Gangneung Coffee Street: 10 Best Ocean-View Cafes to Visit in 2026
Welcome to Gangneung, the undisputed coffee capital of South Korea! What started with a few humble coffee vending machines along Anmok Beach has blossomed into the iconic Gangneung Cafe Street (강릉 카페거리), a vibrant strip of unique cafes offering breathtaking views of the East Sea. Each cafe boasts its own personality, from legendary roasteries to chic, modern spaces. If you’re planning a trip to Korea’s scenic east coast in 2026, this is the ultimate destination for caffeine connoisseurs and Instagrammers alike. Get ready to sip a perfectly brewed cup of coffee while watching the waves crash on the shore. Here are our top 10 picks for the best cafes to experience on Gangneung’s Anmok Beach.
1. Bossa Nova (보사노바)
No list of Gangneung cafes is complete without the legendary Bossa Nova. This spot is famous for its incredible multi-level layout, culminating in a stunning rooftop terrace that offers panoramic, unobstructed views of Anmok Beach. It’s the quintessential Gangneung cafe experience. The interior is spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows ensuring you never miss the ocean view, no matter where you sit. They serve a wide range of coffee, from classic espressos to delicate hand-drips, alongside a delicious selection of cakes and pastries. It gets busy, but the vibrant atmosphere and picture-perfect scenery make it worth the wait.
Practical Info: Located centrally on the main street. Expect to pay around ₩7,000-₩9,000 for a specialty coffee. It’s often crowded, especially on weekends.
Insider Tip: For the best photos and a slightly less crowded experience, head to the rooftop on a weekday about an hour before sunset. The ‘golden hour’ light reflecting off the sea is simply magical.
2. Santorini Coffee (산토리니)
Step into a slice of the Greek islands right on the Korean coast. Santorini Coffee has long been an iconic landmark on Gangneung Cafe Street, thanks to its striking blue and white architecture that mimics its namesake. The outdoor terrace, complete with a classic blue-domed roof and a ‘wishing bell,’ is one of the most sought-after photo spots in the area. Inside, the decor is bright and airy, continuing the Mediterranean theme. While the views are a major draw, they also serve solid coffee and a popular range of fruit smoothies and bingsu (shaved ice) in the summer, making it a refreshing stop after a walk on the beach.
Practical Info: Easily recognizable by its unique design. Prices are standard for the area. The best photo spots on the terrace can have a queue.
Insider Tip: Visit in the morning to capture the best photos in bright, natural light without the afternoon crowds. Their grapefruit-ade is a fantastic non-coffee option on a hot day.
3. Terarosa Coffee Factory (테라로사 커피공장)
While not located directly on Anmok Beach, no coffee tour of Gangneung is complete without a pilgrimage to the Terarosa Coffee Factory. This is where the Gangneung coffee legend truly solidified. Housed in a massive, beautifully designed rustic-industrial building, it’s more of a coffee theme park than a simple cafe. You can witness the entire roasting process, explore a coffee museum, and taste some of the finest single-origin hand-drip coffees in Korea. The sprawling complex feels like a tranquil escape, surrounded by pine trees. It’s a true destination for those who are serious about their coffee and appreciate architectural beauty.
Practical Info: Located a short taxi ride from Anmok Beach. It’s a huge space but can get very busy. Their bakery items, especially the breads, are exceptional.
Insider Tip: Try the ‘Today’s Drip’ to sample their recommended bean of the day. Also, don’t miss the gift shop, where you can buy freshly roasted beans to take home as the perfect souvenir.
4. Cafe Wave & Pine
Representing the new wave of minimalist cafes in Gangneung, Cafe Wave & Pine offers a serene and aesthetically pleasing experience. Opened in late 2025, this cafe focuses on clean lines, natural wood, and a calm, neutral color palette that perfectly complements the ocean view. The massive picture window on the second floor frames the sea like a living work of art. Their specialty is a signature ‘Pine Salt Cream Latte,’ a unique creation that blends sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors, paying homage to Gangneung’s famous pine forests. It’s a quieter, more contemplative space compared to its bustling neighbors, ideal for reading a book or enjoying a peaceful conversation.
Practical Info: Located at the southern end of the main cafe street. Prices are slightly premium. It’s smaller, so seating can be limited during peak hours.
Insider Tip: Grab the two window-facing bar seats on the second floor. They offer the most immersive and private view of the ocean, making you feel like you’re floating above the waves.
5. Anmok Harbor Roasters
Tucked away in a slightly quieter spot near the fishing harbor, Anmok Harbor Roasters is a hidden gem for true coffee aficionados. This smaller, owner-operated cafe focuses on one thing: perfectly roasted, high-quality coffee. The owner is a passionate roaster who often engages with customers, explaining the origin and flavor profiles of the beans on offer. The aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans fills the cozy, unpretentious space. While it lacks the grand scale of other cafes, its charm lies in its authenticity and the superior quality of its brew. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy a genuinely exceptional cup of coffee.
Practical Info: A short walk from the main beach strip, towards the harbor. Coffee prices are very reasonable for the quality.
Insider Tip: Don’t be shy! Ask the barista for a recommendation based on your taste preferences. They are experts and will happily guide you to the perfect single-origin pour-over.
6. Sweets & Sea
For those with a sweet tooth, Sweets & Sea is a dessert paradise. While they serve excellent coffee, the main attraction is their stunning display of artisanal cakes, tarts, and pastries. From delicate strawberry shortcakes to rich chocolate fondant cakes, everything is baked fresh in-house daily. The cafe’s interior is bright and cheerful, with pastel colors and comfortable seating that invites you to linger. The second-floor seating offers a lovely view of the beach, making it the perfect spot for an indulgent afternoon treat. Their tiramisu, made with a shot of their own espresso, is a must-try.
