Surrounded by sea on three sides, Korea has around 280 beaches across the country. Although open to the public year-round, the beaches become livelier from mid-June as they are operated systematically with a focus on safety and cleanliness. The beaches in Korea offer more than just swimming, though. Imagine riding a train with picturesque views, feeling the thrill of water sports, and eating the freshest seafood you’ve ever had at a beachside food stall! Enjoy exciting water sports, and then recharge in a café or bakery nearby. No matter your travel style, these top beach destinations have it all!

Busan & Gyeongsang Regions

| Haeundae

Located in Busan, Korea’s leading marine city, Haeundae Beach is a white sandy beach with shallow waters, making it perfect for swimming! It is unlike other beaches in Korea in that the sandy shore stretches between the sea and tons of tall buildings, creating a beautiful view that becomes even more stunning when the sun sets!
The area around Haeundae Beach also has plenty of attractions, including Busan X the SKY observatory, Haeundae Blueline Park, and the lush forest of camellia and pine trees on Dongbaekseom Island.

| Gwangalli

Gwangalli Beach (Credit: Travel Leader 15th Moon Seon-mok) / Gwangalli Marvelous Drone Light Show

Gwangalli Beach is unique in that the horizon appears to be doubled, due to Gwangandaegyo Bridge. It features the Gwangalli SUP Zone for water sports, and is conveniently located next to Café Street and an alley of seafood restaurants, drawing in a steady stream of visitors. Gwangalli Beach is even more beautiful at night, with the lights of Gwangandaegyo Bridge twinkling on the horizon. On Saturdays, you can see Korea’s largest drone show, the Gwangalli Marvelous Drone Light Show.

| Uljin

Hujeong Beach, a hidden gem in Uljin, offers a perfect summer escape for those who enjoy less crowded areas. As you walk along Ocean Road 393, you are greeted by the Ocean Observatory, which lets you see 7 meters deep into the ocean without getting any water on you. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from the Jukbyeon Coast Sky Rail as it passes various attractions, including “Heart Coast,” a famous filming site, a lighthouse, and the Jukbyeon coastline. Stop by the nearby Jukbyeon Port for fresh seafood.

Gangwon State

| Gangneung

Gyeongpo Beach, the largest beach along the East Coast, offers breathtaking views of both Gyeongpoho Lake and the East Sea. The lush forest of pine trees that grows along the sandy shore makes Gyeongpo Beach even more charming. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the deck walking trail along the pine forest while soaking in the therapeutic Phytoncides.

Anmok Beach is well-known thanks to its proximity to Gangneung Coffee Street. The street is lined with coffee shop after coffee shop, each with its own unique ambiance. Whichever café you choose, you can enjoy the great views of the beach from the café and coffee prepared by an expert barista.

| Sokcho

Sokcho Beach is popular among visitors all year round with a range of attractions, including a walking trail through a pine forest, parks, and scenic photo spots. The short distance from the downtown means you can also enjoy fresh seafood at Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market in downtown Sokcho after visiting the beach. Additionally, Sokcho Eye, a famous local landmark, offers panoramic views of the vast blue East Sea and Seoraksan Mountain.

| Yangyang

Naksan Beach is known as the beach that BTS member V visited. It’s a great spot to visit if you enjoy walking, as there is a forested trail that follows the beach. The beach itself has a shallow bay, suitable for swimmers of all ages. If visiting, be sure to include a stop at the nearby Naksansa Temple, one of the Eight Scenic Sites of Gwandong.

Jeju Island

| Hamdeok

Hamdeok Beach is one of the best beaches to see the beautiful emerald-colored sea around Jeju. The beach is also popular among locals because of its fine sand and shallow waters. Seoubong Oreum Volcanic Cone rises up next to the beach to create a special landscape. If you follow the walking trail up Seoubong, you can take in the full view of the beach.

| Jungmun

With its wide white sandy shore and stable waves, Jungmun Saekdal Beach is a popular spot for marine leisure activities such as surfing, yachting, and water skiing. The beach is located next to Jungmun Tourist Complex, Jeju’s representative resort area, surrounded by various beautiful natural attractions. In particular, Jusangjeolli Cliff and Cheonjeyeonpokpo Falls are known for their striking beauty and often regarded as works of art sculpted by Jeju’s nature.

* This column was last updated in June 2025, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.