North Korea Gets Gnarly With New Surf Destination

Tourism bureau hopes to lure travelers who like to hang ten.

ByABC News
August 22, 2014, 11:11 AM
South Korean tourists on Kumgangsan beach in Kosung, North Korea, July 3, 2004.
South Korean tourists on Kumgangsan beach in Kosung, North Korea, July 3, 2004.
Lee Jin-Man/AFP/Getty Images

— -- Surfers looking for an exotic destination to slice waves have a hot new option in the Hermit Kingdom.

Korea International Travel Company, North Korea’s tourism bureau, recently announced that a handful of resorts along its 1,550-mile coastline will host four-day and five-night packages for those who like to hang ten.

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Accommodations range from stays at Songdowon, Lake Sijung and Majon resorts bordering the East Sea, according to NK News. The latter resort boasts an indoor bowling alley, indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, an oversized "Yut" board (a traditional Korean game), in-house restaurant and bar, as well as beach access and ocean views.

In addition to surfing, the tours include excursions to historic and cultural sites in nearby areas such as Pyongyang, the capital.

The Pyongyang Times reported that American travelers on the first tour, which took place between July 28 and Aug. 6 "had a very good time" with "fascinating scenery and refreshing environment."