Planning a trip to Jeju? Let's skip the tourist traps. After living here three years, I've discovered what's actually worth your time. Whether you want volcanic hikes, black pork feasts, or secret beaches, this guide covers everything.
Nature Adventures You Can't Miss
Jeju's landscapes blew my mind when I first arrived. But not all spots are created equal.
Hike Hallasan Mountain
South Korea's highest peak (1,947m) dominates the island. The Gwaneumsa Trail (8.7km one way) is my favorite - tougher than Seongpanak but way prettier. Pack warm layers even in summer; the summit can be 10°C colder. Last November, I got caught in sideways hail at the top. Totally worth it for those views though.
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Hours | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gwaneumsa | 8.7km ↗ | Challenging | 5:30am-12pm (summit cutoff) | Free |
| Seongpanak | 9.6km ↗ | Moderate | 5am-1pm (summit cutoff) | Free |
| Eorimok | 4.7km ↗ | Easy-Moderate | 24 hours | Free |
Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise
That iconic volcanic crater? Worth waking up at 4am for. But here's the reality check: On cloudy days you'll just see gray soup. Check KMA forecast before going. Admission: ₩5,000 ($3.80). Gates open 1 hour before sunrise. Pro tip: Skip the main viewpoint and head left to the coastal path - way fewer people.
Waterfalls That Actually Impress
Cheonjiyeon Falls (10-min walk from Seogwipo) is pretty but packed. For something wilder, try Jeongbang Falls - it's the only waterfall in Asia that drops directly into the ocean. Bring waterproof shoes; the spray soaks everything. Admission: ₩2,000 ($1.50).
Culture & History Beyond the Guidebooks
Jeju's culture shaped by volcanic rock and strong women. Most visitors miss the best parts.
Haenyeo Free Diving Experience
Watching 70-year-old women hold their breath for 2 minutes? Mind-blowing. At Hado-ri village (1hr bus from Jeju City), you can actually suit up and try it (₩40,000/$30). My lungs burned after 30 seconds. These women dive 10m daily without tanks. Shows at 1:30pm daily except bad weather days.
Jeju Stone Park vs Spirited Garden
Stone Park (₩2,000 entry) showcases how volcanic rock built Jeju's culture. Cool rock formations plus indoor museum. Spirited Garden (₩9,000) has stunning bonsai but feels overpriced. My vote? Stone Park for authenticity.
| Cultural Site | Best For | Fee | Time Needed | Skip If |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haenyeo Museum | Understanding diving traditions | ₩1,100 | 1-1.5 hours | Short on time |
| Seongeup Folk Village | Traditional thatched houses | Free | 2 hours | Dislike tourist crowds |
| Osulloc Tea Museum | Green tea fields & desserts | Free | 1 hour | Not into tea |
Food Experiences Worth Your Won
Jeju's cuisine is all about fresh seafood and black pigs. But some "famous" spots are tourist traps.
Black Pork BBQ: Where to Really Go
Skip the overpriced joints near Jungmun. Head to Jeju City's Black Pork Street (삼성혈로 near Dongmun Market). My go-to: Don Don (돈돈). Dinner for two: ₩50,000 ($38). Arrive before 6pm or expect queues. Their kimchi stew side dish? Legendary.
Seafood Heaven at Seogwipo Port
That tank of squirming octopus you've seen on Instagram? Try it at Nammun Bapsang (남문밥상). Live octopus (산낙지) ₩25,000. Feels weird chewing while it suction-cups your tongue. For less adventure, their grilled mackerel (₩15,000) is perfection.
Must-Try Markets
- Dongmun Market (Jeju City): Open 8am-9pm. Get hotteok (sweet pancakes) at Stall #18 (₩1,500). Fish cakes at #42 will change your life.
- Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market: Less touristy. Try abalone porridge (₩12,000) at the corner stall with blue awning.
- Hallo Market (Hallim): Tiny but has killer tangerine products. Homemade marmalade ₩7,000/jar.
