Jeju Island is a beloved and tropical gem south of the Korean peninsula. The largest island in the country, it’s known fondly by locals as “The Hawaii of Korea” and there are so many incredible things to do in Jeju that’ll make you swoon!
This popular vacation spot boasts some of Korea’s most beautiful sights including Hallasan, Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls, the Olle Trails and more!
I traveled to Jeju in May and enjoyed some of the most beautiful spots Jeju has to offer – albeit it was still a bit too chilly to fully take advantage of the highlights of the island. Consider booking a trip during the warmer summer months to see Jeju at its finest!
But don’t you worry, I have you covered on what to do, where to stay, how to get there and all of the Jeju tips you could ever need, no matter the time of year 😉
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, if you click my links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. Learn more on my disclosure page. Thank you for your support!
The Best Time to Visit Jeju Island
Hands down, the best time to visit Jeju Island is in the summer, when the temperatures are high and the skies are sunny. However, summer brings a ton of crowds of locals trying to enjoy a close and convenient tropical vacation. We visited in the spring, which was lovely and less crowded, but we didn’t get as much sunshine as I had hoped. Spring and fall also see some rain, and winter is down right chilly.
How to Get Around Jeju Island
Jeju may be a relatively small island, but many of the best Jeju attractions are spread out all throughout the island. Planning for the best places to visit in Jeju shouldn’t be your only concern. Here’s what you need to know about getting around Jeju.
Jeju Buses: Jeju doesn’t have any trains or a metro on the island, which means buses are the way to go for those interested in saving money and taking public transportation. The public buses on Jeju accept the T-Money transit card which is super convenient and will save you money. If you don’t have one, you can pick one up from any convenience card and top it off with cash there too. You can use Google Maps or Kakao Maps to plan your bus routes.
Taxis: taxis are another option and will be much faster and more direct than buses. However, taxis are much more expensive in Jeju compared to mainland Korea. I recommend downloading the KakaoT app, it’s Korea’s Uber.
Jeju Organized Tours: There are so many things to do in Jeju that it’s pretty much impossible to see it all on your first trip, but with an organized tour or a private driver you’re able to cover more ground. Plus it’s super convenient because you don’t have to worry about planning any transportation routes, creating a Jeju itinerary etc. Some of the best tour companies in Jeju include Trazy and Klook.
Renting a car in Jeju: Having your own car while visiting Jeju will give you the most freedom. And driving in Korea is actually pretty relaxed with many street signs including Enligsh as well. The cost of car rentals in Korea is usually pretty reasonable too and often not more than about $50 a day, and cheaper for longer reservations. Lotte Car Rental is probably your best bet for renting a car in Jeju.
20 Exciting Things To Do in Jeju Island.
1. Hike the island’s coastal Olle Trails to see all the different landscapes on the island.
Jeju’s Olle Trails are a network of hiking trails that encircle the entire island. totaling about 265 miles and featuring 26 distinct segments, walking the entirety of Olle Trails is a bucket list item for many and definitely one of the best hikes in South Korea.
Learn more via my own Olle Trails guide where I share my favorite segments, as well as on the official Olle Trails website which provides all the details you need.
Sunset off of Olle Trail 10
2. Climb to the top of Halla Mountain, Korea’s tallest mountain.
Jeju Island was created by a volcano approximately two million years ago, and today boasts impressive lava structures and landmarks. Hallasan, or Halla Mountain, is a shield volcano that is responsible for making up much of the island. Today it’s regarded as the country’s tallest mountain and is a rite of passage for many visitors to Korea.
Hiking to the top of Hallasan can be done via two trails, both of which are pretty slow and steady trail with a steep incline once you are nearing the very top. The trail totals about 10.5 miles, and takes the average hiker about 7-10 hours to complete, including rest and photo time at the top. When you reach the peak, you’re rewarded with crater views. We visited in the spring, but the crater lake is actually green and lush in the summer.
Made it to the top! In the summer this place is much more green in lush – we were there in the early spring
3. Soak up some sun on Jeju’s popular beaches: Jungmun Saekdal and Gwakji Beach.
No visit to the “Hawaii of Korea” is complete with making time for the beach! Jungmun and Gwakji are two of the island’s most popular. Jungmun Saekdal Beach (중문·색달 해변) is popular thanks to the long stretch of colorful sand the the steep cliffs that tower behind the shore. This beach has been used as a backdrop in many K dramas and movies.
