Gangneung Cafe Tour Guide: Best Ocean View Spots

With summer in full swing here in 2026, there is no better place to escape the heat than the coastal city of Gangneung.

Ready to plan your perfect seaside getaway?

Thanks to the 10th anniversary of the legendary K-drama 'Goblin' (Guardian: The Lonely and Great God), the iconic filming location at Jumunjin Breakwater is seeing a massive wave of excitement. If you are planning a trip to recreate that famous scene, let's explore the absolute best ocean-view cafes and local hangouts you need to check out nearby.

Dokkebimarket

Gangnaengi Sokuri | Kongbangatgan

Right by the famous Jumunjin breakwater where the iconic drama scenes were filmed, the scenic coastline is lined with gorgeous cafes. Among them, a dedicated lifestyle and cafe zone has been created under the legendary name.

Welcome to Dokkebimarket (Goblin Market).

Inside Dokkebimarket, you will find several unique cafes and plenty of outdoor terrace tables where you can sip your coffee with a front-row view of the East Sea.

Our absolute personal favorites here are Kongbangatgan and Gangnaengi Sokuri.

Kongbangatgan serves up incredibly rich, nutty soy donuts and unique traditional drinks, while Gangnaengi Sokuri specializes in sweet, corn-infused soft serve ice cream and local snacks. Both spots offer a truly unique taste of local Gangwon-do flavors.

If you are tired of the same old lattes and want to try something culturally authentic and memorable, we highly recommend checking out these two gems inside Dokkebimarket.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the drama's release, they are currently running an interactive photo event at the breakwater where you can score exclusive discounts!

Goblin 10th Anniversary Travel Guide: Gangnaengi Sokuri & Kongbangatgan (Event Details Included)

Sacheon Beach Giant Cafe: Got

Sacheon Beach boasts a beautifully paved coastal road lined with seaside cafes. Among them, 'Got' (which literally means 'Place') stands out as a massive multi-story bakery cafe where you can enjoy panoramic ocean views and snap a dream photo at their iconic 'Stairway to Heaven' rooftop photo zone.

With an endless selection of freshly baked pastries and specialty drinks, it is an incredible spot for couples, friends, or large family groups looking to relax in style.

Sacheon Beach Surf Pub: Poipu

Also located along Sacheon Beach, Poipu is one of our absolute favorite spots. It is a vibrant surf school by day and a lively beachside cocktail pub by night.

If you want to catch some waves, enjoy tropical cocktails, and immerse yourself in Gangneung's laid-back surf culture, Poipu is highly recommended.

Gangmun Beach Ocean View Cafe: 346 Coffee Story

Further south near Gyeongpo Beach and Gangmun Beach—the liveliest hub of Gangneung packed with hotels, resorts, and modern amenities—stands 346 Coffee Story.

This colossal bakery cafe offers stunning ocean views and direct beach access right from the first-floor entrance. You can literally step from the cafe straight onto the soft sand.

The second-floor terrace is the perfect spot to feel the cool sea breeze while taking in the endless blue horizon.

It is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate multi-generational family trips or large groups of friends.

Even better, 346 Coffee Story is included in several local travel pass programs. If you purchase a pass, you can claim a free Americano or iced tea here!

You can easily use these benefits through the Gangneung Cafe Pass, Gangneung Free Pass, or Gangneung Zero Pass.

Planning a scenic road trip along Gangneung's beautiful East Sea coast? A cafe crawl is the perfect way to experience the local culture.

However, a quick tip for travelers: the coastal roads are mostly narrow 1- or 2-lane streets. During peak summer weekends, traffic can get extremely congested. To avoid spending your holiday stuck in traffic, we highly recommend booking an oceanfront accommodation nearby and exploring these spots on foot!