How To See The Best Of Jeju Solo And Without A Car

Traveling to Jeju-do is a must if you’re in Korea, as the island boasts stunning landscapes and unspoilt nature that you won’t soon forget. And while many people choose to rent a car to tour the island, this can be quite tiring and expensive if you’re a solo traveler like me. So, let me show you how to explore Jeju’s beautiful sights on a budget!

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Jeju in a few words

Jeju-do or Jeju Island, listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage is a dream-like place, a haven of peace where visitors from all over the world come to appreciate its charm and unique landscapes. The volcanic island, once used as an exile (like many isolated islands in history) is now the place where Koreans love to spend their romantic honeymoons. And who can blame them? Because as soon as you set foot on Jeju, you too will be captivated by its beauty.

So, follow me as we discover the 30 best things to do in Jeju!

How to get around Jeju on your own

As mentioned above, you can certainly rent a car and get around with it but here’s the thing: if you’re a solo traveler, this can be quite expensive and exhausting as you’ll be the only one driving during your vacation. I don’t know about you, but driving requires a lot of attention and you can often miss out on the sights, especially if you only have a week or so and want to see as much as possible in that time.

Fortunately, and as on the mainland, the public transport network on the island is really excellent, so traveling around Jeju by bus will probably be the best solution for you. This was the case for me! What’s more, you can enjoy the views in comfort, get off at any stop and it is very cheap!
And contrary to what you may have heard, it is really easy!!

The 30 best things to do in Jeju

1. Walk the Olle Trails (올레길)

I can’t begin the list of the best things to see or do in Jeju without including my favorite: the Olle Trails. It’s the best way to explore the island at your own pace and the activity is, of course, totally free.

Hike in the mountains, stroll through pretty villages, take in views along the coast, walk through forests and explore Jeju’s culture as well as history through these well-marked trails.

With 21 routes, each with a different level of difficulty, you’re sure to find the one that suits you best.
Having spent two weeks on the island, I’ve had time to walk many trails and, although it’s a very difficult choice, here are a few of my favorites: routes 6, 7, 10 and 20.

If you’d like to see the different itineraries and plan which ones you’d like to walk, here is the official website with maps and photos!

2. Admire the turquoise waters of Gimnyeong Beach (김녕해수욕장)

Address: Gimnyeong-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Dong-Gwang-Yang bus stop in Jeju City, take bus 201 for 55mn and get off at Gimnyeong beach or walk course 20 of the Jeju Olle Trails

Located on the east coast of the island, this beach and its surroundings are the ideal place to enjoy a peaceful and breathtaking scenery, tinged with different shades of blue. Breathe in the fresh air, relax on the sand and take a dip before continuing your exploration of Jeju-do’s wonders.

3. Enjoy the natural landscape of Songaksan (송악산)

Address: 421-1 Songakgwangwang-ro, Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 251 for 80mn, get off at Sangmori, transfer to bus 752-1 (located at 200m) and stop at Sani-su-dong (4mn). You’ll then have to walk 20mn to get to the mountain.

An easy trail and an unparalleled panorama await you at Songaksan mountain! It’s true that visiting Jeju can take a while, but I guarantee the rewards are well worth it.

Songaksan mountain or rather the volcano, with its coastal views over 3 neighboring islands (Hyeongjeseom, Gapado and Marado) and its crater, located right at the top, is a unique experience, all the more so when you consider that the place was a military base during the Japanese occupation.

A fascinating site that combines nature and history!

> Bear in mind that it can be quite windy up there, due to the proximity of the sea and everything else!

4. Discover as many Dol Hareubang (돌 하르방) as you can

This iconic Jeju symbol that you will find literally everywhere on the island, whether on your sightseeing tours or on various goods, actually has a very important meaning.

Dol hareubang, which translates as “grandfather made out of stone” are stone statues regarded as guardians, often placed in front of important sites or businesses. But they also represent fertility, as it is believed that couples who visit the island and touch a specific part of the statue’s body increase their chances of conceiving a boy or girl.

