posted on October 25, 2023
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Are you and your partner searching for the most beautiful beaches in Busan, South Korea? You’ve come to the right place!
From sandy shores and hidden coves to historic ruins, the stunning beaches of Busan will create lasting memories for you and your loved one. Whether you’re seeking luxury spas or vibrant nightlife, Busan offers a beach experience for every couple.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top beaches in Busan. Explore the unique charm of each beach, so you can choose the perfect spot for your getaway. Additionally, we will provide information on transportation options and local attractions to simplify your Busan itinerary!
So grab your swimsuits and sunscreen and let’s set off to explore the breathtaking shores of Busan!
Visiting Busan for the first time? Check out these travel resources to make your planning easier:
→ eSIM: Stay connected in Korea by purchasing an eSIM.
→ VPN: Enhance your privacy and online security with a VPN.
→ Flight deals: Click here for the best flight deals.
→ Car rental: Explore Busan at your own pace with a rental car or hire a driver.
→ Hotels: Reserve one of the best luxury hotels in Busan for your stay!
→ Korea Rail Pass: Traveling by train across Korea? Save money and time with a Korail Pass!
→ Short on time? Consider the Visit Busan Pass to discover major attractions in just 48 hours!
→ Need assistance with your Korea trip? These useful tools will guide you throughout the country!
→ Tax Refund: Follow our step-by-step guide for claiming tax refunds in Korea.
→ Tours: Explore these top-rated tours…
❋ 1-day Busan city tour: Visit Haeundae Blueline Park, Gamcheon Cultural Village, and more!
❋ Day tour of UNESCO sites in Gyeongju from Busan.
❋ Night photo tour in Busan.
❋ A day trip to Oedo Botania and Geoje Island.
❋ Experience a yacht tour in Busan—daytime, nighttime, or sunset!
☀️Best Beaches in Busan: Haeundae Beach
Haeundae Beach is the crown jewel of Busan and its most celebrated beach! With its soft sands and clear waters, it’s a romantic escape right in the city’s heart. Whether you want to surf, paraglide, or jet ski, the activities are abundant!
Alternatively, you can unwind on a river cruise!
While it can get busy in the summer, it’s definitely worth experiencing. The beach is lined with luxurious hotels, fine dining options, charming cafes, and excellent shopping centers. It’s a complete package!
Don’t miss the delectable seafood along the beach, where family-owned restaurants and street vendors offer Busan’s famous fish cakes and fresh catches. Delicious!
As the sun sets, nearby bars and clubs come alive, making it the perfect time to dance the night away.
And here’s an added bonus: On clear days, you can catch a glimpse of Japan’s coast from Dalmaji Hill. At night, the sea sparkles with reflections of the city’s shimmering skyscrapers—a breathtaking sight in Haeundae, Busan.
If you haven’t visited Haeundae Beach yet, what are you waiting for? It’s truly the best beach in Busan!
🏖️ Perfect for: People-watching.
💎 Nearby attractions: Haeundae Blueline Park, Haeundae Night Market, Shinsegae Centum City department store, Museum 1, SEALIFE Busan Aquarium, Busan x The Sky, The Bay 101.
📍 How to get to Haeundae: Take Subway Line 2 to Haeundae Station, then exit through gates 3 or 5.
☀️Best Beaches in Busan: Gwangalli Beach
Gwangalli Beach (also known as Gwangan Beach) is another fantastic spot near the city center. While often overshadowed by Haeundae, Gwangalli possesses its own unique allure that many foreign visitors have yet to discover.
The beach features a stunning 1.4 km stretch of gleaming sand shaped like a half-moon cove, with the impressive Diamond Bridge (also known as Gwangandaegyo) in the background. It becomes even more breathtaking at night when the bridge is lit up.
Fun fact: Marvel fans may remember this bridge from its appearance in the Black Panther movie!
Although Gwangalli’s waves are gentle, it’s still a popular spot for surfers. If you’re looking for exciting water sports like jet skiing or windsurfing, this is the place to be!
Prefer a more relaxing day? You can soak up the sun on the beach while lounging under cozy umbrellas or on rental sun loungers (available for just 5,000 won per day!).
Feeling hungry or thirsty? Gwangalli has an abundance of restaurants, craft breweries, and coffee shops nearby, so you’ll find delicious refreshments close at hand.
During the summer, this beach turns into a lively entertainment hub, featuring engaging dance performances, impressive magic shows, and vibrant busking. Get ready for an exciting visit!
🏖️ Perfect for: Street performances and watching the Gwangan Bridge light show.
