Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to South Korea or you’re already living here—stationed with the U.S. military, studying, or working—Jeju Island is a destination that deserves a spot on your itinerary. With its volcanic coastlines, lush forests, and UNESCO-listed landmarks, Jeju offers a completely different atmosphere from mainland Korea. If your trip already includes Seoul, adding on a few days in Jeju is the perfect way to experience Korea’s natural side.
Despite being part of Korea, Jeju truly feels like a different world—more relaxed, open, and deeply rooted in natural beauty. Whether you’re walking along lava-formed coastlines, sipping green tea in lush fields, or hiking Korea’s tallest mountain, Hallasan, the island encourages you to slow down and enjoy the moment.
I’ve visited Jeju five separate times, each for multiple days, and this itinerary reflects what I personally return to and recommend most. The combination of ease, value, and scenic variety makes Jeju a standout destination—whether you’re coming for the first time or revisiting with fresh eyes.
Why Jeju Is the Ideal Long Weekend (or Side Trip)
Flights from Seoul to Jeju take just about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and round-trip tickets can be surprisingly affordable—sometimes as low as $30 USD outside major holidays. With minimal travel time, Jeju makes for a perfect weekend escape or an easy addition to any South Korea itinerary.
It’s absolutely possible to explore Jeju without a tour—using taxis or public transportation—but keep in mind that taxis can get pricey and buses often involve long waits and limited routes. I’ve done both methods over multiple trips, and in my experience, the guided day tours offer the best value for time and money. They cover either the East or Southwest side of the island in a single day, and include a thoughtfully curated mix of nature, culture, and scenic highlights.
Over the years, I’ve traveled to Jeju five times and taken both the East and Southwest day tours. My mom also joined me for both routes during her first visit to Korea—and despite living in Florida, where beaches are no novelty, she still said our four days in Jeju were the highlight of her trip.
I highly recommend the group day tours—they’re efficient, well-organized, and make it easy to experience the best of the island without the stress of navigation. You can also do private tours of 2-11 people, which gives you a guide and a driver with more flexibility but is significantly more expensive and was outside my budget.
East Jeju Tour Highlights
- Jeolmul Forest – Serene pine groves with easy walking paths.
- Seongeup Folk Village – A preserved village showcasing Jeju’s architecture and cultural heritage.
- Gwangchigi Beach – A photogenic beach framed by black volcanic rock and views of Seongsan Ilchulbong.
- Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) – A UNESCO tuff cone crater, with a 60-minute hike to the top. Awesome!
- Haenyeo Diver Show – A cultural demonstration by Jeju’s legendary female free divers.
- Jeju Stone Park – A creative fusion of art, mythology, and geology.
Southwest Jeju Tour Highlights
- Hyupjae & Gumneung Beaches – Clear turquoise water and soft white sand.
- Gotjawal Forest – A lava-formed forest unique to Jeju, with high biodiversity.
- O’sulloc Tea Fields – Endless green rows of tea plants and a museum/café.
- Songaksan Mountain – Cliffside trails with island and ocean views.
- Bomunsa Temple & Mt. Sanbangsan – A temple tucked into a volcanic mountain face. Gorgeous!
- Jusangjeolli Cliff – Towering volcanic columns formed by ancient lava flows.
- 1100 Altitude Wetland – A peaceful highland area on the slopes of Hallasan.
Hiking Hallasan: A Must for Outdoor Lovers
If you’re even remotely into hiking, Hallasan—South Korea’s highest peak—is a must-do. Located in the center of Jeju, it features a variety of trails suited to different fitness levels. The summit routes offer a stunning mix of forest, volcanic terrain, and alpine views.
One important note: you must reserve your hiking spot in advance. I’ve written a separate Hallasan hiking guide and a reservation step-by-step tutorial so you can confidently plan your adventure and secure a slot on the trail.
After taking on Hallasan
If you enjoy hiking in South Korea—especially in Hallasan National Park—I’d love for you to check out my Etsy shop, where I sell Hallasan-themed souvenirs. The official souvenirs available at the park tend to be a bit underwhelming, which inspired me to create my own line of designs. I sell them on Etsy with only about a 5% profit margin, keeping them as affordable as possible while offering unique and meaningful designs that fellow hikers and nature lovers might enjoy.
Where to Stay: Hamdeok Beach vs. Jeju City
If you decide to visit Jeju Island, I recommend staying either in Jeju City or at Hamdeok Beach. Personally, I always stayed in Hamdeok because I enjoyed being right by the ocean, just a little removed from the city. It’s the perfect place to relax—imagine sipping a beer on the beach and then simply strolling back to your accommodation. The area is full of great restaurants, cozy cafes, and beachfront bars. It also offers easy access to the Seoubong walking trail, a scenic coastal path that’s ideal for a laid-back stroll.
Accommodations in Hamdeok are generally well-rated and affordable. Two of the best value options are Hamdeok Beach Stay Jeju and Aimi Jeju Beach Hotel Hamdeok—both are western-style hotels located right on the waterfront. If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale with a top-tier ocean view, I highly recommend the Jeju Infinity Resort Hotel.
Jeju City is a bit closer to the airport and might make more sense logistically for your trip. If you choose to stay here, I highly recommend finding accommodation near Tapdong Plaza (답동광장). This waterfront area is beautiful and filled with cafes and restaurants overlooking the ocean—perfect for a relaxing stroll or sunset dinner. It’s worth noting that staying near the water isn’t significantly more expensive than booking downtown. And honestly, if you’re coming all the way to Jeju Island and not staying near the ocean… what’s the point?
Two of the best beachfront hotel options in Jeju City are Hotel Whistlelark Jeju and Hotel Regent Marine Jeju. Both are very popular, so they do tend to book up quickly. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly,Check Inn Hotel Jeju and Hotel W Topdong are just a couple of blocks inland—no ocean view, but still a short walk to the water and highly rated by international travelers (with consistent 8–9 star reviews).
Final Thoughts:
Jeju makes an excellent, low-effort escape without the need for additional international travel (helpful for military members with temporary travel restrictions). With quick flights, organized day tours, and unforgettable views, it’s one of the best returns on time and money you’ll find anywhere in the country.
Happy Adventures!
-Aurora
