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Gangwon Beaches BEST 10

Discover Gangwon's stunning coastline with 10 beautiful beaches, from serene sands to scenic trails.

By Chansoo Yang5/29/20265 min read
Gangwon Beaches BEST 10

Gangwon Province, stretching along South Korea's eastern coast, is renowned for its picturesque beaches. This region offers a diverse range of coastal experiences, from the lively shores of popular resorts to secluded coves perfect for quiet contemplation. The East Sea here is known for its clear waters and beautiful natural surroundings.

This guide curates 10 of the best beaches in Gangwon, selected for their unique charm, natural beauty, and accessibility. We've considered factors such as sand quality, water clarity, surrounding scenery, and available amenities to provide a well-rounded selection for various types of travelers. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, these beaches offer memorable experiences.

When visiting, remember that summer (June to August) is peak season, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. Spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer visitors, ideal for scenic walks and enjoying the coastal atmosphere. Always verify local conditions and opening hours before your visit.

Gangwon Beaches BEST 10

  1. 1.삼척해수욕장

    삼척해수욕장

    Samcheok Beach is a sandy coastal destination in Gangwon Province, suitable for swimming with gentle waves.

    • Wide sandy shoreline
    • Gentle waves for swimming
    • Accessible by train/car

    Samcheok Beach is a sandy coastal destination in Gangwon Province, easily accessible by train or car from Seoul. The beach stretches across a wide shoreline with gentle waves, making it suitable for swimming during summer months. The surrounding area offers basic facilities including changing rooms and showers, plus nearby cafes. Visitors can enjoy beach walks or admire the rocky cliffs along the coastline, appealing to families and solo travelers seeking a less crowded experience.

    Address: 강원특별자치도 삼척시 수로부인길 453

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  2. 2.Hyanghohaebyeon Beach (향호해변)

    Hyanghohaebyeon Beach (향호해변)

    Hyanghohaebyeon Beach offers a quiet seaside escape with a sandy shore and pine forests.

    • Quiet, less crowded
    • Pine forests for shade
    • Near a fishing village

    Hyanghohaebyeon Beach sits along Gangwon's eastern coastline, offering visitors a quieter alternative to crowded summer destinations. The beach features a gently sloping sandy shore ideal for swimming and wading, with pine forests providing natural shade and shelter from ocean winds. Basic facilities like restrooms and parking are available, with lifeguards present during peak season. You can experience traditional coastal community culture in the nearby fishing village.

    Address: Hyangho-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do

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  3. 3.Seorak Beach (설악해수욕장)

    Seorak Beach (설악해수욕장)

    Seorak Beach is a popular sandy beach near Seoraksan National Park.

    • Clean waters
    • Proximity to Seoraksan
    • Water sports available

    Seorak Beach is a popular coastal destination located in Gangwon province, offering visitors a sandy shoreline backed by mountainous terrain. The beach is known for its clean waters and proximity to Seoraksan National Park, making it a natural waypoint for those exploring the region's scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy swimming and water sports during the summer. Many combine beach visits with hiking and mountain tourism, using the beach as an entry point to the Seoraksan area.

    Address: Dwinnaru 2-gil, Ganghyeon-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do

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  4. 4.Maengbanghaebyeon Beach (맹방해변)

    Maengbanghaebyeon Beach (맹방해변)

    Maengbanghaebyeon Beach features a long, wide sandy shoreline backed by pine forests.

    • Long, wide sandy shore
    • Pine forest backdrop
    • Gradual water depth

    Maengbanghaebyeon Beach stretches along the eastern coast of Gangwon Province, offering a long, wide sandy shoreline that draws visitors seeking a quieter alternative to busier East Sea destinations. The beach is flanked by pine forests that provide natural shade and a scenic backdrop. Its relatively gradual water depth makes it suitable for visitors of all ages. Nearby restaurants serve fresh seafood caught along the Gangwon coast.

    Address: 228-239 Maengbanghaebyeon-ro, Samcheok-si, Gangwon-do

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  5. 5.Gonghyeonjin1-rihaebyeon Beach (공현진1리해변)

    Gonghyeonjin1-rihaebyeon Beach (공현진1리해변)

    Gonghyeonjin 1-ri Beach is a quiet stretch of shoreline with a local fishing village vibe.

    • Quiet, local character
    • Pine trees for shade
    • Good for coastal drives

    Gonghyeonjin 1-ri Beach sits along the eastern coast of Gangwon Province, offering a relatively quiet stretch of shoreline compared to the region's more crowded resort beaches. The beach is backed by a small fishing village, giving it an unhurried, local character that appeals to visitors seeking authenticity. Pine trees along the coast provide natural shade. It's a suitable stop for those driving along the Gangwon coast.

