17 Spectacular Beaches in Korea to Beat the Summer Heat

When summer hits South Korea, it’s sweltering, sweaty, and steamy. Fortunately, there are plenty of spectacular beaches in Korea to while away a blisteringly hot summer day.

There are incredible beaches in Korea… if you know where to go.

Where are the best beaches in Korea?

Korea is a peninsula, so it’s surrounded by water on 3 sides. Beaches in Korea stretch down the east, south, and west coasts of the country. And if that isn’t enough, there are a number of gorgeous islands where you can search out the sea-soaked vibe of your dreams.

There are a ton of beaches to explore in Korea ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

If you’re looking for blue water and white sand, the beaches on the south or east coasts of Korea are your best bet. And if a tropical feel is what you’re after – Jeju is definitely the place to find it.

Really though, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Korean beaches. Happy exploring!

Beaches in Korea | Are there beaches in Seoul?

I’m sorry to report that Seoul is landlocked, so the largest body of water you’ll find in the megacity is the Han River. To find the best water and sandy beaches in Korea, I’m afraid you’ll have to travel a bit further away from the capital to the East Coast or down to Jeju Island.

Eurwangni Beach near Incheon is one of the closest beaches to Seoul. ⓒJeong Jong-ho (Korea Tourism Organization)

That said – the closest seashores to Seoul can be found on the western side of the peninsula, near Incheon International Airport. These are definitely the most practical ones to visit if you don’t want to spend all day in transit, but really need a day at the beach.

READ NEXT: The 5 Beaches Near Seoul You Can Actually Visit on a Day Trip

Beaches in Korea | Gangwon-do Beaches

Gangwon-do Province, to the east of Seoul is home to some of the very best Korean beaches. These coastlines have clear blue water, fine sand, and all the fresh seafood you could possibly devour.

The East Coast has some of the best beaches in Korea.

This string of sandy expanses includes Sokcho, Gyeongpo Beach in Gangneung, Samcheok, and Jeongdongjin Beach + many more. Read on for a rundown of our favourites.

Gyeongpo Beach | 경포 해수욕장

Address: 514, Changhae-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 강릉시 창해로 514 (안현동)

Gyeongpo Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Gangwon-do for good reason. It’s a 4-km stretch of golden sand, backed by fresh pine trees facing a huge expanse of ocean. The water is such a glorious shade of blue, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Korea.

Gyeongpo Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Korea.

If you plan to visit over a summer weekend or holiday, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance as hotels do get fully booked up. At busy times, it’s also better to use the KTX instead of driving or using a bus, due to the crazy traffic jams. (I once spent 6 hours on an express bus trying to get to the beach – no exaggeration and not fun).

Check out our complete guide to Gyeongpo Beach for hotel recommendations, transport info, and all the best things to do in the area.

Anmok Beach | 안목해변

Address: 20-1, Changhae-ro 14beon-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 강릉시 창해로14번길 20-1

If your idea of heaven is relaxing in a cafe with stunning views of the sea, then Anmok Beach in Korea is the perfect place for you. This 500 metre stretch of white sand is lined with over 30 seaside cafes on what’s known as Gangneung Coffee Street.

Gangneung Coffee Street makes Anmok Beach a big draw for caffeine lovers.

This area of the country is considered the birthplace of modern coffee culture in Korea, and it’s well worth a visit. It’s very close to Gyeongpo Beach and Gangneung, so it’s totally possible to visit on a day trip if you prefer.

READ NEXT: Visiting Anmok Beach and Gangneung Coffee Street

Jeongdongjin Beach | 정동진해변

Address: 17, Jeongdongyeok-gil, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do | 강원도 강릉시 강동면 정동역길 17 (강동면)

There’s one big reason to visit Jeongdongjin Beach and it’s not just to visit a Korean beach, though you’ll certainly get your share of sand and surf there. No, you want to go there to see one of the country’s quirkiest hotels – the Sun Cruise Resort.

