4 Best Hotels in Busan, South Korea

Thanks to its Haeundae Beach location, the Paradise Hotel has unrivalled sea views and a resort-like vibe, especially during the summer months. The main building was given a face lift, so the rooms here are a tad pricier than those in the nearby annex. All rooms and suites have a fresh look, with modern, Asian-inspired accents, and a décor of soothing shades of muted green and red. Opt for the less expensive rooms with views of the city and enjoy a lovely view of the sea from the pool or outdoor hot spring. The on-site European and Japanese restaurants make for a nice change from Korean cuisine.

Located in Busan's Marine City, this gleaming, 33-floor tower with sleek interiors and sea views has brand signatures like crisp, streamlined rooms, rainfall showers, and one-touch mood lighting. The property is located near the convention center and beach, and overlooks the Gwangan Bridge, yacht marina, and the ocean. Water provided inspiration for the building's exterior—the curved glass facade resembles a billowing ship sail—while the interiors are all about nature and texture, with French oak floors and granite baths. Crisp and streamlined, the 200 rooms and 69 suites all have view-framing floor-to-ceiling windows and the amenities expected of the brand, including LED flatscreens with Blu-ray players and USB connectivity, espresso machines, and free Wi-Fi. The seven-room Lumi Spa offers both European and Korean style treatments inspired by the sun and sea, and also houses a fitness center and rooftop pool ringed by cabanas. Open kitchens, a sushi bar, and endless views set the scene at the 32nd floor gourmet Dining Room, while more casual fare can be enjoyed in the Living Room, residential-style Lounge, and the on-site pastry shop.

Don't let the name fool you—just a stone's throw from Haeundae Beach and most of the city's luxury accommodations, the Sunset is much more than just a business hotel. Rooms are spacious, modern, and surprisingly comfortable considering the price and location. Housed in one of the neighborhood's tall buildings, the lobby is on the 9th floor and guest rooms go up to the 15th floor—the best rooms are those with sea views. Small Korean style Ondol rooms (traditional rooms with heated floors and futons) are also available and definitely worth considering if you're on a budget and don't want to compromise on location. The on-site restaurant serves either a Korean or American-style breakfast for ₩15,000.

Located at the end of Haeundae Beach, near the entrance to Dongbaek Island's peaceful Nurimaru Park, this may well be one of the best situated hotels in the city. Rooms are spacious, tastefully decorated with modern furniture in neutral tones, and have either city or sea views. There are several decent on-site restaurants and a nice Irish pub with fantastic views across the bay. An extra bonus is the garden tucked out back with grills for cooking out.