Start Your Summer at Café Jenniel - Ocean View Café in Gangneung
Jun 17
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Address: 265-1, Jumun-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
Gangneung is know as one of the hottest summer destinations for Koreans and foreigners in Korea. With picturesque beaches, delicious seafood, and stunning cafés, what other reason do you need to visit?
Whilst I have visited Gangneung before, it was during early winter so I thought I would take a short weekend break and visit during the beautiful early summer season. I suggest visiting during May or June as temperatures in Korea aren't too high (yet) and there should be a low chance of rain. That being said, it did rain for one whole day of my trip, but I didn't let the weather stop me!
Before my trip, I did a routine search of blogs, Instagram and of course Naver Maps to find some cafes. I came across a café in another blog that was located close to Jumunjin Beach, however when I checked it out on Naver Maps it wasn't there. I found that there was another café in it's place and that is the café I'm going to share with you today. Café Jenniel is 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.
There are so many things I love about this café. First thing is the location. It's close to Jumunjin Beach, which is famous not only for its stunning views but also the photo zone dubbed the 'BTS Bus Stop'. Even though I'm not a huge fan...I did go there and wait 40 minutes in line for a photo, but it was worth it!
Address: 8-17 Hyangho-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
It's also quite easy to get to as it is on the main road. It is possible to go there by bus but please note that buses aren't as frequent as in other cities as it's a pretty rural place. I started at Jumunjin Beach and walked 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 and, whilst I was waiting in the 'BTS Bus Stop' line, many taxis passed us. So if you're going during the day time, catching a taxi shouldn't be a problem.
Another thing I 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. After walking up the first set of stairs (I believe the second staircase is purely for taking photos), you will enter the café. The first thing that caught my eye was the floor. The design is so cool because in the light and at a certain angle it makes it look like the room is filled with water. At the front there are two machines where you can order drinks, but if you want to order food too it's best to go up to the counter. There is also a small bakery section where you can buy bread. The seating is arranged around the edges of the room so that wherever you sit on the left side, you can get a great view of the ocean. You'll only see buildings on the right side, but there aren't many seats there anyway. 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!
The menu offers coffees and lattes, teas, ades, smoothies. I ordered the ocean-themed Blue Lemonade which, as you can see, is blue. I also tried the Wave Ice cream which, you guessed it, is blue too! I could be wrong, but to me it had the texture and flavour of frozen yoghurt rather than ice cream, but it didn't bother me as it was delicious anyway. I liked the addition of the small meringue pieces and the ginger biscuit. It was very refreshing and looked beautiful up against the ocean view.
So if you're in Gangeung this summer, I recommend that you drop by Café Jenniel. Take a break from the sun but not the sea, as you enjoy one of the most stunning ocean views with something delicious to eat or drink.
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