57 Fun Things to Do in Jeju, South Korea: Waterfalls, Gardens, Unique Theme Parks, & More

If you are looking for the best things to do in Jeju, get ready to explore one of the most beautiful islands in Asia. Jeju is known for its wild coastlines, volcanic landscapes, unique culture, and dreamy beaches that feel nothing like mainland South Korea.

From hiking up ancient craters to relaxing at turquoise bays, Jeju is full of surprises. The island blends nature, adventure, food, and culture in a way that perfectly blends relaxations and adventure at the same time.

In this guide, we will share all of the best ways to explore Jeju, including the top attractions, hidden gems, and all the experiences that make this island one of the most unforgettable destinations in South Korea.

Things to Do in Jeju, South Korea: A Brief Intro to the Island

Before diving into all of the great things to do in Jeju, let's go over a bit of the basics for visiting this Korean island.

What is Jeju Famous For?

Jeju is famous for its dramatic volcanic scenery, crystal clear waters, and relaxed island culture. It is home to stunning natural landmarks and some of the most unique beaches in Korea. The island is also known for its waterfalls, tea plantations, and coastal drives that make every corner feel like a postcard.

One of the most special parts of Jeju’s identity is the Haenyeo culture. These are female free divers who have been harvesting seafood for generations, and their traditions are recognized by UNESCO. Between the volcanic terrain, island food, and vibrant local traditions, Jeju feels completely different from anywhere else in South Korea.

Whether you want nature, adventure, cultural experiences, or beach time, Jeju has something for every style of traveler.

How Many Days in Jeju is Enough?

This may seem like a small island, but Jeju is packed with things to do and see! We spent 4 days, and found it was a great amount of time to be able to see some highlights. However, if we were to do it again we'd definitely stay a full week.

 How to Explore Jeju

The best way to explore all that the island has to offer is to rent a car at Jeju airport. This allows you to see more in less time, and explore hidden gems that buses don't connect to. You can either choose a home base and do day trips to different areas of the island, or you can spend a night or two in each end of the island. 

If you don't have a car though there are some excellent tours from Jeju city. There are all-day tours that focus on particular areas of the island, hitting the highlights and giving you local insight, while skipping the hassle of public transportation.

The most popular tours are western island tours or eastern island tours, but you can also find plenty of other excursions in Jeju scattered around the entire island.

Things to Do in Jeju Out in Nature

Exploring nature is one of the best things to do in Jeju, and the island has an incredible mix of volcanic scenery, clear beaches, flower fields, and coastal viewpoints. Jeju is full of landscapes you will not find anywhere else in South Korea, which makes this section one of the most exciting parts of the guide.

Chase Waterfalls

Jeju’s waterfalls are some of the island’s most beautiful natural attractions, and visiting them is one of the top things to do in Jeju. Each one has its own beauty, whether it is hidden in the forest, pouring into the sea, or framed by moss covered cliffs. 

They are all very easy to reach, and many of them are just a short walk from their parking lot.

Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls

Cheonjeyeon, also known as the Pond of the Gods, is a three tiered waterfall system surrounded by lush greenery and crystal water. Since you have multiple waterfalls you can visit in just one place, this is definitely one of the top things to do in Jeju for first-time visitors.

Visiting Cheonjeyeon feels peaceful and magical, and it is a great way to experience Jeju’s volcanic landscape.

Something to keep in mind is that you are not allowed to bathe at any of the waterfalls, and can only admire them from viewing platforms.

Cheonjiyeon Waterfall

Not to be confused with the nearby Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls, Cheonjiyeon sits right in Seogwipo, making it one of the easiest waterfalls to visit. 

The path leads through a forest before opening up to a wide curtain of water dropping into a bright emerald pool. If you want something simple but scenic, this is one of the best things to do in Jeju.

Jeongbang Waterfall

This coastal waterfall is much smaller than the popular ones, but it has a charm of its own. Sojeongbang flows right over the rocks toward the sea, making it one of the most photogenic spots on the island. It also has a small shop at the top of the walkway, where you can get fresh juice or a souvenir.

