Seven Days in Jeju Island: Your Perfect Itinerary to Explore South Korea’s Volcanic Paradise
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Off the coast of South Korea, there are a series of islands, each with its own impressive views of the ocean. Jeju Island, a volcanic island located in the Korea Strait southwest of the Korean Peninsula, is one of the biggest, and visitors can participate in many outdoor activities. For anyone planning a week-long getaway to the island, this is the perfect itinerary to squeeze everything in.
Day 1: Arrival and relaxation
When you arrive on Jeju Island, the first day is all about getting settled and soaking up the island vibes. After landing at Jeju International Airport check into your accommodation and get ready for the adventures ahead. Spend the afternoon lounging on one of the island’s beautiful beaches, like Jungman Beach or Hamdeok Beach. As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try some of Jeju’s unique cuisine. This will be a great start to a week of exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Arrive at Jeju International Airport in the morning, with options like Jeju Air and Korean Air available for travel
- Check-in to your accommodation
- Spend the afternoon relaxing on a nearby beach, such as Jungman Beach or Hamdeok Beach
- Sit down for dinner at a local restaurant
Day 2: Exploring the East Coast
On Day 2 of your Jeju Island adventure you’ll be exploring the east coast, famous for its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. This part of the island is where natural beauty meets traditional South Korean culture. From Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) to Seongeup Folk Village, the east coast will be an experience you’ll never forget. Get into the local culture and enjoy the views that make this part of Jeju special.
- Wake up early to visit the Seongsan Ilchulbong at sunrise
- Afterward, explore the cliffs at Seopjikoji
- Visit the Seongeup Folk Village to eat a traditional Jeju meal and learn about the haenyeo divers, who harvest seafood without breathing equipment
- End the day at Seongeup Jeoji Camellia Hill, known for its camellia flowers
Day 3: Cave adventures
Jeju Island’s underground wonders are just as amazing as its above ground attractions. Start your 3rd day by visiting the Manjanggul Cave, one of the longest lava tubes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the stalactites, stalagmites and the famous Stone Turtle, a rock formation that looks like Jeju Island itself. After the cave, head to Gimnyeong Maze Park and challenge yourself to navigate a maze in the shape of Jeju Island. In the afternoon, relax at Gimnyeong Beach where the clear waters and soft sand is perfect for unwinding. End your day with a delicious dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant and enjoy the fresh seafood from the surrounding seas.
- Begin the day by exploring the Manjanggul Cave, a lava tube partially open to tourists
- Afterward, head to Gimnyeong Maze Park to try and solve the maze shaped like Jeju Island
- During the afternoon, visit Gimnyeong Beach for swimming and relaxing in the sand
- Find dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant
Day 4: Hallasan National Park
Hallasan National Park is a must see for nature lovers. Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea and a dormant volcano. The park has many trails for different fitness levels so you can explore the lush flora and fauna that thrive in this humid subtropical climate. As you climb you’ll be amazed by the views of the surrounding area and the volcanic crater at the top. The park is a natural monument and rich in biodiversity and a must see for hikers and nature lovers.
- Wake up early and find a trail around Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak and a dormant volcano, that suits your fitness level
- Enjoy views from the summit and explore the volcanic crater
- Upon descending, relax in the nearby Dongmun Hot Springs
Day 5: Waterfalls along the South Coast
Jeju Island’s southern coast is famous for its waterfalls and a peaceful escape into nature. Among the most famous is the Cheonjeyeon Waterfall, also known as “The Pond of God” which cascades in three levels surrounded by greenery. Nearby is the Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, another must see, famous for its beautiful setting and the legend of seven nymphs who descended from heaven to bathe in its waters. These waterfalls are not only beautiful but also a cool escape from the warm humid subtropical climate. As you walk through the gardens or take photos you’ll be mesmerized by the sound of the water and the ecosystem that thrives here. Whether you take a leisurely stroll or get the perfect shot the waterfalls on the south coast will be an experience for all.
- Start the day with the gardens by the Cheonjeyeon Waterfall
- Explore the Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market for souvenirs
- Spend the afternoon swimming in the clear water at Jungmun Saekdal Beach
- Visit the Jeju World Cup Stadium
- Watch the sunset from Oedolgae Rock, and consider visiting the nearby Cheonjiyeon Waterfall, which has an entrance fee of around 2,000 Korean Won
Day 6: Sightseeing on the north coast
The north coast of Jeju Island has it all. Start your day at the Jeju Folk Village Museum and get a taste of the traditional Jeju life and customs. Then visit the Jeonbang Waterfall, one of the few waterfalls in Asia that falls into the ocean, perfect for photo ops. After that, take a boat to Udo Island, a small island off the east coast of Jeju, famous for its beautiful landscapes and Haenyeo divers. End your day back on the main island and enjoy a traditional Jeju dinner and taste the local flavors.
- Head to the north coast to visit the Jeju Folk Village Museum
- Explore the Jeonbang Waterfall
- Take a boat tour to Udo Island
- Return to the main island and enjoy a traditional Jeju dinner
Day 7: Wrap-up and departure
On your last day on Jeju Island, take a moment to think about all the amazing things you’ve done over the past week. Spend the morning as you please, maybe go back to your favorite spot or take a walk on the beach. Before you head to the airport, go to the local markets and do some last minute shopping to bring a bit of Jeju back home with you. As you check out of your accommodation and head to Jeju International Airport, you’ll be taking with you the memories of South Korea’s biggest island, its beautiful landscapes and its rich culture. Whether it’s the fresh seafood, the views from Hallasan or the warmth of the locals, Jeju Island will leave you with a lasting impression.
- Spend the morning in Jeju at your own leisure
- Explore local markets for last-minute shopping
- Check out of your accommodation and head to Jeju International Airport
Jeju Island is a scenic destination with lots of beaches, hiking trails, museums and local dishes to offer tourists. Formed entirely from volcanic eruptions approximately 2 million years ago, the South Korean island boasts a unique geological history. While there are many great ways to spend seven days there, this itinerary can help fit in all the essential spots within a week.
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