Intro: Why Yangyang?
As a traveler craving ocean thrills in South Korea, I discovered Yangyang – a hidden gem 2 hours from Seoul with consistent waves, sandy beaches, and zero crowds. Forget Busan; this is Korea’s surf paradise!
Getting There & Where to Stay
• Transport: Take an intercity bus from Seoul Express Terminal (₩20,000/$15 USD). Direct buses drop you at Sinduri Beach or Injae Beach – the twin surf hubs.
• Accommodation: Book a surf hostel like Stay 141 (surfboard rentals included!) or beachfront Airbnbs (avg. ₩60,000/$45 USD/night).
Choosing a Surf School
I picked Yangyang Surfyy Beach (near Sinduri) for its English-speaking instructors. Other top choices:
- Surf in Korea: Best for beginners (2-hour lesson: ₩80,000/$60 USD incl. gear)
- Gangwon Surf Club: Small-group coaching (surf + SUP combos available)
Pro Tip: Reserve online! Walk-ins risk missing slots during peak season (July-Aug).
My Surf Experience
• The Lesson: After a 20-min land demo on popping up and stance, our group hit waist-high waves. Instructor Minho’s real-time feedback (“Bend knees, not back!”) was clutch.
• Wave Vibes: August swell was mellow (1-2m), perfect for newbies. September brings bigger barrels!
• Gear Notes: Boards are EPS foam (soft tops) – great for stability. Wetsuits provided (water temp: 22°C/72°F).
| Beach Breakdown | Spot | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sinduri | Lively, surf cafes nearby | Group lessons & parties | |
| Injae | Peaceful, scenic cliffs | Solo surfers & sunrise sessions |
Fueling the Adventure: Must-Eat Foods
• Post-Surf Binges: Try makguksu (buckwheat noodles in icy broth) at Okdom Sikdang. Spicy sundubu-jjigae (tofu stew) at Surf Kitchen warms you up fast.
• Cafe Culture: Bakery Onde (surfboard-shaped pastries!) and Terarosa Coffee (ocean-view roastery).
What Surprised Me
• No sharks or jellyfish scares (nets protect swim zones).
• Locals cheer beginners – expect high-fives after riding your first wave!
• Sunset bonfires on the beach are a nightly ritual. Join in!
Final Thoughts
Yangyang isn’t just about surfing; it’s a reset button for your soul. Whether you’re wiping out or riding whitewash, the stoke is real. For foreigners: It’s affordable, accessible, and utterly unforgettable. Annyeonghi gaseyo to your new obsession!
Quick Tips
✓ Rent a bike (₩10,000/$8 USD/day) to explore hidden coves
✓ Visit Naksansa Temple post-surf for zen vibes
✓ Monsoon season (June-July) = strongest waves!
Ready to ride? DM me for Yangyang recs! 🏄♂️🌊 #YangyangSurf #KoreaHiddenGem