💎 Nearby attractions: Diamond Bridge, Suyeongman Bay Yachting Center, F1963.
📍 How to get to Gwangalli: Take Subway Line 2 to either Gwangan Station (exit 5) or Geumnyeosan Station (exit 3).
☀️Best Beaches in Busan: Songdo Beach
Songdo Beach is a fantastic destination for a lovely day trip! Although it measures 800 meters long and 50 meters wide—smaller than some of the flashier beaches—its relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals.
In the summer, the beach bustles with swimmers and is surrounded by a range of restaurants and cafes for your snacking needs.
To enjoy more of the scenery, stroll along the 365-meter-long Songdo Skywalk, which has a glass floor for mesmerizing views. It connects to Geobukseom Island (Turtle Island), and witnessing the sunset from Songdo Skywalk is truly unforgettable!
But the standout attraction is the Busan Air Cruise marine cable car! Board it and take in breathtaking views of the bay, especially during sunset, as you travel from Songnim Park to Annam Park.
Throughout the year, Songdo Beach hosts various festivals, including the Sunrise Festival in January, the Daljip Festival in February, the lively Summer Sea Festival, Hyeonin Song Festival, and National Marine Sports Competition in August, as well as the Mackerel Festival in October!
🏖️ Perfect for: Sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying gorgeous nature views.
💎 Nearby attractions: Songdo Cloud Trails, Songdo Cable Car, Songdo Yonggung Suspension Bridge, Amnam Park, Busan Tower.
📍 How to get to Songdo: From Jagalchi subway station (exit 2), take bus number 17, 26, or 61, and get off at Songdo Entrance.
☀️Best Beaches in Busan: Dadaepo Beach
If you’re searching for a hidden gem for a beach day, look no further than Dadaepo Beach!
A bit outside the city center, this beach rewards you with peace and tranquility, along with stunning views.
The breathtaking Dadaepo Beach boasts a 1 km coastline at the mouth of the Nakdonggang River.
Just a bit further up the coast, you’ll find marshland that draws in a variety of migratory birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts, especially during peak seasons.
Music lovers shouldn’t miss the Busan International Rock Festival in August, an exciting chance to enjoy vibrant performances while cooling off in the summer heat.
With stunning sunsets that will wow amateur photographers, Dadaepo Beach offers something for everyone—from fun activities to cultural experiences.
Don’t miss out on visiting the mudflats, a popular activity among manyThings to do in Busan!
Here are a few additional tips:
- If you’re in Busan during New Year’s celebrations, join the festivities on New Year’s morning with fellow beachgoers to witness the breathtaking sunrise.
- Pack a picnic to fully enjoy this hidden paradise on your getaway!
🏖️ Perfect for: Escaping the crowds.
💎 Nearby attractions: Hwasondae, Gyeongdo, Morundae Observatory, Amisan Observatory.
📍 How to get to Dadaepo: From Busan Station, take bus number 2 or 98, or take Subway Line 1 to Dadaepo Beach Station.
☀️Best Beaches in Busan: Songjeong Beach
For a peaceful beach escape, visit the lesser-known Songjeong Beach located at the eastern end of Busan. Even though it’s close to Haeundae Beach, this hidden jewel remains pleasantly uncrowded.
This beach is an absolute paradise for surfers, thanks to its gentle waves, shallow waters, and warm ambiance throughout the year.
Food enthusiasts also flock to this area for the freshest seafood, guaranteed to delight your palate!
The beach hosts the annual Songjeong Beach Festival (August) and the Harvest Full Moon Seaweed Festival (September), providing an exciting experience during your visit.
And don’t forget to explore the northeast side of the beach, featuring amazing fishing spots. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can join delightful boat excursions!
🏖️ Perfect for: Surfing.
💎 Nearby attractions: Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, Haeundae Blueline Park, Cheongsapo Daritdol Observatory, Brick Campus Busan.
📍 How to get to Songjeong: From Haeundae subway station (exit 7), take bus 100, 139, or 142, and get off at Songjeong.
Busan Beaches Map
For your convenience, we’ve plotted these beaches on a map for easy navigation:
FAQs about Visiting Busan
Does Busan have good beaches?
Located along the coastline, Busan boasts a variety of beautiful beaches that cater to any preference.
With stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and countless activities, Busan’s beaches offer both relaxation and adventure.
So whether you’re in the mood for tranquility or excitement, you’ll discover something special at the beaches in Busan. Check out the list above to find the beach that’s right for you.
What is the most famous beach in Busan?
