As the day and night briefly unite to paint the far-stretching skies in the hues of gold and orange, a spectacle arises, charming people from all over the world. Dusk & Dawn is a celebration in the nation surrounded by oceans on all three sides. It is an everyday miracle that sparkles the minds of any who witness it. There are not a few but a plethora of such unique spots where you can catch the sunset and sunrise in Korea.
The grandiosity of Korea’s cultural heritage is well-known all around the world. But upon the vast shores are the much treasured heavenly wonders bestowed on this land of the rising sun. With several iconic islands dotted on the surrounding seas and the many serene coastal sceneries, a world of wonders crafted by the sand is awaiting you to be explored, relished, and cherished!
While there are countless sunset spots in the country here are a few that demand attention.
Haeundae Beach
All that one can imagine of a dream vacation is humbly concealed in the many ambiguities of Busan. A cultural legacy that spans thousands of years and the mesmerising modern infrastructure elevates the beauty of this city to a completely different level. Haeundae Beach is the most iconic beach in the city. A perfect destination to catch the sunset and sunrise in all its magnificence.
With its shallow bay and white sand shores the view from Haeundae Beach is simply spectacular. Located close to the beach is Dongbaeksoem Island, an easy walking path that runs through a green forest to the beach and offers an open view of the sea and the island. The Haeundae Food Stall Town and the Traditional Markets along the beachside offer fresh and unique seasonal seafood.
Naksan Beach
Imagine standing atop the majestic peaks of Seoraksan mountains, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs as you gaze upon the horizon awaiting a sunrise that seems too good to be true. What might be seemingly a fictional fantasy is a reality waiting to be explored & experienced at Naksan Beach. This popular beach is situated at Gangwon-do, a province secluded on the northeastern coast of South Korea.
Located along the eastern coast, tucked away among the pine trees and the jagged rock formation, while the white foam waves crash onto the shores, the stunning scenic beauty of Naksan Beach is a must-visit spot to catch an eventful sunrise. Bestowed with magnificent Seoraksan Mountains as a backdrop and the Naksansa Temple as a popular spot, the broad walkways of the beach offer a soulful experience.
Muchangpo Beach
Located close to Seoul, Muchango Beach paints an ethereal canvas that invites exploration and discovery. A perfect summertime destination to enjoy a rejuvenating and blissful holiday time with your loved ones. The beach is well maintained and open to all water sports enthusiasts to try their hands at the games. Although there is much to cherish on this spectacular beach, the crown and the jewel is the Muchango Mystic Sea Road Festival.
Also known as the Modern Moses Miracle, this event takes place every year in the month of August. The sea splits during this festival create a 1.5 km long division all the way from Muchangpo Beach to Seokdaedo Island. A visit to this much-famed beach is highly recommended, not only for the awe-inspiring sunrises and sunset views it offers but also for the many unique festivities in and around the beach.
Daecheon Beach
A comparatively less popular but equally renowned is the splendid Daecheon Beach, also home to the vividly amusing Boryeong Mud Festival celebrated every year in the month of August. Being hardly a 3-hour drive away from Seoul makes this beach a suitable spot for the serene sunset views over the West Sea. With a sprawling 3.5km long coastline and white sand beaches, Deacheon is an odyssey of many fairy tales.
Adding a peaceful contrast to the lively vibes of the beach is its wide tidal flats, where you can take tranquil walks enjoying the blissful moments under the cerulean skies. Dotted with many islands over the horizon, the Deacheon beach is an excellent destination for sunbathing with your family. Nearby attractions on the beach include the sunset plaza and mud square. A trip to Korea’s west coast will give you the memories of a lifetime.
Eurwangni
A few minutes away from the Incheon Airport and the bustling cityscape is Eurwangni Beach. This crescent-shaped beach with its fascinating curve is filled with shallow and crystal clear water that is apt for paddling, swimming and sunbathing. Catching the auspicious sunset at Eurwangni comes with the added bonus of getting to stargaze in the shallow waters. A beach that is well suited for all that makes the beachgoer’s dreams come alive.
The beach is not the only standalone hotspot at Eurwangni. Nearby islands such as Muuido and Silmido can be easily accessed by taking a short ferry ride. Once the sun sets and the cold takes over the atmosphere, the vibrant nightlife with beachfront bars and clubs comes alive, ensuring that there is no dearth of entertainment for the visitors to relax and unwind with their family and friends.
