Jeju, South Korea’s largest and most beautiful volcanic island is nestled on the South Coast. This South Korea island boasts stunning beaches, lush countryside, an abundance of museums, coastal walking trails, and delectable cuisine.
If you’re looking to plan a trip to South Korea, you should certainly add Jeju Island to your list, together with your Seoul itinerary. There are so many things to do in Jeju Island. This Jeju Itinerary 3 days covers an ideal amount of time to spend on this beautiful Korean island.
Things to Book Before You Leave Home
Few things are more frustrating on vacation than missing out on that amazing hotel or tour because it is sold out. Here are our top things to book before your vacation.
🏯 Book these popular Jeju Tours before you leave home to avoid disappointment.
1. Jeju Island West Coast Tours
2. Jeju Island East Coast Tours
🛏️Where to Stay on Jeju:
1. Bayhill Pool and Villa – spacious and stylish for the perfect secluded getaway
2. Hidden Cliff Hotel and Nature – natural setting and infinity pool
Jeju Itinerary: Getting To The Island
Jeju International Airport is located in the island’s largest city, Jeju City, and there are cheap flights to the island from the major metropolitan areas in South Korea.
If you’re travelling from Seoul or Busan, it’s possible to take a ferry to Jeju island. Although, flights are a better option because a two-way ferry ticket can cost you around $100 USD and it will take you between 3-12 hours to get there. Flying to Jeju Island is a much cheaper and faster option.
How to Get Around Jeju Island
When it comes to how to travel around Jeju Island, renting a car and driving yourself is the best option. Having your own vehicle allows you to travel and stopover at your heart’s content.
If you decide to rent a car, I highly recommend booking through RentalCars.com, which has the best prices. You can also take well-connected public transportation, such as the Jeju City bus.
Korea has strict rules about Internet maps, and you may have trouble getting onto Google Maps. Rest assured, rented cars come with a GPS, where you can key in the coordinates and find your way around the island.
3 Day Jeju Island Itinerary: Day 1: East Jeju
There are some spectacular places on Jeju Island with awesome landscapes, volcanoes, lava tubes and cascading waterfalls. The volcanic island is now a UNESCO world heritage site and a must-see on your Korea itinerary.
I highly recommend getting the most out of your Jeju trip by renting a car. Otherwise, book a private transfer between Jeju airport and your accommodation to enjoy a thoroughly relaxing vacation without the fuss of finding your place.
Seongsan Ilchulbong
One of the island’s most loved local and tourist attractions is watching the sunrise on a smaller volcano at Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as ‘sunrise peak’. This Jeju tourist attraction welcomes dozens of early-morning hikers who race up the stairway to catch the daybreak at the crater.
If you plan on seeing the sunrise from Seongsan Ilchulbong, be sure to check what time the sun will rise. Ensure you give yourself plenty of time to get to the entrance and walk to the top.
Alternatively, book a private transfer to Seongsan IIchulbong and enjoy a hassle-free journey.
There is a small entrance fee of $1.79 USD per person to enter the park, and you’ll walk for about 20-minutes to the peak.
After sunrise, climb down the mountain and get breakfast at one of the stalls near the entrance. On your way down, make a stop at the viewing platform and catch a glimpse of the traditional women drivers, the Jeju haenyeo.
If you’re looking for a delightful Jeju island tour to see the island’s highlights, I suggest you book this small-group tour to Sunrise Peak and other famous places.
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Seopjikoji Coast Walk
If you’re looking for the perfect place to take vacation pictures, it would be Seopikoji. It’s famous for the yellow canola flowers sweeping over hills and boasts beautiful coastal views. Canola blooms from March to April, but Seopjikoji JeJu Island a lovely scenic walk at any time of the year.
This pretty area has been featured in many Korean tv dramas – and is therefore, quite popular. There are a lighthouse, a gingerbread house and some great views of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak from the end of the lighthouse.
Manjanggul Cave
Manjanggul Cave is one of the largest lava tubes in the world, and within the cave, you’ll come across stalagmites, lava shelves, tubes, stalactites, and many forms of flowstones. These caves are one of the top Jeju Island things to do.
The star attraction of Manjanggul Caves Jeju Island is the world’s tallest lava column standing 7.8 meters high inside the cave. When you’re visiting the cave, I recommend taking a jacket and closed footwear as it can get a bit chilly and there are wet and uneven surfaces.
➡️ Book a Manjanggul Cave transfer service
Hamdeok Beach
Hamdeok Beach is world-famous for its gem-clear water and white sands, making it a popular destination during the warm sunny days. The combination of a picturesque arching bridge over the white sand and black basalt stones makes for a stunning backdrop to this Jeju beach.