Haeundae Beach is widely regarded as the most well-known beach in Busan, South Korea. Known for its expansive sandy shores and beautiful scenery, Haeundae is a popular destination not just in Busan but throughout South Korea!
Do people swim at the beach in Busan?
Yes, people swim at Busan’s beaches, especially during the summer months from late June to August. With pleasant water temperatures and inviting shores, beachgoers enjoy refreshing swims while basking in the sun.
All the beaches listed above provide ample swimming opportunities and offer a range of amenities and water sports to ensure your beach experience in Busan is memorable.
Are Busan beaches warm?
During July, the sea temperature in Busan averages around a comfortable 23.6°C (74.5°F), reaching highs of 26.4°C (79.4°F) and lows of 20.9°C (69.5°F).
At Haeundae Beach, temperatures can even hit a refreshing 26°C (78°F) from July through September!
So yes, Busan’s beaches are indeed perfect for swimming and having fun in the water!
Where to stay in Busan near the beach?
Want to be close to the beaches in Busan? Check out these top accommodations:
👉🏻 For more options, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide to hotels in Busan!
What is the best time of year to visit Busan?
The ideal time to visit Busan, South Korea, is from April to November. The weather is pleasantly mild, making outdoor activities and exploration enjoyable.
Plus, April brings the gorgeous cherry blossom season, adding an enchanting touch to the city.
However, don’t fret if you can’t visit during these months. Busan is a fantastic travel destination year-round. We visited in December and January, and although swimming wasn’t on our agenda, we enjoyed the thinner crowds! Just be ready for a bit of wind. 😉
Which city has more to see for visitors, Seoul or Busan?
When it comes to tourist attractions, both Seoul and Busan boast a remarkable variety for visitors to discover! However, Seoul, as South Korea’s capital, significantly raises the bar with its historical and cultural significance.
Seoul features iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and N Seoul Tower that will leave you in awe! Additionally, the vibrant neighborhoods of Myeongdong, Hongdae, and Insadong provide rich shopping, dining (especially the adorable cafés!), and traditional Korean culture all in one area.
But don’t underestimate Busan! This city is renowned for its stunning beaches that draw tourists from near and far, delivering coastal beauty that’s truly exceptional. Attractions like Gamcheon Cultural Village, Busan Tower, and the bustling Jagalchi Market are just a glimpse of what Busan has in store.
Ultimately, your choice between Seoul and Busan depends on your personal interests.
Seoul offers an incredible mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and a bustling city vibe. Meanwhile, Busan presents a coastal retreat with stunning beaches and unique cultural experiences. No matter what you choose, prepare for an unforgettable journey!
What is the distance between Seoul and Busan?
The distance from Seoul to Busan is approximately 325 km (202 miles) by road, but actual distances may vary depending on your chosen route.
Traveling between the two cities via Korea’s high-speed train, the KTX, typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The KTX is the most convenient and efficient way to travel between Seoul and Busan—our top recommendation!
If you’re interested in exploring more of Korea beyond just Seoul and Busan, consider getting the Korail Pass! This pass can save you money as you visit various incredible cities across Korea!
Other Fun Things to Do in Busan
In addition to its beaches, Busan offers a wealth of exciting activities! Here are some of our top recommendations:
1. Explore Gamcheon Culture Village: Immerse yourself in the colorful streets filled with spectacular murals and unique architecture.
2. Shop to your heart’s content at Nampodong Street: Explore the bustling shops, boutiques, and delicious street food stalls, and treat yourself to delightful local snacks!
3. Dive into Jagalchi Market: This lively seafood market is famous for its fresh fish and seafood.
4. Find serenity at Beomeosa Temple: Delight in the tranquility of this stunning Buddhist temple enveloped by nature and showcasing remarkable architecture.
5. Cameras ready for the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF): If you visit in October, be sure to catch Asia’s most prestigious film festival featuring an incredible selection of films.
6. Visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple: Be amazed by this beautiful seaside temple with intricate designs and captivating ocean views.
7. Engage with art at the Busan Museum of Art: Explore Busan’s vibrant arts scene through a mix of contemporary and traditional exhibits.
8. Indulge in delightful seafood: Busan is famed for its fresh and delicious seafood. Don’t miss the chance to savor recipes like raw fish (hoe) or grilled clams (jogaetang).
Ultimately, Busan presents a wealth of stunning beaches that cater to couples seeking a break from the city. Whether you prefer lively beaches filled with activities or a more tranquil romantic hideaway, there’s something for everyone!
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect beach in Busan for your trip.
Have you traveled to South Korea before? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
