30 BEST Things to Do in Jeju – Activities, Itineraries & Day Trips

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Jeju Island is a must-see when travelling in South Korea, offering a mix of adventures, culture, and views so good they’ll fill up your camera roll. 

Whether backpacking on a budget or travelling with your family, there are more than enough great things to do in Jeju to keep you busy – and impressed:

1. Learn about Jeju’s Mermaids at the Haenyeo Museum

Stop what you’re doing right now and research the Haenyeo divers. One of the most interesting things to do on this island is to watch these seafood divers go about their daily work. 

The Haenyeo divers are a community of female divers from the island who dive into the ocean to harvest seafood like seaweed, shellfish, and other sea life from the ocean floor. The practice is eco-friendly and incredible to watch. Some divers dive as deep as 20 meters, holding their breath for a minute or more.

Before they dive, they pray to the Jamsugut – the Goddess of the Sea – for safety and good luck. Often referred to as mermaids, they defy age, gender norms, and the cold sea. 

If this female diving community intrigues you as much as it does me, you’ll want to visit the Haenyeo Museum, which showcases artefacts and vintage diving gear. If you’re staying in Jeju, you’ll want to check this out.

2. Experience the Magic Glow at the Manjanggul Caves

The Manjanggul Lava Tubes are at the top of many Jeju bucket lists, and for good reason. Walking into this UNESCO-listed cave that stretches for miles feels like entering another galaxy.

The cool and eerie glow from the stalagmites and lava formations is unforgettable (as is the musty smell). Ask your guide about the lava turtle, a natural formation shaped like the island of Jeju itself. 

Entrance is only $2 per person, making this a great budget-friendly thing to do in Jeju. Just make sure to wear sturdy shoes as the path can get slippery. 

3. Snorkel or Dive around Udo Island

Udo is a tiny island just a 15-minute ferry ride from the Seongsan Harbor in Jeju. It’s a popular hotspot for diving and snorkelling, home to an underwater world bursting with colourful coral reefs and vibrant marine life. Enough said?

There are plenty of small islands and islets around Jeju, but Udo is the biggest. Getting there is relatively easy, and once on the island, you can rent good snorkelling gear for around $20.

It’s also worth mentioning that this little island is famous for its peanut-flavored ice cream and Korean Chinese food. Try Jimmy’s Natural Ice Cream and Jimiseu Peanut Ice Cream, and thank me later.

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4. Test your Fitness with a Hike up Hallasan Mountain

Hallasan Mountain dominates the Jeju landscape and is often considered one of the most rewarding hikes in South Korea. The shield volcano is the tallest peak in the country and essentially, it’s the entire reason the island exists. 

It was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2002 and a World Heritage Site in 2007. Hiking this peak is no joke, but the views from the top are worth the exhaustion. 

The Seongpanak and Gwanaumsa trails are the most popular, each taking around 8-10 hours for a round-trip hike. It’s worth noting that trails can close due to rock falls, which makes it tough to plan your route too far in advance.

Start early, pack plenty of water and snacks, and bring layers. Temperatures get cooler towards the top. I’d also recommend heading to Hallasan on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.

5. Walk Along the Handam Coastal Walk

If the above recommendation made you shudder with hiking fear, you might be better suited to the beginner-friendly trail that forms part of the Olle Trail. Whether you’re just beginning your hiking journey or you’re a pro – this one is enjoyable for all fitness levels.

It might be a walk, but I would rate it as one of the most relaxing activities. Why? Because it’s relatively cool and breezy, has stunning ocean views, and plenty of spots to take a break and snap some photos. This trail is a real must-see in Jeju!

The trail stretches just under a mile near Aewol, an area dotted with cafes and tea shops. It’s easy, flat, and family-friendly – perfect for an afternoon stroll. You might even spot a few Haenyeo women diving off the coast.

6. Make Rattan Crafts at Haruae Jeju

If you enjoy crafting at home and are interested in different culture’s arts and crafts, you’ll love this activity. Koreans have been decorating their homes with rattan furniture for ages, and the art has become so popular that it’s often seen in houses across the West today. 

This traditional Korean craftsmanship takes place at Haruae Jeju and is designed to teach you about the delicate art of ratan crafts through hands-on workshops. Like most arts, this one requires patience and practice. In the class linked here, you can choose to make the backing of a mirror, a light stand, a bag, or a basket out of dried lotus leaves.

