Gwakji Beach - a long white fence next to a lush green field
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Gwakji Beach

4.4
·3k reviews·Jeju-si, South Korea

A stunning stretch of white sand meeting dramatic black volcanic rocks, offering clear waters and unique spring-fed baths.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Gwakji Beach - a long white fence next to a lush green field

Gwakji Beach

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning stretch of white sand meeting dramatic black volcanic rocks, offering clear waters and unique spring-fed baths.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"Beautiful beach with white sand and blue water. Great place to take photos."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Fees

Be aware that parking isn't free. Factor this into your budget.

🌊 Respect Currents

Lifeguards may close the water due to strong currents. Always heed their warnings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive White Sands

Expansive White Sands

Main beach area

Miles of soft white sand perfect for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. A true escape from the hustle.

TikTok
Unique Volcanic Rocks

Unique Volcanic Rocks

Along the shoreline

Striking black volcanic formations contrast beautifully with the blue sea and white sand. Great for photos.

TikTok
Spring-Fed Public Baths

Spring-Fed Public Baths

Near the main entrance

Refreshing, natural spring baths offer a unique way to rinse off after a day at the beach.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Serenity

Gwakji Beach is a local favorite, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is key to experiencing its tranquil beauty. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed vibe. Reddit

Embrace the Elements

While beautiful, be aware of potential strong currents. Heed lifeguard warnings and enjoy the unique black volcanic rocks and white sand. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Beautiful sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Theres a secret elevator in the rocks to get to this beach. #oahu #beaches #hawaii #hiddengems
@bebedeeez
60.4K likes • 488.6K views

🚗 Parking Fees

Be aware that parking isn't free. Factor this into your budget. Reddit

🌊 Respect Currents

Lifeguards may close the water due to strong currents. Always heed their warnings. Reddit

the most beautiful beach on the entire island of Oahu imo.. far less crowded than Waikiki, clear blue water, scenic views. 10/10 #hawaii #oahu #traveltiktok #travel #solotravel #femalesolotraveler #vacation #honolulu #waikikibeach
@awaywithkai
19.1K likes • 257.7K views
Top 6 beaches in oahu hawaii. Best beaches in Oahu #bestbeaches #oahubeaches #hawaiitiktok #oahuhawaii📍
@laith67llj
17.7K likes • 305K views

📸 Photo Opportunities

The contrast of black rocks and white sand makes for stunning photos. TikTok

🚿 Rinse Off

Utilize the convenient spring-fed public baths to clean up after your swim. TikTok

reddit.com

Looking for the most relaxing beaches in Jeju, preferably around Seogwipo/southern Jeju. [x-post r/koreatravel]

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Fees

Be aware that parking isn't free. Factor this into your budget. Reddit

🌊 Respect Currents

Lifeguards may close the water due to strong currents. Always heed their warnings. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The contrast of black rocks and white sand makes for stunning photos. TikTok

🚿 Rinse Off

Utilize the convenient spring-fed public baths to clean up after your swim. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Gwakji Beach is praised for its beautiful white sand, clear blue waters, and unique black volcanic rocks, offering a serene escape. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and convenient public baths. However, some reviews mention trash on the beach and concerns about swimming restrictions due to strong currents, with one visitor feeling unfairly treated by lifeguards.

"Beach lovers! This is where you wanna be.

No crowds no children and 1 km of sand and clear waters. However, be careful of swimming here as there is a public a movement warning that you could be swept out to sea if you are not careful. There are chairs and tables floor rental and a toilet for showering nearby .

Take a dip and enjoy the blue waters of the Yellow Sea"

jeremy cho

"Don't bother. Lots of trash on the beach. Lot of the sand is covered by a tarp to prevent to sand blowing on to the street. Also no free parking."

Martin

"Beautiful beach with white sand and blue water. Great place to take photos. Nice black volcanic rock. Very family friendly. There are bathrooms and an open air changing area for men and another one for women. Amazing place to watch the sunset. There are a few cafés around if you are hungry and want to buy something to eat."

