Yangyang

Korea's surf capital — a laid-back east coast town where consistent waves, pine-fringed beaches, and a thriving café culture have turned this once-sleepy fishing village into the hippest coastal getaway in the country.

Must-Visit Places

• Jukdo Beach (죽도해변) — The epicenter of Korean surfing; consistent swells, surf schools, and a buzzing beach bar scene
• Ingu Beach (인구해변) — A wider, mellower stretch of sand popular with families and beginner surfers
• Naksansa Temple (낙산사) — A dramatic clifftop Buddhist temple overlooking the East Sea, founded in 671 AD; the Haesugwaneumsang statue is iconic
• Hajodae Beach (하조대해수욕장) — A secluded cove with unusual rock formations and a classic red lighthouse
• Seoraksan National Park — Less than an hour away; dramatic granite peaks, waterfalls, and autumn foliage

Food & Dining

• Fresh Salmon (연어) — Yangyang sits on the Namdae River where wild salmon run; sashimi-grade salmon at local restaurants is extraordinary
• Octopus Dishes (낙지·문어) — Grilled and raw octopus platters at the harbor fish market
• Pine Mushroom (송이버섯) — Autumn brings prized pine mushrooms from nearby mountains; in soups, grills, and rice dishes
• Seafood Ramen at Surf Cafés — The beach café scene serves creative fusion dishes — try the seafood ramen with a craft beer

Must-Buy Shopping

• Pine Mushroom Products (송이) — Dried pine mushrooms or pine mushroom tea; premium autumn souvenir
• Local Surf Goods — Branded rash guards, wetsuits, and tote bags from Yangyang's surf shops
• Smoked Salmon — Vacuum-packed smoked Namdae River salmon, perfect for travel
• Seaweed & Dried Seafood — Bundles of locally harvested seaweed and anchovies at the traditional market