Sojeongbang Waterfall

Sojeongbang is a small waterfall that feels like a true hidden gem. Tucked away on a small coastal trail leading to a beach, you can find this beauty cascading down the rocks right next to the ocean.

Discover the Basalt Columns

These volcanic pillars were formed by cooling lava, creating geometric columns that rise straight out of the water. 

The cliffs around the columns make the area feel ancient and powerful, and it is a must see for photography lovers. The contrast of dark lava and deep blue water makes it one of the most striking things to do in Jeju, and will make you feel like you've just teleported to Iceland!

Hike Seongsang Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak

If you want one signature experience on the island, this is it. Hiking Seongsan Ilchulbong is one of the most iconic things to do in Jeju and one of the best sunrise spots in all of South Korea. 

The volcanic crater is shaped like a giant bowl, and from the top you get a sweeping view of the coastline, small islets, and vibrant morning skies. The hike is steep but short and totally worth the effort. It's most popular for sunrise, but also stunning any time of day!

Visit the Canola Fields

In the spring, Jeju transforms into a sea of yellow flowers. The canola fields are one of the most photographed landscapes on the island, and walking through them is one of the most serene things to do in Jeju. 

The fields around Seongsan and the eastern coast are the most popular, especially when the yellow flowers meet the blue ocean in the background.

Check Out Songaksan Viewpoint

Songaksan is a small volcanic cone with a circular coastal trail that is scenic from start to finish. It offers views of Sanbangsan, nearby islands, and massive cliffs. This is one of the best things to do in Jeju if you want an easy walk with spectacular scenery.

Walk Along the Yongmeori Coast

Yongmeori Coast looks like something carved by giants, or that you've landed on the moon. The rock layers curve and fold into dramatic shapes, and the waves crash right against the cliff walls. 

Walking along this coastline is one of the most unique things to do in Jeju because the entire place feels wild, ancient, and full of character.

Some of our favorite cafes in Jeju are also here, so it's certainly worth carving out a few hours out of your day to visit here, the nearby temple, and one of the cafes.

Explore Manjanggul Lava Tube

Manjanggul is one of the largest and longest lava tubes in the world, and visiting it is one of the most impressive things to do in Jeju. The lava formations inside show how the island was created, and the cool temperature makes it ideal for a refreshing break on hot days.

Check Out the Green Tea Fields & Cave

Jeju has some of the most impressive green tea fields, and the Green Tea Cave compliments it perfectly, as a true hidden escape. 

The cave itself is a good way to escape the heat during the summer months, and you can also enjoy the tea fields themselves, as well as the museum and cafe on the property.

Enjoy Hueree Nature Life Park

Hueree is a seasonal nature park known for its flower festivals, small animals, and relaxing walking trails. Depending on the season, you can see camellias, plum blossoms, hydrangeas, or autumn foliage. It is super colorful, and a beautiful place for some great photos or simply relaxing.

Walk through the Spirited Garden

This peaceful garden is full of old bonsai trees, ponds, and stone paths. It is beautifully maintained and has a calming energy that makes you want to slow down. If you want something quiet and peaceful, this is one of the most relaxing things to do in Jeju.

Explore Sumdo Garden 

This privately designed garden is full of flowers, plants, and artistic touches. It feels like a hidden gem and is usually quiet even during busy seasons. It also boasts some stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and has a stunning row of hydrangeas in the summer time.

Explore Hallasan National Park

Hallasan is the tallest mountain in Korea, and the national park around it is full of forests, crater lakes, and volcanic trails. Hiking here is one of the most rewarding things to do in Jeju and a great way to experience the island’s wild interior.

Hike to Baengnokdam Crater Lake

This crater lake sits at the summit of Hallasan and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and volcanic rock. The hike is long and challenging but gives you some of the most incredible views on the island. It is one of the ultimate things to do in Jeju for adventure lovers.