Practical Info: Located in the middle of the cafe street. A slice of cake and a coffee will cost around ₩15,000. Their cake selection can sell out by late afternoon.
Insider Tip: They offer a popular ‘cake and coffee set’ that provides better value. Check the daily specials board as soon as you enter for unique, off-menu creations.
7. Gallery Namu (갤러리 나무)
Combine your coffee break with a dose of culture at Gallery Namu. This unique establishment is both a contemporary art gallery and a cafe. The ground floor features rotating exhibitions from local Korean artists, while the second floor is a tranquil cafe space with large windows overlooking a quieter part of the beach. The atmosphere is calm and sophisticated, offering a refreshing change of pace from the more tourist-focused spots. Their drink menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring floral teas and elegant ades in addition to their specialty coffee. It’s the ideal choice for a sophisticated traveler looking for a quiet, inspiring environment.
Practical Info: Situated slightly off the main drag, which contributes to its peaceful ambiance. The art is for sale, offering a unique souvenir opportunity.
Insider Tip: Check their Instagram page (@gallerienamu_gangneung – *fictional*) before you go to see what exhibition is currently running. It’s a great way to support local artists.
8. The Gangneung Brunch Club
If you’re looking for more than just coffee and cake, The Gangneung Brunch Club is your answer. This is one of the few places on the street that offers a full, Western-style brunch menu. Think fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, and hearty eggs benedict, all served with a beautiful ocean backdrop. The vibe is relaxed and casual, making it a popular spot for a leisurely late morning meal. They use fresh, local ingredients, and their coffee is sourced from local roasters. It’s the perfect place to fuel up before a day of exploring Gangneung, combining a delicious meal with the classic cafe street view.
Practical Info: Very popular on weekend mornings, so expect a wait. Brunch plates range from ₩16,000-₩22,000.
Insider Tip: Their ‘Brunch Set for Two’ is great value and includes two main dishes and two coffees. It’s a perfect option for couples or friends traveling together.
9. L.M.L. (Long Main Lighthouses)
Named after the two iconic red and white lighthouses at the end of the breakwater, L.M.L. is a modern cafe with an industrial-chic design. Exposed concrete, metal accents, and minimalist furniture are softened by warm lighting and, of course, the stunning sea view. This cafe is particularly famous for its signature cream-topped coffee creations, like their Einspänner (Viennese coffee) and black sesame cream latte. The third-floor rooftop is less about sprawling tables and more about stylish, individual photo zones, making it a huge hit among younger visitors. It’s a trendy, energetic spot with a focus on high-quality, visually appealing drinks.
Practical Info: Located towards the harbor end of the street, offering a great view of the lighthouses. Drinks are in the ₩8,000 range.
Insider Tip: For a unique photo, frame your shot to include both your beautiful latte art and the distant lighthouses in the background from the third-floor window.
10. Coffee Vending Machine No. 1 (Tribute)
Our final spot is a nod to history. While not a traditional cafe, this special spot pays tribute to the origins of Gangneung Cafe Street. It’s a small, retro-themed kiosk designed to look like the old-school coffee vending machines that first lined the beach. Here, you can get a simple, surprisingly good cup of drip coffee or a classic Korean ‘mix coffee’ for a fraction of the price of the big cafes. It’s more of a grab-and-go experience, but it’s a charming and essential part of the Anmok Beach story. It’s the perfect way to start or end your cafe-hopping journey, connecting you to the street’s humble beginnings.
Practical Info: A small kiosk located near the entrance of the beach. Coffee is very affordable, around ₩3,000-₩4,000.
Insider Tip: Grab a coffee here and take a walk along the beach itself or out onto the pier. It’s the most authentic way to enjoy a simple cup of coffee with the best view of all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I get to Gangneung Cafe Street from Seoul?
The easiest way is to take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station to Gangneung Station, which takes about 2 hours. From Gangneung Station, it’s a short 15-20 minute taxi ride to Anmok Beach (Anmok Haebyeon).
2. What is the best time of year to visit?
Gangneung is beautiful year-round. Summer (June-August) is perfect for enjoying the beach, but it’s also the busiest season. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter offers a stark, beautiful, and quiet view of the sea.
3. Are the cafes on Gangneung Cafe Street expensive?
Prices are generally higher than a standard cafe in Seoul due to the prime oceanfront location. Expect to pay between ₩7,000 and ₩9,000 for a specialty coffee or beverage. However, the incredible views and unique atmosphere are considered part of the experience.
4. Besides drinking coffee, what else can I do at Anmok Beach?
Anmok Beach is great for a relaxing walk along the shoreline. You can also walk out along the breakwater to get closer to the lighthouses. The area is adjacent to Gangneung Port, where you can find excellent fresh seafood restaurants. Nearby attractions include Gyeongpo Beach and the famous BTS Bus Stop from the ‘You Never Walk Alone’ album cover.
Conclusion
Gangneung’s Cafe Street is more than just a collection of coffee shops; it’s a cultural destination that perfectly blends Korea’s passionate coffee culture with the serene beauty of the East Sea. Whether you’re a serious coffee expert on a pilgrimage to Terarosa or simply looking for the perfect photo on Bossa Nova’s rooftop, Anmok Beach has a unique experience waiting for you. So, on your next trip to Korea in 2026, make sure to carve out a day to relax, recharge, and sip your way through the best cafes the country has to offer.
Tags: #Gangneung #Koreancoffee #AnmokBeach #EastSea #Koreatravelguide #whattodoinGangneung #coffeeculture #rooftopcafes #dessertcafes #weekendtripKorea
