You know, most people think South Korea is just about K-pop and those flashy cities they see in dramas. But did you even know that South Korea has lovely beaches to show off with over 2,400 kilometres of coastline?
If you enjoy lively beaches filled with music, snacks, and a vibrant crowd, then Busan is the perfect destination. Alternatively, if you prefer a peaceful getaway where you can feel like the entire beach is yours, there are plenty of quieter spots to choose from as well.
Anywhere you go, the best part is that it’s extremely easy to reach, because Korea has made its public transport system very efficient. Even if you are in Seoul or any metropolitan city, you can jump on a train and hit the beach in no time.
Let’s See the Best South Korea Beaches
Three seas surround South Korea, providing it with a stunning coastline. Each beach feels a bit different.
You must have heard of Jeju Island from most of the K-dramas, which has black sand and rocks. On the west side, you have soft, golden beaches, perfect for relaxing. The east is full of rocky spots and incredible cliffs. Honestly, each area has its own vibe.
All the beaches mentioned below are the best in South Korea. Some are family-friendly, with safe water for kids. Others are perfect for adventure, water sports, and exploring.
Haeundae Beach, Busan
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If you hear “beach” and “South Korea” in the same sentence, it’s probably Haeundae they’re talking about. Here, you have soft, golden sand and clear water, and right behind that, tall buildings, just like those in Mumbai. Don’t worry, you will have cleaner air and less noise.
With calm water, it’s great for families with kids. And most people come here for the beautiful sunset.
Best Things to Do in Haeundae Beach
- Take sunset photos with the city skyline backdrop
- Enjoy water sports, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, paddleboarding, and many more activities
- Visit the nearby Busan Aquarium to see marine life
- Experience the annual Haeundae Sand Festival
- Walk the beachfront promenade lined with restaurants
- Free walk on Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory with a glass floor.
Gwangalli Beach, Busan
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This beach is located near Haeundae but offers a more romantic setting. This is the perfect South Korean beach if you want to run away from the crowd or simply enjoy a peaceful evening.
During the night, the lights are everywhere. The surroundings feel special, as it’s not loud or busy, making it a great date spot for many locals as well.
What to do in Gwangalli Beach?
- Lights play on the bridge; the best time to see them is after 7 PM
- Eat fresh sashimi, straight from the sea (Millak Raw Fish Centre is a must-try place)
- Watch the drone show on Saturdays
- Millac The Market is the best for buying gifts, snacking and partying
- Go paddleboarding and try kayaking
- Visit Gwangan Beach Park for fireworks
Jungmun Saekdal Beach, Jeju Island
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Jungmun Saekdal is on the south side of Jeju Island. The sand is entirely different, as half of it is black due to volcanic movement, and the rest is white from sea coral.
The hills here are very close to the water. This setting offers posh resorts and impressive cliffs all around. You might forget you are in Korea and start thinking you have magically landed in Bali, as the background here is very lush and green.
What can you do at Jungmun Saekdal Beach?
- Walk on the black and white sand
- It’s the best beach in South Korea for surfing
- Go to Jusangjeolli Cliffs nearby for hexagonal basalt columns
- Walk along the edge of the cliffs and take in the views.
- Don’t forget to visit Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls
- Dine at the famous The Cliff, which serves the best cocktails
Hyeopjae Beach, Jeju Island
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Hyeopjae Beach is one of the best beaches on Jeju Island, South Korea. It is so beautiful, even sometimes compared to Goa or even Thailand. The sand is incredibly soft and pure white, making it best to walk barefoot.
The water here is so clean and has a nice greenish-blue colour, perfect for swimming, especially if you are with family. Kids can enjoy it too, because the water stays shallow for a long time.
You can also relax under shady pine trees, which means you don’t have to worry about getting roasted by the sun.
Best Things to Do in Hyeopjae Beach
- Swim in the shallow, crystal-clear turquoise waters
- The sand is best for building sandcastles
- Enjoy family picnic time
- Visit nearby Hallim Park for the botanical gardens
- You can also walk to Geumneung Beach via coastal trails
- To eat, visit Su Udong, Comma, and Hyeopjae the Kkotdon
- For coffee fans, there is a Starbucks Jeju Hyeopjae nearby
Sokcho Beach, Gangwon Province
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Sokcho Beach is situated near the North Korea border. Here, you will find the best mountain views, along with Seoraksan National Park’s cultural experiences.
This beach area has a very local vibe, as it is a fishing village, with colourful boats in the harbour. This also allows you to enjoy the best local food and fresh seafood in the surrounding area.
Best Things to Do in Sokcho Beach
- Go to Sokcho Fish Market for fresh fish
- A short trip to Seoraksan National Park
- Visit Naksana Temple in the coastal cliffs
- Explore the nearby Abai village that specialises in seafood and corn wine
Jeongdongjin Beach, Gangwon Province
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You should visit Jeongdongjin Beach for its spectacular sunrises. Not only that, but this is also one of the best beaches in South Korea, offering unique attractions.
