Haeundae is the most populated district of the city and has the most-visited shoreline, with 20 million people stopping by each year. During July and August, the peak tourist season, Haeundae Beach is almost covered with crowds and umbrellas, which can be rented, but you can find a patch of its smooth, golden sand to play beach sports on. This wide-stretching beach is paralleled by a large public area, which separates it from the noise of the busy city streets. Beachfront property is continually expanding, and you can find luxury and budget accommodation nearby.
The second-most visited beach in the city is just south of Haeundae Beach and is known for its view of Gwangandaegyo Bridge, which is completely illuminated by neon lights every night. The sea in Gwangalli is partially surrounded by land, so its water is sheltered from the stronger currents past the bridge and only gentle waves fall on the coarse-grained sand. The beach is just across the street from numerous restaurants, bars and accommodation options. On the south end of the beach you'll find kayak and wind surfing rentals. On the north end there are fish markets and amusement rides.
Songjeong is past the subway's reach, so take a taxi or bus from Haeundae station to its relaxing shore. Songjeong is smaller than Haeundae and Gwangalli and is a perfect place to escape the summer crowd without venturing too far. The beach is lined with motels, surf shops and coffee shops with 180 degree views of the ocean. Also, Busan's iconic waterfront temple, Haedong Yonggungsa, is just north of Songjeong. Take a taxi or bus 181 from the north end of town, and exit at Haedong Yonggung Temple.
At the southern tip of the city is a large beach with soft sand, and it makes even the largest summer crowd feel small and dispersed. It is well outside the usual sights of Busan and worth a look if you want a large area of sand all to yourself. All of Busan's beaches can be relaxing, but because Dadaepo feels hidden away from the expansive metropolis, it provides an adventurous twist to stretching out on the beach. Take a taxi or bus to Dadaepo Beach from Sinpyeong subway station.