Relax at Hyeopjae Beach

Hyeopjae is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island with bright turquoise water and soft white sand. It is peaceful, clean, and perfect for swimming or lounging. Visiting this beach is one of the most refreshing things to do in Jeju, and it also home to some of the best cafes on the island.

Swim at Hamdeok Beach

Hamdeok is famous for its shallow emerald water, long sandbar, and scenic boardwalk with small kiosk of locals selling their crafts. It is one of the best beaches for swimming and spending a full day by the coast.

Walk the Camellia Hill Garden

This is one of the largest camellia gardens in Asia, full of flower tunnels, colorful paths, and photo spots. It is peaceful, romantic, and ideal for a slow nature day.

Swim in the Natural Pools of Gimnyeonga

Despite being surrounded by water, there aren't a ton of places you're actually allowed to swim in Jeju, but the ones you can are totally worth it.

The two volcanic pools of Gimnyeonga fill with clean seawater and are great for swimming, especially for families, since they are small and controlled. The water is clear, shallow, and perfect on warm days, making it one of the best things to do in Jeju during the summer months.

Walk the Ollee Trails

The Olle Trail network circles Jeju and gives you the chance to explore beaches, cliffs, forests, and quiet villages. Each route has its own unique scenery, making it one of the most incredible ways to experience the island.

Stroll Along the Handam Coastal Trail

Another one of our favorite areas to explore by foot is the Handam Coastal Trail, located along the skirts of Aewol. This beautiful seaside walkway follows lava rocks, cafés, and clear water views. It is one of the best things to do in Jeju if you love gentle walks with ocean scenery, and is even better at sunset.

See the Pink Muhly

Every autumn, Jeju’s pink muhly fields turn into fluffy pink landscapes that feel dreamy and surreal. It is one of the most popular things to do in Jeju during fall and one of the most photogenic spots on the island.

Things to Do in Jeju: Culture & History

Jeju has a culture unlike anywhere else in South Korea, shaped by volcanic landscapes, island traditions, and strong local identity. Experiencing its heritage is one of the most meaningful things to do in Jeju, especially if you want to understand the island beyond its beaches and nature. 

From ancient villages to powerful women divers, the cultural experiences here feel authentic and deeply connected to Jeju’s history.

Here are some great activities to add to your itinerary if you're looking to dive into Jeju's history and culture.

Watch a Haenyeo (Women Divers) Performance

The Haenyeo are one of Jeju’s most iconic symbols. These incredible women free dive into the ocean to gather seafood, using no oxygen tanks and relying only on skill and breath control. 

Watching a Haenyeo performance is one of the most unique things to do in Jeju because it gives you a glimpse into a tradition that has survived for centuries. Their whistles, songs, and techniques are now protected by UNESCO, making this experience both fascinating and culturally important.

You can watch these performances everyday at 1:30 or 3 pm at Seongsan Ilchulbong Marine Provincial Park.

Want to make sure you capture one? These East Island tours include the show!

Visit the Seongeup Folk Village

Seongeup Folk Village is a traditional village where you can walk among old stone houses, black lava walls, and thatched roofs that have been preserved to show the island’s heritage. Villagers share stories about farming culture, daily life, and ancient Jeju customs. 

Visiting this village is one of the best things to do in Jeju if you want an authentic look at how people lived before modern tourism.

Discover the Jeju Folk Village

The Jeju Folk Village is larger and more museum focused than Seongeup, offering recreated homes, craft workshops, and cultural performances. It is set in a beautiful natural environment, and you can explore exhibits showing everything from old farming tools to traditional cooking spaces.

It is an easy and accessible way to learn about Jeju’s past, and a unique activity to add to your Jeju itinerary.

Explore the Jeju Haenyeo Museum

The Haenyeo Museum is dedicated to the brave female divers of Jeju and their powerful cultural legacy. Inside you will find stories, artifacts, photos, and videos that explain their traditions and challenges.

It is a beautiful tribute to a way of life that shaped the island’s identity, and it gives you a deeper appreciation for the women you may see diving along Jeju’s shores.