    Address: Gonghyeonjin1-ri, Jugwang-myeon, Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do

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  6. 6.Baekdohaebyeon Beach (백도해변)

    Baekdohaebyeon Beach (백도해변)

    Baekdohaebyeon Beach is a compact beach with calm waters and surrounding pine trees.

    • Compact shoreline
    • Calm waters
    • Nearby seafood restaurants

    Baekdohaebyeon Beach sits along the Gangwon coast, known for its relatively compact shoreline and calm waters that make it suitable for swimming during summer months. The beach draws visitors looking to escape more crowded resort towns while still accessing the scenic East Sea. Surrounding pine forests offer natural shade. You can find small restaurants nearby serving fresh Gangwon seafood, making it a popular day trip destination.

    Address: 78 Baekdohaebyeon-gil, Jugwang-myeon, Goseong-gun, Gangwon-do

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  7. 7.Daejin Beach (대진 해수욕장)

    Daejin Beach (대진 해수욕장)

    Daejin Beach offers fine sand, pine forests, and clear sea views near the inter-Korean border.

    • Fine sand beach
    • Clear sea views
    • Local atmosphere

    Daejin Beach is an East Sea beach in Goseong, Gangwon-do, with fine sand, surrounding pine forest, and clear views of the open sea. As one of the East Sea's quieter beaches near the inter-Korean border, Daejin offers a more local atmosphere than Sokcho's busier beaches. It serves as a clean and tranquil option for travelers driving the Gangwon coast who wish to avoid crowds and capture a serene beach photo.

    Address: 46 Daejinhang-gil, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do

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  8. 8.Hanseomhaebyeon Beach & Hanseom Gamseong Sea Trail (한섬해변&한섬감성바닷길)

    Hanseomhaebyeon Beach & Hanseom Gamseong Sea Trail (한섬해변&한섬감성바닷길)

    Hanseom Beach combines a sandy shore with a scenic coastal walking trail.

    • Sandy beach
    • Scenic cliff trail
    • Photo-friendly viewpoints

    Hanseom Beach and Sentimental Sea Trail is a coastal beach and walking path in Donghae, Gangwon-do, combining a sandy beach with a structured 'sentimental' (gamseong) walking trail along the rocky coastal cliffs. The trail provides photo-friendly angles with sea views, coastal rock formations, and curated photo spots, making it a distinct choice for 'gamseong' (aesthetic) photography. It's a natural photo spot for sunrise or sunset for travelers driving the Gangwon coast.

    Address: 9 Hanseomhaean-gil, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do

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  9. 9.Hapyeonghaebyeon Beach (하평해변(동해))

    Hapyeonghaebyeon Beach (하평해변(동해))

    Hapyeong Beach (Donghae) is a small, quiet beach with pine trees and a local feel.

    • Small and quiet
    • Pine forest nearby
    • Local atmosphere

    Hapyeong Beach (Donghae) is a small East Sea beach in Donghae, with fine sand, surrounding pine forest, and a quiet local atmosphere. As one of Donghae's quieter beaches, Hapyeong offers a more local feel than the busier Mangsang or Chuam beaches. It's an ideal stop for travelers driving the East Sea coast who want a peaceful break between more popular destinations. A seafood lunch can easily be combined with a visit here.

    Address: Pyeongneung-dong, Donghae-si, Gangwon-do

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  10. 10.Yangyang Dongho Beach (동호해변(양양))

    Yangyang Dongho Beach (동호해변(양양))

    Yangyang Dongho Beach is a quiet local beach with fine sand and pine trees.

    • Fine sandy beach
    • Pine forest setting
    • Local, less crowded feel

    Yangyang Dongho Beach is a Korean East Sea beach in Yangyang area, with fine sand, surrounding pine forest, and views toward the open sea. As one of Yangyang's coastal beaches, Dongho offers a more local feel than the busier Gangneung-Sokcho destinations. It's a suitable stop for travelers driving Yangyang's coast who seek a peaceful break between popular spots. A seaside lunch featuring local seafood can be easily arranged.

    Address: 141-26, Dongho-ri, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do

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FAQ

What is the best time to visit Gangwon beaches?

Summer (June-August) is ideal for swimming and water activities, but expect crowds. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and a more relaxed atmosphere.

How can I get around Gangwon's beaches?

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore multiple beaches, especially if traveling along the coast. Public transport, including buses and trains, connects major towns, but may require additional local travel like taxis or walking.

What is a budget-friendly tip for visiting?

Pack your own snacks and water, especially if visiting during peak season. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for potentially lower accommodation and travel costs.

What should I pair with a beach visit?

Many Gangwon beaches are near fresh seafood restaurants, offering a perfect pairing for a seaside meal. Some locations also offer scenic walking trails or are close to natural attractions like mountains or national parks.

Are there any safety or etiquette tips?

Always swim in designated areas and heed lifeguard instructions. Respect the natural environment by disposing of trash properly. Be mindful of local customs and noise levels, especially in quieter residential areas.