Things To Do
in Jeju
Jeju is Korea's largest volcanic island, famed for its lava tubes, dramatic coastlines, and UNESCO-listed sites. Its landscape blends volcanic geology with orange groves, tea fields, and quaint villages that preserve a distinct island culture. The island is home to Haenyeo divers, unique cuisine, and a mild year-round climate that makes it a year-round getaway.
From crater lakes to sea cliffs, Jeju offers spectacular scenery, outdoor adventures, and abundant seafood-friendly cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a hike up Hallasan, the highest mountain in South Korea. As you ascend, enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the rich biodiversity of the area. The crisp morning air is invigorating, making it a perfect time to connect with nature.
After reaching the summit, take some time to rest and enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the panoramic views. The descent offers a different perspective of the lush greenery and unique rock formations. As you return to the base, consider exploring the visitor center to learn more about the park's ecology.
Wind down with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Jeju's famous black pork. Enjoy the ambiance of the island as the sun sets, and perhaps indulge in some traditional Korean desserts. Reflect on the day's adventures and plan for the next exciting day.
Start your beach day with a refreshing swim at Hyeopjae Beach, known for its stunning turquoise waters and white sand. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore, collecting seashells and taking in the beautiful coastal scenery. Grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café, relishing in the ocean views.
Spend your afternoon indulging in water sports like snorkeling or kayaking, exploring the vibrant marine life just off the coast. If you prefer to relax, set up a beach umbrella and bask in the sun with a good book. Be sure to try some local seafood at a beachside restaurant for lunch.
As the sun sets, enjoy a picturesque view of the horizon from the beach. Consider taking a stroll along the shoreline, feeling the cool breeze and listening to the gentle waves. Finish the day with a beach bonfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $2-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and fresh seafood
- Limited English in rural areas
- Wild weather and variable sea conditions
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
- "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
- "화장실이 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "저는 채식주의자예요" - I am vegetarian.
Places to Visit in Jeju
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sea cliffs and crater with dramatic light, especially at dawn.
A UNESCO-listed lava tunnel with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites.
Distinctive lava-rock sea stack set against the blue sea.
Seaside rock formation offering striking silhouettes at sunset.
Volcanic cones with panoramic overlooks and volcanic landscapes.
Coastal viewpoints along the Olle walking paths—great for wide sea vistas and cliff shots.
Food in Jeju
Jeju Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender pork grilled at the table, served with ssam greens and a spicy dipping sauce; best enjoyed at dedicated Jeju black-pork restaurants.
Must-Try!
A fiery seafood hot pot loaded with local shellfish, fish, vegetables, and noodles.
Savory soy-sauce braised fish with potatoes and peppers.
Citrus-forward treats—juice, sorbet, or ice cream—made with Jeju’s Hallabong mandarins.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh seafood, dried fish, produce, and street snacks.
Coastal market with local seafood stalls and citrus products; try grilled squid and warm snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect to elders, remove shoes in traditional settings or some accommodations, and avoid loud conversations on public transport. When photographing people, ask for permission first and be mindful of local customs, especially around Haenyeo culture and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Jeju
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; most service charges are included. If you receive exceptional service, rounding up the bill or a small tip is optional but not expected.
Cash (Korean won) and cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Kakao Pay, Naver Pay, etc.) are common in cities and tourist areas. Some small markets and rural eateries may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and canola fields bloom; mild temperatures and abundant outdoor photography opportunities.
Warm, humid weather with peak beach season; occasional typhoons; ideal for seaside activities but stay hydrated.
Clear skies and comfortable temperatures; exceptional conditions for hiking and coastal photography.
Mild and breezy with rare snow on high peaks; waterfalls can be dramatic after rain, and off-peak crowds mean quieter sights.
Jeju at Night
Hiking in Jeju
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest peak in South Korea with alpine scenery; long but rewarding, weather changes quickly.
Coastal hike to a volcanic crater with dramatic sea views; moderate effort.
Several volcanic cones offering panoramic island views; varying difficulty.
Airports
How to reach Jeju by plane.
Main gateway to Jeju Island with domestic flights and some international connections; located near Jeju City.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Korean residents with a growing number of expatriates and domestic tourists.
Significant influx of domestic travelers and international visitors, especially in summer and spring festival periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Numerous scenic courses across the island attract local and visiting players.
Jeju United FC and local matches contribute to a vibrant football scene.
Coastal roads and Olle Trail routes are popular for cycling enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jeju.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited on some menus. Look for bibimbap with vegetables, tofu stews, or vegetable ryori, and ask to avoid fish stock or anchovy base. Many places can accommodate with advance notice.