Jumunjin Beach
How to get there:
By bus: From Gangneung Station, you walk for about 15 minutes to the bus stop and ride the 300 bus for 39 stops (40 mins) and get off at Sodol Beach Entrance bus stop. You then need to walk for about 6 minutes to get to the beach.
This bus has an interval time of around 20 minutes or so, so as an alternative I recommend that you take a taxi. Bear in mind that Jumunjin Beach is quite a distance from Gangneung Station, so the taxi fare will be considerably more than a bus fare.
The Beach
Jumunjin Beach is a 700 metre long beach located in the most northern part of Gangneung. The white sand and crystal clear, shallow water makes it an attractive summer destination. This area is more industrial compared to Gyeongpo's leisurely feel, but it's still popular with families. There is also a campsite located amongst the pine trees just behind the beach, which offers some much-needed shade from the sun and a great view of the ocean.
Address: 8-17, Hyangho-ro, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
Filming Location
Aside from being a stunning beach, Jumunjin Beach and the surrounding area has become famous in the entertainment world. One of Korea's most well-known K-dramas, 'Goblin' was filmed at the nearby Dokkaebi Breakwater, about 7 mins from the beach if you're driving or taking a taxi. When I visited (passed by in the taxi), I noticed a lot of fencing and construction in the area, but I could still see people lining up for their chance to take a memorable photo at this famous spot. So if you're a fan of the drama, this is a must-see location!
Now I'm sure I don't need to tell any BTS fans about this place, but for those of you who are new BTS fans or just know of them, this is certainly another reason that you should visit Jumunjin Beach. Even though I'm not part of the BTS ARMY, I do like BTS so when the taxi driver suggested that I visit the BTS Bus Stop I couldn't say no. This is the well-known location where BTS took their 'You Never Walk Alone' album cover photo. It's located right at the edge of Jumunjin Beach so you get a beautiful ocean view in the background of your pictures. There was a line so I did wait for about 40 minutes, but while you wait you can take a look at the purple benches behind you which are painted with each of the names of the BTS members.
Café Jenniel
If you're in need of a break from the sun and a cool drink, I highly recommend heading to Café Jenniel. It's quite new, only established in 2023, and considering there weren't many people at the café when I visited, I think it might still be a hidden gem...for now.
Address: 265-1, Jumun-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
How to get there:
By bus: From Jumunjin Beach, you can walk a short distance to the nearest bus stop. Be careful as there are no pathways and you will be walking in the road the whole time. Luckily it isn't a busy road though. From that bus stop you can take a few different buses including: #300-1, #300-2, #302-2, #314-1, #314-2, #315. You ride the bus for about 6 minutes and then it's an easy 5 minute walk to the café.
Alternatively, you could take a taxi. Jumunjin Beach is a popular destination thanks to the 'BTS Bus Stop', so if you're visiting the café during the day time, catching a taxi certainly won't be a problem.
Ocean view café
What I absolutely love about this café is the interior and the view. As I mentioned, it's very new so the interior is clean and modern, and gives off a luxury vibe. The first thing that caught my eye was the floor. The design is so cool because in the light and at certain angles it looks like the room is filled with water. The seating is arranged around the edges of the room so wherever you sit on the left side, you can get a great view of the ocean. They have a good mix of bar-style seating and comfortable chairs with tables, so there's something for everyone. The café is so close to the ocean that from where you're sitting it looks like you could be floating in the sea!
For more information about this amazing café, please visit my blog by clicking the link here.
