15 Best Beaches in South Korea for Families, Surfing & More

With its captivating pop culture and stunning mountains, it's easy to forget that South Korea is also a fantastic beach destination. Surrounded by water on three sides and boasting numerous islands, the country offers a diverse range of coastal experiences.

When exploring beautiful beaches in South Korea, you'll be amazed by their variety. From the lively shores of Busan to the volcanic scenery of Jeju Island, an exciting coastal adventure awaits you. Get ready to experience a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural charm, and thrilling activities. Here are TravelThru's top recommended beaches for your next trip.

Best Beaches in South Korea for Your Busan Visiting

1. Haeundae Beach

​​Haeundae Beach is Korea's most popular beach, attracting visitors of all ages. It's easy to reach by public transport and has plenty of hotels nearby, making it a convenient choice for a beach getaway.

What sets Haeundae apart is its unique blend of beach life and city excitement. The beach is beautiful by day, but it truly shines at night. The combination of the ocean and the dazzling lights of the city skyline creates a breathtaking nightscape that's considered one of the best in Korea. If you're looking for a beach with stunning nighttime views, Haeundae is the place to be.

2. Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach, also nestled in Busan, offers a different vibe from its bustling neighbor Haeundae. This 1.4km stretch of sand boasts equally fine white sand and clear blue waters but with a more relaxed atmosphere. It's a favorite spot for locals, offering a more authentic Korean beach experience.

The iconic Gwangan Bridge stretches across the horizon, creating a stunning backdrop for your beach day. This landmark lights up in a dazzling display of colors at night, transforming Gwangalli into a magical scene. Stroll along the Gwangalli Beach Road, lined with trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars, perfect for enjoying a coffee with an ocean view or a delicious seafood dinner.

Gwangalli is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or even surfing when the conditions are right. For a unique perspective, take a thrilling ride on a jet ski or flyboard. After a day of fun in the sun, unwind with a relaxing walk along the Gwangan Bridge or explore the nearby Millak Waterfront Park.

Gwangalli Beach truly offers the best of both worlds: a vibrant coastal scene with a laid-back atmosphere. It's the perfect place to experience Busan's unique blend of city life and beachside bliss.

3. Songdo Beach

Songdo Beach holds a special place in Korean history as the country's very first public beach, established in 1913. While it may not have the same bustling energy as Haeundae or Gwangalli, this 800m-long stretch of sand exudes a charming, nostalgic atmosphere.

In recent years, Songdo Beach has undergone a revitalization, with efforts to restore its natural beauty and enhance its attractions. The result is a pristine shoreline with calm, clear waters, perfect for families and those seeking a more tranquil beach experience.

One of Songdo's most distinctive features is the Songdo Skywalk, a 365-mile-long walkway that extends over the ocean, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the iconic Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge. Stretching 127 meters above the sea, this architecture connects the mainland to a small island, creating a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll.

For a unique perspective of the beach and surrounding area, hop aboard the Busan Air Cruise cable car. This scenic ride offers panoramic views of the coastline, the city skyline, and the emerald-green waters.

4. Dadaepo Beach

Unlike the bustling beaches in South Korea, Dadaepo exudes a more tranquil atmosphere. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it an ideal destination for families with young children. The beach is also a haven for migratory birds, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during the winter months.

One of Dadaepo's main attractions is the Dadaepo Sunset Fountain of Dreams, one of the world's largest musical fountains. This spectacular fountain puts on a mesmerizing display of water, light, and music every evening from April to October.

5. Songjeong Beach

​​Although smaller than some of Busan's more well-known beaches, Songjeong Beach offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere with its pristine white sand. Favored by locals seeking a tranquil escape, it's also a surfer's haven thanks to its impressive waves – the only spot in Busan suitable for surfing.

For a change of scenery, take a short walk to Jukdo Park and admire the coastal views from a different perspective. And if you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll, there's a lovely trail along a former railway line, perfect for a romantic walk and a bit of peaceful reflection.

>>> Read also: 17 Interesting Facts About South Korea That'll Surprise You

Beautiful Beaches in Jeju South Korea

6. Hyeopjae Beach

Hyeopjae Beach, situated on the west coast of Jeju Island, is a stunning location where the lush pine forest meets the crystal-clear turquoise water. The white sandy beach is dotted with black volcanic rocks and seashells, creating a striking contrast. The shallow, gently sloping shoreline makes it perfect for families with children.

Besides its natural beauty, Hyeopjae Beach offers convenient amenities like showers, lockers, and places to eat. The adjacent pine forest provides a shady spot for relaxing or even camping. The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset when the sun dips behind Biyangdo Island.

Often referred to as a twin beach with the nearby Geumneung Eutteumwon Beach, Hyeopjae is also close to other attractions. You might want to explore the botanical wonders of Hallim Park, the intriguing formations of Geumneung Stone Park, or the unique Wollyeong Cactus Colony.

7. Hamdeok Beach

Hamdeok Beach, located on Jeju Island's east coast, is actually three beaches combined into one. Although it can get busy during peak season, this family-friendly spot offers plenty to do, making it easy to spend a whole day there.

Unlike many beaches in Jeju, Hamdeok is sheltered from the wind by Seoubong Peak, resulting in calm, almost wave-free waters. The largest of the three beaches boasts a natural sandbar that creates a shallow, warm area perfect for swimming, especially for kids.

Hamdeok is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with options like kayaking, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. You'll also find several cafes and restaurants with ocean views, including the local favorite, Café Delmoondo.

If you prefer a quieter experience, head towards Seoubong Hill, where the beach is usually less crowded. For those who like to explore, there's a path leading up the hill, and you can wander between the different beaches or climb around the volcanic rock formations.

