South Korea’s most stunning outdoor attractions range from majestic mountains to shimmering blue seas. The refreshing coastlines along the eastern sea and the expansive tidal flats of the western coast have you grabbing for your camera. Destinations where mountains are prominent will treat you with vibrant colors that change with the seasons.
Below you’ll find our curated list of some of the most beautiful spots in South Korea that welcome you to take in the serenity of nature. If getting closer to nature is on your itinerary, be sure to check out our recommendations when planning your next trip to South Korea.
A city for ocean views, quiet relaxation, and healing
Good for: History, Photo
Gangneung is famous for its beautiful seascapes, especially around Gyeongpo Beach and Anmok Beach. You’ll find many cafes and restaurants where you can relax and dine or enjoy a cup of tea by the seaside. Of course, this makes Gangneung a popular destination for couples all throughout the year as well as for families looking to cool off in the summer with a swim in the sea.
Be sure to visit Ojukheon, the birthplace of artist Shin Saimdang and her philosopher son Yi I, where the flowers and trees surrounding the old house will convey the seasons and be a memorable point for your trip.
Gangneung
Always perfect, always satisfying
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Jeju Island is one of the premier travel destinations in South Korea. It’s no wonder the island is a one-stop getaway for many people. This popular island is brimming with natural beauty and modern amenities. Hyeopjae Beach and Ihoteu Beach show off the beauty of the surrounding seas, while Jeolmul Natural Recreation Forest and Halla Eco Forest let you return to nature for a much-needed breath of fresh air.
Culture vultures and art enthusiasts haven’t been forgotten either. Visit Jeju Museum of Art for a dose of fine art and don’t forget to keep an eye out for murals and street arts while strolling around Jeju City.
Jeju Island
A city of romance bathed in light
Good for: Couples, Families, Nightlife
The beauty of Yeosu has inspired songwriters to create lyrics that praise this city of extraordinary light. Visit Jongpo Marine Park to take in Yeosu’s splendid nighttime views or hop on the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car with transparent floors so you can admire the Yeosu Sea from above.
Head to Odongdo to enjoy Yeosu’s natural beauty. You’ll find walking trails all around for a more leisurely experience. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to swing by U-World Luge Theme Park.
Yeosu
Exciting festivals and all-season charm await
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Nami Island is a small island on Bukhan River that is entirely run as a theme park. It’s especially stunning in spring with blossoming cherry blossoms and in autumn when the trees turn red, yellow, and orange. Thanks to the beautiful scenery, it’s a popular date spot for couples.
Nami Island is a hotspot for events and festivals. There’s always something interesting happening for people of all ages, including musical and theatrical performances. Visit during the Nami Island International Children’s Book Festival, and you’ll get to experience the vibes of one of the biggest kids’ literature events in South Korea.
Nami Island
Wonderful nature and food to satisfy the five senses
Good for: Couples, Photo, Food
Damyang is celebrated for its impressive natural beauty and versatility. Make your way to the Juknokwon bamboo forest with trees stretching up to the sky. Metasequoia Trail is lined with towering trees that make for a great backdrop for your photos.
Visit Damyang Gwanbangjerim Forest for a walk along the Damyang River. Damyang Gwanbangjerim Forest is particularly delightful after dark when the path is lit up. After all that walking, you’re going to have to put some food into your rumbling belly. Fortunately, Damyang is nationally renowned for its broiled short rib patties (tteok-galbi) and bamboo pot rice (juktongbap). As dessert, try the delicious bamboo ice cream.
Damyang
Always something new to discover, calling you back for more
Good for: Adventure, Photo
Sokcho is a well-known destination among nature lovers as it offers both mountains and sea to be explored. When you’ve fallen under the spell of Sokcho, you can’t help but keep returning to this magical city brimming with natural wonders and beautiful views.
Take the Seoraksan Cable Car to Mt. Seorak, or if you’re an experienced hiker, take on the notoriously difficult climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas. Sokcho is celebrated for its many spots for viewing the sunrise. If watching the sun come up over the East Sea is on your agenda, check out the hotels, inns, hostels, and resorts that offer excellent views.
Sokcho
A wonderful garden city for a green getaway
Good for: Budget, Families, Photo
In Suncheon, you’ll discover unique outdoor experiences and photogenic landscapes. Suncheon Bay Wetland Reserve is a nationally designated wetland conservation area and is even listed under the Ramsar Convention for its value as a habitat for migratory birds. The beauty of nature is preserved, so you’ll be treated to sights not easily seen anywhere else. It’s also a great destination for children to learn about nature because there is a wealth of resources such as the Suncheon Bay Eco Center.
If you’re a garden and flower enthusiast, visit the Suncheonman National Garden that is a large themed garden where you can find various styles of gardens representing many countries.
Suncheon
Island cities full of wonderful beaches and fresh seafood
Good for: Budget, History, Photo
Southwest of Busan, the charming coastal city of Tongyeong offers gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood, and excellent access to island hikes with stunning ocean views. Explore the lovely coastal promenade, Nammangsan Sculpture Park, and Isang Yun Memorial Park for a fun day out.
The neighboring Geoje is connected to Tongyeong by two beautiful bridges and celebrated for its spectacular islets. Take the ferry to Oedo Botania, a tiny, rocky islet transformed into a terraced and manicured botanical garden and enjoy a cooling ocean breeze while you snap some epic holiday photos.
Tongyeong & Geoje
Endless coastlines and mesmerizing sunsets
Good for: Food, Photo
Taean invites you to explore its relaxing and gorgeous beaches and enjoy spectacular sunsets along its coastline. Taean Coast National Park celebrates the island’s incredible natural diversity. To really appreciate the beauty of the area, pack your daypack and stroll along the Taean Coastal Trail.
Most of the beaches in Taean, including Mongsanpo Beach and Manlipo Beach, are famous not only for bathing but also for their beautiful sunsets. Influencers flock to these stretches of sand to capture the perfect profile picture against the breathtaking backdrop of the sun setting into the ocean. If you’re a foodie, check out Taean’s seafood restaurants and savor some delicious local favorites such as kkotgejang (marinated crab) and fresh oysters and clams.
Taean
Where the Han River begins
Good for: Families, Photo, Budget
In Yangpyeong, you’ll find the confluence where the majestic Bukhan River and Namhan River meet. It’s especially popular with photographers due to the mist that often covers the landscape, creating an otherworldly backdrop for landscape photos. The easy and affordable transport from Seoul makes Yangpyeong a popular weekend getaway for anyone wanting to escape the urban hustle and bustle.
Yangpyeong is home to several ecological parks that are good for slow walks, such as Yangpyeong Wildflower Arboretum and Semiwon Garden. If you’re looking for relaxation in nature before returning to busy city life, be sure to check out Yangpyeong.
Yangpyeong
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