It’s calming and meditative, and you’ll walk away with a unique souvenir and the accomplishment you made yourself!

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7. Soak in the Cherry Blossom Blooms at Camellia Hill Botanical Gardens

If you visit Jeju in the spring, Camellia Hill should be a must-see. This 20-hectare garden is famous for its dreamy cherry blossoms and a grove of over six thousand camellia trees. 

If you’re looking for an outdoor activity in Jeju, no matter when you visit, the garden is a tranquil escape filled with colourful blooms, green lawns, and plenty of fresh air. The gardeners here are also especially talented at cultivating hydrangeas, my personal favourite flower. Hydrangeas also bloom in the spring but often last throughout the summer months.

The entrance costs around $7 per adult, and there is a little cafe in the garden where you can grab some refreshments. I recommend visiting earlier rather than later to beat the crowds and see the colourful flowers in the golden light of the morning.

8. Relax on Hamdeok Beach

You didn’t think we’d get through this list without a few beach mentions, did you? It is an island, after all! 

Hamdeok Beach is the go-to beach for white sand and clear water. It’s beautiful for swimming, lounging about with a good book, or just taking a break from sightseeing. Families love it because of the shallow and calm waters, and budget travellers appreciate that it doesn’t cost a cent to visit. 

If you have time to spare, you could rent a kayak for under $10 and explore the coastline from the water.

9. Walk Through the Spirited Garden

Jeju’s Spirited Garden has been called the most beautiful garden on the island, and it’s easy to see why. The garden is home to hundreds of bonsai plants set around a volcanic and water theme.

It’s got trickling streams, stone sculptures, and topiarised bushes. It’s in the southwestern part of the island and is the perfect thing to do in Jeju after a busy morning. The entrance costs around $10, and the garden cafe serves tea and snacks. Aim for a weekday visit if you can. This spot is popular, and visiting on quieter days is the best way to take advantage of the solitude.

10. Check out Local Cuisine at Dongmun Market

Food lovers, rejoice. Because we’ve reached the best food market in town full of bustling street food. Dongmun Market is packed with stalls, offering everything from seafood to black pork dumplings (more on that later). 

Like any local market, it’s a top location for an affordable dinner. You could easily hook up a main meal and a drink for under $10 here. Try freshly squeezed tangerine juice. It’s made from tangerines grown on the island – more on this later. 

My tip is to carry cash since most of the vendors don’t take cards. Oh, and for the most energetic market vibe, visit after 6 p.m. for the dinner rush.

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11. Immerse Yourself in the Jeju Arte Museum

One of my favourite things to do on a rainy day in a new city (or, in this case, an island) is to wander through an indoor museum. The Jeju Arte Museum is one of the best places to visit in Jeju. Blending art, technology, and local imagination through impressive digital installations, it’s a little slice of the buzz of Seoul nestled in the heart of this little tropical island. 

Depending on what’s going on at the time, you could find yourself walking through glowing forests, interactive light shows, tunnels of floating lanterns, and surrealist projections. Tickets cost around $12 a piece, and while it might not take you all day to explore, it’s a unique way to spend a few hours in Jeju.

12. Ascend the Peaks of Hallasan in the Snow

I know I mentioned Hallasan earlier in this post, but summiting this peak in winter is an entirely different experience. The snow-covered trails make the volcano feel like a winter wonderland, and the views from the top are as breathtaking as the hike itself. 

Bundle up and wear proper footwear, as paths can get icy. Just make sure to check the weather beforehand, as some trails may close due to heavy snow or windy conditions.

13. Enjoy a Beach Day at Hyeopjae

Hyeopjae Beach offers some of the finest white sand and shallow turquoise waters on the island. As with most beaches, it’s family-friendly and perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It’s on the north side of the island, which also happens to be packed with seafood restaurants serving freshly caught catch (sometimes from a local Haenyeo diver herself). 

The beach is surrounded by pine forests and is so long that it extends to the nearby beach called Geumneung. It might not be a secret, but spending a day on this beach is one of the best things to do in Jeju.

14. Learn to Prepare a Local South Korean Dish

If you know me, you’ll know the first thing I check out when planning an itinerary for a first-time visit is the food and cooking courses. And when it comes to Southeast Asian food, Korean cuisine is a favourite for SO many reasons—diversity of flavour, bold colour, and a bit of heat. 