8. Woljeongri Beach

For us, visiting Woljeongri Beach is one of the best things to do on Jeju Island. Located in the northeastern part of the Island, this beach is a picturesque stretch of white sand bordered by sparkling turquoise water. The surrounding area is dotted with impressive white wind turbines, adding to the unique scenery. This beach is perfect for swimming and boasts a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of trendy cafes and restaurants.

Many of these stylish eateries offer outdoor seating, often with colorful chairs where you can relax and enjoy the stunning ocean views while sipping your favorite beverage.

Whether you want to unwind in a cafe, catch some waves, explore the coast by kayak, or simply bask in the sunshine, Woljeongri Beach has something for everyone. And if you happen to visit on a rainy day, the cafes provide a cozy shelter.

Interestingly, the name "Woljeongri" translates to "the moon stays" in Korean, adding a touch of poetry to this beautiful location. Woljeongri Beach is also a stop on Route 20 of the famous Jeju Olle Trail, a long-distance walking path that circles the island.

9. Jungmun Saekdal Beach

Nestled within Jeju's vibrant Jungmun Tourist Complex, Jungmun Saekdal Beach is a surfer's paradise known for its long stretches of sand and impressive waves. It even hosts Korea's largest international surfing competition. The beach offers scenic promenades and observation decks, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Being part of the Jungmun Tourist Complex means easy access to transportation, a wide range of amenities, and plenty of hotels for a comfortable stay.

Famous Beaches in Gangwon Province

10. Sokcho Beach

Known for its clear waters and gentle waves, Sokcho Beach is a popular destination for families and swimmers of all levels. The shallow waters are perfect for wading and splashing around, while the wide shoreline provides ample space for sunbathing, beach games, and leisurely strolls.

One of the highlights of Sokcho Beach is its proximity to Seoraksan National Park. After a day at the beach, embark on a scenic hike through the park's breathtaking landscapes, with trails leading to waterfalls, temples, and stunning mountain vistas.

But Sokcho Beach offers more than just natural beauty. It's also home to the Sokcho International Film Festival, an annual event that draws filmmakers and film lovers from around the world. This festival provides a unique chance to combine your passion for cinema with a rejuvenating beach vacation.

11. Gyeongpo Beach (Gangneung)

Gyeongpo Beach, located in Gangneung, is famous for its stunning scenery and pristine waters. It offers a peaceful and relaxing environment, ideal for escaping the city's noise and crowds. Take a leisurely walk along the shore or rent a bicycle to explore the charming surroundings.

If you visit during the annual sand sculpture festival, you'll be amazed by the incredible sand art creations. And don't miss the chance to sample local specialties like the famous Gangneung mung bean pancakes.

Beyond its tranquil atmosphere, Gyeongpo Beach is also a haven for birdwatchers. Situated near Gyeongpo Lake, a designated habitat for migratory birds, the beach offers a unique opportunity to witness stunning flocks of birds during certain seasons. It's a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

12. Naksan Beach (Yangyang)

Naksan Beach, nestled on the eastern coast in Gangwon-do province, is a haven for those seeking a classic Korean beach experience. This 4km stretch of pristine white sand, bordered by lush pine trees, offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for families with children, while the expansive shoreline provides ample space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and leisurely strolls.

Just a short distance from the beach lies Naksansa Temple, a historic Buddhist temple perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Here, you can explore the temple grounds and soak in the peaceful atmosphere with panoramic coastal views.

Other Beautiful Beaches in South Korea

13. Daecheon Beach

Daecheon Beach has a split personality. Most of the time, it's a relaxed and relatively quiet place, with a decent amount of tourist activities but a generally laid-back vibe. Then, for one month every summer, it transforms into a wild party.

This transformation happens during the Boryeong Mud Festival in July and August. Imagine a massive, mud-themed celebration with mud runs, obstacle courses, slides, face painting, massages, and even concerts – all taking place in the mud! It's a popular event that draws huge crowds, mainly young people, but it's family-friendly, and lots of families participate, too.

Outside of this crazy month, Daecheon Beach reveals its true beauty. It's the largest beach on Korea's west coast, boasting warm waters and a wide expanse of sand. It's also a hub for water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides and offers unique activities like zip-lining and riding a rail bike along the coast. You can even take a boat trip to the nearby uninhabited island of Dabo-do. And with its convenient location just a couple of hours from Seoul, it's an easy weekend escape from the city.

14. Ujeon Beach

​​Jeungdo Island, known as "Slow City," is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle. Ujeon Beach, with its unique straw parasols, offers a tranquil and exotic atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Korea. It's ideal for peaceful strolls or enjoying a beautiful sunset.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, the nearby Jeungdo Salt Farm has some interesting attractions, including a Salt Museum and a botanical garden dedicated to salt-loving plants. But if true relaxation is what you're after, simply spend some time listening to the soothing sounds of the waves at Ujeon Beach, far away from the noise and crowds of the city.

15. Eurwangni Beach

​​Eurwangni Beach, conveniently located near Incheon International Airport, is a hidden gem on the Yellow Sea coast. This peaceful beach is known for its stunning sunsets, perfect for romantic strolls along the water's edge.

Besides swimming, Eurwangni Beach offers great opportunities for water sports like windsurfing and kayaking. And when you've worked up an appetite, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of the charming beachfront restaurants.

If you're looking to explore more of the area, consider visiting the nearby Silmi Beach for another beautiful coastal experience.

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South Korea's beaches offer more than just sun, sand, and sea. They provide a gateway to a world of diverse experiences, where you can immerse yourself in the country's rich culture, stunning nature, and vibrant coastal life. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique blend of both, the beaches in South Korea are ready to welcome you with open arms. So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the coastal gems of this captivating country. Your Korean beach adventure awaits!