Gwangalli Beach: Getting There, Food, Drone Show, Hotels

Hey there fellow K-culture enthusiasts! 👋 

I’m super excited to spill all the tea about one of my absolute favorite spots, Gwangalli Beach! And trust me, after countless weekends spent here watching sunsets, trying every possible restaurant, and even accidentally photobombing a K-drama filming (more on that embarrassing story later! 🙈)…

I’ve got ALL the insider tips you need!

My Embarrassing But Blessed First Visit Story

Okay, storytime! My first visit to Gwangalli Beach was actually a complete accident (and kind of embarrassing!). 

I was trying to find Haeundae Beach on my first week in Busan, got totally lost (classic me), and somehow ended up here. 

I was about to call it a failed day when I spotted some staff setting up for what looked like a filming.

Long story short, I accidentally walked right into the background of a “Fight For My Way” scene! 

The staff were super nice about it though, and even though they had to reshoot, Park Seo-joon smiled and waved it off. 

Talk about a memorable first visit! 

Since then, I’ve spotted numerous K-drama and K-pop MV filmings here, this beach is seriously a celebrity hotspot!

Gwangalli vs Haeundae Beach Comparison

Haeundae Beach is more famous, but here’s why Gwangalli might be your perfect match:

Gwangalli Beach Pros:

• Less crowded (perfect for those Instagram shots!)
• Better sunset views with the Gwangan Bridge
• More local vibes and better food options
• Regular events like the drone show and fireworks
• Easier to find seating at cafes and restaurants
• More reasonable prices

When to Choose Haeundae:

• If you want that famous “Korean beach” experience
• During major festivals
• If you’re staying at one of the luxury hotels
• For water sports (they have more options)

Also read: Haeundae Beach: Foods, Maps, Hotel, Nightlife

The INCREDIBLE Gwangalli Beach Drone Show (A Must-See!)

Okay, let me geek out about this for a minute because it’s seriously amazing! 

Every Saturday at 8 PM (weather permitting), hundreds of drones create the most spectacular light show you’ll ever see. Here’s my tried-and-tested guide to getting the best experience:

Best Viewing Spots:

1. Center of the beach (arrive by 7:30 PM)
2. Second floor of the Sol Beach café
3. Rooftop of Kent Hotel (if you’re staying there)

Pro Tips for the Drone Show:

• Bring a picnic mat (the sand gets chilly!)
• Check weather forecasts (shows get canceled if it’s too windy)
• Grab dinner before or after, not during (you don’t want to miss anything)
• Some shows have special themes (like K-pop collaborations!)

The Best Time to Visit Gwangalli Beach

Each season has its charm, but here’s my month-by-month breakdown:

Spring (March-May):

• Perfect weather for beach walks
• Cherry blossoms along the beach road
• Less crowded than summer
• Great for outdoor cafes

Summer (June-August):

• Beach activities in full swing
• Regular cultural performances
• Night markets and food festivals
• Best time for swimming

Fall (September-November):

• Busan Fireworks Festival (October)
• Beautiful sunset colors
• Perfect temperature
• Special autumn menus at restaurants

Winter (December-February):

• Romantic light displays
• Hot street food season
• Clear views of the bridge
• Cozy café vibes

Food Guide Gwangalli Beach

After trying literally everything (my wallet cried but my stomach rejoiced), here are my top picks:

Must-Try Restaurants in Gwangalli Beach:

1. Millak Raw Fish Street
   • Go to “Whale Raw Fish” restaurant
   • Ask for the “Local’s Special” (trust me!)
   • Budget: ₩30,000-40,000 per person
2. Café Street
   • “Wave on Coffee” for the best bridge views
   • “Monika” for amazing desserts
   • “Café 38.5” for that perfect Instagram shot

Street Food Spots in Gwangalli Beach:

• The pojangmacha (food tents) near the beach entrance
• Weekend food trucks (changes regularly)
• Night market stalls (seasonal)

Hidden Spots Most Tourists Miss in Gwangalli Beach

After countless explorations, here are some secret spots:

1. The Mini Lighthouse
   • Perfect sunset spot
   • Usually empty
   • Great for photos
2. The Secret Beach Path
   • Behind the main street
   • Quiet and peaceful
   • Local cats everywhere!
3. The Rooftop Garden
   • Above the beach library
   • Free to visit
   • Amazing night views

K-pop Fan’s Special Guide in Gwangalli Beach

For my fellow K-pop stans:

Known Filming Locations:

• BTS filmed parts of their Summer Package here
• TWICE’s “Dance The Night Away” MV location
• Several “Inkigayo” special stages
• Regular idol photoshoot spot

Fan-Friendly Cafés:

• Many cafés play K-pop MVs
• Some have idol photocard trading corners
• Look for fan support cup sleeve events!

Where to Stay in Gwangalli Beach? Recommended Hotels!

Looking for hotels near Gwangalli Beach? I got you! My top picks:

• Kent Hotel Gwangalli – amazing bridge views, super clean
• Hotel Aqua Palace – perfect for photoshoots (trust me, your Instagram will thank you)
• Gwangan Hound Hotel – budget-friendly but still totally cute

Also read: Jagalchi Fish Market: Best Seafood in Busan

Final Thoughts?

Listen, whether you’re a K-pop fan hoping to spot your bias, a foodie looking for amazing eats, or just someone who wants to experience the perfect mix of city and beach vibes, Gwangalli Beach needs to be on your bucket list!

My final secret tip? Come on a Wednesday evening – it’s when most locals visit, the restaurants have their best offers, and the sunset seems extra special (maybe I’m just sentimental, but trust me on this!).

Don’t forget to tag me in your pics if you visit! And remember – while Haeundae might be in all the guidebooks, Gwangalli is where the magic really happens. Trust this unnie/oppa on this one! 😉