September 25, 2026, 5:23 am | Read time: 3 minutes

Haeundae Beach in South Korea

Haeundae Beach is one of South Korea’s most famous city beaches and a landmark of Busan. It is part of the district of the same name in the southeastern city. A lively place that attracts around ten million guests each summer season, offering both relaxation and adventure. The 1.5-kilometer-long sandy beach stretches along high-rises and hotels in the eastern part of the port city of Busan.

What Can You Experience at Haeundae Beach?

With its gently sloping coast, Haeundae Beach is one of the most popular swimming destinations during South Korea’s summer season. But it’s not just swimmers and sunbathers who flock to Haeundae Beach. Surfers also frequent Busan’s popular city beach. Nearby surf schools offer lessons and equipment for beginners, and experienced surfers can find challenging waves at Haeundae Beach. According to the platform Stay Korea, the months of June to October are particularly suitable for surfing here. Additionally, the beach offers opportunities for stand-up paddling, kayaking, and jet skiing, and boat trips are also available.

Besides those who enjoy being in the water, Haeundae Beach is also a popular spot for those who like to be near it, whether walking, running, or cycling. The wide beach promenade accommodates all three activities. A popular walking destination at the southwest end of Haeundae Beach is the Dongbaekseom Peninsula. It is still referred to as an island, although it is now connected to the mainland.

Haeundae Beach in South Korea is also popular in the evening. People gather in nearby restaurants, bars, and other venues, often watching as the lights of the nearby high-rises reflect on the water. A popular culinary destination is the traditional Haeundae Market, where you can sample a variety of street food from morning until night.

Several times a year, Haeundae Beach also becomes an event venue. A popular event is the Haeundae Sand Festival in May and June, where international artists create elaborate sand sculptures on the beach.

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Getting There

Haeundae Beach in South Korea is easily accessible by public transportation. Buses go directly to the beach, and the metro station of the same name is also nearby.

Location of Haeundae Beach in South Korea:

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Methodology for the TRAVELBOOK Award

Once again this year, we say: All nominated regions, countries, and others for the TRAVELBOOK Award are already winners, even if they didn’t achieve overall victory. This also applies to Haeundae Beach in Busan, South Korea. Every hidden gem travel destination has already made it to the shortlist, having been selected from a large number of contenders in a category.

The TRAVELBOOK editorial team sought help from the community on Facebook and Instagram and consulted experts from the travel industry to create the shortlist. For the first time this year, not only TRAVELBOOK readers but also BILD readers participated in the voting. More than 150,000 votes were cast in total to determine the trend travel destinations for 2027.