Home Search by budget Destinations Beaches Interactive map Services Booking Collections Ratings VIP Club
Find flights Book transfer
Home / Destinations / Sokcho

Sokcho

South Korea · Coast · KRW · 38.200000, 128.583300
Family friendly 7.4/10 · Rank 429 of 2 709
Best season: May-June, September-October (mild weather)

Best for

For mountain lovers, beaches, fresh seafood and active holidays.

Best season

May-June, September-October (mild weather)

Daily budget
$73.00 (≈ 6 126 ₽ · ≈ 97 090 KRW)
For 7 days
$511.00 (≈ 42 883 ₽ · ≈ 679 630 KRW)
Sokcho is the gateway to Seoraksan National Park, one of the most scenic mountain ranges in Korea. The city is famous for its white-sand beaches, pine forests, and fresh seafood from its famous fish market. This is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Summer
30.0°C
Winter
-4.0°C
Sea
23.7°C
Search by budget Atmosphere Pros and cons Climate Sea and beach Hazards Attractions Excursions Prices FAQ
Search by budget
Enter an amount — we'll show destinations within your reach
Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Hospitable, friendly, loving the sea and mountains.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Proximity to Seoraksan National Park
  • Beautiful sandy beach
  • Fresh seafood and unique cuisine
  • Fewer tourists than major cities
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • Limited nightlife
  • Cold winter
  • Monsoon rains in summer
  • Limited infrastructure
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
23.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
28.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
30.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
-1.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
3.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
-4.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
22.1°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
23.7°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
summer (July-August), with monsoon rains
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
fine white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
moderate
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Sokcho Beach (wide sandy beach with pine trees)
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
None
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Sokcho Beach is safe for swimming. Main dangers are strong sun and motorboats near the shore. No lifeguards.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins inhabit Sokcho waters, found on rocky bottoms and rocks. They are a popular local delicacy (uni). Protective footwear is recommended when swimming.

Corals and reefs — details

  • Cold-water corals, including soft corals (Alcyonacea), are found in Sokcho waters, covering underwater rocks and shipwrecks. Risk of cuts on contact.

Jellyfish — details

  • The sea nettle (Chrysaora pacifica), causing painful stings, inhabits Sokcho waters. In 2024, 513 jellyfish sting cases were recorded in Gangwon Province. Jellyfish prevention nets are installed at all Sokcho beaches. Peak activity season is June-August.

Sharks — details

  • Several shark species inhabit Sokcho waters, including the salmon shark (Lamna ditropis), shortfin mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) and great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias). In 2024, a 295 cm mako was caught off the Sokcho coast. Anti-shark nets are installed at all beaches. No attacks on humans have been recorded.
Attractions

Seoraksan National Park

One of Korea's most beautiful mountain parks with granite peaks, waterfalls and temples. Accessible by bus from Sokcho in 30 minutes.

Sokcho Beach

The city's main beach with a wide strip of white sand, pine forest and clear sea. The beach is about 450 metres long.

Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market

Lively market with seafood, street food and local delicacies. A must-visit for experiencing Sokcho's cuisine.

Cheongchoho Lake

Scenic lake with a well-maintained promenade, flower beds and mountain views. A popular spot for walks.

Abai Village

Colourful village by the harbour, known for its hand-pulled ferry and unique cuisine, including Abai sundae (squid blood sausage).

Naksansa Temple

Ancient Buddhist temple on a cliff with sea views, founded in the 7th century. One of Korea's most scenic temples.

Best areas

Sokcho Beach

Main beach area with hotels, restaurants and ocean views.

Sokcho Centre (Jungang-dong)

Lively area with markets, shops and transport links.

Abai Village & Jangsa Harbour

Colourful harbour area with seafood restaurants and a hand-pulled ferry.

Seoraksan Area

Area near the national park entrance with hotels and hiking trails.

Must-try food

Ojingeo Sundae (Squid Sausage)

Sokcho's most recognisable dish — blood sausage stuffed in a squid. A popular street food.

Abai Sundae

A unique version of blood sausage from Abai Village, stuffed in a squid with vegetables and spices.

Mulhoe (Cold Raw Fish Soup)

Refreshing raw fish soup with vegetables and spicy sauce, served with ice. Sokcho's signature dish.

Dakgangjeong (Sweet Crispy Chicken)

Crispy chicken in a sweet sauce, a popular street food at Sokcho Market.

Gamjajeon (Potato Pancakes)

Crispy potato pancakes, a popular street food served with soy sauce.

Where to go next

Seoraksan National Park

Mountain park with hiking trails and temples, ~30 minutes by bus.