Jeju Island Itinerary: Day 2: East to West of Jeju
Don’t miss discovering the beautiful Dragon Head Coast, and Mt. Songak by exploring Sabang and the western parts of the island.
Chocolate Museum
Located in the south of Jeju is the second-largest Chocolate Museum in the world. This Jeju museum is beautifully decorated with volcanic rock that makes it look like an ancient fortress.
There are various exhibitions displaying several chocolate treats at the Chocolate Museum Jeju Island – it’s something you won’t want to miss.
Jusangjeolli Cliffs
The Jusangjeolli Cliffs are a geologic wonder, comprised of hundreds of hexagonal rock columns formed from molten lava when Mount Hallasan erupted.
Teddy Bear Museum
Spend some time on a teddy safari at the Teddy Bear Museum. It’s dedicated entirely to teddy bears, with hundreds of teddies from around the world displayed throughout the museum.
The Teddy Bear Museum Jeju also houses the most expensive teddy bear in the world, worth $2.1 million. It’s a luxurious Louis Vuitton teddy with matching luggage – beary luxurious!
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
Cheonjiyeon Waterfall is easily one of the most beautiful places on the island. It’s a 22-meter high waterfall that cascades into the pond below. Cheonjiyeon waterfall is surrounded by lush plant life, including the rare Solimnan reeds.
It is very easy to access Cheonjiyeon waterfall – it is almost in Seogwipo. The easiest option is to walk. Once heading in the right direction you will see the grandfather rocks – follow these to the waterfall.
When you’re there, don’t forget to check out the Seonimgyo bridge that stands out of the forest.
Jeongbang Falls
Jeongbang Falls drops 23 meters into the ocean, it’s the only waterfall in Asia that falls directly into the sea. This Jeju waterfall provides the perfect opportunity to take photos on your Jeju trip.
Jungmun Saekdal Beach
One of the top beaches on the island is Jungmun Saekdal beach. Cliffs surround it and provides plenty of beach activities such as windsurfing, waterskiing, and parasailing. I suggest taking some time to enjoy this beach in Jeju before your final stop for the day.
Seogwipo Submarine
If you’re looking for a unique island experience, take a ride on the Seogwipo Submarine. It descends 12 meters below the sea. En route, you will pass a shipwreck and see schools of colourful fish.
➡️ Book Your Tour of the West Coast of Jeju Island
Jeju Island Itinerary: Day 3: South Jeju
Depending on your interests or your group’s interests, you might want to add a full-day en route back to Jeju City. If you can, squeeze in both the theme parks and opt for the shorter Mt. Hallasan hike.
Mount Hallasan
Mount Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea. It’s situated in the Halla-san National Park, and if you plan to hike it, you should be well prepared. I do suggest bringing some food and water with you, though there are stores in the park.
The best time to hike Mount Hallasan Jeju is in the early morning. There are several mountain trails to choose from. If you’re not looking to spend the entire day at Mount Hallasan, consider taking the easy 1.3km Eoseungsaengak trail. You will be spoiled with stunning sweeping views of lush landscapes of this Mount Hallasan trail.
To get the most out of your experience, I recommend booking a small group nature hike to see Jusangjeolli Cliff, Cheonjiyeon Falls, and Mt. Hallasan together. That way, you won’t miss out on any Jeju attractions.
➡️ Book Your Transfer to the Mount Hallasan Hiking Trail
The most economic way to travel South Korea by train is the Korea Rail Pass. This pass is only available to foreign travellers. The KR pass covers 600 stations and 80 different high speed routes with unlimited rides. It is available in 3 or 5 consecutive days or flexible 2 and 4 days.
Mysterious Road
The Mysterious Road in Jeju is a downslope road that actually looks like an uphill. It’s a magnetic hill, and if you put an object on the street, the optical illusion makes it look like the object is rolling uphill.
The baffling ability of objects climbing up the hill on the Mysterious Road Jeju instead of down it is a must-see.
Love Land
Love Land is a sex-themed outdoor sculpture park and is one of the quirkiest things to do on Jeju island. Love Land Jeju showcases sensual and erotic sculptures in various sex positions dotted throughout the park.
The reason for having a sex park is that Jeju Island is a popular honeymoon destination for Koreans. Due to the generally conservative bent of Korean society, it is likely that many newly marrieds are quite inexperienced sexually. Therefore, these sex parks were created on the island to educate and entertain.
This is one of the more unique places to visit in Jeju and can be fun to explore with a group of friends or your partner.
Note: Visitors must be over the age of 18 years to enter Love Land.
Knowing even a small amount of the local language can add a whole new level of enjoyment to any trip. Why not learn some basic Korean before you leave home?
Where To Stay In Jeju
If you have a late arrival or early departure, I recommend staying in Jeju City, located in the south of the island.
