South Korea’s Jewel: Complete Jeju Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Jeju, South Korea, this Jeju travel guide will help you navigate one of the country’s most unique destinations.

This island is where dramatic volcanic landscapes meet charming coastal towns and where you'll find some of the best food in the country. From wild coastlines and lava tubes to beach cafés and waterfalls, Jeju feels completely different from the mainland, and is full of surprises.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit, including how to get around, the best areas to stay, top things to do, what to eat, when to visit, and other essential tips to make the most of your time on the island.

An Intro to Visiting Jeju, South Korea

Visiting Jeju is such a treat, and there is so much to know before planning your trip. But before we dive into the top sights, food, and where to stay, we're going to start our Jeju travel guide with what makes Jeju so special, and why it’s one of the most beloved destinations in Korea.

What is Jeju Famous For?

Jeju is famous for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, Hallasan Mountain, tangerines, green tea fields, and unique local culture. When exploring the island using this Jeju travel guide, you can enjoy everything from stunning waterfalls and hiking trails to cozy cafés and coastal viewpoints.

Is Jeju Good for Tourists?

Jeju is one of the most popular destinations in Korea and is fantastic for tourists. From relaxing beach days and scenic drives to fresh seafood, tea plantations, and iconic hikes, there is truly something for everyone.

Whether you’re visiting for nature, food, or a peaceful escape from the cities of South Korea, Jeju is absolutely worth the trip, and this guide will help you plan an unforgettable visit.

Where is Jeju in South Korea?

Jeju is located off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula, surrounded by the East China Sea. The island sits about a 1-hour flight from Seoul, Busan, and Daegu, making it incredibly easy to reach from anywhere in the country.

Jeju is well connected and simple to navigate, making it the perfect starting point for a relaxing island getaway.

Jeju Travel Guide: Entry Requirements

Now that you know how to get to Jeju in terms of transportation options, let's look at what else you will need to enter South Korea before starting your island adventure.

Visa Requirements

The first time I traveled to Korea, I was surprised by how the entry rules changed depending on your nationality. At one point the K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization) was required for almost everyone, and it felt like such a hassle to get. It also used to be pretty expensive. These days the rules are much more relaxed, especially for American travelers.

Here is what you need to know before planning your Jeju trip:

Visa-free entry:

Many countries, including the US, Canada, the UK, and most of Europe, can visit South Korea visa-free for 30 to 90 days. Canadians can stay up to 6 months.

K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorization):

Some nationalities still need to apply for a K-ETA online before arrival. It usually takes around 72 hours to process and is valid for 3 years, allowing stays of 30 to 90 days depending on your passport.

Tourist visas:

If your country is not eligible for visa-free entry or the K-ETA, you will need to apply for a tourist visa in advance.

Vaccine Requirements for South Korea

South Korea does not currently require proof of any vaccination to enter the country.

Jeju Travel Guide: Things to Do & See

Now that you know all of the basics of visiting, it's time for our favorite part of our Jeju travel guide - sharing all of the highlights and unique experiences the island has to offer.

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Top Tourist Sites in Jeju

• Hallasan National Park: The tallest mountain in South Korea, featuring multiple hiking trails, crater views, and incredible nature.
• Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak): A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its sunrise viewpoints and dramatic volcanic formation.
• Manjanggul Cave: One of the world’s longest lava tubes with impressive natural structures and a cool subterranean atmosphere.
• Jeongbang Waterfall: A powerful waterfall that drops directly into the ocean, making it one of the most unique waterfalls in Asia.
• Cheonjiyeon Waterfall: A peaceful waterfall surrounded by lush forest and easy walking paths.
• Hamdeok Beach: A beautiful beach with white sand and bright turquoise water, perfect for swimming and photography.
• Hyeopjae Beach: Known for shallow blue waters and views of nearby Biyangdo Island.
• O’Sulloc Tea Museum: A popular stop with green tea fields, tea exhibits, and matcha desserts.
• Spirited Garden: A quiet bonsai garden with ponds, pathways, and scenic landscaping.
• Jeju Folk Village: A traditional village showcasing Jeju’s culture, historic homes, and local crafts.

Unique Activities to Enjoy While Visiting Jeju

Jeju has plenty of one-of-a-kind activities perfect for adding fun variety to your trip.

• Hike Hallasan Mountain
• Walk the Olle Trails
• Try a Haenyeo (female diver) experience
• Relax in a Korean spa or hot spring
• Visit a black-sand beach
• Explore Jeju’s lava tube caves
• Take a boat tour around the coast
• Visit a tangerine orchard and pick local fruit
• Tour the Camellia Hill gardens
  

Local Food and Drink in Jeju

Jeju is known for its fresh seafood, unique island specialties, and local ingredients that you won’t find anywhere else in Korea. Here are some of the top dishes you should try while on the island.

