From mountain peaks to turquoise waters, Korea’s summer offers something for everyone. Discover hidden gems, must-visit hotspots, and best places to visit in Korea in our ultimate summer vacation guide!
Ditch the winter chills and say hello to sizzling summer in South Korea! This vibrant country transforms into a playground of possibilities, bursting with cultural experiences and adventures around every corner.
Whether you’re a city slicker craving a whirlwind exploration or a nature enthusiast seeking serenity, Korea has something special in store for you this summer.
Sure, Korea’s summer can be a scorcher, with humidity clinging to you like a friendly but overenthusiastic travel companion. But fear not! Imagine yourself island-hopping through turquoise waters, basking on pristine beaches, or scaling majestic mountains – the choice is yours! This list will be your compass, guiding you towards the perfect Korean summer escape.
So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the best places to visit in Korea this summer!
Beaches
Summer screams for beach days, and Korea delivers! With the country practically cradled by water, you’re never far from a sandy paradise. Whether you’re staying in a bustling city or a charming seaside town, a refreshing dip in the ocean is just a car or bus ride away.
Korea boasts a stunning coastline, and some of its summer beach MVPs include Songjeong Beach, Sokcho Beach, Haeundae Beach, and Woljeongri Beach. These coastal gems attract sun-worshippers and water enthusiasts alike, with Busan, Sokcho, and Jeju Island transforming into vibrant hubs for beach getaways.
But Korea’s beaches offer more than just sunbathing. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the shore! Kayaking, snorkeling, surfing, and fishing are just a few activities waiting to be discovered at various beaches around the country. So, whether you crave a lively beach scene or a secluded cove, Korea has the perfect summer escape waiting for you.
Surfyy Beach: Catch a Wave and the Good Vibes
Calling all young adventurers and party people! If the family-friendly beaches leave you craving a cooler scene, Surfyy Beach is your summer haven. While surfing isn’t mainstream in Korea yet, it’s definitely gaining momentum, and Surfyy Beach is a haven for wave riders.
This beach caters specifically to surfers, but don’t worry if you’re a landlubber! Sunseekers are welcome too. Soak up the sun on comfy beanbags by day at the cool beachside bar, and as the night falls, the spot transforms into a vibrant music hotspot.
Here’s a bonus: Surfyy Beach is flanked by swimming beaches on either side, so you can have the best of both worlds – catch some waves and enjoy a refreshing swim during your Korean summer adventure.
Sinduri Beach: Where Sun, Sand, and Dunes Collide
Get ready to be wowed! Sinduri Beach, nestled on the west coast of Korea in northern Taean-gun, is a true gem. This expansive beach boasts breathtaking beauty, with soft sand stretching as far as the eye can see. But the magic doesn’t stop there.
Sinduri Beach boasts a unique feature – the only sand dunes in all of Korea! Imagine sinking your toes into the warm sand and then embarking on a scenic trail through a gorgeous park, leading you to these impressive natural wonders. After a blissful day soaking up the sun on the coast, exploring the sand dunes is the perfect way to end your Korean adventure on an epic note.
Islands
For a taste of paradise, look no further than South Korea’s stunning islands. Jeju Island, Ganghwa, and Udo Island are three diverse destinations to add to your summer itinerary.
Ganghwa Island: History and Nature Collide
If you’re seeking a blend of history and nature, Ganghwa Island, located off Korea’s west coast, is the perfect choice. Just an hour from Seoul, this island is steeped in history, boasting ancient temples, palaces, and fortresses like Jeondeungsa Temple, Goryeogung Palace, Huae Dondae Fortress, and Deokjinjin.
But Ganghwa Island offers more than just a glimpse into the past. Hike through scenic mountains, unwind on sandy beaches, or explore charming local markets and cafes. And for a truly unique experience, visit the Ganghwa Peace Observatory – the only place in South Korea where you can see North Korea from afar.
