Things To Do
in Jeju
Jeju, Korea South is a volcanic island off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula, famed for its lava tubes, cratered peaks, and lush orange groves. From the fiery summit of Hallasan to dramatic coastlines and serene seaside villages, the island blends rugged nature with a relaxed island vibe. Its culture honors the Haenyeo women divers, while food, cafes, and markets showcase a fresh, seafood-forward cuisine.
Visitors can explore UNESCO sites, hike volcanic landscapes, and savor Jeju specialties like black pork and mandarin citrus in a scenic, temperate setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Jeju International Airport and take a moment to soak in the beautiful tropical surroundings. Head to your accommodation to check-in and drop off your luggage. Embark on a leisurely stroll around the nearby area to familiarize yourself with the stunning landscapes and local culture.
Visit the Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum to learn about the island's rich heritage and geological features. Enjoy a local lunch at a popular restaurant, savoring traditional Jeju cuisine. Then, make your way to Loveland, a unique outdoor sculpture park that explores the theme of eroticism in a whimsical context.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jeju City as you explore its night markets. Indulge in some street food, trying out the famous tteokbokki and hotteok. Cap off your evening with a relaxing walk along the waterfront, enjoying the sea breeze and local nightlife.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading out to Hallasan National Park. Hike up Hallasan Mountain, which is the highest peak in South Korea, offering breathtaking views of the island. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna along the trail.
After reaching the summit, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene natural beauty. Take your time descending, appreciating the tranquil surroundings and possibly spotting some local wildlife. Visit the nearby Baengnokdam Crater Lake, a stunning volcanic crater that awaits you at the top.
After a long day of hiking, return to your accommodation to freshen up. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a restaurant specializing in Jeju's renowned black pork. Relax and unwind by watching the sunset, either at a local café or on the beach.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Mid-range dinner for two | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $6-14 |
| 🏨1-night hotel (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery, including volcanoes, lava tubes, reefs, and waterfalls
- Fresh seafood and iconic Jeju black pork with strong local culture
- Most sites and activities require a car or guided tours to access remote areas
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to major mainland cities
- "안녕하세요" - Hello
- "감사합니다" - Thank you
- "얼마에요?" - How much is it?
- "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
- "실례하지만 화장실이 어디에요?" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- "영어를 할 수 있어요?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Jeju
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic crater formed by volcanic activity offering dramatic sunrise and sea-backdrops.
Extensive lava tube with towering basalt columns and eerie lighting—great for interior photos.
Geometric basalt rock columns along the coast, framed by the open sea and skies at different angles.
A unique waterfall that cascades directly into the sea, with lush greenery and cliffside views.
A solitary sea stack off Seogwipo, surrounded by blue water and dramatic coastal horizons.
Coastal cliffs and sweeping sea views with fields and lighthouse—perfect for golden-hour shots.
Food in Jeju
Jeju Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced pork grilled at the table, often served with garlic and ssamjang in casual eateries and barbecue joints.
Must-Try!
A comforting, fragrant porridge using fresh abalone and rice; popular in coastal towns and refined eateries.
Jeju-style rice cake rolled in sesame seeds, commonly found in local markets and traditional houses; pairs well with tea.
Mackerel simmered in a sweet-savory sauce with radish and chili; a staple in many seaside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market in Jeju City offering fresh seafood, dried goods, produce, and a wide range of street foods.
Coastal market in Seogwipo with local produce, seafood, and ready-to-eat snacks amid a lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A soft bow or nod is common. Use polite language and honorifics with strangers and elders.
Remove shoes when entering some homes or traditional accommodations; greet with a friendly 'annyeonghaseyo' (hello).
Be mindful around Haenyeo divers; ask before photographing and keep a respectful distance.
Safety
Tipping in Jeju
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Korea; many places include service charges. If you’re pleased, a small round-up or polite gratitude is sufficient.
Cash (KRW) and major credit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments like KakaoPay, Naver Pay, and Samsung Pay are common in cities. ATMs accept international cards in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming cherry blossoms and tangerine orchards; ideal for hikes and outdoor markets.
Warm to hot and humid, with occasional rain and typhoon risk. Perfect for beaches, water activities, and sea breezes.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; great for hiking and photography with golden light.
Cool but usually mild; snowfall is rare and limited to higher elevations. Peaceful for viewpoints and fewer crowds.
Jeju at Night
Hiking in Jeju
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The island’s highest peak with several trails offering panoramic views; plan for 4–8 hours depending on route.
Coastal hike with lighthouse and dramatic sea views; moderate effort, great for photography.
Shorter volcanic cone hike near Seogwipo with rewarding island and sea views.
Classic coast-to-village walk along Jeju’s shoreline; accessible sections for a half-day trek.
Airports
How to reach Jeju by plane.
Main gateway to Jeju Island with domestic and limited international flights; located near Jeju City.
Smaller domestic airport servicing regional routes; convenient for Seogwipo and southern Jeju regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A close-knit community with strong outdoor and maritime traditions related to the Haenyeo culture.
Visiting in large numbers, especially in summer, attracted to nature, beaches, and cuisine.
Growing presence in Jeju City, with English-speaking services and international schools nearby.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and visitors; multiple clubs and local fields around the island.
Domestic interest with games and facilities present for fans and players.
Surfing, snorkeling, and diving are popular around coastal towns and reefs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jeju.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for broths and sauces made without anchovy or kelp stock common in soups. Look for vegetable-based dishes and grilled vegetables with rice.
Communicate clearly; many dishes rely on seafood or meat broths. Favor grain bowls, tofu-based dishes, and vegetable sides; confirm sauces are vegan.
Be mindful of soy sauces and certain marinades; request rice-based sides or dishes prepared without soy or wheat-based thickeners.