Appearing in a variety of forms, have fun discovering and taking as many photos as you can of the statues, and sample the famous Hallabong (Jeju orange) juice, which comes in the form of – yes, you guessed it: Dol hareubang!

5. Visit Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls (천천제연폭포)

Address: 132, Cheonjeyeon-ro, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Jungang rotary in Seogwipo city center, take bus 510 for 40mn, get off at Jungmun Tourist Complex and walk 10mn
Entrance fee: 2,500 KRW ($1.80)
Opening hours: 09:00-17:20 every day

On your way to Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls, you’ll see not one but three waterfalls!
Meaning “God’s Pond”, legend has it that seven nymphs came to bath under the waterfalls at night. Quite magical, isn’t it?

This is one of the best places to admire the beauty of nature, as well as a picturesque arched bridge (Seonim bridge) on either side of which are carved the famous nymphs of the legend.

> One of the waterfalls may be dry if there hasn’t been heavy rain in the days preceding your visit.

6. Explore Manjanggul Lava Tube (만장굴)

Address: 182 Manjanggul-gil, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 260, get off at Sangdeokcheon-ri, transfer to bus 711-1 and get off at Manjanggul
Entrance fee: 4,000 KRW (~$3)
Opening hours: 09:00-18:00 every day

Stretching over a length of 7.4km, most of the lava tube is, in reality, enclosed, and only a kilometer allows visitors to walk through the cave and discover the formations that occurred over 1,000 years ago. As one of the largest lava tubes in the world, you’ll get to learn more about the place and its features from the various explanations laid out in the cave, before reaching the largest known lava column in the world (7.6m) at the end of your exploration.

Pro tip: wear comfortable, well-closed shoes, as the ground can be quite slippery. No flip-flops please!

7. Stroll along the charming Aewol Handam Coastal Trail (한담해안산책로)

Address: 1359, Gwakji-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 202 for 49mn and get off at Handam-dong

Having the chance to walk so close to the sea makes this trail a must on your trip to Jeju! Passing through a village, a park, a port, lovely cafes…, before arriving at a pristine beach, that’s what awaits you if you decide to embark on this itinerary.

8. Watch the surfers at Gwakji Beach (곽지해수욕장)

Address: Gwakji-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 202 for 53mn and get off at Gwakji beach

Remember the pristine beach I mentioned above? That’s the one! Whether or not you choose to walk the coastal path, you absolutely must visit Gwakji beach, if only for its vast expanse of white sand and gorgeous blue waters.

You can even rent a board, book a lesson to learn how to surf or simply watch how others ride the waves without getting wet!

9. Taste the famous black pork of Jeju (흑돼지)

Be it barbecued, steamed or in any version, this is a dish not to be missed, as black pork is native to Jeju and is a famous local dish. Once you’ve tasted its tender and flavorful taste, I can assure you that you too will be hooked!

And if you don’t like meat, my second favorite dish to try in Jeju is abalone porridge. A real delight, believe me!

10. Hike Hallasan (한라산)

How to get there: it all depends on the trail you choose, so if you want to reach the summit and decide to go up by:
– Gwaneumsa trail: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 360 or 355 for 24mn, get off at Jedae Village, transfer to bus 475 for 10mn and get off at Gwaneumsa Entrance Trail
– Seongpanak trail: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 281 for 40mn and get off at Seongpanak

When I talk about the best things to do on the island, of course I can’t leave out my all-time favorite Jeju-do hike, Hallasan Mountain. A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, this sleeping volcano (yes, another one) is probably Korea’s most famous hike, and for good reason.

Culminating at 1,947m, whichever trail you choose, you’re sure to be rewarded with beautiful lush green forests as well as astonishing views over the crater and its lake. Not to mention its stunning scenery that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

The hike that usually takes between 5 to 10 hours – if you decide to reach the summit – is a unique, healing and memorable experience that will leave you tired but also overwhelmed with joy and fulfillment!

