Thanks to South Korea’s bullet trains (KTX-Eum), reaching the dramatic turquoise waters and white sand beaches of the East Coast (Dong-hae) takes less than two hours from central Seoul. Whether you are planning a rapid day trip or a relaxed overnight weekend, the coast offers an unbeatable mix of sports, cafe culture, and fresh seafood.

🌊 1. Yangyang (양양): Korea’s Surfing Capital

Once a sleepy fishing county, Yangyang has transformed into the undisputed epicenter of youth lifestyle, music, and beach sports in South Korea.

Highlights & Activities:

• Surfyy Beach (서피비치): Korea’s first dedicated surfing beach. With its tropical thatched-roof bars, sunset beanbag lounges, and yellow wooden signage, it feels like a Southeast Asian island resort.
• Surfing Lessons: Complete beginners can easily book 1-on-1 or group surf lessons (including wetsuit and board rentals). English-friendly instructors are widely available during peak summer.
• Nightlife: On summer weekend nights, Surfyy Beach transforms into an open-air party zone with live DJs and beachside bonfires.

*Sam’s recommendation.

“Visiting Yangyang outside of summer? Make sure to add Naksansa Temple to your itinerary!”

☕ 2. Gangneung (강릉): Ocean Views, Cafes, & Scenic Beauty

Just one stop south on the KTX line lies Gangneung, a city famous for its rich culinary heritage and coastal scenery.

Highlights & Attractions:

• Anmok Beach Coffee Street (안목해변 커피거리): A beachside avenue lined with multi-story cafes offering panoramic ocean views. Grab a fresh drip coffee and dessert while watching the waves crash along the sand.
• Gangmun & Gyeongpo Beaches: Iconic photo spots featuring wooden frames, bench swings, and sprawling pine forests flanking the sand.
• BTS Bus Stop (Jumunjin): A popular pilgrimage site for K-pop fans, replicating the album jacket photo stop along the blue shoreline.

🐟 3. Must-Try Local Foods on the East Coast

• Chodang Dubu (초당두부 – Soft Tofu): Made using clean seawater from the East Coast as a natural coagulant. Don’t miss the famous Chodang Soondubu Gelato (Soft Tofu Ice Cream) near Anmok!
• Gangneung Gamja-jeon (감자전): Crispy, freshly grated potato pancakes paired with local rice wine (Makgeolli).
• Dak-gangjeong (닭강정): Sweet and crunchy deep-fried chicken bites available at the famous Gangneung Jungang Market.
• Fresh Mul-hoe (물회): Cold spicy raw fish soup served with ice cubes and thin noodles—the ultimate summer refresher.

🚆 How to Get There via KTX

1. Departure: Board the KTX-Eum (Gyeonggang Line) from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station.
2. Travel Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes to Gangneung Station (강릉역).
3. To Yangyang: Take the KTX to Gangneung Station or Yangyang Line Stations, then hop on a local express bus or taxi (approx. 25 minutes) directly to Surfyy Beach.

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## 🌲 Explore More "Natural Summer Escapes" in Korea!

Looking for more ways to stay cool in nature? Check out our full summer escape series:

* 🚣 **Part 1 (Riverside Thrills):** [Gapyeong Bbaji Guide: Korea's Riverside Water Sports Playground](https://seoulsays.com/gapyeong-bbaji-korea-water-sports-guide)
* 🏞️ **Part 2 (Mountain Streams):** [Escaping the Heat: Korea's Unique Mountain Valley & Baeksuk Culture](https://seoulsays.com/korea-mountain-valley-baeksuk-guide-seoul)
* 🌊 **Part 3 (East Coast Beaches):** [Quick KTX Getaways: Surfing in Yangyang & Coffee in Gangneung](https://seoulsays.com/gangneung-yangyang-ktx-east-coast-guide)