Coastal Explorations & Hidden Beaches
Jeju's coastline changes every 5km. Most beaches face south - great for sunsets but rough for swimming.
Best Swimming Spots
Hyeopjae Beach: Turquoise water, white sand, views of Biyangdo Island. Rent umbrellas ₩15,000. Gets packed July-August. Woljeongri Beach: Surf central with cool cafes. Board rentals ₩10,000/hour. Avoid Hamdeok Beach - pretty but strong currents.
Secret Coastal Walks
The Jusangjeolli Cliffs (₩2,000 entry) are cool hexagonal columns formed by lava. But for free volcanic drama, drive to Suwolbong Peak near Hallim. Park at the fishing village and walk 15 minutes up. Zero tourists, insane views.
| Beach | Water Color | Sand Type | Best For | Nearby Food |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyeopjae | Turquoise | White powder | Swimming, photos | Seafood stew shacks |
| Woljeongri | Deep blue | Soft brown | Surfing, cafes | Hipster brunch spots |
| Gimnyeong | Emerald | Mixed pebbles | Snorkeling | Black pork burgers |
Practical Info That Actually Helps
Jeju travel realities nobody tells you. Learn from my mistakes.
Transportation: Bus vs Car
Jeju buses are cheap (₩1,200/ride) but sloooow. A cross-island trip can take 2+ hours. Renting a car? International Driving Permit is mandatory. Gas costs ₩1,700/L. Parking headaches in cities.
- Best rental companies: AJ Rentacar or Lotte. Avoid surcharge traps - full insurance costs extra ₩20,000/day
- Bus tip: Get T-money card at CU convenience stores. Transfers free within 30 minutes
When to Visit & What to Pack
April-May or October-November = golden seasons. July-August brings monsoon rains and crowds. Winter can be magical but attractions close early. Pack:
- Waterproof hiking shoes (volcanic rock shreds sneakers)
- Windbreaker (coastal gusts hit 60km/h)
- Power bank (few public outlets)
- Reusable cup (most cafes give ₩500 discount)
FAQs About Things to Do in Jeju Island
Answers from someone who actually lives here:
How many days do I need for Jeju?
Absolute minimum: 4 days. Ideal: 7 days. The island's bigger than you think - driving from Jeju City to Seogwipo takes 1 hour without traffic.
Is Jeju expensive?
Compared to Seoul? Slightly cheaper. Decent hotel: ₩80,000-150,000/night. Meal: ₩10,000-20,000. Total daily budget: ₩100,000-150,000/person.
What things to do in Jeju do during rainy days?
Try these indoor activities when the weather turns:
- Glass Castle (₩10,000) - Mind-bending glass art
- Aqua Planet aquarium (₩40,000) - Massive tank with whale sharks
- Kimnyoung Maze Park (₩4,400) - Cactus-filled labyrinth
What things to do in Jeju do at night?
Nightlife exists beyond hotels:
- Seogwipo Port night market (Fri-Sat 6pm-11pm)
- Jeju City's Dongmun Market night food stalls
- Live music at The Factory (craft beer bar)
But honestly? Jeju sleeps early. Most restaurants close by 9:30pm.
What things to do in Jeju do for couples?
Besides Loveland (which feels kinda tacky IMHO):
- Cafe hopping along Woljeongri coast
- Couple photo shoot at Camellia Hill (₩9,000)
- Sunset cruise from Seogwipo (₩25,000)
What I'd Do Differently
Reflecting on three years here:
- Skip: Teddy Bear Museum (₩12,000 for dusty displays), Ripley's Believe It or Not
- Double visit: Udo Island bike trip (ferry ₩5,500), Hallasan summit hike
- Wish I knew: Bring hiking poles for volcanic trails. My knees still hate me
- Best splurge: Scuba diving at Munseom Island (₩80,000). Crystal visibility
Final tip? Slow down. Jeju rewards those who linger. That tiny seaside shack with plastic chairs? Probably serves the best seafood stew you'll ever have. Forget ticking off things to do in Jeju do lists - wander until you smell roasting pork or hear waves crashing. That's where the magic happens.
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