I am a beach girl at heart. Nothing brings me more pleasure and healing, than walking at a beautiful beach, toes in the sand, sound of the surf methodically placating my racing thoughts. I was ecstatic when I reached this beach. Dadaepo Beach, my favourite in Busan Korea by far.
Getting There
I took the metro, line #1 from the city and exited at Dadeopo Station. The ride was over 45 minutes, the longest one yet. Once you exit the station and arrive at street level, simply walk about 10 minutes straight for the coast, and you will have arrived.
The Beach
In one word, incredible! Quite possibly the widest beach I have ever seen in my life, and made of silky soft sand from the Nakdonggang River that empties into this sea.
A truly local beach, I only saw one other obvious tourist the entire time. The lovely Busanians are out earthing or grounding, walking along the waters edge to expose their bare feet to both the sea and sand. At one end, they will set down chairs and simply sit for hours, with their feet immersed into the shallow water.
This is close to a zero-entry beach, so very shallow for a long ways out, no sudden drop off. Absolutely perfect for children of all ages to enjoy the water more safely.
The Water
It is actually quite clear, calm and clean. I have just arrived from Bali where the water temperatures are similar to a bath. Here at Dadaepo, the water feels cold to me, and I did not see a single person swimming this day.
Walking
This is the cleanest of all the beaches I have visited in Busan. Nary a piece of trash to be seen. There are patches of seaweed and a few shells, but really a piece of nature that remains in spectacular condition.
Dadaepo is a very lengthy beach, one could walk for a long while before having to return or come up to the esplanade to stroll back.
Gowooni Ecological Trail
A recent addition to the beach itself is the Gowooni Ecological Trail. This is what greeted me when I first arrived at the beach. Visitors will be able to walk along a suspended wooden trail system, hovering above the marshlands and view the local wildlife and plants.
This is a massive and absolutely gorgeous nature area with larger platforms and benches to rest. There was hardly a sole in sight the day I visited. Enjoy the birds and plants that live in this unique eco system.
Statues
It wouldnโt be Korea if there werenโt statues on the beach. ๐ Here, find larger than life art installations by local creators. The dog with his leg lifted to pee is very entertaining.
And the tall white human that appears as a single person from different angles is amazing and so much larger once you are standing right up beside her.
Surfing
This beach is one with an avid surf following. Up near the grass and shallow dunes, were multiple surf boards, just waiting for a ride. I could see at least three people out in the water, enjoying the waves.
Sunset Fountain Show
In the evenings, between April and September is a huge fountain show. I did not witness this, however I walked across the square that is the dry fountain during the day, and it is truly massive. Have a google and see if this is something you want to see in the summer evenings. It looks spectacular.
If you are looking for a truly beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than Dadaepo. The beach is so large, you feel you are alone and have space to let your guard down and fully immerse into the landscape. This is a unique and special place, and exceptionally lovely and accessible from the city.