Chason Hotel The Smile
Chason Hotel The Smile is in the heart of Seogwipo – perfect for travelers looking to explore nearby waterfalls, visit the iconic sights and discover the local food. The hotel offers the usual perks of excellent WI-FI, a continental breakfast and the best coffee.
I would recommend Chason Hotel The Smile for couples traveling to Jeju Island, however, they do also offer family rooms. All the rooms at this Jeju Island hotel are very clean, neat and provide all the amenities you could wish for.
➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Chason Hotel The Smile
Hidden Cliff Hotel and Nature
The Hidden Cliff Hotel and Nature sits on the top of a hill and is surrounded by thick woods teeming with life. The hotel is surrounded by hidden hiking trails for the adventurous soul, and offers a large infinity pool to cool down in at the end of a long day.
The vibrant rooms at The Hidden Cliff Hotel and Nature have wooden finishings and a private balcony to relax on. As an added bonus, Jungmun Beach is just a five-minute drive away from this hotel on Jeju Island,
⇒ Check Prices and Availability for the Hidden Cliff Hotel
Bayhill Pool and Villa
Bayhill Pool and Villa offers luxurious rooms with private terraces and ocean views. Located in a slightly secluded area, it’s the Jeju hotel to stay if you are looking for a quiet getaway.
The spacious rooms at Bayhill Pool and Villa have a stylish modern interior for you to enjoy and unwind after a day exploring,
⇒ BooCheck Prices and Availability for the Bayhill Pool and Villa
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Where to Eat In Jeju Island
South Korean cuisine is as colorful and vibrant as the culture. Whether you are visiting Jeju Island for a short vacation or a longer holiday, here is my list of top places to try.
Sunny Garden
Offering traditional Korean barbeque, the Sunny Garden is a top spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. Prepare to cook your meat on the open stove at your dining table.
If you love Korean beef, quick service and are looking for an authentic experience, Sunny Garden Jeju Island is the place for you.
Ankeori Pakeori
Looking for good Korean food at affordable prices? Ankeori Pakeori should definitely be on your list of food spots to try. They are known to serve their kimchi very well, and their customer service is out of this world.
You can expect a table full of interesting dishes to try if visiting Ankeori Pakeori Jeju for lunch or dinner.
Mint serves super tasty contemporary cuisine in the arty district of Seogwipo. Boasting an outstanding view, it will be tricky to choose which is better – the food or the vista. I would recommend going to Mint on Jeju Island on a clear evening to watch the sunset – it is breathtaking.
Soul Kitchen
Soul Kitchen offers the ultimate comfort food menu if you want a break from traditional Korean cuisine. While the restaurant offers a true steakhouse ambiance, it also has a wonderful vegan and vegetarian menu
Childonga
Childonga is the ultimate dinner venue if you’re looking to try the famous black pork in Jeju. While the interior of the restaurant is similar to most other venues, the food is unparalleled.
Although the staff at Childonga don’t speak much (if any) English, the food is definitely worth the effort of struggling through the language barrier.
My favourite place for coffee and photos in Jeju was Cafe Mayb. This super cute cafe does a nice breakfast and also serves wine and beers come the evening. There is also a nice florist next door to Cafe Mayb.
Paris Baguette is a safe stop for coffee and baked treats. There are many Paris Baguette outlets across South Korea.
And the Grey Owl Cafe has good coffee and ham and egg muffins – it isn’t easy to get a western-style breakfast on Jeju Island.
And for a cafe with a view, unique modern design and good coffee visit Cafe Over the Window.
Don’t miss Jeju’s famous tangerine juice! It is on sale all over the island and absolutely delicious. I lost track of how many tangerine juices I had.
Jeju Island’s tangerine juice tends to be served slightly frozen so they are wonderfully refreshing. And sometimes this Jeju island juice comes in plastic bottles shaped like the grandfather rocks – my favorite.
Best Time To Visit Jeju Island
The best time to visit Jeju is during the more moderate weather months. The warm and pleasant days often occur from March to May and September to November.
Springtime (March to May) is considered one of the best times to visit Jeju island, as temperatures are balmy. The highlight of this season is the cherry blossoms bloom, and the island turns a spectacular pink from the flowers.
Jeju in Autumn (September to November) is another fantastic time to visit. Conditions are sunny with clear skies, and the fall foliage looks incredibly picturesque.
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Jeju Island Itinerary – For an Incredible Getaway
Jeju Island is by far one of the most beautiful places to visit and should undoubtedly be on your itinerary when travelling to South Korea. With its majestic mountains, delicious foods, and beautiful beaches, this stunning island spoils you with plenty to see
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I covered all of the costs involved in writing this Jeju travel blog post. However, this post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.