For those seeking an unforgettable escape, Jeju Island offers an exquisite blend of natural wonders and tranquil beauty that makes it a perfect destination. From exploring the island’s scenic waterfalls to hiking up majestic peaks, indulging in the local cuisine, and relaxing on picturesque beaches, Jeju provides diverse experiences that cater to romance and adventure alike. This enchanting island combines relaxation and excitement, making it a perfect choice for couples looking for a ‘sarang hae’ moment together.
Day 1, An introduction to Jeju:
Dodu Rainbow Coastal Road & Jeju Folklore And Natural History Museum
Renting a car is recommended for convenient travel around Jeju, and you can easily do that on Klook. Upon arriving at Jeju International Airport and getting your rental car, head down to Dodu Rainbow Coastal Road (10 minutes away by car) to have a nice cup of coffee at NamoNamo Cafe.
The road and its surrounding area are named after its colourful and artistic road markings, which add a whimsical touch to the drive. Additionally, you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy local treats along the road before you check in and drop your luggage at your accommodation.
Once you’ve settled in, make your way to Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum for a comprehensive exploration of Jeju’s unique folklore. The museum showcases traditional artefacts, historical relics, and fascinating exhibits revealing the island’s past and cultural evolution. It’s an ideal first-day stop as you dive deep into Jeju Island’s history. End your day with delicious local sashimi at Sun Oak’s Myeongga Sashimi Restaurant.
Day 2, Nature’s colourful display:
Gimnyeong Seonsegi Beach, Seongsan Canola Flower Field & Seongsan Ilchulbong
Day two is all about exploring the East side of Jeju Island, starting with Gimnyeong Seonsegi Beach, well-known for its breathtaking beauty. It has fine white sand, crystal blue waters, and a surrounding scenery of volcanic rocks and rich vegetation that all contribute to its allure.
With the presence of bioluminescent creatures, the waters surrounding the beach shimmer blue at night during specific seasons of the year, especially in the summer. Known as the ‘sea sparkle,’ a fascinating natural phenomenon, it draws visitors looking for an unusual experience.
Next, a 40-minute drive will bring you to Seongsan Canola Flower Field for nature’s colourful display against Jeju’s stunning scenery. Beyond being aesthetically pleasing, the Canola Flower Field offers a calm haven where guests may take in the fresh island air, lose themselves in nature’s tranquillity, and stroll down paths bordered with blossoming flowers.
Sample food at the local joints in Seongsan too, such as Willala (a fish & chips restaurant), Cheongun (for fresh seafood), or Syaichu (for Chinese cuisine). Once you’ve fueled up, it’s time for a short walk to Seongsan Ilchulbong.
Seongsan Ilchulbong, popularly referred to as Sunrise Peak, is a must-see tourist destination. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts would love the volcanic crater for its photogenic views. After completing the reasonably easy walk to the summit, you will be rewarded with expansive scenery of the surrounding ocean and the crater itself.
Before heading back to your hotel, stop at Cafe Kwekkiri for charming, old-timey cafe vibes and a majestic view of the crater and the ocean.
Day 3, Rocks, water, ridges:
Jusangjeolli Cliff, Cheonjeyeon Falls, Yongmeori Coast & Songaksan
Gear up for day three by wearing comfortable clothes as you will be exploring nature on foot. Visiting Jusangjeolli Cliff in the morning offers you a refreshing breath of fresh air. Situated on the southern shore of Jeju Island, the striking basalt columns of Jusangjeolli Cliff are a natural marvel that enthrals vacationers. These columns were created by ancient volcanic activity; the hexagonal pillars of the cliff make unusual rock formations.
Just a few minutes from Jusangjeolli Cliff lies one of the famous falls in Jeju—Cheonjeyeon Falls. Consisting of three distinct cascades that tumble gracefully amidst lush greenery and subtropical plants, the falls have a soothing soundtrack of rushing water. Whether marvelling at the falls, exploring nearby ponds adorned with water lilies, or simply enjoying the cool mist and tranquil ambience, Cheonjeyeon Falls provides a rejuvenating escape. Near the falls, you will be spoiled for lunch choices such as Gozip Dol Wooluck Jungmun, Jeju Osung Traditional Restaurant, and Childonga Jungmun.
Next, it is a 45-minute drive to Yongmeori Coast, a must-see destination for its dramatic geological features and breathtaking coastal scenery. Sanbangsan, a dormant volcano, offers panoramic views from its summit and houses the awe-inspiring Sanbangsa Temple, making it a cultural and natural landmark. Nearby, Yongmeori Coast showcases rugged cliffs and unique rock formations sculpted by wind and waves over millennia, where visitors can explore caves, walk along coastal paths, and witness the dramatic meeting of land and sea.
End your day with an evening hike up nearby Songaksan (10-minute drive), a captivating experience for nature lovers and hikers alike. This scenic peak offers Jeju’s southern coastline, with its rugged cliffs and deep blue waters creating an incredible sight. The hike up Songaksan is rewarding, passing through diverse landscapes of lush forests and volcanic rocks. This mountain is a scenic hiking destination and a cultural treasure deeply rooted in Jeju Island’s rich folklore and spirituality.
Day 4, Before saying goodbye:
Mysterious Road
Before saying goodbye to Jeju Island and returning to reality, make a last-but-not-least stop at Mysterious Road. Also known as Dokkaebi Road, this street seemingly has a gravity-defying phenomenon: vehicles appear to roll uphill against the force of gravity. This optical illusion has fascinated visitors for decades, leading to various myths and explanations.
Scientifically, the phenomenon is caused by an optical illusion created by the surrounding landscape, where the road appears to slope upwards due to the terrain’s layout. Regardless of its scientific explanation, the Mysterious Road continues attracting curious visitors seeking to witness this perplexing phenomenon and indulge in the whimsical folklore surrounding it.
Have your last meal in Jeju near the airport at places like Dasoni, Halal Daewonga Seafood Restaurant, or Sushi Hoshikai.
Extra tips for travelling on Jeju Island
- Note that Halal food on Jeju Island is hard to find, but you can always opt for seafood or vegan options.
- Staying in one hotel (preferably in the city centre) would be best if you would like to keep your budget at a minimum. Else, explore a variety of coastline hotels in Jeju, the local homestays, or the bed and breakfasts to maximise your stay.
- Jeju is a small island where you can explore most of the island in four to five days. If you wish to stay longer, staying at the local homestays would be best.
