Hotels in Gangneung

Whispers of Nature: Unveiling the Hidden Charms of Gangneung

Nestled along South Korea's stunning east coast, Gangneung in Gangwon Province is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Famous for its pristine Gyeongpo Beach and tranquil Gangmun Beach, visitors can soak up the sun or stroll along scenic shores. Explore the enchanting Gyeongpodae, a picturesque lakeside area perfect for sunset views. Gangneung also offers a taste of tradition, with unique local cuisine and vibrant cultural festivals. Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a nature escape, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Gangneung promises unforgettable experiences by the East Sea. For the best hotel rates in Gangneung and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Gangneung

Some of the best places to stay in Gangneung are Yangyang, Jeongseon and Donghae. Yangyang, Jeongseon, and Donghae offer unique experiences for travelers in South Korea. Yangyang is known for its stunning beaches and surfing spots, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Jeongseon boasts beautiful mountains and cultural festivals, while Donghae features picturesque coastal views and hot springs. Accommodations range from budget-friendly pensions to mid-range hotels, with room rates typically between $50 to $150 per night, ensuring options for every traveler’s preference. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Gangneung:

1. YangyangOpens in a new window: A charming coastal destination, Yangyang offers stunning beachscapes, including Naksan Beach and Sokcho Beach, perfect for relaxation and water activities. For adventure enthusiasts, Seoraksan National Park provides breathtaking scenery and outdoor pursuits. Consider staying at Sol Beach YangyangOpens in a new window, a family-friendly 4.0-star resort with amenities like a water park and children's arcade, making it ideal for families. Alternatively, Dignity HotelOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star hotel with direct beach access, perfect for those looking to soak up the sun. For a blend of comfort and recreation, Hotel MaremonsOpens in a new window offers various sports facilities along with dining options and entertainment.
2. JeongseonOpens in a new window: Known for its thrilling ski resorts, Jeongseon is a winter wonderland for skiing enthusiasts with attractions like High1 Ski Resort and Gangwon Land Casino. High1 Grand Hotel Main TowerOpens in a new window is a luxurious 4.5-star resort, great for those who enjoy both skiing and casino gaming, offering extensive business services. Another excellent option is High1 Grand Hotel Convention TowerOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that caters to business travelers with modern amenities and conference spaces. If relaxation is on your agenda, PARK ROCHE Resort & WellnessOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, features a full spa and outdoor pool services, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
3. DonghaeOpens in a new window: This coastal city is rich in natural beauty and is home to picturesque beaches like Mangsang Beach and Jeongdongjin Beach, making it a great spot for outdoor lovers. Hotel Tops 10Opens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, offers direct beach access and features a natural hot spring, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Another option, Sun Cruise Resort and YachtOpens in a new window, is a 4.0-star resort that also provides beach access, ideal for those looking to enjoy the sun and surf. For travelers with pets, Samcheok Garden PensionOpens in a new window offers a comfortable stay with pet-friendly amenities, ensuring your furry friends can join in on the fun.

Things to do in Gangneung for first time

Gangneung offers a perfect three-day escape for travelers seeking stunning natural beauty, with its picturesque beaches, lush mountains, serene lakes, and vibrant forests. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and fishing, or immerse yourself in local festivals and breathtaking sunrises, making it a memorable getaway. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Gangneung:

• Day 1: Start your day soaking up the sun at Jumunjin Beach, where you can enjoy the soft sands and refreshing waves. After some relaxation, make your way to Namae Beach, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll. As the sun begins to set, head over to Namae Marina, where you can enjoy dinner with a view of the harbor, perhaps indulging in some local seafood dishes while watching the boats come in.
• Day 2: Kick off your day with a visit to the Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm, where you can interact with adorable sheep and enjoy the stunning views of the rolling hills. Next, cool off at Ocean 700, a fantastic water park that offers thrilling slides and relaxing pools. In the afternoon, visit Daegwallyeong Samyang Ranch, where you can take in breathtaking landscapes and learn about the ranching lifestyle in this picturesque area. Don't forget to capture some memorable photos of the lush scenery!
• Day 3: Begin your morning at Mangsang Beach, a beautiful spot known for its clear waters and soft sands, ideal for swimming or sunbathing. Then, head over to Mukho Lighthouse Park, where you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the famous lighthouse. Finally, immerse yourself in culture at the Donghae Gorae Hwaseok Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits related to the region’s history and geology, rounding out your exciting trip to Gangneung.

5 tips to find a great Gangneung hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Gangneung is during March, October, and November when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're an international traveler, aim to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure better rates. A stay of at least 1-2 days is recommended to fully experience the key sights, such as the beautiful unescosites and serene lakes. This destination offers great value for money, making it a fantastic choice for those traveling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Gangneung, you're in luck! Hotels.com offers a variety of options, especially in the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find attractive discounts on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a great deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your adventure in Gangneung.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Gangneung.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Gangneung is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, buses, or trains to explore the area, which can be more likely to be affordable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Gangneung. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Gangneung

Here are some popular dishes in Gangneung, Gangwon, South Korea:

• Bibimbap: This vibrant dish is a harmonious mix of rice topped with an assortment of seasoned vegetables, marinated beef, a fried egg, and a dollop of gochujang (red chili paste). In Gangneung, bibimbap is often served in a hot stone bowl, which gives the rice a delightful crispy texture. Each ingredient is carefully arranged, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. You can customize it to your liking, adding more or less of your favorite components, which makes it a perfect representation of personal culinary expression.
• Sundae: A beloved street food in Gangneung, sundae is a type of blood sausage made with a mix of pig’s blood, rice, and various seasonings, often encased in a pig’s intestine. It's usually served with a side of spicy dipping sauce and can be found at local markets. The unique flavors and textures highlight the region's rich culinary heritage, making it a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Best time to go to Gangneung

Gangneung experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 29.1°F (-1.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.7°F (23.7°C). August is usually the wettest month. February, July, and December are the peak travel months in Gangneung, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, March, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.