Gwakji Beach is famous for clear blue waters and white soft sand. Many come to dig for clams and just enjoy the peaceful beach. Gwakji is also known for its cold natural spring that some come to bathe in. Some of Jeju’s other incredible beaches include Jungmun, Geumneung and Hyeopjae Beach.
Overcast day at the beach
4. Wander the Manjanggul Lava Tube and see one of the world’s tallest lava pillars.
The Manjanggul Lava Tube is the largest lava tube in the world and measures an astounding length of 7.4km or just over 4.5 miles and at its highest point reaches 25 meters or 82 feet. Visitors aren’t allowed to walk the entire length of the tube, but there is a 1km trail that leads to this impressive lava column below.
The tube is open daily except for on the first Wednesday of the month, from 9am to 6pm, with last admission at 5:10pm. Admission costs 4,000 won for adults.
Look at this beast of a lava tube
5. Climb to the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong, aka Sunrise Peak, a Volcanic Crater.
Climbing Sunrise Peak is by far one of the best things to do in Jeju. This “peak” is actually a volcanic tuff cone that’s formed into a crater from eruptions – pretty cool! Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as one of the most beautiful places in Korea.
To reach the top, you must climb up the boardwalk stairs and paved trails. It’s a bit steep but should only take you about 20 minutes. At the top, you should be able to see the rim of the crater and the ocean on the horizon. Unfortunately, when we visited we did not have any view – but it was still pretty cool!
The traditional diving women of South Korea
6. Watch the Jeju Women Diver Show (Haenyeo) before or after climbing Sunrise Peak.
Every day at 1:30pm and 3pm, the woman divers of Jeju Island show off their craft for 60 minutes. Most of the women are in their upper 50s-80s, and dive deep under the surface without any oxygen. They catch shellfish and bring it out to the audience to show how they prepare it for market.
These Haenyeo, or women divers, have a long and traditional history on the island. While their role isn’t so much necessary for survival anymore, they still do their thing to preserve the unique history of the island. The show happens along the cost at the base of Seongsan Ilchulbong at the Sea Woman Restaurant.
7. Eat local Jeju delicacies.
Jeju may be part of South Korea, but the island is famous for its own unique culture, traditions, and local treats too! No visit to Jeju is complete without eating hallabong, a hybrid tangerine that’s super sweet and delicious. They sell fresh hallabong juice, chocolate, cake and more and is a must try!
Other things native to Jeju that you should try is the famous Black pork BBQ, green tea treats, and of course fresh seafood.
So sweet, juicy and delicious
8. Marvel at the striking Jusangjeolli Cliffs set on bright blue ocean waters.
The Jusangjeolli Cliffs ended up being one of my favorite things to do in Jeju because they were just so beautiful. These cliffs are made up of lava columns that formed after an eruption of Hallasan hundreds of thousands of years ago. The cliffs are an astounding 65 feet tall and the black lava rock makes for a beautiful contrast to the clear blue waters of the sea.
They can be found on the Olle Trail #8 and requires an admission fee to enter the main observation deck area (although we followed some local fishermen to this spot which was amazing!) The observation deck only costs 2,000 won to open and is open between 9am – 6pm.
Such a beautiful landmark
9. Chase all of Jeju’s popular and beautiful waterfalls.
Making time to see Jeju’s incredible waterfalls is a must when visiting the island. Let’s start with the popular Cheonjeyeon Falls, a waterfall that features three tiers and is a famous landmark on Jeju thanks to the unique rock formations that make up the falls. The area where Cheonjeyeon Falls is located, also features the eye-catching red Seonim Bridge that you also shouldn’t miss.
Jeju’s other spectacular waterfalls include the Jeongbang Falls, a waterfall that cascades into the ocean at an impressive heigh of 23m or 75 feet. This waterfall can be found on the coast just outside of Seogwipo City. Jeju’s other impressive waterfalls include the hidden cliffside Eongtto Falls, Wonang Falls and Cheonjiyeon Falls.