This crazy cruise ship to nowhere is perched atop a cliff overlooking the sea. It has a Sunrise Garden, sculpture park, observation platform for you to explore during your stay, outdoor swimming pool plus kitsch that just can’t be beat.

If you plan to spend the night on Jeongdongjin Beach, do yourself a favour and book a room at the Sun Cruise Resort in advance. It does regularly sell out, especially in the summer months.

Yangyang Surfyy Beach (Hajodae) | 양양 서피비치

Address: 119, Hajodaehaean-gil, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do | 강원도 양양군 현북면 하조대해안길 119

Surfyy Beach is one of the best beaches in Korea to try out surfing (hence its name). This is a 1-km long private beach zone within Hajodae Beach near Yangyang, that has perfect waves and a super chilled out vibe.

Surfyy Beach is a private beach where you can learn how to surf. ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

There are separate areas for surfers and swimmers, as well as beanbag and hammock zones designed for total relaxation. Be sure to stick around after sunset for a party on the beach, where you can mingle with other guests and groove to live DJs.

Naksan Beach | 낙산 해수욕장

Address: 59, Haemaji-gil, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do | 강원도 양양군 강현면 해맞이길 59

Naksan Beach is one of the most visited beaches in Korea. Every year, over 1 million people descend upon its shores to relax and rejuvenate next to the water.

Naksan is one of the most popular beaches in Korea.

This is a wide, spacious 4 kilometre swathe of beige-ish sand, with calm, shallow that’s great for families. There are also a ton of nearby amenities, including convenience stores, shellfish BBQ restaurants and motels.

Aside from the salty sea air, the big draw here is the nearby Naksansa Temple – where you can see the white granite visage of Haesugwaneumsang (the Bodhisattva of Mercy) gazing out towards the tides in peaceful meditation.

Naksansa Temple is an excellent break from the Korean beach.

Beaches in Korea | Busan Beaches

There are 7 public beaches spread across the city of Busan on the south eastern coast of Korea. During summer, these Korean beaches are fully staffed with lifeguards and equipped with facilities like shower and changing rooms for your convenience.

Haeundae Beach | 해운대 해수욕장

Address: 264, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan | 부산광역시 해운대구 해운대해변로 264 (우동)

Haeundae Beach is a vast 1.5-km long beach, right in the middle of the city. It’s probably one of the most famous beaches in Korea, with clean sand and a stunning night view full of skyscrapers. You can see this beach starring in the disaster movie “Haeundae.”

Haeundae Beach is an incredible beach right in Busan. Photo ⓒLive Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

Haeundae is a city beach in Korea, so there’s no shortage of accommodation, activities and attractions in the area. Be sure to plan your trip well in advance if you want to stay beachfront.

Gwangalli Beach | 광안리해수욕장

Address: 219, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan | 부산광역시 수영구 광안해변로 219 (광안동)

Gwangalli Beach is a long, wide beach in Busan, with super fine sand and pristine water. It has a more relaxed vibe than Haeundae Beach, but it still has all the restaurants, cafes, and amenities nearby that you could wish for.

Gwangalli Beach has a more relaxed vibe. ⓒ Live Studio, Korea Tourism Organization

After a day relaxing on the beach, many people stick around until after dark for an amazing view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge lit up in the distance.

Beaches in Korea | Geoje Island

Geoje Island is a large island on the south cost of Korea, not too far from Busan. Even though it’s an island, it’s possible to to drive there from the mainland on a series of bridges. There’s not a single ferry required, so it’s very low stress.

There are 16 beaches in Korea on Geoje Island, ranging from sandy to pebbled. Here’s a few to check out.

Gujora Beach | 구조라해수욕장

Address: Irun-myeon, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do | 경상남도 거제시 일운면

Gujora Beach is a 1.1-km long stretch of sandy beach on Geoje Island. The emerald green water is warm, calm, and shallow, making it ideal for swimming and a perfect place for a family day out.

