번길 38, 이스케이프 풀빌라
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FcmA4Yv1
- Korean Website: http://www.escapepoolvilla.com
Eastcape Pool Villa (이스트케이프)
- Address: 1766-17 Haean-ro, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 흥해읍 해안로 1766-17, 이스트케이프
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xoHieQBf
- Korean Website: http://eastcapepoolvilla.co.kr/
Slotslide (슬로타이드)
- Address: 1824-1 Coastal-ro, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 흥해읍 해안로 1824-1, 슬로타이드
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/G38nHjnW
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stay.slotide/
Day 1: A Taste of Pohang
Indulge in Local Eats at Jukdo Market (죽도 시장)
Traditional markets are everywhere in Korea, but if you’re new to the area, they’re a great way to experience local culture. At this market, my favorite spots are the large food hall filled with handmade noodles and the seafood section. It’s easy to get lost inside, so if you do, search guksu (국수) or noodles, or haesanmul (해산물) or seafood, on Naver Map or Kakao Maps to help you find your way.
- Address: 13, Jukdo Market 13-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 죽도시장13길 13, 포항수산종합어시장
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5vcHK3UP
Test Your Bravery at the Hawnho Space Walk (환호공원 스페이스워크)
Don’t be like me! This is not the best place to discover you’re afraid of heights. But if you’re up for a bit of thrill and adventure, it’s one of the most unique experiences I’ve had. Built like a roller coaster staircase, this walkway lets you stroll high above the ground with nothing below and everything around you to take in.
- Address: San 63-1 Hwanho-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 환호공원길 30, 환호공원 스페이스워크
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GJ5cjpe9
Pohang Public Art Museum (포항시립미술관)
Small and quaint, I recommend visiting here if you like art, or find the weather a little less than favorable. The museum has some cool outdoor and indoor steel sculptures that reflect the local industry. Throughout the year, there is a nice mix of rotating exhibits, so even if it’s your second or third visit, you are bound to see some new things.
- Address: 351 Hwanho-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 환호공원길 10, 포항시립미술관
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/Gj79Jq90
Take a Break at the Yeongildae Observatory (영일대 전망대)
Jutting out into the sea, when you walk to the observatory you will often be met with a gust of wind. It’s a great local look-out point and a great place to soak in the POSCO factory, the sea, and the sprawling beach.
- Address: 1002-5 Duho-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 해안로 173, 해양스포츠아카데미
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5f5Hscu5
Walk Along the Yeongildae Beach (영일대해수욕장)
If the weather is nice, take the time to stroll the beach. Depending on the time of year you might even run into a blooming rose garden, a sand castle competition, or the Pohang International Firework Festival. There’s a lot to see and eat around here, so it’s a great place to people-watch and explore.
- Address: 685-1 Duho-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 두호동 685-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xI1YoNK1
Close the Day with a Sunset Airbnb Yacht Experience
For my birthday the first year I lived in Pohang, my partner and I went on a Airbnb yacht experience. We were lucky to have the boat all to ourselves, and our guide was super friendly and informative. It was a great chance to see Pohang from the sea’s perspective and a beautiful way to end the day.
- Airbnb Experience: Link Here
- Meets at the Pohang Marina (포항요트계류장)
- 1-hour sessions from roughly 2-9PM KT
- ₩45,000 (~$33.00) per person
Day 2: Explore Northern (Bukgu) Pohang
Catch a Beautiful View at the Igari Dat Observation Deck (이가리 닻 전망대)
Igari Dat Observation Deck is an elevated anchor-shaped boardwalk that sits high above the sea with a rocky beach below. Since it’s a bit out of the way, I recommend stopping by as part of a trip to northern Pohang. It’s a perfect picnic or rest spot on the way to your next adventure.
- Address: 67-3 Igarisan, Cheong-myeon, Buk-gu, Pohang
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 청하면 이가리 산67-3
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GkR3ujHH
Visit Hometown Cha Cha Cha Filming Sites
If you’re a K-drama fan, chances are you’ve seen Pohang on screen without even realizing it. I love how accessible filming locations are in Korea. Even after the filming wraps up, many sets are preserved or repurposed for tourism.
Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha is no exception. I had a lot of fun visiting several locations from the show and planning to check off more in the future. You can find a complete list of filming spots online. Perfect for planning your own fan tour!
Catch a Wave and Take a Surfing Lesson
What better way to enjoy Pohang’s oceans than by taking a surfing lesson? The classes strike a great balance between hands-on instruction and free time to practice. While the waves here aren’t always massive, they’re steady and beginner-friendly. This surf school comes highly recommended and offers instruction in English, making it a great choice for first-timers.