Gangneung

Coastal city with coffee streets and museums, ~1 hour by car.

Osaek

Mountain resort with mineral springs and spas, ~40 minutes by car.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Янян (YNY).
Check flight prices Putivator
Compare prices from 800+ airlines — Putivator
Search
Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free for most countries (up to 90 days), K-ETA required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
May-June, September-October (mild weather)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 46 550 KRW
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$34.00
≈ 2 853 ₽ · ≈ 45 220 KRW
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$63.00
≈ 5 287 ₽ · ≈ 83 790 KRW
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$102.00
≈ 8 560 ₽ · ≈ 135 660 KRW
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$130.00
≈ 10 910 ₽ · ≈ 172 900 KRW
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 106 400 KRW
Book a hotel Partner
Over 2 million hotels — Trip.com
Find
Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 33 250 KRW
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 5 320 KRW
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 5 985 KRW
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.20
≈ 101 ₽ · ≈ 1 596 KRW
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 6 650 KRW
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 39 900 KRW
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.20
≈ 101 ₽ · ≈ 1 596 KRW
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 9 310 KRW
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 53 200 KRW
Airport transfer Putivator
Comfortable transfer — Putivator
Book
Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 15 960 KRW
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽ · ≈ 23 940 KRW
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 46 550 KRW
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 79 800 KRW
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Sokcho Partner
Museums, parks, tours - Tiqets
Find
Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 53 200 KRW
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 15 960 KRW
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 13 300 KRW
eSIM for travellers Partner
Internet in 200+ countries — Yesim
Connect
Frequently asked questions
Sokcho: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is May-June, September-October (mild weather). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Sokcho: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +30.0°C, during the day — up to +28.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Sokcho: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +-4.0°C, during the day — up to +3.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Sokcho: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +23.7°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Sokcho: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on summer (July-August), with monsoon rains. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Sokcho: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "fine white sand" surface, white sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Sokcho Beach (wide sandy beach with pine trees). The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Sokcho: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Sokcho: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $73.00 (≈ 6 126 ₽ · ≈ 97 090 KRW) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Sokcho: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $35.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $34.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $63.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $102.00 per night, an apartment — $80.00 per night, a villa — $130.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Sokcho: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $10.00, dinner at a restaurant — $25.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.20. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Sokcho: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $30.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.20, a short taxi ride — $7.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Sokcho: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Seoraksan National Park — One of Korea's most beautiful mountain parks with granite peaks, waterfalls and temples. Accessible by bus from Sokcho in 30 minutes.; Sokcho Beach — The city's main beach with a wide strip of white sand, pine forest and clear sea. The beach is about 450 metres long.; Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market — Lively market with seafood, street food and local delicacies. A must-visit for experiencing Sokcho's cuisine.; Cheongchoho Lake — Scenic lake with a well-maintained promenade, flower beds and mountain views. A popular spot for walks.; Abai Village — Colourful village by the harbour, known for its hand-pulled ferry and unique cuisine, including Abai sundae (squid blood sausage).. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Sokcho: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Ojingeo Sundae (Squid Sausage) — Sokcho's most recognisable dish — blood sausage stuffed in a squid. A popular street food.; Abai Sundae — A unique version of blood sausage from Abai Village, stuffed in a squid with vegetables and spices.; Mulhoe (Cold Raw Fish Soup) — Refreshing raw fish soup with vegetables and spicy sauce, served with ice. Sokcho's signature dish.; Dakgangjeong (Sweet Crispy Chicken) — Crispy chicken in a sweet sauce, a popular street food at Sokcho Market.; Gamjajeon (Potato Pancakes) — Crispy potato pancakes, a popular street food served with soy sauce.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Sokcho: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Sokcho Beach — Main beach area with hotels, restaurants and ocean views.; Sokcho Centre (Jungang-dong) — Lively area with markets, shops and transport links.; Abai Village & Jangsa Harbour — Colourful harbour area with seafood restaurants and a hand-pulled ferry.; Seoraksan Area — Area near the national park entrance with hotels and hiking trails.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Sokcho: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free for most countries (up to 90 days), K-ETA required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Sokcho: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Янян (code YNY). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $30.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Sokcho: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — KRW. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $73.00 (≈ 6 126 ₽ · ≈ 97 090 KRW). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Sokcho: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Sokcho: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Sokcho: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Seoraksan National Park — Mountain park with hiking trails and temples, ~30 minutes by bus.; Gangneung — Coastal city with coffee streets and museums, ~1 hour by car.; Osaek — Mountain resort with mineral springs and spas, ~40 minutes by car.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.4/10
Overall rank: 429 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 297