KoreaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Gwangalli Beach, Busan

1. How can one get to Gwangalli Beach from the Busan Train Station?

One can get to Gwangalli Beach from the Busan Train Station by taking the subway. First, take Line 1 (orange line) towards Nopo and get off at Seomyeon Station. Then transfer to Line 2 (green line) towards Jangsan and get off at Gwangan Station. From there, it is a short walk to Gwangalli Beach.

Alternatively, one can also take a taxi or a bus from Busan Train Station to Gwangan Beach. The taxi ride takes approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic, while the bus ride takes about an hour.

2. How long does it take to reach Gwangalli Beach from Busan Train Station?

The total travel time from Busan Train Station to Gwangalli Beach will vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen. On average, it takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the beach by subway or taxi, while taking a bus may take closer to an hour. Traffic conditions and other factors may also affect the travel time.

2. Is there a bus that runs directly from the airport to Gwangalli Beach?


Yes, there is a bus that runs directly from Gimhae International Airport to Gwangalli Beach. The bus route number is 307 and it takes approximately 55 minutes to reach the beach. The bus operates between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm, and the fare is 1,500 won (subject to change).

3. Where are the nearest parking lots for those driving to Gwangalli Beach?


Some of the nearest parking lots for those driving to Gwangalli Beach are:

1. Gwangalli Beach Parking Lot: Located right next to the beach, this is a large paid parking lot with multiple levels and spaces for cars and motorcycles.

2. Gwangan BCI Tower Underground Parking Lot: This underground parking lot is located behind the BCI Tower, just a short walk from the beach.

3. Gwangandaegyo Parking Lot: This large paid parking lot is located near the Gwangan Bridge, which connects to Gwangalli Beach.

4. Centum City Station Public Parking Lot: Located near Centum City Station on Line 2 of the subway, this public parking lot has plenty of spaces and is about a 15-minute walk from the beach.

5. Second BICCO Underground Parking Lot: Another underground parking lot that is located about a 10-minute walk from the beach, behind BICCO building.

Please note that these are all paid parking lots and fees may vary. It is recommended to plan ahead and arrive early to secure a spot during peak hours.

4. Is there a ferry or water taxi service available to take visitors around Gwangalli Beach?


Yes, there is a ferry and water taxi service available at Gwangalli Beach. The Gwangandae Cruise offers a 40-minute ride along the coast of Gwangalli Beach, offering stunning views of the beach and surrounding mountains. Water taxis are also available for shorter trips around the beach area. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance.

5. Are there any bicycle lanes on or around Gwangalli Beach for tourists who wish to explore on wheels?


Yes, there are several bicycle lanes around Gwangalli Beach. Visitors can rent bicycles at the beach and ride along designated paths that connect to nearby attractions, such as Haeundae Beach and Nurimaru APEC House. There are also dedicated bike trails along the Gwangalli Bridge and Gwanganhaebyeon-ro (Gwangan Coastal Road) for a scenic ride along the coast. Additionally, there are many rental shops located near the beach offering a variety of bicycles, including tandem bikes and electric bikes.

6. How often do the city buses run to and from Gwangalli Beach?


The city buses to and from Gwangalli Beach run approximately every 15 minutes during peak hours (7am-9am, 5pm-8pm) and every 30 minutes during non-peak hours. However, exact frequency may vary depending on the specific bus line and time of day. It is recommended to check the bus schedule for more accurate information.

7. Are there any rental car options near Gwangalli Beach for tourists who want to venture further out in the city?


Yes, there are several rental car options near Gwangalli Beach for tourists. These include:

1. Lotte Rental Car – located just a 10-minute walk from Gwangalli Beach, they offer various car models at affordable rates.

2. AJ Rent-a-car – situated only 5 minutes away from Gwangalli Beach by car, they offer convenient pick-up and drop-off services at both Gimhae Airport and Busan Station.

3. Bluebird Rent-a-car – located about a 15-minute walk from Gwangalli Beach, they offer a wide range of vehicles to choose from, including luxury cars and vans for larger groups.

4. K-Tourcar – situated about a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride from the beach, they offer self-driving tours and rental cars with English GPS systems for tourists.

It is important to note that while driving in Busan can be convenient, traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult to find in popular areas like Gwangalli Beach. It is recommended to make reservations in advance and familiarize yourself with local traffic laws before renting a car.

8. Can one take a train ride along the coast near Gwangalli Beach for views of the seaside scenery?


Yes, you can take a train ride along the coast near Gwangalli Beach for views of the seaside scenery. The coastal train, known as the “Gyeongbu Line,” runs from Busan Station to Gupo Station and offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby beaches such as Gwangalli Beach. You can also catch the train at Gwangan Station, which is located just a short walk from Gwangalli Beach.

