Introduction & Overview
Last August in Busan, I spent two unforgettable nights at Hotel Aqua Palace—just steps from Gwangalli Beach. During my 3-night, 4-day trip, its spotless rooms, breathtaking ocean views, and immediate beach access turned this hotel into the highlight of my stay.
Location & Access
Hotel Aqua Palace sits literally across the street from Gwangalli Beach. From check-in, all you need is a towel to dash to the sand and back in under two minutes. The moment you emerge from a refreshing swim, the hotel’s entrance is a short stroll away—making it effortless to rinse off and explore nearby cafes and restaurants.
Room & Views
I chose an ocean-view room, and it was worth every won. By day, sunlight danced across the water, and by night, the illuminated Gwangan Bridge created a mesmerizing panorama.
- Daytime view: Golden hues of sunrise over Gwangan Bridge.
- Nighttime view: Twinkling lights tracing the bridge’s arches.
Beach Experience
Arriving before check-in? Head to Hongmidang Café—adjacent to the lobby—to sip coffee while you wait and enjoy the beachfront vista. Once your room is ready, grab your towel and dive into Gwangalli’s cool waters, framed by the iconic bridge.
During peak season (late July to early August), the beach buzzes with sunbathers and swimmers, offering a vibrant atmosphere.
Dining & Drinks
One evening, I indulged in rockfish sashimi from a nearby sushi spot, paired with a glass of wine on my balcony as waves crashed below. The sound of the ocean and a chilled drink made for an unforgettable evening.
The next morning, breakfast was included in our package. While fresh vegetables were served buffet-style, a generous plate of bacon, eggs, and hash browns arrived at the table—perhaps due to lighter crowds during a passing typhoon.
The restaurant was on the second floor.
Facilities: Infinity Pool
On the 10th floor, an infinity pool awaits—filled with seawater heated from a hot spring 815 meters underground. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM (kids’ hours 9 AM–12 PM), the pool offers seasonal rates:
- Blue Season (July–August): ₩40,000
- Green Season (Sept–Nov, Mar–Jun): ₩32,000
- White Season (Dec–Feb): ₩28,000
(Elementary +₩10,000 / Middle–High +₩20,000)
At night, the view from the pool overlooking the lit-up Gwangan Bridge is simply magical.
Checkout Tips
Checkout is at 11 AM, and elevators can get busy around that time. To avoid the rush, plan your final departure a few minutes earlier or later.
Conclusion & Recommendation
If you’re seeking a blend of beachfront convenience, stunning ocean vistas, and welcoming amenities, Hotel Aqua Palace delivers. Whether you stay for the beach, the view, or the infinity pool, this hotel offers an ideal Busan getaway.
For booking details and seasonal rates, visit Trip.com and search for Hotel Aqua Palace in Gwangalli.
I may earn a small commission if you book through the links above at no extra cost to you.