Allow me to introduce you to a simple way to go out using minimal equipment at a time when traveling is not really an option. I’m talking about car-camping and car-picnicking. Sleeping inside the car without a tent and picnicking in the car are new ways to enjoy travel as long as you can find a place to park the car. The great thing about these two traveling methods is that you can simply enjoy nature in your own space without anyone to interfere.
Let’s head over to the hidden gems of Busan where you can enjoy car-camping (car-picnicking) and take photos of lasting memories.

#1. Gorgeous Sunrise at Mundong Embankment

Early morning when it is still dark, I am heading over to Mundong Embankment, a sunrise destination known to only a few. A couple of camping vehicles were already strategically parked when I arrived. After thinking for a while, I parked on a spot that oversaw the two lighthouses.

Even though it was early, residents who were beginning their daily work greeted me as they walked by. “Have you come to see the sunrise? Take beautiful pictures!” Their kind words made me grow more expectant.
The sky started to turn into a shade of pink as if sunrise were about to happen. Unlike the weather forecast, which predicted cloudy weather, the sky looked even nicer, thanks to some clouds.

Lying inside my car with a blanket over me and enjoying the cool ocean breeze made me wonder if this wasn’t heaven itself. I drank a cup of fragrant tea from using the hot water that I brought in a thermos bottle and sat on the embankment to take a selfie. It would have been nicer had I come with someone else, but being alone has its own beauty.

The sun is rising from the lighthouse on the right. The golden sky is reflected on the ocean. As I watched the sea, I was able to empty my thoughts with the sound of the wave as the background music.

Address

Search for Mundong Embankment on the map
The address for the spot with the two lighthouses in the picture is 629, Munoseong-gil, Ilgwang-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan, Republic of Korea.

Tip

Try to be quiet as it is the entrance to a residential village.
Simple cooking may be possible, but make sure to clean up after yourself!
Restroom is available.

#2. Samnak Eco Park to Enjoy Green Wherever You Park

There is a place where you can enjoy greenness no matter where you park. It is no other than Samnak Eco Park in Sasang-gu, Busan. The park is the largest marshland by the mouth of the Nakdonggang River and a leading park of Busan with diverse natural environments and convenience facilities. People are most familiar with the cherry blossom road in April, but the park has more flowers and greenness in May and June. Samnak Eco Park has many parking lots, and the beautiful scenery can be enjoyed inside the car no matter where you park.

I head over to Samnak Eco Park on a sunny summer day with a simple lunchbox. As there are many friendly street cats here, I also packed some cat snacks. Despite it being a weekday, many residents of Busan visited to use the convenience facilities of the park. The parking lot is packed, but I scan around for a spot to enjoy car-picnicking like a pro.

The place I ended up parking at is a “temporary parking lot” that does not even have a name. I went to the side of the temporary parking lot, and it was relaxing with a few people and a tranquil view.

I walked around with my car parked. As I walked along the trail with trees lined up, even the chair by the side felt like it was out of a movie. I looked around. Then, I took some pictures seated. It is a true blessing to have such a beautiful park in the city. Next time, I would like to stay longer and discover hidden spots inside the Samnak Eco Park.

Address

Search for Samnak Eco Park on the map.

Tip

The Samnak Eco Park houses the Samnak Auto Campground. If you want to stay overnight or it planning on cooking, please use the campground.
Leisurely drive around to discover a place to enjoy car-picnicking as each parking lot has a scenic view
Restroom is available.

#3. Dadaepo Beach Where You Can See a Fantastic Sunset

Dadaepo Beach is the place people think of when they want to see the sunset in Busan. Car-camping and car-picnicking are also available at Dadaepo Beach.
I was concerned that people would stare because I have a cute blanket inside the car and a pretty light outside the car, but they did not. People were instead focused on their own walks and outings. The spot that I chose for car-picnicking was the public parking lot of Dadaepo Beach. It was so much fun to view the ocean and watch the people pass by.

The perfect time for watching the sunset at Dadaepo Beach in early summer is at 18:00. As the sun set, the field was coated with light. At willing to miss such an opportune moment, brides and grooms taking their wedding photos, photographers who wanted to take pictures of the reed, and those who wanted to share the great experience gathered.

As the initial spot did not offer a view of the sunset, I parked in a different direction. This was possible because I was on a car-picnicking that did not involve a tent. I was able to enjoy a peacefully retired sunset inside the car in a leisurely manner.

Parking

Search for Dadaepo Beach Public Parking Lot on the map.
Park with the view of the ocean at the innermost spot of the parking lot.
The sun sets in the direction seen in the photo, so pick a different spot if you want to see the sunset inside the car.

Tip

Cooking prohibited.
Restroom is available. Separate garbage recycling available.
All-day parking fee is KRW 8,000.