The water was so blue and turquoise here
10. Find your zen at the Sanbanggulsa Temple and see the famous giant Buddha statue.
Sanbanggulsa Temple is a gorgeous, traditional temple built into the side of Sanbangsan Mountain. It’s famous for it’s large Buddha Statue, as well as the rock grotto, or cave, that has a shrine dedicated to Buddha. To reach the grotto, you do have to do a short climb up a steep trail, but it isn’t difficult. From the temple, you can also catch a pretty view of the ocean.
A pretty temple
11. Laugh and play at Loveland among the kinky and erotic statues.
Ok so I didn’t actually go to Loveland myself – I chose to hike Olle 10 to see the sunset instead! However, the kinky amusement park with humorous phallic statues is a very popular tourist destination. Travelers have a lot of fun posing with the statues and marveling at the sometimes monstrous proportions! You can find out more information on their website here.
12. Grab a cup of coffee from the unique Starbucks and/or Jeju’s new Starbucks Reserve.
You’re probably thinking, Starbucks? Really? But in Korea, Starbucks is a big deal, which means the stores themselves can be unique attractions. In Jeju, one location of Starbucks features a bright yellow facade shaped like a robot. Be sure to treat yourself to a local speciality, of which is usually green tea or hallabong flavored.
As of recently, a Starbucks Reserve has opened on the island. If you don’t know Starbucks Reserve, it’s essentially an upscale version of the standard coffee shop we know.
13. Snap a photo of the beautiful the Oedolgae Rock.
The Oedolgae Rock is a unique rock column that pokes out of the ocean. This lookout point is free to enter and can be found along the southern coast, not far from Seogwipo and is just off segment 7 of the Olle Trails. There are other small lookout points near Oedolgae Rock that you should make time for while in the area, as well as the Saeseom Island Saeyeongyo Bridge.
14. Go back in time at the Jeju Folk Village.
The Jeju Folk Village is a preserved chunk of time where you can see a bit of Korea’s history. This restored village dates back to the 1890’s and has over 100 structures that showcase Korean traditional architecture. The village also features historical exhibits, photo spots, and a restaurant. Entrance to the Jeju Folk Village is 11,000 won for adults. The village is open year round and their summer hours are 8:30am – 6:30pm and their winter hours are 8:30-5:00pm.
15. Visit one of the island’s popular amusement parks like Jeju Venice Land, the Alive Museum or the Teddy Bear Museum.
Jeju is a very popular vacation destination for Koreans and other travelers, which means that the island is brimming with tons of entertaining amusement parks. Some of the most popular include Jeju Venice Land (8,600 won), a pretty park designed to replicate the canals of Venice where visitors can take a gondola ride, marvel at pretty gardens, and more.
Other popular Jeju amusement parks include the Jeju Alive Museum (8,400 won), a place filled with visual optical illusions and photo spots, and the Jeju Teddy Bear Museum (12,000 won), a funky museum filled with teddy bears in various form.
16. Witness the scenic beauty of the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields and Museum.
The O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields should definitely be on your list for one of the best things to do in Jeju. This scenic spot shows off how tea is grown and harvested while offering visitors a chance to sample lots of green tea goodies at the cafe. This particular field is the largest producer of green in Korea. After you check out the fields, be sure to stop by the cute museum that’s in the shape of a massive tea cup. Entrance is free.
If you’re interested in K-Beatuy, be sure to stop by the Innisfree Jeju House right next door. Innisfree uses natural ingredients sourced from Jeju so this particular store location is a great authentic experience. Plus the building is beautiful and is filled with various activities and it’s free!
17. See a great view of Seongsan Ilchulbong at Gwangchigi Beach.
Gwangchigi Beach isn’t the beach to go to for swimming or sunbathing, but it does offer a pretty view of the rocky coast and the epic Seongsan Ilchulbong. The beach is tucked away where the Olle Trails $1 and #2 intersect making for a fantastic scenic walk. It’s also possible to go horseback riding here.
18. Take an ocean cruise to see Sanbang Mountain.
The Sanbangsan Mountain Cruise is a one hour excursion on the ocean that sails around the mountain for a new viewpoint. The cruise also takes you past other key Jeju attractions like Crocodile Rock, the Dragon Head coast, and Brother Island to name a few. The entire cruise costs adults 17,500 won and there are three time options: at 11:00am, 2:10pm, or 3:20 pm.