There are a few cooking workshops in Jeju that focus on preparing local specialities like seafood stew or tangerine-flavoured fish. Cooking classes are not the cheapest activity, but they’re always worth the price to learn a new skill. Plus, you get to eat your own creation at the end of it.

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15. Hike the Eoseungsaengak Hiking Trail

The Eoseungsaengak trail is an easy yet rewarding hike. It’s short but steep, leading to a volcanic cone with panoramic views of the island’s rolling hills. On a clear day, you can even spot Hallasan in the distance.

Compared with the tough trek at Hallasan, this one is perfect for those who want to spend some time in nature, get some exercise in, and experience great views without committing to a full-day trek. 

The trail is around 0.8 miles in each direction and requires no entrance fee or prior training. You can expect a 15-minute leisurely walk, followed by lots and LOTS of stairs.

16. Show Appreciation for the Local Culture at the Seongeup Folk Village

For those with an interest in Jeju culture, why not take a step back in time and see how things were done before tourists roamed the island? The Seongeup Folk Village is a bit like an open-air museum and a must-see in Jeju. It’s a preserved village with traditional thatched-roof houses and ancient stone walls, bringing Jeju’s history and traditions to life.

Entry here is free, and you can explore alone at your own pace (although visiting with a guide will be the more educational choice). It’s one of my favourite places to learn about Jeju’s past, including the stories of its famous black pigs (still to come further down the list).

17. Dive Through Coral Reefs Around Munseom Island

Munseom Island is another scuba diving paradise along the Jeju coastline. This tiny island is alive with coral reefs, home to a huge range of marine life. Whether you’ve got your advanced open-water diver certificate in the bag or want to try your hand at an introductory dive with PADI, you’ll be in good hands here.

Local operators offer guided trips, starting at around $60 per dive. The underwater scenery alone is worth taking this plunge, but the feeling of accomplishment once you receive your diving certificate is an additional plus.

And if diving isn’t your thing / terrifies you, snorkelling is a great alternative.

18. Learn about the Jeju-Do at the Jeju Stone Park

For a history lesson on the islands’ geographical and geological history, Jeju Stone Park is dedicated to the island’s volcanic heritage. It features striking stone sculptures and lava formations in a garden setting. 

You can stroll through the peaceful trails and admire the impressive craftsmanship of these volcanic statues, many of which tell mythical stories and legends of the island. The park isn’t far from Jeju City, so it’s a great thing to do in Jeju if you’re based in the city. 

19. Spend Time at Gwangmyeongsa Temple in Seogwipo

I’ve surprised myself that I’ve gotten this far down the list without including a temple. But the Gwangmyeongsa Temple in Seogwipo is certainly a good one to start with. 

This serene Buddhist temple is surrounded by lush greenery – a classic Southeast Asian scene. It feels worlds away from the busy beaches or city. Entrance is free, and the calming atmosphere makes it a favourite spot to meditate on your thoughts and reflect on things – no matter your religious affiliations. 

For a REAL all-in temple experience, the temple hosts a temple stay, where some lucky guests can spend a few nights and experience the area’s nature, history, and culture firsthand.

20. Get Your Step Count in at the Seongsan Ilchulbong Volcano

Seongsan Ilchilbong Volcano juts out into the sea like a peninsula. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. A visit to Jeju is simply not complete without checking out this incredible volcanic crater. 

Filled with lush greenery and foliage, it looks like it could belong on a tropical Hawaiian island. The hike to the rim of the crater takes under half an hour and rewards you with incredible views of the island’s coastline.

Entrance costs around $2 per person, and the views are particularly spectacular at sunrise and sunset. (Many prefer sunrise to sunset because of the heat).

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21. Wander Through the Nutmeg Trees at Bijarim Forest

Before visiting Jeju, I wasn’t too sure what a nutmeg tree looked like. Strangely enough, this island is abundant in nutmeg! This unique thing to do in Jeju is as exciting for foodie fans as it is for nature lovers. 

Bijarim Forest is home to thousands of Torreya trees, some over 800 years old. The way they wind and weave between each other creates a magical scene that reminds me of a Medieval film. It’s like being in a jungle forest, with the trail perfectly laid out for you.

