20 best beaches in South Korea

Discover the enchanting Songjeong Beach (송정 해수욕장), a gem nestled on the east coast of the Sea of Japan. This idyllic spot is perfect for families with children, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. Situated in the eastern reaches of Busan, South Korea's vibrant second-largest city, Songjeong Beach is a haven for beachgoers. During the peak season, it welcomes up to 140,000 visitors each day. Venture to this coastal paradise not only to bask in the sun and take a refreshing dip but also to indulge in exhilarating water sports. Embrace the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise and the mesmerizing glow of the moon as they dance over the ocean's expanse.

Naksan Beach (낙산 해변), nestled in the northeast of South Korea's Gangwon-do province, graces the village that shares its name. A mere stone's throw from Sokcho, this tranquil haven offers a serene escape for those yearning to break free from the clamor of bustling city life. Visitors are captivated by the picturesque harmony of nature - the pristine sands, azure sky and waters, and the majestic rocks adorned with verdant pine trees.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hyeopjae Beach in Jeju, South Korea, a haven where nature's pristine splendor has been preserved. Nestled within Hanrim Park, this coastal gem is celebrated as one of the most scenic spots along the shore. Here, visitors are treated to a stunning tableau of powdery white sand, the deep cobalt hues of the ocean, and the lush greenery of evergreen forests. As you stroll along the beach, your gaze will be drawn to the picturesque Biyando Island, which lies just across the water - a sight not to be missed.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Haeundae Beach (해운대), South Korea's premier seaside destination and its largest beach, renowned for welcoming up to a million visitors on peak days. Nestled on the eastern fringe of Busan, the nation's second-largest metropolis, Haeundae Beach is not just a summer haven but a year-round center of entertainment. Beyond the quintessential beach pastimes, a diverse array of events and festivals enliven the area all year. Among these, the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) stands out as a cultural highlight. Moreover, Haeundae Beach holds a special place in the hearts of locals, who flock here to witness the first dawn of the New Year, embracing tradition and the promise of new beginnings.

Located on the picturesque south coast of Jeju Island, the beach is renowned as the island's premier surfing destination. In Russian, the name of this beach is pronounced as Chunmun, while the island itself is known as Jeju. The Korean Federation for the Environmental Movement has acknowledged this pristine coastline as the finest unpolluted beach among 44 beaches across South Korea, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Graced by the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the shores of Jeju Island present a breathtaking spectacle. However, the ocean's untamed waves often render swimming in its coastal waters a perilous endeavor. Amidst this wild beauty lies Gwakji Gwamul Beach, a serene haven renowned for its tranquil waters and gentle breezes. This idyllic setting makes it the preferred choice for beachgoers, particularly families with children, who flock to its shores in search of both safety and leisure.

Gyeongpo Beach (경포 해변) is a vast and stunning beach situated just 2 hours from Seoul, nestled between the East Sea and Gyeongpo Lake. It attracts both local residents and international tourists throughout the year, who come to marvel at the picturesque sunrise or moonrise over the ocean, the wild roses in bloom, and to capture magnificent photos. Visitors can also explore ancient buildings and other local relics, or simply indulge in the quintessential beach holiday experience.

Daecheon Beach is a vibrant and youthful destination situated in Chuncheon Province on the west coast of South Korea, merely a 2-hour drive from Seoul. Renowned for hosting the Boryeong Mud Festival every July - a two-week celebration of mud-based activities - it captivates visitors even beyond this period. Throughout the year, millions of tourists and locals flock to Daecheon Beach, drawn by its pristine sands, breathtaking sunsets, sweeping views of the Yellow Sea, and the adjacent pine forests. The area's well-developed tourist infrastructure further enhances the appeal of this coastal haven.

Hamdeok Beach, nestled on the northern coast of Jeju Island and facing the vast Pacific Ocean, lies conveniently close to the airport. This pristine destination boasts crystal-clear, turquoise waters and the finest sandy shores, a blend of white and golden hues that sparkle under the sun. Often referred to as the 'Hawaii of South Korea,' Hamdeok Beach is a serene haven, free from the usual crowds. A lofty hill extends along the entire length of the beach, offering a breathtaking panorama of the shoreline and the expansive ocean beyond.

Eurwangni Beach (을왕리 해수욕장) is a picturesque, public beach nestled in the southwest of Yongyudo Island, conveniently situated near Incheon Airport. Just an hour and a half drive from Seoul, this idyllic spot is a favorite among locals. Families often flock here on weekends to bask in the sun, take a refreshing swim, and relish the stunning sunsets that paint the horizon. Additionally, visitors can explore the array of local restaurants that offer a taste of the region's culinary delights.

Discover the expansive Sangju Beach, nestled on the southern coast of the Korean peninsula. Spanning 2 kilometers, this broad expanse of beach is blanketed with glistening silver sand. The crystal-clear waters invite you for a refreshing dip, while the picturesque thickets skirting the shore beckon nature enthusiasts for delightful excursions. Enveloped by verdant pine forests and lush rice fields, with majestic mountains standing guard, Sangju Beach is a serene haven, shielded from the robust winds. It's an idyllic escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty on their beach vacation in South Korea.

Located on the enchanting southeast coast of Jeju Island, Pyoseon Beach stands as a beloved tourist haven. Its allure is magnified by a captivating natural spectacle that unfolds at low tide: the coastline transforms into a vast, shallow lagoon, less than 1 meter deep, glistening with a kaleidoscope of shimmering hues.

Geumneung Beach, one of the largest and most beautiful beaches on Jeju Island, is caressed by the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. Its transparent waters and white sands, interspersed with delicate fragments of shells, create a paradisiacal impression. The beach boasts a lengthy and stunning coastline that offers a captivating view of the ebb and Biyangdo Island. The blue, translucent water fosters an illusion that one could simply walk to the island.

Travelers often journey to Muuido Island, home to the enchanting Hanagae Beach, by ferry. The trip is brief and straightforward. However, visitors should be mindful of the unpredictable tides, which can sometimes flood the coastline significantly. Hanagae Beach boasts a distinctive terrain, offering both sandy stretches teeming with shells in the clear shallows and rugged, stony areas that add to its natural charm.

Samyang Black Sand Beach, a hidden gem born from Jeju Island's volcanic activity, remains relatively undiscovered by tourists. However, those in the know flock to Samyang Black Sand Beach, drawn by its reputed healing properties. The beach's unique black sand glistens with silver specks under the sun's caress. Rich in iron, the black sand is believed to offer therapeutic relief for conditions such as neuralgia, arthritis, dermatitis, and even obesity. Moreover, the sand's distinctive chemical makeup is said to be effective in warding off the flu and enhancing blood circulation.