Looking for a beach to visit this summer? These are the best beachside destinations in South Korea, ranging from relatively crowd-free hidden gems to well-known tourist destinations.
Daeijakdo
Incheon, home to 168 islands, includes Daeijakdo, a serene and charming island. Located about 44 kilometers from Incheon Coastal Passenger Terminal, Daeijakdo is known for its pristine villages and untouched natural beauty. Though small, stretching only 4 kilometers from west to east, the island offers diverse experiences with its two mountains and four beaches.
The island’s prominent mountain, Bua Mountain, stands at approximately 159 meters and features a gentle hiking course that’s perfect for a leisurely hike. The trail passes through scenic spots like the candle-shaped Five Brothers Rock, a red sky bridge in a lush forest, and the mystical Samshinhalmi Spring. The view from the summit of Bua Mountain is breathtaking, especially the heart-shaped harbor formed by Daeijakdo and Soijakdo.
Daeijakdo’s smallest beach, Jageunpulan Beach, is notable for its sandy shores and a campsite nestled in a pine forest. Walking along the deck at the end of the beach, visitors can encounter Korea’s oldest rock, dating back 2.51 billion years. Adding to the island’s allure is Puldeung, a sand island revealed twice daily during low tide. Puldeung changes its shape, size, and patterns with the waves and wind, making it a well-known marine ecological treasure.
Eodal Ocean
Located in Gangwon Province, nestled between Mukho Port to the south and Daejin Port to the north, Eodal Ocean is a relaxing destination that remains pleasantly uncrowded even during the summer vacation season. Eodal Port, just off the coast of Eodal Ocean, offers a unique sight: pastel-painted tetrapods (conical, four-footed concrete blocks placed in front of the breakwater to stop waves). A 10-minute walk from Eodal Port brings you to Eodal Ocean.
In the summer, Eodal Ocean boasts 120 tables set up on the sandy beach, about 300 meters away, for travelers to use. Vacationers are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy it at the tables, and in the evening, food can be delivered from local village restaurants. Additionally, Eodal Ocean is conveniently close to Daejin Ocean, just a 30-minute walk away. The moderate waves at Daejin Ocean make it a popular destination for surfers.
Mukho Lighthouse stands at the top of the village on Nongoldam Road, offering panoramic views of Donghae. Next to it is Dojjaebigol Sky Valley, which opened in 2021. Visitors can experience the skywalk, skycycle, and giant slide. A road leading down to the sea takes you to Dojjaebigol Haerang Observatory, where you can feel as if you’re walking on the ocean.
Gusipo Beach
Gusipo Beach in Gochang, North Jeolla Province is renowned for its expansive golden sands. Unlike traditional tidal flats, it offers a safe and beautiful swimming environment. With a gentle, flat seabed, visitors of all ages can enjoy the water with peace of mind. The shoreline is lined with dense pine trees that provide shade, while the stunning Gamak Island, just 1 km offshore, and unique rock formations enhance the natural beauty.
As Gochang’s largest beach, Gusipo features a long stretch of white sand and abundant greenery, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. To the south lies a natural cave that served as a refuge during historical conflicts, and the coastal area is dotted with distinctive rock formations and picturesque islets. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the Yellow Sea, creating cherished moments for beachgoers and campers alike. The area is well-equipped with facilities, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience for all who visit.
Jinha Beach
Jinha Beach, a premier destination in Ulsan, is cherished by families for its fine sand and shallow waters. It’s also a top surfing spot, drawing enthusiasts year-round thanks to its ideal wind and wave conditions. This year, Ulju County continues to provide free amenities such as showers, parasols, life jackets, and tubes. To enhance convenience, temporary parking lots have been expanded, and a complimentary shuttle bus will run between the beach and public parking areas during the peak season from July. 13. to Aug.18. Additionally, a free water play area for children and teenagers will be available during this period.
Jinha Beach will be open from June. 28. to Aug. 31., with swimming hours from 10 AM to 7 PM. Visitors are also encouraged to explore nearby attractions, including Ganjeolgot, Namchang Onggi Jonggi Market, Oegosan Onggi Village, and Seosaengpo Waeseong Fortress (Seosaengpo Japanese Fortress).
Seosan Jungri fishing village
Garorim Bay, between Seosan and Taean-gun in Chungcheongnam-do, features a vast tidal flat that can be enjoyed at the Jungri Fishing Village Experience Center. Operated by local residents, the village offers various programs, including clam digging from March to November, with tool rentals available. Staying overnight is recommended to fully appreciate the bay’s scenery.
Nearby attractions include Ungdo, known for its dramatic sea parting views, and Seosan Buseoksa Temple, which offers a serene temple experience in a lush summer forest. Visitors can also explore Gaesimsa Temple and take photos on its wooden bridge. Seosan House of Yu Gibang, a hanok (traditional Korean building), is famous for spring daffodils and a tranquil summer atmosphere. For a unique sight, hike up Hwanggeumsan Mountain to see Elephant Rock.
Kkotji Beach
Kkotji Beach, located in Anmyeon, Taean-gun, South Chungcheong Province, features a picturesque landscape with a 5-kilometer stretch of white sand and the iconic Halmi and Halbawei rocks. The view of the sun setting in a crimson hue beyond these two rocks is considered one of the most beautiful sights in Taean. Historically, the beach was named ‘Kkotji,’ meaning ‘flower land,’ due to the abundance of wild beach roses that bloomed along its sands.
South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries named Kkotji Beach one of the three best beaches in 2023. Kkotji Beach was noted for introducing pet-friendly activities, including yoga and paddleboarding with pets. By creating walking trails for dogs and providing pet convenience facilities, Kkotji Beach aims to evolve into the ‘beach to enjoy with pets’.
If you’re looking for coastal destinations that offer both beaches and a variety of sightseeing spots (and a vibrant nightlife), here are some long-time favorites.
Haeundae Beach
One of South Korea’s most popular beaches, Haeundae Beach in Busan is famous for its roughly 1.5 kilometers-long stretch of golden sand and blue water. The beach attracts over 10 million visitors every summer. During the peak August holiday season, the beach is peppered with umbrellas and tubes and people frolicking in the water. Haeundae Beach boasts luxury hotels along the coastline, various attractions within walking distance, and a bustling city with a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene nearby. Gwangalli Beach, about a 30-minute drive from Haeundae Beach, is also famous for its romantic scenery and proximity to the city center.
Hajodae Beach, Ingu Beach
Yangyang in Gangwon Province has emerged as one of South Korea’s favorite surfing spots and weekend getaways from Seoul in the past few years. Hajodae Beach and Ingu Beach are popular among 20-somethings who visit for sea bathing, camping and surfing. Along with facilities for surfers, cafes, restaurants, bars and various convenience shops have opened in the area.