Gyeongpo Beach
As the dawn breaks, the sun sets to paint the sky with hues of orange, filling the air with a sense of serendipity that reflects off its calm waters. Gyeongpo Beach, nestled on the east coast of South Korea boasts wide sandy shores that are perfect for sunrise strolls. Clouded by the dense pine forest that one must cross to arrive at the beach makes this beach a finely secluded sunrise viewing spot.
Not too far from the beach itself is the iconic Gyeongpo Lake. A famed romantic destination which during the spring season adorns the vibrancy of cherry blossom. You can rent a bicycle to explore the area or try your hand at windsurfing and paddle boarding. There exist many multitudes of other outdoor activities in and around the beach to explore with your family and loved ones.
Songjeong Beach
Songjeong Beach– a surfer’s paradise– is a top destination for ocean lovers. Surrounded by lush green hills all around the beach echoes the constant waves rolling out on its shores. Those who are not a big fan of surfing or other water sports can simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The beach transforms into a tranquil haven at dusk, providing a serene backdrop for sunset lovers.
Known as the only place in Busan where you can enjoy surfing thanks to the high waves, Songjeong Beach offers a more tranquil alternative to Haeundae, making it a favourite among locals. The beach’s charming cafes and seafood restaurants add more charm to its allure, making it a great place to spend a day out with your family. Visitors can walk over to nearby Jukdo Park to get a glance at the beach from up close.
Hongjodangoe (Coralsand Beach)
Far away from the bustling tourist spots, secluded in a completely off-the-path destination is the much-treasured Udo Island. A small island but has many wonders on its bucket list to be explored. Udo can only be reached by a 30-minute boat ride from Jeju Island. And there you will find the magnificent Hongjodangoe, a beach made of sand from broken corals. A truly unique marvel carved by nature to be admired by the many generations of visitors.
Hongjodangoe is also known by the name Coral Sand Beach for its beautiful coral landscape and other such attractions. The emerald-coloured waters and its calm and serene waves are a photogenic event to witness for anyone who loves nature. The best and most recommended way to explore this top destination is to take a boat tour and catch a different perspective of the Udo topography from the sea.
Jungmun Saekdal Beach
Truth it is when they say that there is no heavenly wonderland other than the alluring Jeju Island. And so it is of course without a doubt that this iconic location would seamlessly find its way into this list. Jeju Island, often called the “Hawaii of Korea,” is a haven for beach enthusiasts. Among its numerous beaches, Jungmun Saekdal Beach stands out with its stunning black sand and dramatic coastal scenery.
The waves here are perfect for surfing, a favourite destination among surfers, and you can rent equipment or take lessons from local instructors. It is in this iconic destination where the biggest international surfing competition in Korea is held.
What is a must-do activity while you are at Jeju Island is to explore the nearby lava tube caves, such as Manjanggul Cave, for a taste of Jeju’s volcanic beauty.
Jangho Beach
Nestled on Korea’s northeast coast in the Gangwin province is the picture-perfect Jangho Beach. A refreshing and rejuvenating experience will welcome you with both hands as you make your way to this coastal paradise during this holiday season. The sunsets and sunrises here are a surreal beauty that attracts tourists from all over the country. Surely you wouldn’t want to miss this off-the-path destination that is truly a must-visit beach destination.
Jangho Beach is outstandingly beautiful because of the lush green forests that surround the bay area. Along with towering cliffs standing tall in the backdrop, this beach is a picturesque tourist destination to relax with your loved ones. As is the norm in many Korean beaches, the many outdoor activities in Jangho Beach are also known to have no limits. This is an ideal destination for snorkelling and scuba diving.
Sokcho Beach
As we close in on our final destination among the best and must-visit beaches in South Korea to catch the greatest of nature’s mystery let us not miss what is one of the most iconic beaches in Korea. Sokcho Beach, located in the quiet and charming coastal city of Sokcho, offers a blend of nature’s sublime beauty amidst the many urban conveniences that are part and parcel of modern life.
What makes the Sokcho a never-to-be-missed marvel is the majestic Seoraksan Mountains surrounding the beach. With the Seoraksan Mountains as a backdrop, this beach is perfect for hiking and beachcombing alike. The peaks offer some of the most soul-filling sunrises you can ever witness. You can also indulge in fresh seafood delicacies at the bustling Sokcho Fish Market.