Tour the Innisfree Jeju House

Innisfree Jeju House is a fun cultural stop where you can learn about natural skincare made from Jeju’s local ingredients like green tea, volcanic clay, and tangerines. 

The space has a beautiful café, peaceful walking paths, and workshops where you can make your own soap or cosmetics. It is one of the best things to do in Jeju for travelers who enjoy Korean skincare or eco friendly experiences.

 Check Out Yakcheonsa Temple

This massive temple is one of the most impressive Buddhist temples in Korea, known for its towering halls, intricate paintings, and peaceful oceanfront location.

It is incredibly photogenic and feels calming as soon as you step onto the grounds. Visiting Yakcheonsa is one of the most interesting things to do in Jeju for travelers interested in spirituality or architecture.

Experience the Jeju Stone Park Museum

Jeju Stone Park is one of the most unique museums on the island. It is dedicated to Jeju’s volcanic origins and its deep connection to stone. 

You will find outdoor sculptures, stone art, and exhibits explaining how lava shaped the island’s culture and legends. The museum is educational, beautifully designed, and perfect for travelers who enjoy learning while walking through nature.

Things to Do in Jeju: for the Foodies

Food is a huge part of the travel experience in Jeju. The island has its own flavors, ingredients, and traditions that feel completely different from mainland Korea. Trying local dishes, visiting markets, and exploring the café scene are some of the best things to do in Jeju, especially if you love discovering destinations through food.

Jeju’s tangerines, seafood, and green tea desserts are everywhere, and the island is full of cute cafés, modern restaurants, and traditional shops that make eating here an experience in itself!

Here are a few fun things to do in Jeju if you're looking to dive into the food scene.

Visit Dongmun Traditional Market

Dongmun Market is one of the best places to try local food in Jeju. The market is full of vendors selling fresh seafood, fruit, street snacks, and tangerine products. It is lively, colorful, and a great way to sample many different dishes in one place.

Here are some tours that make visits to the Dongmun Tradtional Market:

Explore Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market

This market has a more relaxed, small town feel and is known for its delicious food stalls. You can try black pork samplers, hallabong juice, seafood skewers, mochi like treats, and other snacks that are unique to the island. Exploring this market is one of the tastiest things to do in Jeju for first time visitors.

Go Tangerine Picking

Tangerines are a symbol of Jeju, and visiting a farm to pick your own is a fun and delicious experience. It is seasonal, but if your trip lines up with harvest time, this is one of the most fun and unique things to do in Jeju!

Enjoy the Cafe Culture

Jeju has become famous for its stylish and creative cafés. Many of them have ocean views, volcanic rock designs, or unique themes. Spending an afternoon café hopping is one of the coolest things to do in Jeju, and the desserts and drinks here are often made with local ingredients.

We've created a full guide for the best cafes in Jeju to experience, so make sure to check it out!

Visit O’sulloc Tea Museum

O’sulloc is one of the most famous attractions on the island and a must for tea lovers. The museum explains Jeju’s tea culture, and the surrounding fields make the area incredibly scenic. Trying their desserts and matcha drinks is one of the best things to do in Jeju for a blend of taste and culture.

Here are some tours that include visits to the O'sulloc Tea Museum:

Taste Black Pork at a Local Grill

Black pork is one of the island’s signature dishes, and trying it is one of the best things to do in Jeju for food lovers. The meat is tender, flavorful, and often grilled in front of you. It is typically served with kimchi, dipping sauces, and a spread of side dishes that will fill you up more than you think!

 Have Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ is a must while in South Korea, so don't miss out on this unique activity! You'll get to grill your own high-quality meats, and you'll have a variety of side dishes served with the meats - it's not just a meal, but a whole culinary experience!

Try the Island's Seafood Ramen

While people rave about ramen in Japan, we always tell people our absolute best ramen we ever had was on Jeju island!