22. Cool Off at the Pools Around Jeongbang Waterfall

As far as waterfalls go, this one is particularly spectacular. Why? Well, because it falls directly into the sea, from around 23 meters high. Even if you’ve been exposed to countless waterfalls in your life, I guarantee you’ll still be gobsmacked with how picturesque this one is.

It’s one of the few waterfalls in Asia that cascades into the sea. The refreshing spray from the falls is a lifesaver on a hot summer day. 

Legend has it that a holy dragon lived under the waterfall and the dragon’s spirit is contained in the water. It’s one of three famous waterfalls on the island and, in my opinion, the most beautiful of them all.

23. Sip on Tea at the O’Sulloc Seogwan Tea Plantation

I’m a huge tea-lover, so this addition might be a bit biased. The O’Sulloc plantation is one of the biggest and best managed on the island. It’s known for its high-quality tea leaves and the delicious Korean tea that it produces. 

To showcase the story of Korean tea and the plantation in particular, visitors can check out the tea museum, which has exhibitions explaining the importance of tea in Korean culture. There is also a tea-tasting shop and a cafe where you can taste fresh tea straight from the farm. Fellow tea drinkers, you won’t want to miss this unusual thing to do in Jeju.

The building itself is a modern marvel worth visiting, and for some, the tasty tea is just a bonus. I rate this as one of the best spots to grab some tea to gift to your family and friends back home.

24. Get Lost in the Jeju Gimnyeong Maze Park

When was the last time you got lost in a maze? The Gimnyeong Maze Park is one of the most spectacular parks in Jeju. It’s intricately designed and immaculately manicured, with hydrangea patches, an observatory, and a suspension bridge.

But the star of this park is its maze, made up of hundreds of towering evergreen bushes topiarised into a winding and twisting labyrinth. Take it from me: it’s as enjoyable for an adult as it is for a kid. It’s actually pretty challenging, with plenty of twists and turns designed to confuse you.

Either that or you could watch your friends and family get lost and confused from the viewing platform. There is also a cat playground, home to a bunch of resident felines at the park’s entrance.

25. Pay your Respects at the Gwaneumsa Temple

The second temple to make this list is also one of the most beautiful places on the island. Gwaneumsa Temple is much more than just a place of worship – it’s a peaceful spot tucked away around 650 meters up the foothills of Hallasan Mountain. 

Its location is a real highlight. Surrounded by mountain peaks and lush forests, it’s close to the starting point of one of Hallasans’ most popular hiking trails. So, if you have the Hallasan hike on your things to do in Jeju list, it’s best to double up on activities.

Historically, it’s pretty impressive. It was built in the Goryeo Dynasty (sometime between 918 and 1392). The Buddhist temple has intricate carvings, stone statues, and a serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life. 

While it’s beautiful any time of the year, fall deserves a special mention, when a carpet of fiery red and orange leaves blankets the temple grounds.

26. Taste Traditional Korean BBQ on Black Pork Street

Finally, we’ve come to the famous Korean BBQ item on our list. Jeju is famous for its black pork, and there is no better place to savour it than Black Pork Street in Jeju City. Yup, an entire city named after this delicacy. You could think of it as a culinary hotspot lined with restaurants that specialize in this island delicacy.

Tables are organized around a built-in grill, and diners can watch as the marbled meat sizzles to perfection and the smokey aroma fills the air. The BBQ is then served with kimchi and pickled radish—every bite an explosion of flavours. A meal here typically costs around $15 per person, and it’s worth every penny. 

If you’re not a meat fan or can’t eat pork, I get you. Most of these restaurants have alternative meat to choose from and even vegetarian options.

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27. Hike around the Island on the Jeju Olle Trails

The Olle Trails are one of Jeju’s finest walking, cycling, and hiking trails. They allow people of every fitness level to experience the island’s scenery at its best. I’d go so far as to rate this one of the best free things to do in Jeju.

The network consists of around 25 inland and coastal hiking routes around the island. They intersect and fork off from one another, eventually leading to stunning viewpoints that showcase Jeju’s natural beauty.

Most trails are free to access and well-marked, making them easy to navigate for first-time visitors. Trail 7 is one of the most popular. Its winding views and stunning ocean views will leave every visitor in awe. And, of course, there’s Trail 14, which meanders throughout the Jeju forests and countryside. 

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, and don’t be fooled – you probably won’t be able to tackle all of these trails in one trip, let alone one day.

