Gwangalli Beach Tours and Activities

Gwangalli Beach which includes a coastal town, general coastal views and a high-rise building
Gwangalli Beach featuring a bridge, a sandy beach and general coastal views
Gwangalli Beach showing a beach, general coastal views and a coastal town
Gwangalli Beach which includes a bridge, boating and general coastal views
Gwangalli Beach showing a coastal town, a beach and general coastal views

Swim in the calm water of a sheltered bay, dine at waterfront seafood bars and see uninterrupted views of Gwangan Bridge.

Gwangalli Beach is an urban beach well-known for its fine sand and clean, swimmable water. It sits in an attractive bay while looking out across the Sea of Japan to a famous bridge. Gwangalli Beach is a hive of activity from early in the morning until long into the night. Find traditional Korean barbecue restaurants, a fish market, amusement park and concert stage.

The beach runs for about a mile (1.6 kilometers) and has powdery golden sand. During the mild summer months the water invites you to take an invigorating swim. Jet skis, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and windsurfers are available to rent.

Crossing the water and running almost parallel to the beach is Gwangan Bridge (aka Diamond Bridge). As night falls the bridge becomes illuminated with hundreds of bright lights, which proceed to change color. Accompanied by the neon lights of the surrounding tower blocks it presents a stunning nighttime setting.

Weekends are a great time to visit the beach, when local musicians put on free live shows at the stage. The stage is also a venue for the Busan Sea Festival, an event held at six city beaches in August. In October, the Busan Fireworks Festival takes over the beach. Enjoy spectacular pyrotechnic and laser-light displays.

Go for a walk along the paved beachfront promenade. Find a children’s playground and, at the northern end, a small amusement park. The opposite side of the road from the promenade is lined with barbecue restaurants, burger bars, brewpubs, coffeehouses and sushi restaurants. Don’t miss the Millak Fish Market, where you can purchase all manner of fresh fish and seafood and then take it to be cooked at the food carts.

Located in the Suyeong District, Gwangalli Beach is easy to get to via public transportation. The nearest metro stations are Geumnyeonsan and Gwangan. You can walk to Haeundae Beach in under an hour via a continuation of the waterfront esplanade. The beach is open to the public between July and September.

Popular places to visit

Gwangan Grand Bridge

Gwangan Grand Bridge

You can learn about the history of Busan with a trip to Gwangan Grand Bridge. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this culturally rich area or visit its seafood restaurants.

Gwangan Grand Bridge
Shinsegae Centum City which includes interior views and shopping

Shinsegae Centum City

Experience the world’s biggest department store, complete with big brand shops, boutique stores, a diverse food hall, spa complex and golf driving range.

Shinsegae Centum City
APEC Naru Park featuring a river or creek, a city and a bridge

APEC Naru Park

Site of the 2005 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, this Busan landmark has both modern architecture and a role in history on display in an elegant park.

APEC Naru Park
Busan Museum of Art which includes outdoor art, a city and a garden

Busan Museum of Art

Feel inspired and challenged in one of Busan’s top modern art museums, where fascinating exhibitions, challenging pieces and a wide array of genres await.

Busan Museum of Art
Busan Cinema Center

Busan Cinema Center

The home of the world-renowned Busan Film Festival, a year-round hotspot for cinephiles and architecture lovers, has one of the world’s largest cantilevered roofs.

Busan Cinema Center
Nurimaru APEC House showing modern architecture, general coastal views and a house

Nurimaru APEC House

Visit the historic site of the 2005 APEC Leaders’ Meeting, only accessible via a hike through a forested peninsula, and see wonderful views of the coast.

