When the vibrant and blissful Spring is coming, the first thing that comes in your mind must have been where to find the best spot to watch Cherry Blossom. But wait a minute! Spring in South Korea does not limit to this gorgeous pink blossom only. In fact, there’s a better—and much more beautiful option you must experience while traveling to South Korea: it’s the moment when the Camellia flower blooms! Join us as we explore top 5 must-visit travel destinations to fully immerse in the beauty of these fiery Camellia flowers in South Korea!
5 Must-Visit Korea Travel Destinations to Watch the Camellia Blooms
When it comes to the best travel destination to watch the Camellia flowers, most travelers are pleasantly surprised to discover that South Korea is home to some breathtaking camellia hotspots—places where these rich red blossoms light up gardens, forests, and coastlines with an almost otherworldly charm.
Camellias typically bloom from late winter into early spring (sometimes as early as January in Jeju!), making them a perfect floral experience even before cherry blossoms take center stage.
So if you’re planning your next adventure and want to escape the usual crowds, these five destinations should absolutely be on your list. Let’s take a walkthrough Korea’s most scenic spots to witness the stunning moments when the Camellia blooms in South Korea
1. Dongbaekseom Island, Busan
Located right off the coast of Haeundae Beach, Dongbaekseom (literally “Camellia Island”) lives up to its name in every way. This little island is a calm oasis nestled in one of Korea’s busiest beach districts, where camellia flowers bloom along peaceful walking trails.
As you stroll around the island, you’re greeted by panoramic views of Busan’s iconic sights—the Oryukdo Islets, Gwangan Bridge, and the coastal curves of Mipo and Dalmaji Hill. This is a place where nature and city views collide in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re into photography, peaceful reflection, or just soaking in the ocean breeze, Dongbaekseom offers an unforgettable start to your camellia flowers journey in South Korea.
Dongbaekseom, Busan
- Address: 67 Dongbaek-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
- Website: Visit Korea KR
2. Camellia Forest at Okryongsa Temple, Gwangyang
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Gwangyang is the historic site of Okryongsa Temple, a sacred place deeply rooted in Korean Buddhism. This is where Seon-gak-guk-sa Do-seon, a great monk of the late Unified Silla Dynasty and renowned master of Korean geomancy, lived for 35 years, teaching hundreds of disciples before passing away.
Though the temple itself no longer stands, its spirit lives on in the surrounding forest of over 7,000 camellia trees.
According to legend, these trees were planted by Do-seon himself to strengthen the energy of the land—giving the entire area a mystical and almost spiritual atmosphere.
Hence, it becomes a meaningful travel destination not only for Camellia flower lovers but also for those curious about the religious and cultural heritage of Korea. Quiet, beautiful, and deeply symbolic, this camellia forest offers a reflective experience unlike any other.
Okryongsa Camellia Forest, Gwangyang
- Address: 303 Chusan-ri, Ongnyong-myeon, Gwangyang-si, Jeollanam-do, South Korea.
- Website: Korea Heritage
3. Odongdo Island, Yeosu
Imagine a small island off the southern coast that’s blanketed in lush greenery and bursting with camellias—welcome to Odongdo. With over 3,000 native camellia trees, this destination is often referred to as “The Camellia Island” or even “The Flower Island of the Sea.”
The island forms part of the Hallyeohaesang National Park, so nature here is pristine and well-preserved. A leisurely walk around the island will give you more than just scenes of Camellia flowers blooming. Instead, you will also encounter sea caves, dramatic cliffs, and, if you’re lucky, even dolphins playing off the coast. This is the place that makes you want to slow down, breathe deep, and let nature’s beauty sink in.
Odongdo, Yeosu
- Address: 222 Odongdo-ro, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do
4. Camellia Forest Café, Jeju Island
If you’re looking for a camellia experience with a twist of European charm, head to Camellia Forest Café in Jeju. This place will offer a lifestyle experience as you immerse in the scenes when the Camellia blooms surrounding a European cafe in South Korea.
Set amidst a dense grove of round, glossy camellia trees, the café features a white, European-style building that’s straight out of a travel magazine. You can sip on coffee while gazing out large windows that perfectly frame the blooming camellias like living art.
And with thoughtfully placed photo zones, it’s also an Instagrammer’s dream. It’s a little bit romantic, a little bit whimsical, and completely unforgettable.
Camellia Forest Cafe, Jeju
- Address: 53-38 Saenggiak-ro, Namwon-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
5. Maryang-ri Camellia Forest, Seocheon
Lastly, if you wish to experience something more off-the-beaten-path, the Maryang-ri Camellia Forest in Seocheon will be a true treasure. This site, designated as a Natural Monument, features over 85 ancient camellia trees, some more than 500 years old, spread across a gentle hill by the West Sea. From late March through early May, the entire forest bursts into bloom.
At the summit, you’ll find ‘Dongbaekjeong’ pavilion—a perfect place to relax while soaking in sweeping views of the sea and nearby islands.
It’s also one of the rare places in Korea where you can witness both sunrise and sunset over the ocean. Yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds.
Maryang-ri Camellia Forest, Seocheon
- Address: Maryang-ri, Seo-myeon, Seocheon-gun, Chungcheongnam-do
- Phone: +82 41 950 4224
- Website: Korea Heritage
Immerse in the Beauty of the Camellia Flowers: Enjoy Spring Like No Other in South Korea!
Cherry blossoms may get all the international fame, but camellias are the true unsung heroes of Korean spring. With their deep red petals and glossy green leaves, they bring a different kind of charm—subtle, elegant, and soulful.
These five travel destinations will give you a fresh way to experience the country’s natural beauty, both for first-time travelers and seasoned explorers.
So next time you’re planning your Korea getaway, remember: spring isn’t just about cherry blossoms. It’s also about discovering something a little less expected, a little more vibrant—and every bit as breathtaking.
Now’s the perfect time to make new memories surrounded by blooming camellia flowers in South Korea. See you under the red petals!
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