Pohang Surfholic (포항서프홀릭)
- Address: 52-12 Surf-Holic Pohang, 52, Yonghan-gil 244, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 포항시 북구 흥해읍 용한길 244번길 52-12, 서프홀릭 포항
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GipBcGQ4
- Website: https://surfholicpohang.co.kr/
- Fee starting from ₩60,000 (~$44.00)
Go Paragliding Over the Sea
Although I haven’t paraglided in Pohang myself, I often see people soaring overhead while I’m at the beach. Friends who’ve gone, and the glowing reviews, say the views of the water and cliffs are absolutely surreal. It feels like a scene from Crash Landing on You, minus the storm and the emergency landing. With experienced guides, it’s a safe and unforgettable way to see Pohang from above.
Pohang Paragliding Experience Center (포항 패러글라이딩 체험 센터)
- Address: 1366-42 Haean-ro, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang
- Address: 포항 북구 흥해읍 해안로 1366-42
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GxkJWOcV
- Website: www.phpara.com
- Fee starting from ₩100,000 (~$73.00)
Day 3 Travel to Lower (Namgu) Pohang
Enjoy a Stroll Through Yeonorang Seoyeo Theme Park (연오랑세오녀테마공원)
Along the ocean there are some great parks to stroll you on your way to Homigot or Guryongpo. Yeonorang Seoyeo Theme Park offers some great views, and some shady places to take a rest.
- Address: 3012 Homi-ro, Donghae-myeon, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Yeonorang Seoyeo Culture Park
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 동해면 호미로 3012 연오랑 세오녀 문화공원
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/Gq84uZ7q
Grab a Hand at Homigot (호미곶)
Homi (호미) is a scenic stretch of land that juts into the Sea of Japan, best known for its northern tip, Homigot (호미곶). It’s home to several landmarks, including the tallest lighthouse in South Korea and the iconic “Hands of Harmony.” Each year, crowds gather here to watch the first sunrise of the New Year.
In my opinion, the “Hands of Harmony” are the heart of this location. One massive hand rises from the sea, and the other from the land, symbolizing harmony and coexistence. Created by Professor Seung-guk Kim of Yeungnam University, the sculpture was commissioned with support from Pohang Construction and Daegu Bank to commemorate the start of the new millennium. The distance between the hands makes the message all the more powerful.
- Address: Daebo-ri Homigot-myeon Nam-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 호미곶면 대보리
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/F5avEN16
Rest by the Red Lighthouse
A popular destination if you’re familiar with the K-drama Hometown Cha Cha Cha, the Red Lighthouse is from the iconic scene when Chief Hong meets the variety show producer Seong-hyun.
- Address: 745-2 Seokbyeong-ri, Guryongpo-eup, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 구룡포읍 석병리 745-2
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5V8RhAPj
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Explore Guryongpo and the “When the Camellia Blooms” Filming Site
Although it’s far from downtown, Guryongpo is one of my favorite places in Pohang. I’ve visited many times and often bring out-of-town friends here. The area is known for its snow crab restaurants—just look for the giant crab signs—as well as its cozy cafes and charming gift boutiques. Most notably, Guryongpo served as a filming location for several K-dramas, including the popular When the Camellia Blooms. Here you can find a full list of all the drama’s filming locations.
Guryongpo is also home to Japanese House Street, where Japanese settlers lived following the Joseon-Japan Trade Treaty of 1883. As Japan’s influence and colonial power expanded, Korean access to fishing in the East Sea became increasingly limited. To preserve this complex history, the city of Pohang maintained 47 traditional Japanese-style wooden houses and established a museum to educate visitors about the area’s past.
- Address: 389-1 Guryongpo-ri Guryongpo-eup Nam-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 구룡포읍 구룡포길 135-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FZ8lFTFo
Pohang Beach Day
Growing up, I lived near the Great Lakes so it was quite a nice change of pace to live by the ocean. Pohang has some great beaches, and during the summer months my partner and I love to spend time camping with friends and snorkeling.
The water is usually the perfect temperature, safe to swim in, and fairly clean. However, I would 100% avoid swimming near Yeongildae because of crowds, traffic and the metal factories. When I first moved to Pohang, my partner told me that locals can always tell who the out-of-towners are by the people who set foot into the ocean there.
Instead, I would opt to travel to beaches further north and south of Yeongildae, in order to get far away from the glut of tourists and POSCO metal factories. Here are few beaches I would recommend:
Chilpo Beach (칠포해수욕장)
Chilpo is popular among surfers, especially during the summer season. Known for its clean water, relaxed atmosphere, and waves suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers.