Pro tips:
– remember to plan and book the trails to the summit in advance (as spots are limited each day to preserve the park’s ecology and beauty) > here is the link
– check the weather forecast beforehand, as it tends to change really quickly
– pack food, water and warmer clothing
– keep in mind that both of the above-mentioned trails have checkpoint times (implemented to ensure your hike is safe, after which time you will not be allowed to climb to the summit as descending the mountain will be deemed too dangerous in the dark)
– some paths can be very slippery, so bring good sturdy shoes and take your time
– you can avoid the queue at the summit if you don’t want to have your photo taken in front of the summit stele

11. Take in the views of the sea at Oedolgae Rock (외돌개)

Address: 791 Seo Hong-dong, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Seogwipo district bus terminal (in the city center), take bus 282 for 7 stops, get off at Sammaebong and walk 10mn until you arrive at your destination

Also called sea stack because this pretty cliff in the sea was created by wave erosion, coming to Oedolgae Rock is a perfect way to start your day or end it, thanks to the natural environment that surrounds it. And what a superb landscape it becomes once the sun begins to set.

12. Go to the top of Sanbangsan (산방산)

Address: Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: 360m from Seogwipo bus terminal, take bus 202 for 37mn and get off at Sanbangsan
Opening hours of the trail: 09:00-18:00 every day

If you’re not afraid of stairs, climbing to the top of Sanbangsan will surely delight you, as the panorama that awaits you once you’ve arrived, a little breathless, is, as all over Jeju island, magnificent.

And just so you know, you can even combine your visit to this mountain with the other mentioned at number 3 of this post (Songaksan), to make it a day dedicated to exercise and amazing views.

Pro tip: if you’re here during the canola flowers season (usually around March-April), get ready to enjoy beautiful yellow hues right at the foot of Sanbangsan!

13. Wonder at the majestic cliffs of Yongmeori Beach (용머리해안)

Address: 112-3, Sagye-ri, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: same itinerary that for Sanbangsan mountain above
Entrance fee: 2,000 KRW ($1.50)

I suppose I could have lumped Yongmeori beach in with Sanbangsan mountain, as people generally like to visit both on the same day, but I feel that this particular coastline deserves its own description.

Yongmeori or “dragon’s head” because of the cliffs – formed by sandstone sacks – that resemble the creature, is also surrounded by a splendid black sand beach. Explore this arcane shoreline by following the walking trail and let yourself be awed by the beauty of the nature.

14. Admire Jeongbang Waterfall (정방폭포)

Address: 37, Chilsimni-ro 214, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Seogwipo district bus terminal (in the city center), take bus 651 or 652 for 10mn, get off at Seobokjeon Hall and walk for 10mn
Entrance fee: 2,000 KRW ($1.50)
Opening hours: 09:00-17:20 every day

This is a very famous attraction in Jeju and if you’re wondering why, well, first of all, the site and its environment are pretty stunning but it’s also because this waterfall is the only one in Asia that falls directly in the ocean.

So, sure, you might have to wait a bit to take your selfie in front of it but still I think it’s a Jeju must-see and that’s why I’ve included it in this list!

15. Learn more about tea at Osulloc Tea Museum (오설록 티뮤지엄)

Address: 15 Osulloc, Sinhwayeok-ro, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Jeju City terminal, take bus 151 for 8 stops and get off at Osulloc
Entrance fee: free
Opening hours: 09:00-18:00 every day

Because you can’t go to Jeju without visiting the delicious and informative Osulloc Tea Museum. Wander through the Seogwang tea plantations, learn more about tea and its culture in the museum and taste the BEST green tea ice cream I’ve ever had!

Oh, and don’t forget to visit Innisfree (one of Korea’s best-known skincare brands ) Jeju House while you’re there! Soap-making workshops, yummy desserts and unique products await you!

16. Take a walk and taste local food in Dongmun Traditional Market (동문재래시장)

Address: 20, Gwandeok-ro 14-gil, Jeju-si
How to get there: 30mn from the city center by walk
Opening hours: 08:00-21:00 every day

Looking for a place to eat at an affordable price without sacrificing taste? Look no further! From the usual street-food (tteokbokki, gimbap…) to more unique and local dishes, you won’t be disappointed! You can even buy souvenirs here, but what really struck me was the dynamic and festive atmosphere!

Pro tip: if you’re staying in Seogwipo, the Olle Market is also great place to have fun and eat tasty food!