28. Pick your own Tangerines at a Local Farm

I’ve mentioned the tangerines before, but in case you forgot, this is your friendly reminder that Jeju is famous for the sweet and juicy tangerines grown on the island. Picking them straight from the tree is an experience you won’t forget.

Many local farms offer tangerine-picking experiences during peak fruit season, usually from late fall to winter. You’ll be provided with a basket and some clippers and sent off to enjoy the outdoors and wander through the lush trees, snipping the best fruit and tasting them as you go. 

Prices are typically affordable, and you can take home a bag of your hand-picked yield. Most tangerine farms are located in the centre of the island or around Seogwipp.

29. Spend a Rainy Day at the Jeju National Museum

When the weather doesn’t cooperate, you might want to find some fun things to do on Jeju that are indoors. One of the best options is to visit the Jeju National Museum, which is dedicated to all things historically and culturally ‘Jeju.’ 

This modern museum dives into the island’s rich history, from its prehistoric roots to its current role in modern Korean society. Exhibits include everything from ancient artefacts to special exhibits showcasing Jeju’s unique matriarchal culture to immersive surreal projections, giving visitors a glimpse into what makes this island so special.

It’s just outside the heart of Jeju City, which makes it easy to access by bus or taxi. Admission is free, and curators recommend spending one to two hours educating yourself on Jeju. They also host free guided tours.

30. Discover the Magic at Cheonjiyeon Waterfall Park

To top things off, I’ve got one last hike to add to your list. This one comes with an especially rewarding refreshment at the top—a 22-meter-high waterfall with cool blue pools. But before you get too excited, I should note that swimming here is not allowed. 

The hike is around a 1.2-mile loop near Seogwipo and is considered an easy enough trail to complete within around 35 minutes.

Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll glimpse the magical Cheonjiyeong Falls, which translates to ‘sky connected to land.’ The water cascades into a clear pool surrounded by greenery. It pretty much looks like something you would imagine only existed in your dreams.

Jeju is South Korea’s largest island. Close to 200 flights land here each day, many arriving from Seoul, just an hour away. Another way to get there is by ferry, which takes between 3 and 5 hours from the capital, depending on the ferry service.

And while it’s relatively easy to get to, once you’re there, Jeju is a lot bigger than many people think. This makes getting from one best activity in Jeju to another a bit more complex. Most recommend renting a car and driving around the island. It takes around an hour to get from west to east, and parking is typically easy and free. Renting a car, however, might set you back around $30 to $50 a day, plus gas.

Without a car, you could catch a bus. Public buses are reliable, cheap (as little as $2 per short ride), and cover most attractions. The downside is that they’re slow and require a bit of patience.

Scooters are a fun option for solo travellers. With an international driver’s license, you can rent them for $15 per day. Taxis and local ride-share apps like Kakao T are a bit pricier but handy for shorter trips—around $10 to $20 for a ride between towns. 

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Jeju Island is one of those places that will stick with you long after your trip ends. It’s relatively small, but there are more places to visit and things to do on Jeju Island than you might imagine. 

I still remember the warm turquoise water enveloping me as I glided through the coral reefs around Udo Island, thinking, “This is what travel is all about.” 

And it’s not just an island for beach days, hikes, and snorkelling adventures. This island is absolutely packed with culture and history, too. The most intriguing thing for me was the Haenyeo divers. There is something about watching an older woman freediving for seafood that makes you second-guess your life decisions. And the quirky art and history museums are just as fascinating.

From the thrill-seeking hike up Hallasan’s volcanic trails to the serene vibes at the ancient Buddhist temples to the staggeringly beautiful parks and gardens, every moment exploring this island is one to remember. 

This island has an incredible way of balancing peaceful nature, culture, and history with a laid-back atmosphere. It just feels calm and peaceful, even when you spend your days at busy markets or hiking up volcanic peaks – which typically aren’t the most ‘relaxing’ things to do in Jeju.

The best part is that you don’t need a huge budget to enjoy everything this island offers. With affordable buses, guesthouses, and local street food to eat, it’s an easy choice for backpackers. But it’s also great for families, couples, and solo adventurers looking for a little bit of everything.

I hope this article has inspired you to start sketching out your itinerary, booking accommodations, and getting ready to explore South Korea’s most exciting island destination.

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