The most impressive thing here is the Sun Cruise Ship, a resort shaped like a cruise ship. And, you have the closest train station to the sea; this is something you wouldn’t have seen anywhere else.
Best Things to Do in Jeongdongjin Beach
- Go early to see Korea’s most famous sunrise
- Take romantic photos at the iconic beachside train station
- Explore the nearby Jeongdongjin Time Museum
- Winter here gives you an entirely different snowy beach experience
- Must try Jeongdongjin Railbike
Hamdeok Beach, Jeju Island
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Hamdeok Beach offers you a family-friendly atmosphere and natural beauty with soft sand and shallow waters that are ideal for swimming.
This beach consists of three sections, and you will mostly visit the main one; the other two are also easily accessible. So, when one of the beaches is crowded, you can choose to go to the next one.
Best Things to Do in Hamdeok Beach
- Swimming in the clear waters
- Take pictures with the beautiful coastal backdrop
- Try stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking
- Hike to nearby Seopjikoji’s coastal cliffs
- Visit local cafes with ocean views, and the best is Café Delmoondo
Daecheon Beach, Chungcheongnam-do
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Daecheon Beach is located on the west coast of Korea and is the largest, spanning 3.5 km. You can see many events taking place, and the primary one is the beach transforming into a mud wonderland during the world-famous Boryeong Mud Festival.
In the summer, you can see a lot of people coming here because there are more options for beach party venues available.
Best Things to Do in Daecheon Beach
- Must experience the world-famous Boryeong Mud Festival in late July
- Therapeutic massages with mineral-rich mud for skin health
- Play beach volleyball and soccer
- Best for bike rides on the dedicated paths, giving ocean views
- Visit the Boryeong Coal Museum to learn about the coal mine and the workers
- Don’t miss the Daecheon Zipline & Sky Bike
Anmok Beach, Gangwon Province
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The best part about Anmok Beach is the coastal life that gives a great coffee culture. You can find Korea’s famous “Coffee Street,” where the aroma of freshly roasted beans fills the air.
When you arrive, you’ll find it packed with a wide range of beach activities and yacht tours. The time will speed up when you are spending your days here.
Best Things to Do in Anmok Beach
- Explore the famous Coffee Street with dozens of unique cafes
- The Coffee Festival in October is a must-experience for any coffee lover
- Try the best locally roasted coffee beans as unique souvenirs
- Walking on the Sutdae Bridge gives you picturesque views
- Experience traditional Korean coffee culture
- Visit the Arte Museum Gangneung to see brilliant digital art
Eurwangni Beach, Incheon
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If you ask me to recommend one of the beaches near Seoul in South Korea, Eurwangni Beach is my only suggestion.
It is very near the Incheon International Airport. So, if you ever get bored and tired of busy city activities, you can quickly come here.
You can actually include this beach in your Seoul nightlife, as the nighttime here is beautiful, with the moonlight shimmering in the water. And, it’s definitely a calm and lovely time to visit at night.
Best Things to Do in Eurwangni Beach
- Try fresh seafood at nearby Wangsan Beach restaurants
- Experience traditional Korean beach house culture
- Take scenic walks along the coastline
- Visit Muuido Island, which offers hiking paths
- Try fishing in the coastal areas
- Enjoy spectacular sunset views over the Yellow Sea
Conclusion
I know most people wouldn’t have thought of South Korea as a beach destination. But it offers a wide range of diverse activities.
Here, you have the opportunity to experience city-side beaches in Busan, as well as beautiful volcanic shores on Jeju Island.
So, I say, don’t try to spend your days hopping bars; you can hop all these wonderful beaches in South Korea. Will have a memorable time watching beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and enjoying all the water sports.
I am not saying just explore beaches. I am saying, try various things. So, along with exploring beaches, try the best things in Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island and some of the best spots in the country.
If you’re interested in any of this, or even considering a trip to Korea, please don’t hesitate to contact us. At Dimaak Tours, our team will provide you with all the necessary information for your international trip and ensure that your trip is the best it can be.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best South Korea Beaches
Are there beaches in Seoul?
No, the city does not have a beach. But there are some of the best beaches in South Korea near Seoul. Eurwangni Beach, located in nearby Incheon, is the closest beach to Seoul.
What is the best time to visit South Korea’s beaches?
The ideal time to visit South Korea for the beach days is from June to September, when temperatures are warm and perfect for swimming.
Are beaches in South Korea safe for swimming?
Yes, Korean beaches maintain high safety standards with lifeguards during peak seasons. However, always check local conditions and follow safety guidelines.
What should I pack for Korean beach visits?
No doubt, always carry sunscreen, comfortable swimwear, waterproof phone cases, a blanket to spread on the sand to relax and comfortable walking shoes.
What is the most famous beach in South Korea?
Haeundae Beach in Busan is considered one of the most popular beaches in South Korea. It’s known for its golden sand, city skyline backdrop, and outstanding facilities.
Also, the beach attracts millions of visitors annually and is often chosen as a filming location for Korean movies and TV shows.
