Gyeongpo beach
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.
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Beach description
Gyeongpo Beach is a captivating coastal strip approximately 6 km in length, with nearly one-third adorned with fine white sand and encircled by a 4 km expanse of serene pine forest. It stands as the largest public beach on the east coast of South Korea and ranks as the third most frequented. During peak season, it can accommodate up to 15,000 visitors each day.
The sea near the beach is notably deep and can be unpredictable, necessitating caution while swimming. Consequently, the beach may not be the ideal choice for families with young children. The shoreline can be steep at the water's edge, yet the sandy bottom, coupled with the sea's remarkable clarity and cleanliness, offers a refreshing experience.
The beach boasts a variety of amenities:
- Rescue services for safety;
- Beach equipment and tent rentals to enhance your stay;
- Amusements for fun and entertainment;
- Shower stalls and changing cabins for convenience;
- Complimentary parking for visitors;
- Beach volleyball courts for sports enthusiasts.
A scenic wooden boardwalk stretches along the coastline, inviting visitors to stroll beside the sea. When weariness sets in, one can seek respite in a nearby coastal cafe, restaurant, or bar, indulging in delectable Korean seafood such as crabs, shellfish, and shrimp. Some establishments even offer hammocks for guests to recline and admire the sea after a satisfying meal.
Accessing Gyeongpo Beach is a breeze, with convenient car or bus routes from Gangneung, as well as from Seoul, the nation's capital.
Optimal Visiting Times
The best time to visit South Korea for a beach vacation is during the summer months, particularly from late June to early September. This period offers the warmest weather and the most conducive conditions for enjoying the country's beautiful beaches.
- Late June to July: This is the beginning of the summer season. The weather is warm but not too hot, making it ideal for beach activities. However, it's also the start of the monsoon season, so you might experience some rainy days.
- August: Considered the peak of summer, August is the hottest month, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Beaches are lively with tourists and locals alike, and there are numerous festivals and events.
- Early September: As the summer winds down, the temperatures become milder, and the crowds start to thin out. This is a great time for those looking for a more peaceful beach experience.
It's important to note that while the summer months are the most popular for beachgoers, they also coincide with South Korea's typhoon season. Therefore, it's advisable to check the weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
Video: Beach Gyeongpo
Infrastructure
From exhilarating beach activities, visitors to Gyeongpo Beach are invited to enjoy:
- Jet skiing
- Riding water bananas
- Exploring on inflatable rafts
- Soaring in balloons
On days when the clouds gather and swimming in the sea is not an option, vacationers can cycle or stroll around the serene Gyeongpoho Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts may also indulge in sea fishing by renting a fishing boat.
As the sun sets, the beach becomes a vibrant stage for performances by visiting artists, and fireworks often illuminate the night sky. It's not uncommon for Gyeongpo Beach to attract even more visitors in the evening than during the day.
Finding accommodation for an overnight stay or an extended visit near the beach is effortless. A variety of hotels cater to different preferences, including a campsite that can accommodate up to 500 people. Among the top-tier 5-star hotels, Seamarq Hotel stands out, offering its guests not only comfortable rooms but also amenities such as a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa complex, a sauna, and more for a truly relaxing vacation.
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While resting on Gyeongpo beach, tourists have the opportunity to visit:
- ancient monuments – Gyeongpodae and Ojukheon;
- Seoraksan National Park, where about 2,000 animals and 1,400 rare plants live under UNESCO protection. There are also interesting caves with stalactites and cave corals.
In season, beach festivals are held at Gyeongpo beach, such as the Lotus Blossom Festival or Summer Beach Festival, beach dance competitions and other cultural and entertainment events. In spring, people come here to visit the Festival of Blooming Cherry. In winter, the Snow Festival is held here, the participants of which can ride a snowmobile or sled.