Best East Coast Destinations in Korea: My Favorite Summer Beach Getaways from Seoul
After living in Seoul for more than 30 years, I've noticed something about every Korean summer. As soon as the hot and humid weather arrives, many people start thinking about escaping to the East Coast.
When my friends from overseas visit Korea, one of the questions they ask most often is:
"Where can I find the most beautiful beaches in South Korea?"
My answer is almost always the same.
"Jeju Island is wonderful, but if you want to experience where Koreans actually spend their summer vacations, head to Korea's East Coast."
The East Coast offers crystal-clear blue water, clean sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and breathtaking sunrises. It's one of my favorite places to escape the city whenever I need a break from Seoul.
In this guide, I'll share the East Coast destinations I've personally visited and confidently recommend to first-time visitors looking for an authentic Korean summer experience.
Why Visit Korea's East Coast?
Unlike the busy streets of Seoul, Korea's East Coast offers a completely different atmosphere.
Many Koreans spend their summer holidays here because they can enjoy:
Beautiful beaches with clear water
Fresh seafood caught daily
Scenic coastal cafés
Relaxing seaside towns
Some of the most spectacular sunrises in Korea
If you're planning a summer trip to South Korea, I believe the East Coast deserves a place on your itinerary.
1. Gangneung – The Best East Coast City for First-Time Visitors
If someone asks me where they should visit first on Korea's East Coast, I almost always recommend Gangneung.
It offers an excellent balance of beaches, cafés, transportation, and local food, making it perfect for international travelers.
Location
Gangwon Province
How to Get There from Seoul
Take the KTX high-speed train from:
Seoul Station
Cheongnyangni Station
Arrival:
Gangneung Station
Travel Time:
Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
Estimated Fare:
KRW 28,000–35,000
Places I Recommend
Gyeongpo Beach
Anmok Coffee Street
Jumunjin Port
Gangneung Jungang Market
Typical Accommodation Costs
Guesthouse:
KRW 30,000–60,000
Hotel:
KRW 80,000–200,000
2. Sokcho – Mountains and the Sea in One Trip
Sokcho is probably the East Coast city I've visited the most.
One of the biggest reasons is that you can hike in Seoraksan National Park in the morning and relax by the ocean in the afternoon.
How to Get There
Express bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal
Travel Time:
About 2 hours 30 minutes
Fare:
KRW 20,000–30,000
Must-Visit Attractions
Sokcho Beach
Seoraksan National Park
Yeonggeumjeong Pavilion
Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market
Local Foods to Try
Ojingeo Sundae (Stuffed Squid)
Mulhoe (Cold Raw Fish Soup)
Snow Crab
3. Yangyang – Korea's Surfing Paradise
In recent years, Yangyang has become one of the trendiest beach destinations among young Korean travelers and international visitors.
Some people even call it "Korea's Little California."
Getting There
Express bus from Seoul
Travel Time:
Around 2 hours
Fare:
KRW 18,000–25,000
Recommended Attractions
Jukdo Beach
Surfyy Beach
Naksansa Temple
Why Visit?
Surfing lessons
Stylish beach cafés
Young and energetic atmosphere
Surf Lesson Cost
Approximately KRW 50,000–80,000
4. Samcheok – A Peaceful Hidden Gem
If you prefer quiet beaches without large crowds, Samcheok is worth considering.
Recommended Attractions
Jangho Port
Samcheok Beach
Hwanseongul Cave
Getting There
Take the KTX to Gangneung, then continue by bus.
You can also take an intercity bus directly.
Travel Time:
Around 3 hours
Why I Recommend It
Clean coastline
Relaxed atmosphere
Great for families
5. Donghae City – A Favorite Summer Escape for Koreans
Although Donghae is less well known internationally, many Koreans have been vacationing here for years.
Places to Visit
Mukho Port
Nongoldam-gil Village
Mangsang Beach
Highlights
Beautiful sunrise views
Charming fishing port
More affordable hotels
6. Uljin – Perfect for Nature Lovers
Uljin is one of the quieter destinations along Korea's southern East Coast.
Recommended Attractions
Jukbyeon Port
Seongnyugul Cave
Mangyangjeong Pavilion
Why Visit?
Peaceful environment
Beautiful natural scenery
Fewer tourists
7. Pohang – Sunrise and Seafood
Pohang is one of the largest cities on Korea's southeastern coast.
Getting There
Take the KTX from Seoul.
Travel Time:
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Must-See Attractions
Yeongildae Beach
Homigot Sunrise Square
Space Walk
Famous Local Foods
Gwamegi (Semi-Dried Pacific Herring)
Mulhoe
Snow Crab
Estimated Budget for a 3-Day East Coast Trip
Transportation
Round trip:
KRW 50,000–100,000
Accommodation
KRW 100,000–300,000
Food
KRW 60,000–150,000
Attractions and Activities
KRW 50,000–100,000
Estimated Total
KRW 250,000–600,000
Practical Travel Tips
Avoid Peak Vacation Weeks
Late July through early August is Korea's busiest vacation season.
Hotels become much more expensive, and beaches can get crowded.
Reserve KTX Tickets Early
Train tickets often sell out well in advance during summer holidays.
Consider Renting a Car
Destinations like Sokcho, Yangyang, and Samcheok are much easier to explore with your own vehicle.
Don't Miss Sunrise
One of the biggest highlights of Korea's East Coast is watching the sunrise over the East Sea.
If possible, wake up early at least once during your trip—you won't regret it.
Final Thoughts
After living in Seoul for more than three decades, I've visited many beaches throughout Korea. Yet whenever summer arrives, I still find myself thinking about the East Coast first.
Among all the places I've explored, Gangneung and Sokcho have consistently been the destinations that impressed my international friends the most. The combination of beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, scenic cafés, and a slower pace of life offers a completely different side of Korea that many travelers never get to experience.
If you're planning a summer trip to South Korea, I highly recommend adding the East Coast to your itinerary. Watching the sunrise over the sea is one of those travel memories that stays with you long after your vacation ends.
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