Jejudo: Your Ultimate Island Adventure Guide

Exploring and Hiking:

Yeongsil Trail

Begin your exploration with the Yeongsil Trail, a moderate hike through Hallasan National Park. As you ascend, lush forests and panoramic vistas will accompany you, providing a perfect introduction to the island's diverse landscapes.

Hallasan

Venture to the summit of Hallasan, the iconic volcanic peak dominating Jejudo's skyline. The challenging yet rewarding hike offers breathtaking views of the island and beyond, making it a must for avid hikers as the highest peak in South Korea.

Jeju Olle Trail 7

For a more leisurely trek, follow Jeju Olle Trail 7 along the coastline. This path unveils charming villages, hidden beaches, and a glimpse into the local way of life, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil experience and a unique perspective. JejuDo has a network of 26 “Olle” hiking trails (totaling 425 km), so there is definitely something for every level.

Activities:

Pearl Diving and Haenyeo Culture

Immerse yourself in the traditional culture of haenyeo (sea women) by trying your hand at pearl diving. Learn about these skilled women divers and the island’s rich maritime heritage behind their way of life. Haenyeo catch seafood (particularly shellfish like abalone) for a living with only a knife, free diving down to about 10 meters/30 feet for minutes - depending on their experience. The women can be up to 80+ years old and can be spotted working in the waters all around the island.

Scuba Diving and Surfing

Dive into the vibrant underwater world surrounding Jejudo with scuba diving lessons, offered at various locations across the island. For those seeking the thrill of the waves, surfing lessons are also available, allowing you to ride the pristine waters of Jejudo (at a beginner level, since the waves in South Korea don’t get higher than a few feet). My clumsy self went surfing for the first time and succeeded in riding several waves without injury!

O'Sulloc Green Tea Farm

Discover the art of tea cultivation at O'Sulloc Green Tea Farm. Stroll through lush fields, participate in tea tastings, and bring home some of Korea's finest green tea products. The Farm has partnered with Innisfree, a natural K-beauty company based in Jeju, and has a flagship store stationed on the farm. It is also a stop on the Jeju Olle 14 trail, which I can attest is a beautiful one.

If the weather isn’t the best or you aren’t feeling up to hiking, try MazeLand or the newly opened Love Park. Mazeland is a whimsical yet scenic maze park for all ages while Love Park is a delightful quirky adult attraction featuring sex-themed gardens, art installations, and romantic spots perfect for couples.

Day Trips:

Udo Loop:

Embark on the Udo Loop adventure by taking a ferry from Seongsan Port. The short yet scenic journey provides a taste of the island's coastal beauty.

Transportation: Navigate Udo with ease and style by renting a golf cart or bike. Take it from me, who underestimated how long walking would take and whose feet were paying the price. These options offer flexibility, allowing you to explore the island's attractions at your own pace, including the iconic lighthouse and pristine beaches.

Cafes and Food:

South Korea is full of beautiful, aesthetic cafes with tasteful coffee and stunning cakes and pastries – and Jejudo is no exception. I created an entire list of cafes before traveling there and found it to be completely unnecessary (though I can share it of course). Every single spot I stepped into was lovely. Some highlights would be the artsy Café Hallasan, Café NamoNamo with its window walls overseeing the ocean, the high-end One and Only Café, and Blanc Rocher on Udo Island.

Hallabong

Savor the unique flavor of Hallabong, a local citrus fruit. From drinks to desserts, you'll find Hallabong-infused treats at various cafes and markets across the island. While I’m a huge fan of most orange-y delights, the Hallabong is another level of delicious. Try the Hallabong sorbet at O’Sulloc’s green tea farm for the perfect afternoon sweet treat rest stop on the scenic Olle 14 trail hike.

Bossam (Black Boiled Pork)

Delight your taste buds with Jejudo's specialty, black boiled pork, bossam (or dombaegogi by local Jeju people). Experience the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork wrapped in fresh greens. Local markets and restaurants offer this culinary masterpiece, showcasing the island's rich culinary heritage. Try Omoni Wa Jangdokdae near Jungangro.

Seafood Spectacular

Dive into Jejudo's renowned seafood scene. Visit local markets or seaside restaurants for a feast of fresh fish, abalone, and other delicacies. Seobudo Myeongpum Raw Fish Street in Jeju City is full of live seafood restaurants, and some even have the haenyeo equipment hanging to dry around the corner. You can choose your food from the tank - and don't be surprised if it is served alive (still moving on your plate!). You may even spot some of the haenyeo themselves walking around. The island's coastal offerings are a feast for seafood enthusiasts.