• Black pork bbq
• Fresh abalone
• Jeju mandarin oranges
• Seafood stews
  
• Hallabong (citrus) desserts
• Fresh local fish
• Jeju barley beer
• Green tea ice cream from O’Sulloc
• Seaweed soup made with Jeju ingredients

Jeju Travel Guide: Where to Stay

Now that you know how to get around and what to do, the next part of our Jeju travel guide is to help you find which area of the island to stay, as well as give a few hotel recommendations.

 Which Area to Stay in Jeju

There are so many great areas to stay in Jeju, and depending on your interests and mode of transportation will depend on which area is right for you.

Jeju city is the most convenient area to stay for those on a short stay, or those that plan on getting around by public transportation. If you have a car though, we'd recommend staying in either Aewol, Seogwipo, or Hamdeok.

These are all areas that have some great nature nearby like waterfalls and beaches, but also have plenty of restaurants and areas to walk around.

 Recommended Hotels in Jeju

Here are some of our carefully picked properties we have chosen for you:

＄ Good Budget-Friendly Stays in Jeju

• Bucket Beach House: A simple beachfront hostel with basic amenities and easy access to the coast, perfect for travelers wanting budget comfort and beach proximity on Jeju.
• Hotel Mano & Dito: A cozy guesthouse offering clean rooms and a relaxed vibe, ideal for budget-conscious visitors who value quiet and affordability over luxury.
• Gudeok Guesthouse: A no-frills guesthouse that provides a comfortable base at a low price, great for travelers who plan to spend their time exploring rather than staying in.

＄＄ Great Mid-Range Stays in Jeju

• Jeju Hotel Scarboro: A boutique stay with warm interiors and sweeping ocean views, offering a peaceful cliffside atmosphere that feels uniquely Jeju.
• Jeju Doldam B&B: a small guesthouse/B&B with good reviews and a homey feel; ideal for travelers who prefer charm over standard-chain uniformity.
• Hotel Leo: a higher-rated boutique-hotel option that stays below full luxe-resort prices but offers nice rooms and a comfortable stay.

＄＄＄ The Best Luxury Hotels in Jeju

• The Shilla Jeju: a stunning luxury resort with sea views, top-tier facilities, a private beach area, and exceptional dining
• Grand Josun Jeju: a high-end resort offering spacious rooms, beautiful pools, and one of the most comfortable luxury experiences on the island
• Hidden Cliff Hotel and Nature: a peaceful forest retreat featuring panoramic views, a dramatic infinity pool, and a serene natural setting

Jeju Travel Guide: Other Things to Know About Visiting

Now you know almost everything you need for planning your trip to Jeju, but before you wrap up this Jeju travel guide, there are a few more helpful things to keep in mind.

Weather in Jeju

Jeju has four distinct seasons, and the island feels very different depending on when you visit. Winters (December to February) are cold and windy, especially along the coast. Summers (June to August) are very hot, humid, and can be rainy. 

Spring and autumn are the most pleasant, with blooming flowers in April and beautiful fall colors in late October and early November.

What is the Best Month to Visit Jeju?

Spring and fall are the best times to visit Jeju. April is famous for cherry blossoms and yellow canola flowers that cover the island, while late October and early November bring mild temperatures and gorgeous autumn foliage around Hallasan and the waterfalls, as well as the iconic pink muhly. 

May and September are also great months to visit Jeju as they offer good weather without big crowds or peak prices. While summer is really hot, it's a great time to swim, and the hydrangeas are in full bloom (June-July).

Packing For a Trip to Jeju, South Korea

• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Insulated Water Bottle (to hold the temperature)
• Flip Flops (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting) 
• Sundresses 
• Comfortable shoes/sneakers (for walking around and hiking)
• Small Bag or Backpack - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
• Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are the best in the market)
• Beach Towel 
• Bathing Suits
• Camera - (we use the Sony A7Riii)
• Action Camera (we use the GoPro for underwater shots, and the Insta 360 with the extra long selfie stick for drone-like shots)
• Waterproof Phone Pouch (we use the Case Mate Phone Pouch)
• Portable fan for summer
• Travel adapter

Is Going to Jeju Worth It?

Visiting Jeju is absolutely worth it, especially if you love nature. The island has waterfalls, lava tubes, beaches, scenic hikes, and peaceful countryside views that feel completely different from mainland Korea. 

If you enjoy trying local foods, Jeju offer unique dishes, and truly has some of the best we've ever had. And if you like slow travel, Jeju’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for unwinding.

How Many Days Are Enough for Jeju?

If you want to see the highlights, three days is the minimum you should plan for. If you want to hike Hallasan, visit multiple beaches, or explore both the east and west sides of the island, then five to seven days is ideal.

Jeju is larger than most people expect, so giving yourself extra time makes the experience much easier and more enjoyable.

Also, if you plan to move around with public transportation, you'll need more time, and we'd recommend spending closer to a week in Jeju.

We hope you enjoyed our Jeju travel guide! Have questions still? Feel free to drop them below in the comments.

Want to learn more about traveling around the Jeju island and other destinations in South Korea? We have several other Korean travel guides for you to check out, as well as more coming up every week. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for all of our weekly article updates, as well as exclusive discounts on the Scratch Your Mapa shop.

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