There are also the bubbling Sanbangsan Hot Springs that offer another incredible thing to do in Jeju. These hot springs are located in a prime location looking out onto the impressive peak as it juts out of the ocean. You can opt to take an organized trip to the springs or book your own ticket there.
19. Shop for Korean souvenirs or traditional goodies at the Jeju Dongmun Market.
The Dongmun Market is Jeju’s oldest and largest island that’s been open since 1945, when Korea was liberated. It’s here you can pick up street food items, marvel at the fresh seafood for sale, and Korean souvenirs for a reasonable rate. The market can be found in the heart of Jeju City and is open daily between 8:00am – 11:00pm.
20. Get your heart pumping with some of the island’s best adventure sports.
If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junking or enjoy doing more active activities, Jeju has tons of fun attractions for you! You can opt to go under water via a submarine tour, feel the wind in your hair with a horseback riding tour, try your hand at some surfing lessons, or a bit of scuba diving.
The best way to enjoy these adventure sports is to book a tour online in advance, or to contact the company directly to see if it’s necessary.
Where to stay in Jeju: Jeju Island’s Best Hotels and Hostels
Jeju Island may be small, but many of its top attractions are spread out on various part of the island. Many opt to stay in the heart of Jeju City while visiting, but finding a nice Jeju hotel on the ocean is also a fantastic option. Here are some Jeju Do hotel recommendations for your trip!
- Blue Hawaii Hotel: I personally stayed here as was organized by my tour operated. This hotel is on the northwest shore of the island in Hallim Eup. The hotel was an ondol style hotel and was fine for budget travel but next door is the Blue Hawaii Resort or those with more budget to spend.
- Mir Guesthouse: A hostel with eye catching architecture and decor in the heart of Jeju. This guesthouse offers both dorm and private accommodation options starting around $25/night.
- The Seaes Hotel & Resort Jeju: A traditional and luxurious resort in Jeju that embodies the island spirit. It’s pricey, starting at about $300 a night, but it’s beautiful and worth it if you can afford it. Blackpink stayed at this resort during their visit for my K-Pop fans!
How to get to Jeju Island
- Consider taking a tour. We went through Enjoy Korea for their weekend trip during Buddha’s Birthday and it was an easy and affordable option. Our tour included all travel, transportation, accommodation and excursions and we had the freedom to go on our own if we wanted – for only $400! Enjoy Korea and WiNK are just two of the English friendly tour companies in Korea.
- Flying to Jeju is by far the shortest and most convenient mode of transport to the island. If you’re flying to Jeju from within Korea, most major airports have direct flights to Jeju. The best budget airlines include companies like Jeju Air, AirBusan, T’Way Air etc.
- Taking the ferry is an affordable but also time consuming option. I recommend taking the ferry only when traveling during peak holiday season to avoid insanely marked up flights or when the flights have completely sold out. The ferry leaves from Mokpo and you can find more information here.
Jeju Island Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Visiting Jeju Island
- Compared to the rest of Korea, taxis in Jeju are expensive! Try to minimize your taxi rides if possible to avoid the cost.
- Consider renting a car to have more freedom on the island. Jeju is small, but many of the best tourist sights are spread across the entire island and can be hours apart. Avoid relying on expensive taxis or tours and rent a car! You’ll need an International Driver’s Permit to rent/drive in Korea.
- If you’re a budget traveler, consider ondol style hotels, they’re cheap!
- Bring your walking shoes. What makes Jeju so great is the wonderful nature to walk through and explore.
- Flights to Jeju (and to anywhere from Korea) can sell out months and months in advance during peak holiday season. If your travel happens to be during Korean national holidays, be sure to book your flight at least 6 months in advance or you’ll risk it being sold out!
- Flights are also insanely expensive during holiday time. Try to avoid the peak times if you can. Those include:
- Buddha’s Birthday in May
- Chuseok (Korean Thanksgiving) in October
- Christmas/New Years in December
- Lunar New Year in January/February
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, if you click my links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. Learn more on my disclosure page. Thank you for your support!
Are you looking for more travel tips? Check out my 20 Travel Tips of South Korea to make your trip the best it can be!