Nurimaru APEC House

Top Gwangalli Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals

H Avenue Gwangalli Beach

H Avenue Gwangalli Beach

3 out of 5
42, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 278beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan
H Avenue Gwangalli Beach
The Marine View Hotel

The Marine View Hotel

2.5 out of 5
42, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 278beon-gil, Suyoung-gu, Busan
The Marine View Hotel
Toyoko Inn Busan Haeundae No.2

Toyoko Inn Busan Haeundae No.2

2.5 out of 5
5, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro 237beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, Busan
Toyoko Inn Busan Haeundae No.2
Homers Hotel

Homers Hotel

4 out of 5
217, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Busan
Homers Hotel
B'AMU Hotel & Spa

B'AMU Hotel & Spa

3 out of 5
15 Millaksubyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan
B'AMU Hotel & Spa
Ocean the point Hotel

Ocean the point Hotel

3.5 out of 5
42 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 278 beon-gil, Suyeong, Busan, Busan
Ocean the point Hotel
Gwanganri The Club hotel

Gwanganri The Club hotel

2.5 out of 5
42 Gwanganhaebyeon-ro 278beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Busan
Gwanganri The Club hotel
Hotel Yaja Gwangalli

Hotel Yaja Gwangalli

2.5 out of 5
74, Millakbondong-ro 11beon-gil, Busan
Hotel Yaja Gwangalli
Hotel Aqua Palace

Hotel Aqua Palace

4 out of 5
225, Gwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan, Busan
Hotel Aqua Palace
See all 693 properties in Gwangalli Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, including jogging along the scenic shoreline, participating in local festivals, and engaging in various sports. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or join in the lively events, there’s something for everyone at this popular beach destination in Busan.

Shopping

Shinsegae Centum City, only 1.6km from Gwangalli Beach, offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. For a taste of local life, visit Haeundae Traditional Market, 3.2km away, or Bujeon Market, 6.4km away, both brimming with local goods and city vibes.

Recreation

At SPA LAND Centum City, indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments designed for ultimate relaxation, just 1.6km from Gwangalli Beach. For a lively experience, catch a music concert at the Busan Cinema Center, offering vibrant entertainment vibes only 1.6km away.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at Songdo Sky Park, where you can glide above the stunning coastline on the cable car, located 14.5km from Gwangalli Beach. For water fun, head to Gimhae Lotte Water Park, 27.4km away, for thrilling slides and family entertainment. Enjoy the excitement of tobogganing at Yangsan Luge, 33.8km away.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Gwangalli Beach! Enjoy bowling at Hyeopseong Bowling Alley, just 8.0km away, or catch a performance at Actors Sogeukjang theatre, only 1.6km away. For more bowling fun, check out Uil Bowling Center, located 4.8km from the beach.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Gwangalli Beach

Gwangalli Beach in Busan is a fantastic spot for tourists seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at urban parks and cultural centres nearby. Don't miss the stunning views of Haeundae Beach and the lively scene at Guanganli Beach. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities or a relaxing day by the sea, Gwangalli Beach has something for everyone!

  • Haeundae Beach: Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Haeundae Beach, a stunning stretch located 3.2km from Gwangalli. With its soft sands and lively beach vibes, it's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying local cuisine from nearby cafes.
  • Busan Exhibition and Convention Center: Just 1.6km away, this cultural hub showcases South Korea’s rich heritage through various exhibitions and events. Immerse yourself in the culture vibes as you explore art, technology, and trade.
  • Gwangan Grand Bridge: Located only 1.1km from Gwangalli, the Gwangan Grand Bridge is a marvel of modern engineering. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the coastline, especially stunning at night when the bridge is illuminated.

Best time to go to Gwangalli Beach

The best time to visit Gwangalli Beach is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January38.7°F (3.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February42.3°F (5.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March49.1°F (9.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
May63.3°F (17.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July75.9°F (24.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December42.1°F (5.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Gwangalli Beach

To save money during your visit to Gwangalli Beach, plan your trip between February and April when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to stay on a Wednesday for the best deals, as Saturdays can be more expensive. Use Expedia to filter your search for budget-friendly hotels, including Eco-certified options, and consider booking a package that combines your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Take advantage of public transport to explore the area affordably, and look for free activities along the beach to enjoy your stay without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Gwangalli Beach are February to April, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Gwangalli Beach is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Gwangalli Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable accommodation first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some dollars by combining your Gwangalli Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.