The locals make seafood ramen that is packed with fresh ingredients like shrimp, clams, mussels, and giant portions of octopus. For under $10 you can fill up on this tasty specialty, and you can even ask for a refill if you wish!

Things to Do in Jeju for Families

Jeju is one of the most family friendly destinations in South Korea, offering theme parks, hands on attractions, nature spaces, and cute museums that kids love.

Families can explore beaches, ride trains, enjoy gentle walks, or spend a full day in one of the island’s colorful parks. These experiences are fun, easy, and some of the most memorable things to do in Jeju if you are traveling with little ones.

Experience the Theme Parks

Jeju has several themed attractions designed for families, each with its own style and activities. This is one of the best things to do in Jeju if you want a simple day of entertainment without long drives or hiking.

• Snoopy Park: A cheerful cartoon themed world with colorful play zones, cute characters, and lots of fun indoor activities for families.
• Hello Kitty Island: A pink themed museum filled with photo spots, artwork, and interactive rooms that young children absolutely love.
• Soingook Theme Park: A quirky attraction with miniature landmarks and hands on displays that makes for an easy and educational family outing.
• Shinhwa Theme Park: A large amusement park with coasters, kid friendly rides, parades, and water play areas that keeps families entertained all day.

Play Around at the Alive Museum of Optical Illusions

The Alive Museum is a family favorite filled with giant optical illusions, silly photo scenes, and interactive exhibits. Kids can pose in creative setups, climb into scenes, and enjoy the playful rooms. It is fun, energetic, and indoors, which makes it perfect for rainy days.

Visit the Teddy Bear Museum

This charming museum showcases teddy bears in themed displays, dioramas, and historical scenes. It is cute, simple, and really fun for younger children. The giant bear sculptures outside are also adorable for photos.

Ride the Eco Land Forest Train

Eco Land is a huge nature park where families ride a vintage style train through forests, lakes, and gardens. You can hop off at different stations to explore themed areas, walk through flower fields, or relax by the water. It is one of the most relaxing things to do in Jeju with kids because everything is easy, scenic, and peaceful.

 Play at the Maze Land Park

Maze Land features several giant mazes built from stone walls and hedges. Families can spend time trying to solve different paths while enjoying the fresh air. It is playful and unique, and a great way to let kids burn some energy.

Explore Hallim Park

Hallim Park is a large garden and family park with lava tubes, cacti greenhouses, flower gardens, bird zones, and a small folk village. 

There is so much variety here that families can easily spend half a day exploring different themed areas. It is colorful, clean, and one of the most diverse things to do in Jeju for mixed age groups.

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Things to Do in Jeju for the Adventurers

If you love being active, Jeju is one of the best places in South Korea for adventure. The island is filled with dramatic coastlines, volcanic formations, and unique outdoor experiences that make exploring feel exciting and rewarding.

These activities are perfect for travelers who want to mix nature with a bit of adrenaline while checking off some of the most memorable things to do in Jeju.

Go Kayaking

Kayaking in Jeju is a great way to enjoy the coast from the water. You can paddle through calm bays, explore rocky stretches, and see lava cliffs from a completely different perspective. It is peaceful but still adventurous, and a beautiful way to enjoy the best of Jeju’s natural scenery.

Take a Submarine Tour in Seogwipo

One of the most unique things to do in Jeju is taking a real submarine ride in Seogwipo. You descend under the water and glide past coral, fish, and volcanic rock formations. It is one of the few places in the world where travelers can experience something like this, and it is perfect for both adults and kids.

Zipline at Jeju Zipline Adventure Park

If you want something fast and fun, Jeju’s zipline park is an exciting way to fly over the forest. The platforms sit above green canopies, and the long zip lines make the experience feel both safe and exciting. It is perfect for adventure lovers who want something active without needing to hike.

Other Fun Things to Do in Jeju

Not everything in Jeju fits neatly into nature, culture, or adventure. These are the quirky spots, photogenic corners, and unusual experiences that make the island even more fun to explore. They are great additions to your itinerary if you want something different while checking off a variety of unique things to do in Jeju.