9. Are there any guided tours available that highlight transportation and navigation in and around Gwangalli Beach?


Yes, there are guided tours available that highlight transportation and navigation in and around Gwangalli Beach. Some options include:

1. “Gwangalli Beach Walking Tour”: This tour includes a visit to the Gwangan Bridge, a boat ride around Marine City, and a walk along the beach with a guide who can provide information about transportation options in the area.

2. “Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour”: This tour allows you to explore Gwangalli Beach at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus that stops at various points of interest, including transportation hubs such as subway stations.

3. “Navigating Gwangalli by Tuk Tuk”: This unique tour takes you around Gwangalli Beach on a traditional tuk tuk, allowing you to experience the local mode of transportation while learning about the area from your knowledgeable guide.

4. “Bikeseoul Tour – Gwangan Bridge and Beach”: If you prefer an eco-friendly mode of transportation, this biking tour is a great option. It takes you along the scenic coastal roads near Gwangalli Beach and stops at major landmarks along the way.

You can find more information about these tours and others by visiting travel agencies or tour operator websites, or by checking with tourist information centers in Busan.

10. What is the best way to travel from Gwangan Bridge Observation Deck back down to street level?


The best way to travel from Gwangan Bridge Observation Deck back down to street level is by taking the elevator, escalator, or stairs located inside the observation deck.

11. Are there any water sports companies that offer boat rentals for cruising along Gwangalli Beach?

Yes, there are several water sports companies that offer boat rentals for cruising along Gwangalli Beach. Some popular options include Marine City Boat Rental, Ocean Blue Boat Rental, and Gwangalli Seaways Boat Rental. Prices and availability may vary, so it is recommended to contact the specific company directly for more information.

12. Is it possible to rent jet skis or go parasailing at Gwangalli Beach?

Yes, it is possible to rent jet skis and go parasailing at Gwangalli Beach. There are several rental shops and tour companies located along the beach that offer these activities. Prices may vary, so it’s best to check with different providers for options and rates. It’s important to note that these activities may not be available during bad weather or peak season.

13. Are scooters allowed on the streets around Gwangalli Beach, and if so, where can they be rented?


Yes, scooters are allowed on the streets surrounding Gwangalli Beach. There are several rental shops in the area where scooters can be rented, including Gwangalli Scooter and Bicycle Rental located near Haeundae Station. It is important to note that all riders must have a valid Korean driver’s license or an international driver’s permit in order to operate a scooter in South Korea.

14. How far is the closest subway station from Gwangan Bridge Park, and is it walkable?


The closest subway station to Gwangan Bridge Park is Gwangan Station, which is about a 15-20 minute walk away. It is definitely walkable, but you can also take a bus or taxi from the station to the park if you prefer.

15. Can taxis be hailed easily on the streets near Gwangalli Beach, or is it better to call a cab company?


It is fairly easy to hail a taxi on the streets near Gwangalli Beach, especially during peak hours. However, if you are having trouble finding one or want to ensure availability, it is also possible to call a cab company.

16. Are there any bike tours available that take visitors through different neighborhoods near Gwangan Bridge?

Yes, there are bike tours available that take visitors through different neighborhoods near Gwangan Bridge. One popular tour is the “City Sightseeing Bike Tour” offered by Enjoy Korea (https://www.enjoykorea.asia/tour-item/city-sightseeing-bike-tour/). This tour takes visitors through neighborhoods such as Gwangan, Haeundae, and Centum City, with stops at cultural landmarks and scenic spots along the way. Other biking tours in the area can also be found through local tourism agencies or on travel websites such as Expedia or Viator.

17. Can visitors take a scenic helicopter ride over Gwangan Bridge and its surrounding areas?

Yes, visitors can take a scenic helicopter ride over Gwangan Bridge and its surrounding areas. There are several companies that offer this service, including KTOURSTORY and HeliKorea. Prices and availability may vary, so it is recommended to check with the specific company for more information.

18. How long does it usually take for a car ride from Busan Station to Gwangalli Beach during peak traffic hours?


The average travel time from Busan Station to Gwangalli Beach during peak traffic hours is about 30-40 minutes. It can vary depending on the exact location and traffic conditions.

19. Are there any car rental companies that offer convertible or sports cars for rent near Gwangalli Beach?

There are several car rental companies near Gwangalli Beach, including:

– Avis (located in the Cloud M Hillside Hotel)
– Hertz (located on Gunam-ro)
– SIXT (located on Gunam-ro)

These companies offer a variety of car options, including convertibles and sports cars. However, availability may vary depending on the location and time of rental. It is recommended to contact the specific branch beforehand to confirm availability and make a reservation.

20. Is it recommended to use navigation apps while driving around Gwangalli Beach, or is it easy to navigate without one?


It is recommended to use navigation apps while driving around Gwangalli Beach as it can help you find specific locations and avoid getting lost. While it may be easy to navigate without one, having a navigation app can make your experience smoother and more efficient.