The Oedo Nursery on Gujora Beach is a great place to take a cafe break.

When you tire of the beach, be sure to visit Oedo Nursery Cafe. It’s an incredible greenhouse cafe right on the shores of Gujora Beach, with epic views and delicious desserts.

READ NEXT: How to Visit Maemiseong: The Magical Castle on Geoje Island

Hakdong Mongdol Beach | 학동몽돌해변

Address: 18-1, Hakdong 6-gil, Geoje-si, Gyeongsangnam-do | 경상남도 거제시 동부면 학동6길 18-1

If you prefer rocky beaches in Korea to sand, Hakdong Mongdol (black pearl) Beach was the one most recommended to us by locals on Geoje Island. The small pebbles on this beach are smooth, so walking barefoot on them activates accupressure points on your feet.

Hakdong Mongdol Beach is beloved by locals ⓒ BOKEH, Korea Tourism Organization

Flanked by Nojasan Mountain and Garasan Mountain, Hakdong stretches out for just over 1-km. Hakdong Beach is named for the Korean word for crane (hak) due to its shape, which resembles a crane flying up into the sky.

Wahyeon Beach | 와현 모래숲해변

Address: Gyeongsangnam-do, Geoje-si | 일운면 와현해변길 34

Wahyeon Beach in Korea is not too far from Gujora Beach, but it has quite a different vibe. Wahyeon is set within a small fishing village and has a more intimate feeling.

Wahyeon Beach on Geoje Island has a relaxed feeling.

The water here is calm and gentle, the sand is soft, and there are wonderful views out across the sea. I’d say this is a Korean beach on Geoje Island that is more frequented by locals than visitors.

Beaches in Korea | Jeju Island Beaches

There’s no doubt that Jeju Island has the very best beaches in Korea. The “Hawaii of Korea,” New Natural World Wonder, and sub-tropical island is surrounded by kilometres and kilometres of gorgeous coastline just waiting to be discovered.

Jeju Island has the picture perfect Korean beaches you’ve been dreaming about.

Udo Sanho Beach (Seobinbaeksa) | 우도 산호해변 (서빈백사)

Address: Udohaean-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 제주시 우도면 우도해안길 252

If there’s one beach in Korea you have to visit for pure beauty, this is it. With creamy white sand and luminescent waters ranging in colour from turquoise to aqua-green, Udo Sanho Beach is the Korean beach of your dreams. This is the only beach in Korea that’s comprised entirely of broken down coral, and it is simply exquisite.

If there’s one beach in Korea to visit, it’s Udo Sanho Beach ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

To reach Seobinbaeksa, you’ll have to get on a ferry and travel to Udo Island which is just east of Jeju Island. It’s well worth the short trip and cost. Seobin Beach is so special, it’s been designated as Natural Monument No. 438, and it regularly appears in commercials, films and K-dramas due to its breathtaking appearance.

Hamdeok Beach | 함덕 서우봉해변

Address: 519-10, Johamhaean-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 제주시 조천읍 조함해안로 519-10

Hamdeok Beach is an absolutely stunning beach in Korea with gorgeous turquoise water, black volcanic rocks, and white sand. Located 14 kilometres east of Jeju City, it’s actually made up of 3 separate beaches, which are shielded from the winds by Seoubong Peak.

The disappearing sandbar is a unique feature of Hamdeok Beach

This is a great Korean beach for families with excellent amenities, restaurants and cafes nearby, and calm water. Don’t miss the huge sandbar that magically rises out of the sea in the mornings. It’s perfect for kids who want to spend the day playing with soft sand, cooling off in tidal pools and discovering small sea life.

READ NEXT: Complete Guide to Hamdeok Beach on Jeju Island

Hyeopjae Beach | 협재해변

Address: 329-10, Hallim-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 제주시 한림읍 한림로 329-10

Hyeopjae Beach is actually comprised of 2 separate beaches – the main beach and Geumreung Beach to the southwest. This is a beautiful white sand beach in Korea with crystal clear aquamarine water, and a gentle slope into the water, that’s perfect for young families.