Take Pictures at the Sanyang Keunkot Photo Spot

This is a hidden gem in Jeju, a quirky garden tucked away in the forest. It is a unique stop, perfect for those who love creative photography or simply bringing out the child in you.

 Relax in a Traditional Korean Sauna (Jimjilbang)

Jeju’s jjimjilbangs offer hot rooms, cold plunge baths, relaxation areas, and full spa zones. After a long day of sightseeing, this is one of the most relaxing things to do in Jeju.

Take a Scenic Drive Along Dodu Rainbow Coastal Road 

Dodu Rainbow Coastal Road is one of the most beautiful drives on the island with ocean views, cliffs, and a colorful rainbow themed paint scheme. It's located just outside of Jeju city, and makes a perfect stop before dropping your rental back off at the airport.

Check out Singchang Windmill Coastal Road

This coastal road features giant wind turbines and panoramic sea views. It feels calm and remote, and the scenery is great for photography or an easy walk to appreciate a unique aspect of the island.

Visit Udo Island for Beaches and Peanut Ice Cream

Just a short ferry ride from Jeju, Udo Island is known for soft beaches, clear water, and its famous peanut ice cream. It is one of the best day trips from Jeju and adds a whole new landscape to your itinerary.

Go on a Photography Tour

Jeju is full of photogenic cliffs, fields, beaches, and gardens. A photography tour helps you find the best light, the best angles, and the hidden spots that most tourists miss, perfect for those that want to make the most beautiful memories to look back on.

 Go to Jeju Loveland

Looking for something saucy? Loveland is Jeju’s quirky adult themed sculpture park designed with humor and creativity. It is playful and strange, and definitely one of the most unusual things to do in Jeju. Make sure to stay until it's dark, when the sculptures are colorfully illuminated  with colorful and exotic lights!

The Best Things to Do in Jeju: Final Thoughts & What's Next

Jeju is a fascinating island, perfect for those that love beautiful nature, delicious food, and a touch of adventure. It has a variety of landscapes and activities, making it perfect for all types of travelers.

Here are a few final things to keep in mind when visiting Jeju:

 Getting There: The easiest option is flying to Jeju, but you can also take a ferry there.

 Getting Around: Renting a car is the most ideal, but they also a public bus system and ride share options.

 Where to Stay: Most travelers stay in Jeju City for convenience and proximity to the airport and port, or in Seogwipo for easy access to waterfalls, beaches, and scenic coastal spots. Both areas offer a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts to fit every budget.

🗣 Language: Korean is the language of Jeju Island.

💴 Currency: South Korea uses the Korean Won. $1 USD = 1,400 Won.

👮🏻‍♀️ Safety: Jeju is a very safe island, and the locals are super welcoming!

☀️ Weather: Jeju experiences 4 seasons, with extremely hot and humid summers, and cold winters.

What's Next?

Now that you know all about the best things to do in Jeju, you'll probably want to know more details about visiting the island! We have a lot of Jeju guides coming up, and also other South Korea guides we've written.

Here are a few other travel guides we have about South Korea:

 How to get to Jeju Island

 How to get around Jeju

 The best cafes in Jeju

 How to get to Seoul

 Seoul transportation guide

 Things to do and see in Seoul

 Korean scalp massage review

 Seoul food guide

 Seoul complete travel guide

We're going to also be having new articles each Thursday, so stay tuned!

So are you ready to enjoy all of the fun things to do in Jeju, South Korea? We hope our guide has helped you start to planning a truly incredible trip. Have questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments!

Want to learn more about traveling around Jeju and South Korea? We have new South Korea Travel Guides coming up for you each week. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can stay up to date with our most recent articles, as well as get special discounts on our shop.

Ready to book your trip to the island of Jeju, but need some more help?  Scratch Your Mapa offers customized travel planning services with personalized itineraries, unique accommodation, and exciting activities for all types of traveler out there. Simply email us today to learn more!

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