Jeongdongjin, a scenic coastal town on Korea’s east coast, is best known for its breathtaking sunrises that light up the sea and sky. But there’s another unforgettable sight here—the Sun Cruise Resort, a cruise ship–shaped hotel perched dramatically on a cliff.
A Cruise Ship on a Cliff
As you drive along Jeongdongjin’s winding coastal road, it’s impossible to miss the massive cruise ship seemingly docked on land. At first glance, you might do a double take—it really does look like a ship.
Now imagine turning to your family and casually saying,
“That’s where we’re staying tonight.”
You're almost guaranteed a round of wide-eyed “Wow~!”
What Is the Sun Cruise Resort?
The Sun Cruise Resort is a uniquely themed hotel designed to resemble a luxurious ocean liner. Built on a cliff that overlooks the East Sea, it gives guests the illusion of floating above the water.
The original wing, called Sun Cruise, mimics the interior of a real cruise ship—complete with porthole-style windows and nautical decor.
The newer annex, Beach Cruise, moves away from the traditional ship design and opts for floor-to-ceiling glass windows that open up to panoramic sea views. It’s a more modern, open concept, but both wings offer unforgettable scenery.
Sculpture Park & Outdoor Atmosphere
The hotel grounds also feature a Sculpture Park, almost like a clifftop art garden. You’ll find oversized art installations—like a giant hand reaching for the sky—that blend surprisingly well with the surrounding nature.
It’s the kind of place where you can just walk, pause, and admire the fusion of nature, art, and ocean air.
Arrival & Check-In
When you arrive, staff will greet you at the large parking area and help you with your luggage using wheeled carts—much like a real cruise experience. The entrance is wide and open, and you might even spot families feeding koi fish from the bridge as you walk in.
Inside the Room
Rooms are spacious and family-friendly, and come equipped with basic kitchenware for light cooking. If you're lucky, your room might have a full ocean view—you can literally watch the waves while lying in bed.
Night Walks & Relaxed Ambience
At night, the resort transforms into a calm and cozy space. Well-lit pathways wind through open lawns and sitting areas, creating the perfect atmosphere for a peaceful evening stroll.
You’ll see kids playing badminton, parents playing catch with their children, and couples enjoying the sea breeze under starlight.
Sunrise Over the Sea
A trip to Jeongdongjin wouldn't be complete without catching its famous sunrise. Let the front desk know in advance, and they’ll provide a morning wake-up call just before dawn.
Head up past the rooftop cafeteria and climb the final set of stairs to reach the best viewing spot. As the golden sun rises slowly over the East Sea, you'll feel like you're watching a scene straight out of a national anthem.
The View from the Sea
On our last day, we booked a yacht tour that cruised along the coastline. Looking back from the sea, the hotel is even more striking—standing tall and majestic against the sky.
Whether viewed from land or sea, the Sun Cruise Resort is truly unforgettable.