- Address: Chilpo, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 흥해읍
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FJbW34mk
Odo-ri Beach (오도리해수욕장)
This is the beach my partner and I love coming to in the summer. It has great shallow swimming areas for snorkeling, and is usually less busy than the other beaches.
- Address: Odori, Heunghae-eup, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, North Gyeongsang
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 흥해읍 오도리
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xxYN7pw9
Wolpo Beach (월포해수욕장)
Another well-known beach in Pohang known for swimming and surfing. In some areas it is quite pebbly, but you will still find sandy patches to pitch a tent and rest.
- Address: Wolpo-ri, Cheong-myeon, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongbuk
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 청하면 월포리
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xmxWVf5H
Guryongpo Beach (구룡포해수욕장)
A popular tourist destination for those who make the commute, this beach is great to rest and catch a refreshing dip.
- Address: Guryongpo-eup, Nam-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 구룡포읍
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FuzrGkh3
Pohang Cafes and Restaurants
My saved list of cafés and restaurants in Pohang is honestly too long to share in full—but here’s a solid collection of places worth checking out. For even more options, I recommend searching hashtags of specific food names in Korean, along with “Pohang” (포항), on social media. You’re bound to find tons of recommendations that way.
Also, check out Instagram accounts like Hot Pohang, which regularly updates with new, popular, and trending spots. Who knows! Maybe your list will end up even longer than mine! Just a quick word of caution, many of these places require a car or a long taxi ride to get to, so plan ahead and have a great time.
Scenic, Lovely, and Cozy Cafes
Love Blanc (러블랑)
Tucked away in the northern part of Pohang, this spacious seaside café is a well-loved spot on my list. It might sound odd, but one of my favorite things about this place (aside from the beautifully themed drinks) are the tables. Designed to resemble both the ocean floor and a sandy beach, they add to the café’s immersive coastal vibe. Every design detail feels intentional, and that’s not even mentioning the view and cute photo zones. You’ll get some amazing pictures for sure!
- Address: 232 Jigyeong-ri Songna-myeon Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 송라면 동해대로 3310, 러블랑
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GBvXXlTV
Cafe Bintang (카페빈땅 포항죽천점)
After catching a wave or taking a refreshing swim, there’s nothing better than kicking back in this laid-back, surf shack-style café. With a solid mix of food and drink options, you could easily spend the whole day here, especially since the front of the café opens right up to the sea.
It’s also dog-friendly and welcoming to both skaters and surfers, with indoor and outdoor areas designed for people and pups alike. But my favorite part? The beach lounge chairs. They make it way too tempting to drift off for a seaside nap.
- Address: 335 Jukcheon-ri Heunghae-eup Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 흥해읍 죽천길 11
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xmBjjP2F
Jukdo Popo (죽도포포)
While the cafe has changed a bit since I first visited, it is still one of my favorites. Tucked away into Jukdo Market, it might be a little hard to find at first. However, like any fairytale story you will make it out of the dark tunnel eventually and find a hidden gem. The interior is a mixture of sweet vintage finds, an adult-like doll house, and the most delicious desserts and drinks.
- Address: 2-492 Jukdo-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 죽도시장3길 3-4, 죽도포포
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GHYxxfSk
Oh! Bremen (오브레멘)
A fairly recent addition to the Yeongildae cafe selection in the past few years, Oh! Bremen is mammoth. With many floors to choose from and a huge winding central staircase, the cafe almost feels like a seaside Guggenheim. For all K-pop stans, you’ll also find a special surprise. On the first floor, there is a merry-go-round that was on the performance stage of the 34th Golden Award with BTS, TWICE, Seventeen.
- Address: 190-7 Duho-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 해안로 191-1, 오브레멘
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/F0AlltW0
Camellia in Guryongpo (까멜리아 인 구룡포)
While unassuming from the outside, the inside of this cafe is really beautiful. You feel like you are in a tree house. If you are able to, I would recommend climbing the steep steps and sitting on the second floor. Between the desserts, drinks, and the ambience you will want to stay put in the cafe’s cozy vibes.
- Address: 389-2 Guryongpo-ri Guryongpo-eup Nam-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 구룡포읍 구룡포길 133-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/FXkccrFF
Seafood Restaurants
Jukdo Fish Market
Inside Jukdo Fish Market is an almost overwhelming number of fish sellers and restaurants. The front is where they sell live and fresh fish, and inside many of the stalls you will find restaurants where you can sit and order. My best advice is come in with an open-mind, look at the prices, look at the fish quality, and explore.