Evelyne Nguyen

What People Like

Beautiful white sand
Clear blue waters
Unique volcanic rocks

What People Dislike

Occasional trash
Swimming restrictions
Parking fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gwakji Beach is accessible by public transport, with buses running regularly from Jeju City and Seogwipo. Taxis are also readily available. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available, but it is not free. Reddit

Yes, Gwakji Beach is a well-known spot and relatively easy to locate, especially with GPS. TikTok

Taking a local bus is a common and affordable option. The journey can take around 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. TikTok

While some TikToks mention secret elevators, the main access points are clearly marked. Enjoy the main beach experience! TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access Gwakji Beach itself. Reddit

Gwakji Beach is generally open to the public from sunrise to sunset. Lifeguard hours may vary. Reddit

Yes, chairs and tables are available for rent, offering a comfortable spot to relax. Reddit

Lifeguards may restrict swimming due to strong currents. Always follow their instructions. Reddit

No advance booking is necessary as it's a public beach. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim, sunbathe, dig for clams, and enjoy the scenic views. Kayak and SUP rentals are also available. TikTok

Swimming is popular, but be cautious of strong currents and always heed lifeguard warnings. Reddit

Yes, there are restrooms and open-air changing areas for men and women, as well as spring-fed public baths. Reddit

Yes, it's considered very family-friendly, offering a clean environment and amenities. Reddit

The beach features beautiful white sand, with some areas having unique textures and bright green seaweed. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are a few cafes around the beach where you can buy food and drinks. Reddit

Picnicking is generally allowed, but it's always good to check local regulations and clean up after yourself. Reddit

Expect typical beachside cafe fare, likely including snacks, light meals, and beverages. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the coastal location suggests seafood options might be available in nearby towns. Reddit

Prices at beachside cafes can vary, but they are generally comparable to other tourist areas. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The contrast between the black volcanic rocks and the white sand, especially during sunset, offers fantastic photo opportunities. TikTok

Absolutely! Many visitors highlight the beautiful sunset views as a major draw. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach, and a polarizing filter can enhance the blue of the water and sky. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules before flying to avoid any issues. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gwakji Beach is a great choice for families, offering a clean environment and plenty of space for kids to play. The white sand is perfect for building sandcastles, and the spring-fed public baths provide a fun and unique way for children to rinse off after a day of swimming. TikTok While the water is generally inviting, always supervise children closely and be mindful of any lifeguard warnings about currents. Reddit

There are convenient restrooms and changing facilities available, making it easier to manage a day out with little ones. Reddit Consider bringing beach toys and snacks, as while there are cafes nearby, having your own provisions can be helpful for younger children. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a pleasant outing for all.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Gwakji Beach is a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The dramatic contrast between the black volcanic rocks and the pristine white sand creates stunning compositions, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTok The clear blue waters of the Yellow Sea add to the picturesque scenery. Reddit

Don't miss the chance to capture the unique spring-fed public baths and the vibrant green seaweed that can be found along the shore. TikTok A wide-angle lens will be your best friend here to encompass the expansive beach, while a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky. Be mindful of the crowds during peak times, and consider visiting on a weekday morning for more unobstructed shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding Gwakji's Unique Landscape

Gwakji Beach is renowned for its striking geological features. The white sand stretches for about a kilometer, offering ample space for relaxation and play. What sets it apart are the black volcanic rocks that punctuate the shoreline, creating a dramatic visual contrast with the clear blue waters of the Yellow Sea. This unique combination makes it a photographer's dream. TikTok

Beyond the visual appeal, the beach is also known for its spring-fed public baths. These natural pools provide a refreshing way to rinse off the salt and sand after a swim, adding a unique amenity to the visitor experience. TikTok The presence of bright green seaweed in certain areas also adds to the beach's distinct character, showcasing the diverse marine life of the region. Reddit

While the beach is beautiful, visitors should be aware of the potential for strong currents. Lifeguards are present, and their warnings should always be heeded to ensure safety. Reddit Despite this, Gwakji Beach remains a popular spot for its natural beauty and unique features.

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips

Planning your trip to Gwakji Beach involves a few practical considerations. While the beach itself is free to enter, visitors should note that parking is not free. Budgeting for parking fees is advisable. Reddit The beach is generally accessible and well-maintained, with facilities like restrooms and open-air changing areas available for public use. Reddit

For those looking to enhance their beach experience, chair and table rentals are available, providing a comfortable base for a day of sunbathing or picnicking. Reddit When it comes to dining, a few cafes are located nearby, offering convenient options for snacks and light meals. Reddit However, for a wider variety of culinary choices, exploring the surrounding areas might be necessary.

Safety is paramount, especially concerning the ocean. Visitors are strongly advised to pay attention to lifeguard warnings regarding swimming conditions, as strong currents can be present. Reddit By keeping these practical tips in mind, visitors can ensure a more enjoyable and safe experience at Gwakji Beach.

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