Conquer the Sunrise: The Ultimate Guide to Busan's Best Sunrise Spots

Right before the New Year (or any morning!), catching the sunrise over the ocean is a timeless tradition. Busan, with its diverse coastlines and unique urban landscapes, offers a variety of stunning sunrise views. Though the same sun rises every day, its appearance changes completely depending on where you stand. Here is a guide to the most captivating sunrise spots in Busan.

1. Haeundae Beach (해운대해수욕장)

As a world-famous tourist attraction, Haeundae offers a vast expanse of white sand and an expansive coastline that instantly clears your mind. The sunrise here is dynamic and dazzling: as the sun emerges above the water, its light is projected onto the sleek, towering high-rise buildings that line the shore. This blend of nature and modern architecture creates a spectacular, glamorous scene, complemented by the white foam of the waves breaking on the soft sand.

• Transportation: Subway Line 2, Haeundae Station (Exit 5, 15-min walk) OR Busan City Tour Bus (Red Line) to Haeundae Beach Stop.

• Parking: Haeundae Beach Public Parking Lot.

2. Gwangalli Beach (광안리해수욕장)

The sunrise at Gwangalli is framed by the majestic Gwangan Bridge, turning the whole scene into a golden masterpiece. As the sun slowly ascends from beneath the structure, there is a breathtaking moment when it seems to rest right on top of the bridge. When the full sphere of the sun appears, Gwangalli is drenched in a blaze of golden light, an experience that fills your heart with profound emotion.

• Transportation: Subway Line 2, Gwangan Station (Exit 5, 13-min walk) OR City Tour Bus (Red Line) to Gwangalli Beach Stop.

• Parking: Nearby Public Parking Lots.

3. Songjeong Beach (송정해수욕장)

Known as a haven for surfers, Songjeong is quieter than the urban beaches of Haeundae and Gwangalli, allowing you to appreciate the wonder of nature more intimately. The best spot here is Songiljeong Pavilion at the end of the beach within Jukdo Park. As the sun breaks the horizon between the rugged rocks and the sea, the dark silhouette of the pavilion creates a stark contrast against the brilliant red sky. Catching sight of paddle boarders floating on the water in the early light adds an exotic touch to the golden scene.

• Transportation: Subway Line 2, Haeundae Station (then transfer to buses 139, 182, 200, 38, 39, 40, 63, 1001, 1003, or 1011 at Haeundae Stop, then 12-min walk from Songjeong Beach Entrance stop) OR Donghae Line (Train) to Songjeong Station (17-min walk).

• Parking: Songjeong Beach Public Parking Lot.

4. Jukseong Catholic Church (죽성성당)

Famous as a photography pilgrimage site, the sea in front of Jukseong Catholic Church is stunning in all lights. The truly beautiful moment, however, is when the sky blazes red behind the building's triangular spire. The scene—with fishing boats carrying dreams of a full catch, trailing seagulls, and a quietly watching lighthouse—is as dramatic and memorable as a scene from a movie.

• Transportation: Express Bus 1003 from Haeundae Oncheonsageori Stop → Get off at Gijang Catholic Church → Transfer to Village Bus 6 → Get off at Duho Village Stop.

• Parking: Parking Lot near Jukseong Catholic Church (Paid).

5. Orangdae Park (오랑대공원)

Follow the coastal walking path to reach the rocky shore of Orangdae Park, where the sounds of breaking waves and seabirds greet you. A prominent structure here is the Yongwangdan Shrine (Dragon King Shrine), which stands proudly on the rocks to greet the rising sun. Though it’s known for its often high, crashing waves, on calm days you might be lucky enough to witness the rare "Omega Sunrise" (when the sun looks like the Greek letter Omega as it touches the horizon). The solemn shrine, dedicated to the safety of the sea, blends harmoniously with the wishes made by sunrise viewers, creating a truly unique photo spot.

• Transportation: Bus 100, 139, or 181 to Haegwangsa Temple Stop → 4-min walk.

• Parking: Orangdae Park Parking Lot.

Which sunrise spot will you choose to welcome the start of your day?

Reference: Busan Newsletter