🏖️ 10 Best Beaches in Korea (2026)
10 best Korean beaches for 2026 — Haeundae, Hyeopjae, Gyeongpo and more. Water temps, surfing spots, and nearby restaurants for each beach.
1
Haeundae Beach
Busan
Korea's most famous beach stretches 1.5 km along Busan's coastline with fine sand and a bustling promenade lined with restaurants and cafes. Hosts major events including the Busan International Film Festival and a spectacular New Year's sunrise festival. The surrounding neighborhood has excellent nightlife and seafood.
2
Gwangalli Beach
Busan
Known for its stunning night view of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge, Gwangalli is Busan's second-most popular beach. The 1.4 km shoreline is lined with cafes, bars, and live music venues. The annual Gwangalli Eobang Festival features fireworks synchronized with the bridge lights.
3
Hyeopjae Beach
Jeju
Jeju's most photogenic beach with emerald-green waters and white sand backed by a lush coastal forest. Biyangdo Island visible offshore creates a perfect backdrop. The shallow, calm waters make it ideal for families. Located near Hallim Park and O'sulloc Tea Museum.
4
Gyeongpo Beach
Gangneung
A wide 1.8 km beach on the East Coast famous for its mirror-like Gyeongpo Lake just behind the shoreline. Popular for sunrise viewing and the annual cherry blossom festival along the lakeside. The surrounding pine forest provides natural shade. Easy access from Seoul via KTX (2 hours).
5
Sokcho Beach
Sokcho
A well-maintained beach at the gateway to Seoraksan National Park, offering a perfect beach-mountain combo trip. The adjacent Sokcho Tourist Fish Market serves some of the freshest seafood on the East Coast. The Abai Village across the channel is a unique cultural attraction.
6
Muchangpo Beach
Boryeong
Best known for the twice-daily 'Moses Miracle' — a natural land bridge to Seokdaedo Island revealed at low tide. Host of the famous Boryeong Mud Festival every July, attracting over a million visitors. The fine mud here is used in cosmetic products sold nationwide.
7
Jungmun Beach
Jeju
Located within the Jungmun Resort Complex, this beach features dramatic volcanic rock formations and multi-colored sand in gray, red, and white. The strong waves make it Jeju's top surfing spot. The Jusangjeolli columnar joints nearby are a must-see geological formation.
8
Eurwangni Beach
Incheon
The closest quality beach to Seoul, just 10 minutes from Incheon Airport on Yeongjong Island. Famous for its spectacular sunsets over the West Sea. The wide tidal flats at low tide are great for clamming. A perfect last-day activity before catching a flight.
9
Naksan Beach
Yangyang
A scenic East Coast beach backed by a pine forest with the historic Naksansa Temple perched on the cliff above. The sunrise here is considered one of Korea's finest. The 4 km shoreline is less crowded than nearby Sokcho. Popular with surfers in the Yangyang surfing corridor.
10
Woljeongri Beach
Jeju
An Instagram-favorite beach on Jeju's east coast known for its turquoise water and a row of colorful seaside cafes. The shallow, clear water is perfect for wading and beach photos. Nearby Woljeongri Village has charming guesthouses and restaurants. Less commercialized than Hyeopjae.
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