A Day of Delights in Sokcho: Beaches, Flavors, and Scenic Views
On the first day of my two-night trip to Sokcho, I spent the day exploring exotic ocean views at Yangyang's surfing beach and savoring unique culinary experiences that can only be found in Gangwon Province.
From the vibrant surfing beach and the ocean-view Bada Garden Cafe in Goseong, to Namgyeong Makguksu (buckwheat noodles) and charcoal-grilled BBQ in Sokcho, and ending with Songi Dakgangjeong (sweet and crispy chicken), the weather was perfect, and the course was filled with both sights and delicious food.
Surfing Beach near Cheongganjeong, Yangyang – Where Exotic Vibes Meet Freedom
Unlike other beaches on the East Sea, the beach in front of Cheongganjeong offered a sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of a resort in a foreign country.
On one side, a yoga class was taking place in a transparent space with an ocean view. On the other, a live rock performance resonated. The sandy beach was wide and clean, and the consistent sound of the waves was as calming as meditation, while surfers carved through the waves, creating a truly picturesque scene.
Cheongganjeong Beach offers an unobstructed view of the East Sea and the entire coastline, naturally evoking the exclamation, “This is the real East Sea!”
Surfing lessons and board rentals are available, and the golden sunset is said to be a popular photo spot. Everywhere you look is so beautiful, you could take a picture anywhere and it would look like a magazine cover.
I especially loved the unique combination of relaxation spaces, something rarely seen on beaches.
The combination of 'fabric + plants'!
It's what makes Cheongganjeong Surfing Beach look even more exotic.
The beach at sunset is always charming, no matter when you see it.
The indie band's vocalist sounded a lot like Yoon Do-hyun, which surprised me!! The sound was GOOD!!
Instead of the typical colorful beach umbrellas commonly found on Haeundae and Sokcho beaches, each spot was decorated with a unique concept.
I prefer watching the water to staring at a fire, so I find myself relaxing and losing track of time when I spend the whole day looking out at the sea.
Namgyeong Makguksu at Daepo Port – A Unique Combination of Perilla Seeds and Gondre (Thistle)
I wondered if makguksu would be a good choice for breakfast, but I was surprised at how easily I enjoyed the noodles!
Located near Daepo Port in Sokcho, about a 2-minute walk from the public parking lot, 'Namgyeong Makguksu' is a local favorite. I arrived before it opened (opens at 10 AM), but there was already a slight wait.
The restaurant had a clean and sophisticated exterior, unlike what I imagined a makguksu place would be like, and the trendy music playing while I ate was quite impressive.
I ordered the two most popular noodle dishes.
Since it was morning, we only ordered noodles, but most families were also ordering suyuk (boiled pork slices).
Perilla Seed Makguksu - ₩12,000
The rich, ground perilla seeds gently coat the noodles, creating a deep, nutty flavor. The combination of the buckwheat noodles' delicate taste and the perilla seeds' nuttiness is perfect.
Gondre Makguksu - ₩12,000
The subtle aroma of gondre blends with the buckwheat noodles, leaving a refreshing and clean aftertaste. The texture of the gondre with each bite offers a unique satisfaction. Younger people will probably prefer the gondre makguksu.
Both were really delicious, and above all, the noodles were delicate and incredibly tasty. It was hard to choose a favorite, but my top pick was the perilla seed makguksu. The nuttiness of the perilla seeds wasn't overpowering, and the flavor was present throughout the entire meal, so I finished every last bite.
I arrived before 10 AM, but the restaurant was already full of customers inside, and there were people waiting outside. Fortunately, the turnover rate was fast, and the interior had more tables than I expected, so I didn't have to wait long to get in.
The young radish kimchi and cold noodle kimchi were also clean and delicious.
The nutty flavor of the perilla seeds is still lingering as I write this~
I might go again before heading back to Seoul.
[Namgyeong Makguksu Main Branch]
Hours: Open 365 days a year
Daily 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Last order at 8:30 PM
Can use the revitalization coupon.
Goseong Bada Garden Cafe – A Feast of Ocean Views and Diverse Breads
Bada Garden is a cafe that truly brings a garden to the ocean. I always make it a point to visit whenever I travel to Sokcho because the ocean view is always amazing, no matter when you go.
The interior features a modern design with floor-to-ceiling windows offering refreshing views of the East Sea. On sunny days, you can see the horizon clearly, making teatime outside truly special.
In the outdoor space, you'll find people napping in the shade of the lush pine trees (mostly fathers, haha), others enjoying coffee while gazing at the sea, and families and their pets having a great time... The blue sky and the sound of the waves make this a healing space for everyone.
Except on rainy or very hot days, I usually prefer to spend my time outside, enjoying the ocean view.
As for the bread, I personally think the croissants are the best, and with a variety of options such as cheese baguettes, salt bread, and cinnamon rolls, there's something to satisfy every bread lover.
The weather was really great today!!
When I came with my husband, it was about to rain...
When I brought my mom around June last year, the weather was great!!
When I brought my mom in July (it was cloudy that day too)
When my son came out on leave, haha.
Sokcho is loved by our family!! And Bada Garden is one of our favorites.^^
Ganggyeong Bulgogi – Disappointingly Closed Due to Sold-Out Ingredients
In the evening, I had planned to go to ‘Ganggyeong Bulgogi,’ but unfortunately, it was closed early due to sold-out ingredients, so I had to turn back.
This place is a bulgogi restaurant popular among locals in Sokcho, known for its sweet sauce and tender beef.
I've added it to my must-visit list for my next trip to Sokcho.
Already sold out even though it was early evening...TT
Lobelia casually growing in the nearby flowerbed~
I searched again and found ‘Charcoal Grill Restaurant Hwaro-e,’ where I ordered charcoal-grilled pork ribs and pork rinds, and was surprised at how delicious they were!
The pork ribs weren't overly seasoned, allowing the charcoal aroma and the natural flavor of the meat to shine through. The pork rinds were chewy and left a savory taste in my mouth for a long time. (It was my first time trying pork rinds.)
The side dishes were also neat, and I ate a lot with lettuce and perilla leaves.
Songi Dakgangjeong – Soft and Mild Snack
On the way back to the accommodation, I stopped by ‘Songi Dakgangjeong,’ a famous sweet and crispy chicken restaurant in Sokcho.
I chose the mild flavor for myself, as I can't handle spicy food, and it had no spiciness at all, making it enjoyable for everyone from children to adults.
The chicken was tender and moist on the inside, and the crispy batter was evenly coated with the sauce.
The sauce was sweet with a subtle savory flavor that kept me reaching for more. Personally, I found Songi Dakgangjeong more delicious than Mansuk Dakgangjeong.
Tip: You can choose between spicy and mild flavors, and it stays soft even when packaged and cooled.
I don't know what it is, but I took a picture because the lush blooms were pretty.
Songi Dakgangjeong_Mild Flavor
Day 1 in Sokcho was filled with flavors and scenery, from the exotic beaches and stylish cafes to local makguksu, charcoal BBQ, and sweet and crispy chicken.
In particular, the free-spirited atmosphere of Cheongganjeong Surfing Beach, the ocean view from Bada Garden, and the savory perilla seed and gondre makguksu are must-experience highlights of a trip to Gangwon Province.
The missed Ganggyeong Bulgogi became a reason for my next trip, and the Songi Dakgangjeong was the perfect late-night snack.
Tomorrow, I'll be following the Sokcho Day 2 course to capture even more of Gangwon's charms.
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