Look out for the shipping container village across the street from Hyeopjae Beach, where you can visit food stalls, have ice cream, or rent a stylish AirBnB.

Hyeopjae Beach has gorgeous aquamarine water and fine white sand.

If you need a break from the beach, head to nearby Hallim Park, where you can enjoy a variety of botanical gardens, a Palm Tree Road, the Jeju Stone and Bonsai Garden, Water Garden, and more. Be sure to check out Hyeopjaegul and Ssangyonggul within the park. They’re the only two-dimensional lava caves in the world.

Gwakji Beach | 곽지해수욕장

Address: 914 Gwakji-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea

Gwakji Beach in Korea has fine white sand, luminescent water, and a relaxed, peaceful vibe. There’s an open-air, clothing optional bath at one end of the beach. You can brave the freezing cold spring water when you need a break from the summer heat, or want to wash the salt of the sea off your skin.

Try out this freshwater spring on Gwakji Beach in Jeju if you dare.

Beaches in Korea | West Coast Beaches

I have to be honest. I would only go to the west coast beaches in Korea if I couldn’t get to one of the other coasts. Why? The water at these beaches are typically very shallow, with long tides, and muddier sand. It can be a bit difficult to swim properly, because the water is so shallow.

However, if you’re after epic sunsets, the beaches on Korea’s west coast are where it’s at.

Daecheon Beach is the biggest beach on Korea’s West Coast ⓒ Kim Jiho, Korea Tourism Organization

Daecheon Beach | 대천해수욕장

Address: 123, Meodeu-ro, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 보령시 머드로 123

Daecheon Beach in Chungcheongnam-do Province is a 3.5-km long, 100-m wide sandy beach. This is the biggest Korean beach on the west coast.

Prepare to get dirty at the Boryeong Mud Festival on Daecheon Beach ⓒ Jeong Sung-joo, Korea Tourism Organization

Daecheon Beach is probably best known for the super popular Boryeong Mud Festival. During the day, revellers roll around in the mineral rich mud of the area, before partying the night away to K-pop and EDM beats. This is definitely one of the best festivals to attend in Korea.

READ NEXT: How to Survive a Super Sweaty Summer in Seoul

Muchangpo Beach | 무창포해수욕장

Address: 10, Yeollinbada 1-gil, Boryeong-si, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 보령시 웅천읍 열린바다1길 10

In 1928, Muchangpo Beach was the first beach to open on Korea’s West Coast. The beach stretches out for 1.5-km in front of a lush pine forest. The water temperature is usually a comfortable 22 degrees Celsius. Be sure to stick around to watch the gorgeous sunsets on warm summer evenings.

You can watch the sea part at Muchangpo Beach in Korea by Asadal Lee (CC BY-SA 2.0 KR)

If you happen to be at Muchangpo Beach in Korea at the right time, you can witness a sea parting phenomenon. This 1.5-km “Mystic Sea Road” between Muchangpo Beach and Seokdaedo Island appears when the water levels go down due to the difference in tides. Join the locals in searching for clams, crabs and shellfish.

Sinduri Beach & Coastal Sand Dune | 신두리해수욕장 & 태안 신두리 해안사구

Address: Sindu-ri, Taean-gun, Chungcheongnam-do | 충청남도 태안군 원북면 신두리 산 263-1

If you’d like a desert feel along with your beach, there’s only one place in Korea to find it. The sand dune on Sinduri Beach in Taean is Korea’s only one. It’s thought that this sand dune was formed 15,000 years ago, after the Ice Age when sand was carried to the coast from the sea by strong winds.

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There you have it! 17 spectacular beaches in Korea (and a few islands too). Which one is calling you to its sandy shores?