Jeju Island: A Volcanic Wonderland
Jeju Island, also known as Jeju-do, is South Korea’s crown jewel. This volcanic island boasts the country’s tallest peak, Hallasan Mountain, and a landscape brimming with natural beauty. Explore lava tubes, hike through lush forests, or relax on pristine beaches – Jeju Island caters to every adventure.
Beyond the outdoors, Jeju Island offers a unique culinary scene, making it one of the best places to visit in Korea during summer.. Savor the island’s famous black pork, indulge in the sweet Jeju tangerines (Hallabong), and explore the vibrant Dongmun Market. For a touch of culture, visit the O’sulloc Tea Museum or the whimsical Jeju Teddy Bear Museum.
Jeju Island even holds a special place in the hearts of K-Pop fans. Several idols and actresses, including Seventeen’s Seungkwan, iKON’s Jinhwan, and former gugudan member Mina, call this island home.
Udo Island: Jeju’s Secret Paradise
While Jeju Island basks in the spotlight, its little sibling, Udo Island, offers a hidden gem experience. This charming island boasts a unique vibe that’s all its own, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking something off the beaten path.
Udo Island beckons with its own brand of magic, waiting to be explored. So, ditch the crowds and discover the wonders of Udo Island on your Korean adventure!
Water Parks
Not a nature enthusiast? No problem! Korea offers incredible water parks to keep you cool and entertained all summer long.
Caribbean Bay: Waves of Fun for the Whole Family
Craving a tropical escape without leaving Korea? Look no further than Caribbean Bay, located within the massive Everland Theme Park near Seoul. Often hailed as Korea’s biggest amusement park, Everland offers a double dose of fun – thrills on land and a splashtacular time at Caribbean Bay.
This water park paradise boasts a variety of pools, exhilarating water slides, and exciting activities for all ages. It’s even known for its unique Wave Pool Stage, where popular K-Pop artists like Mamamoo and Jessi have held electrifying concerts. So, get ready to catch a wave (literally or figuratively) and create unforgettable summer memories at Caribbean Bay!
Gimhae Lotte Water Park: Fun for Everyone, Even Landlubbers
Packing your itinerary to the brim with excitement? Gimhae Lotte Water Park in Busan is your one-stop shop for summer fun! This expansive park features over 40 pools and a thrilling selection of water slides and rides – guaranteed to satisfy even the most adventurous water enthusiast.
But wait, there’s more! Even if you’re not a water-lover, you won’t be left out. Gimhae Lotte Water Park boasts a luxurious spa complete with hot-spring baths and relaxing wet saunas – perfect for unwinding while the rest of your crew takes on the slides.
And to keep everyone fueled for a day of splashing fun, the park offers over 15 restaurants and cafes serving a variety of delicious options. So ditch the picnic basket, grab your swimsuit, and get ready for a splashtastic summer adventure at Gimhae Lotte Water Park!
Mountains
Calling all ARMYs and outdoor enthusiasts! Seoul boasts a stunning backdrop of mountains that offer breathtaking city views, escape from the urban jungle, and even a BTS connection. Here are two must-climb mountains for your Seoul itinerary.
Achasan: Easy Hike with BTS History
If you’re a BTS fan, you’ll instantly recognize Achasan from Run episode 44, where RM and V climbed it as punishment.But fear not, unlike their grueling challenge, Achasan is a relatively easy hike with incredible views of the Han River and Seoul.
The mountain caters to visitors with multilingual maps at the entrance, making navigation a breeze. Plus, you can snag a stamp booklet to track your progress on different hiking courses. So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual sightseer, Achasan offers a rewarding challenge with a touch of BTS magic.
Bukhansan: A Challenge for All Levels
For a more adventurous climb, Bukhansan is a favorite among locals and tourists alike and is one of the best places to visit in Korea during summer. This mountain, the highest peak and only national park within Seoul city limits, boasts a variety of trails catering to all difficulty levels.
The Bukhansan Dulle Trail is perfect for families and casual hikers, offering scenic routes with varying lengths. More experienced climbers can tackle challenging ascents that reward them with panoramic vistas of the sprawling metropolis below.
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