17. Calm your mind in Yakcheonsa Temple (약천사)

Address: 293-28 Ieodo-ro, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Seogwipo district bus terminal (in the city center), take bus 652 for 25mn and get off at Yakcheonsa
Entrance fee: free

Tired of touring the island to explore all its fabulous sights? I’ve got you covered!

Head out to Yakcheonsa temple and enjoy its serenity, its architecture and the beautiful statues scattered around the site. This temple, less than 50 years old, is the ideal place to refresh and calm your mind before your next adventure!

18. Find the cosmos flowers in Jeju

In full bloom from late September to mid-October, you don’t have to love flowers to appreciate the beautiful orange hues of cosmos flowers. A symbol of order and harmony, you may want to watch out for bees approaching you as you stroll through the field.

19. Be in awe in front of the magnificent King Cherry Blossom (제주 왕벚꽃)

Let’s stay with the flowers. Like cosmos flowers, King Cherry blossoms can be seen all over the island, so, if you visit Jeju towards the end of March, don’t miss this ephemeral spectacle.

And why King Cherry? Because the tree that originated on the island actually has petals that are larger and more magnificent than its counterparts!

> Interested in the best places to see the pretty cherry blossoms in Korea? Feel free to check out my post on the subject here!

20. Learn more about a renowned artist in Lee Jung-Seop street (이중섭거리)

Address: 29, Lee Jung-Seop-ro, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Seogwipo city center, it’s only a 15mn walk

Famous painter during difficult times (Korean war), Lee Jung-Seop decided to flee the brutality of the war and briefly established residence in Jeju, where he was able to create artworks of great beauty. There is even a gallery just behind his house where you can contemplate a few pieces of his work that illustrate how happy he was during his stay in Seogwipo.

The whole street is quite pleasant to walk along, with its colorful murals and lovely shops making the entire place a masterpiece.

21. Spend a relaxing afternoon at Hyeopjae Beach (협재해수욕장)

Address: 2497-1 Hyeopjae-ri, Hallim-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 202 for 75mn and get off at Hyeopjae beach

Emerald waters, palm trees and peaceful scenery are reasons enough to convince me to go there and once you visit too, you’ll understand why it’s one of Jeju’s most famous beaches!
And if you want to do more than just laze around and admire the scenery, you can take a walk along the water following the Olle trail (course 14).

22. Observe the beauty of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (성산일출봉)

Address: Seongsan-ri 1, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Seogwipo district bus terminal (in the city center), take bus 201 for 75mn and get off at the Entrance of Seongsan Ilchulbong peak
Entrance fee (if you decide to do the hike): 5,000 KRW ($3.70)
Opening hours: 07:30-19:00 every day

Jeju-do being a volcanic island, you’ll have the opportunity to see and visit many of them without ever getting tired of it, or am I getting ahead of myself?!? I mean, where else can you visit craters and see how they’ve transformed and perfectly integrated into their natural environment?

So, how did this volcano become what it is today? After an underwater eruption, Seongsan Ilchulbong peak rose above the sea and rapidly became one of the island’s most popular sights, getting listed as a UNESCO World Heritage and featured in a lot of movies.

If you want to enjoy the views over the sea and the neighboring island, you can climb to the top but beware: due to its fame, the place can get pretty crowded, so your best bet is to come early, as it’s a perfect spot for sunrise!

Pro tip: if, like me, you want to admire Seongsan more quietly and on your own, simply follow Jeju Olle Trail route 1 down the peak for 10mn and you’ll have beautiful panoramic views of the place all to yourself.

23. Savor the delicious Hallabong (한라봉)

This is one of the local specialties you will fall in love with as soon as you taste it. Hallabong, which takes its name from Hallasan mountain, is a type of tangerine that grows in Jeju – in fact, many inhabitants grow them in their gardens – and, although it resembles a citrus fruit, it tastes slightly different and much better. Sweeter, with a faintly tangy taste, hallabongs will become your daily treat during your stay in Jeju, believe me.

Whether it’s a drinks, a cake or just a piece of fruit, don’t miss out!

