In previous articles, I have talked about Jeju Island, the vacation and diving destination of South Korea and the underwater beauties of Jeju Island. Today, I would like to talk about another location that we prefer as BeeDiversDiving, especially for courses, namely Namae.
When most people think of South Korea, they usually think of the bustling streets of Seoul, the ancient palaces of Gyeongju or the volcanic beauty of Jeju Island. But on the east coast of Gangwon Province, there is a charming little fishing town that offers something different: Namae. With its quiet harbor, peaceful beaches and thriving diving scene, Namae is a hidden treasure for sea lovers.
Namae is not a crowded tourist destination; it is a peaceful escape. The town has an atmosphere that takes you back in time. Fishing boats line the harbor, the smell of fresh seafood fills the air as locals go about their daily business. The town’s charm lies in its simplicity, and for divers it offers a gateway to South Korea’s vibrant underwater world.
Namae is an ideal place to slow down and take a breath. For us, being close to Seoul and having the opportunity to dive from the shore and from the boat is the most important reason for our choice. It provides a safe and protected atmosphere for our beginner divers during their first ocean experiences.
Namae is home to many dive centers catering to both beginners and experienced divers. Visibility can be up to 20 meters at its best (usually late spring to early autumn). Water temperatures range from 10°C in winter to about 24°C in summer, so I recommend dry suits for winter diving.
My personal opinion is that Namae is a great idea for a course but may not be very interesting for certified divers. The reason is that it is colder than the dive sites in the south of South Korea and the visibility is more fragile and low compared to other locations.
But for day trips or weekend getaways, it is highly preferred because of its proximity to Seoul. At every corner, cafe or grocery store, you can see someone wearing a diving suit.
Namae is firmly rooted in fishing traditions. You can see fishermen preparing their nets, unloading their fresh catch or selling their seafood at the market. Especially if you go down to the square early in the morning, you can watch the fishermen auctioning their catch.
Namae’s beauty is not only seen under the water, but also in the surrounding landscapes. The surrounding hills, peaceful walking paths and beaches ideal for relaxation complete the picture. Watching the sunrise on Namae Beach is a magical experience as the golden hues illuminate the return of the fishing boats to the harbor.
Namae may not offer you a glamorous vacation and tropical underwater life. But if you want to stay in a simply designed family pension, slow down and do a few dives in the tranquility of a fishing village, this is the place for you.
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