Beyond the Waves: 10 Hidden Gems and Local Secrets in Yangyang

Gangwon-do’s Yangyan is evolving beyond just a surfing mecca into a multifaceted destination where serene mountain temples and blue seas coexist. While many tourists flock to Ingu Beach or Naksansa Temple, locals find the true soul of Yangyang in quiet alleyways and lush forest paths. This guide skips the flashy advertisements to curate locations where time seems to stand still. For travelers seeking genuine relaxation away from the bustling crowds, we introduce the hidden side of Yangyang—where every moment feels peaceful, even when you click the shutter.

1. Naksansa Temple (Naksansa Temple)

Naksansa Temple is more than just a religious site; it is a space that beautifully embraces the breathtaking scenery of the East Sea. In particular, the coastal trail leading to ‘Uisangdae’ and ‘Hongnyeonam’ is perfect for walking with the sound of waves as your background music. To answer the question “Is it okay even on rainy days?”—the answer is a resounding “Yes.” On rainy days, Naksansa creates an even more mysterious atmosphere as fog blends with the sea. However, since it can get crowded on weekend afternoons, we recommend visiting early in the morning for a peaceful experience. Finish your walk by enjoying a warm jujube tea at a nearby traditional tea house.

2. Hajodae Observatory (Hajodae Observatory)

Hajodae is a place that holds deep history, as its name suggests. The coastline viewed from the Hajodae Observatory feels like a traditional East Asian painting come to life. Regarding “Is it good for kids?”, we highly recommend it for families due to the spacious grounds and wide-open views. However, since there are many rocks along the coast, please be mindful of safety when traveling with young children. A local favorite tip is to enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants near Hajodae Port nearby.

3. Surfyy Beach (Surfyy Beach)

While Surfyy Beach is a popular spot for younger generations and surfers, its artistic design and cafe culture are not to be missed. The exotic props and beanbag chairs lined up along the beach create the illusion of being at a tropical resort overseas. While you might worry about it being “too crowded during peak season,” the vast area of the beach ensures a certain level of breathing room. Grabbing a refreshing drink at the beach bar while watching the waves is a must-do on any Yangyang itinerary.

4. Namae Port (Namae Port)

Namae Port is a hidden gem that is relatively less known to tourists. It preserves the authentic charm of a quiet fishing village, and the “Namae Port Sashimi Street” nearby is a favorite spot for locals. To answer “Is there enough parking?”, while it can be busy on weekends, there is a dedicated parking area within the port. If you want to escape the crowded tourist spots and experience the true atmosphere of a Korean seaside village, we highly recommend Namae Port.

5. Osaek Mineral Spring (Osaek Mineral Spring)

Turn your eyes from the sea toward the mountains to find Osaek Mineral Spring. The history of this spring, spanning hundreds of years, combined with the surrounding pine forests, makes it an ideal spot for healing. Regarding “Is it okay to walk with kids?”, the well-maintained trails with gentle slopes make it suitable for family visits. However, since temperatures drop sharply in winter, appropriate clothing is essential. We recommend relaxing at nearby cafes like Osaek Grime while overlooking the forest.

6. In-gu Beach (In-gu Beach)

In-gu Beach symbolizes the dynamism of Yangyang. The sophisticated cafes and restaurants along the coastline provide endless enjoyment for travelers. To answer “Is it quiet on weekend evenings?”—the answer is no. Weekend nights are very lively and bustling. However, that very energy is part of why people love this place. Just walking along the beach allows you to experience both modern sensibilities and the refreshing aura of the sea.

7. Sunsan-ri Village (Sunsan-ri Village)

As you travel along the coastline of Yangyang, small villages occasionally appear, creating the illusion of traveling back in time. This area retains the pure look of a rural fishing village that hasn’t been commercialized. To answer “Is it good for photos?”—the answer is a resounding ‘Yes.’ The emotional depth created by humble stone walls and old roofs offers something different from the artificial backgrounds popular on social media. Kal-guksu (noodle soup) or Pajeon (scallion pancake) from nearby small local eateries will enhance your travel experience.

8. Namae Port Coastal Road (Namae Port Coastal Road)

The Namae Port Coastal Road is not just a route to get somewhere; it is a destination in itself. This road heading east from Yangyang showcases the essence of a scenic drive, where the path meets the rolling waves. To answer “Is it hard to drive?”—the roads are well-maintained, but caution is needed due to many curved sections. Walking along the deck paths built along the coastline is also highly recommended. Especially in autumn, the surrounding water plants change colors, offering stunning scenery.

9. Jukbyeon Beach (Jukbyeon Beach)

Jukbyeon is a dynamic beach you encounter moving further north. Recently, various installations and experience facilities have been added, making it popular for family visits as well. To answer “Is there plenty of parking?”—yes, a relatively large parking area is available for convenience. We recommend combining this with a visit to the nearby Pine Mushroom Village or the coastal walking paths. The majestic scenery of cliffs meeting the sea makes it a favorite spot for photographers.

10. Naksansa Beach Path (Naksansa Beach Path)

The coastal path starting inside Naksansa Temple offers enough beauty to crown your Yangyang journey. To answer “Is it good for kids?”—the slope is gentle and the path is well-maintained, so families can enjoy it without much difficulty. However, since it is within a temple complex, please maintain a quiet atmosphere. After completing this course, many locals recommend taking a light stroll or enjoying some time in the water at the nearby Naksan Beach.

Recommended Optimal Routes

Traveler Guide Tips

• Best Season: Spring and Autumn offer pleasant weather for trekking and visiting temples, while Summer (July-August) is peak season for surfing and beach activities.
• Transportation Info: Yangyang is much more convenient to navigate via personal car or rental car rather than public transport. A vehicle is essential when heading to hidden spots.
• Parking Notes: Famous beaches like Surfyy Beach and In-gu Beach can experience severe parking issues on weekends during peak season, so visit early in the morning or check public parking locations in advance.
• Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples like Naksansa, modest attire is recommended, and respect for the quiet meditation atmosphere should be maintained.

Preparation Tips

• Route Planning: Instead of just entering a final destination into your navigation, we recommend a route following ‘Naksan-Hajodae-In-gu’ along the coastal roads.
• Restaurant Reservations: Famous seafood restaurants can have long waits during weekend lunch hours; it is helpful to check their official pages or call ahead.
• Clothing Preparation: Sea breezes can be strong, so even in summer, bringing a thin cardigan or windbreaker can be very useful.