- Address: 590-23 Jukdo-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 포항시 북구 죽도동 590-23
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5QiddLlC
Shell #1 (조개1번지)
Along with seafood in general, Pohang is especially well-known for its daege (대게), or snow crab. I discovered this particular restaurant through the Instagram account Hot Pohang, which boldly claims it’s the best in the entire country. While quite a claim, you’ll find no shortage of fresh seafood here, including delicacies sourced from Dokdo, another well-known Korean island not far from Pohang.
- Address: 111, Coastal-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, North Gyeongsang-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 해안로 111, 1층
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GhbqVZnz
Mr. Mermaid (인어아저씨)
This restaurant comes recommended by my partner. If you like raw seafood and fish then you will love the large selection to choose from, and the multitude of dishes and servings you will receive. Come very hungry, leave very happy!
- Address: 96, Jangseong-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, North Gyeongsang-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 장성로 96
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5WBusAKW
Hwanyeo Sushi Restaurant (환여횟집)
A popular Pohang staple, this restaurant almost always has a line and long wait. It’s one that many locals will know about in the Yeongildae area. If you have never tried a cold seafood Korean soup, Pohang is well-known for it, so I would add it to your list.
- Address: 189-1 Coastal-ro, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, North Gyeongsang Province
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 해안로 189-1
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/Gu0wNPXW
A Few Additional Pohang Favorites
Cheolgil Pebble Grill (철길자갈구이 포항본점)
A close Korean friend first introduced me to this restaurant. Nestled in the Pohang Railroad Forest path, you will find this unassuming restaurant with mighty taste. What makes this restaurant unique is that the meat is grilled directly on hot stone pebbles.
- Address: 288-19 Deungnyang-dong Buk-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 포항시 북구 등량동 288-19
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xZjQQEUI
Bob’s Burgers (밥스버거스)
Probably not what you expected on a Korean travel list, but please believe me! I’ve had a lot of burgers in my life, and this one is well worth the wait and the try. The owners used to live in California, and have brought with them their own version of an authentic American burger. I strongly recommend going when they first open because they often sell out and fill up quickly.
- Address: 460-1 Daejam-dong Nam-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 대이로111번길 5 씨앤씨 빌딩 103호
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/xydOcBpW
Gonji Gonji Idong Branch (곤지곤지이동점)
While maybe not super special to a native Korean, I like this place for the amount of food you get for your money. It’s also super healthy, and comes with a lot of banchan, or Korean side dishes. I highly recommend getting their fish on the side. It’s so moist and the skin is crunchy. This restaurant is also great for booking large groups, and if you call ahead you can reserve large private rooms.
- Address: 646 I-dong Nam-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경상북도 포항시 남구 이동 646
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/F16BB5eW
Hyojadong Soo Udon (효자동수우동)
Located in one of my favorite neighborhoods in Pohang, Soo Udon is a lovely and cozy restaurant in Hyoja-dong. When you go, you’ll feel like you’re getting the home treatment as your meal is carefully laid out in front of you. The owner also provides a small and delicious yogurt and rice cake dessert for the end of your meal.
- Address: 308-4 Hyoja-dong Nam-gu, Pohang-si Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 남구 효자동길6번길 19, 1층
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/GgBXXUDU
Jangsa Iyagi Pho (장사이야기포)
While I don’t get to come here often because it’s pretty far from where I live, the food here is worth it everytime. My partner found it a few years ago when I was craving South East Asian food, and it’s become one of our favorites. The taste feels authentic and the staff are really kind and friendly.
- Address: 6-4 Jangryang-ro 173beon-gil, Buk-gu, Pohang-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
- Address: 경북 포항시 북구 장량로173번길 6-4, 1층
- Naver Map Link: https://naver.me/5FZw0xtA
Still Keeping a Piece of Pohang with Me
Though I no longer live in Pohang, I’m still just a short drive away. Most weekends, I return to attend church with my partner or enjoy a homemade meal at my mother-in-law’s home. As a Korean Adoptee, Pohang was the first city I called home after returning to Korea. It may not have been the place I dreamed of living, but it became a place that shaped me. While it’s not my forever home, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
Pohang may be a bit tricky to navigate without a car, but if you come with the right mindset (and don’t mind a few long drives), you’ll discover a peaceful, coastal city that invites you to slow down and breathe. Best enjoyed in good weather and in the great outdoors, Pohang offers scenic ocean views, laid-back town vibes, and hidden gem cafés and restaurants. It’s the kind of place that makes for a perfect weekend or short getaway, especially if you’re craving nature, rest, and a slower pace of life.