24. Unwind in Chilsimni Park (서귀포칠십리시공원)

Address: 41-19 Hyeoncheong-ro, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: only 15mn for Seogwipo city center

This park, close to the city but away from its hustle and bustle , was something of a haven when I wanted to unwind and enjoy the island’s superb and peaceful scenery.

The place is also close to another attraction: Oedolgae Rock, making it the ideal spot to sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious picnic after your visit.

Pro tip: you can find another waterfall (Cheonjiyeon) just 5mn away > entrance fee of 2,000 KRW.

25. Watch the waves break on Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff (대포 주상절리대)

Address: 36-24 Ieodo-ro, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: from Seogwipo district bus terminal (in the city center), take bus 651 for 20mn, get off at Gangjeong village, transfer to bus 600 for 5 stops and get off at Jeju International Convention Center. Walk for 8mn before arriving at your destination.
Entrance fee: 2,000 KRW ($1.50)
Opening hours: 09:00-17:20 every day

Yet another one popular attraction but one you’ll want to visit as these stone columns formed by lava exude a strange and magnificent atmosphere that shouldn’t be missed. What’s more, the panorama is magical, especially at sunset, so be sure to include it in your itinerary!

Pro tip: as this can be quite a touristy spot, if you want to take pictures of the cliff or panorama without the crowds, take the left-hand path at the entrance and keep following it until you reach a quiet, secluded beach.

26. Book a few nights away from the center

I know that staying in the city center, whether you choose Jeju City or Seogwipo, is pretty important and it’s even truer if you don’t have a car, but the public transport network being what it is in Jeju, it is, in fact, very easy to get where you want – provided you’re not in the middle of the forest, of course!

That’s why I strongly advise you to book a place in a secluded area to fully soak up Jeju’s beauty.

Oh, and if you’re worried about finding somewhere affordable for a solo traveler, don’t worry, as there are plenty of Airbnb and pensions to suit all budgets and need. You do need to plan ahead, though, as accommodations tend to sell out very quickly!

27. Take a tour of Arte Museum (아르떼뮤지엄 제주)

Address: 478, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 202 for 45mn, get off at Aewol Middle School, transfer to bus 794-2 for 20 mn and finally get off at eoeum2 ri. Walk around 15mn before arriving at the museum.
Entrance fee: 17,000 KRW ($12.50)
Opening hours: 10:00-20:00 every day

It may not be easy to get to this museum but it’s worth it, at least in my opinion, and if you like immersive media art, this will be for you too.

Arte museums are starting to become very popular all over the the world, and there are already 3 in Korea.
In fact, it all started in Jeju, so naturally it’s a must-do on a trip to the island, as it will captivate, amaze and enchant you!

Personally, I love these exhibitions as they give you a different perspective on art and sometimes even get you involved!

> To find out more about the current exhibitions, here’s the link to the official website!

28. Experience the charm of lotus flowers at Yeonhwa Pond (연화지)

Address: 1569-2 Hagar-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si
How to get there: from Jeju City bus terminal, take bus 291 for 46mn, get off at the Entrance of Haga and walk for 5mn

If you’re in Jeju-do in July-August, you should definitely visit this lovely pond filled with lotus flowers in summer. It’s a hidden spot that few people know about, so apart from a few locals, you might get lucky and have the place to yourself!

29. Walk along Soesokkak Estuary (쇠소깍)

Address: 104, Soesokkak-ro, Seogwipo-si
How to get there: 100m from Seogwipo district bus terminal, take bus 520 for 30mn and get off at the Entrance of Soesokkak estuary

The valley and its cliffs, formed by – I’m pretty sure you’ve guessed it – lava, offer a picturesque walk or kayak ride along the pines trees and clear waters. You can also choose to embark on a Tewoo, a traditional Jeju wooden boat, which resembles a raft but is sturdier. The choice is yours but I’m sure you’ll enjoy your time here!

30. Watch the sunset over Seopseom Island (섶섬)

Anywhere is a good place to watch the sunset in Jeju and there’s no shortage of options when you’re looking for a nice spot, but I still have my favorite thanks to its unbeatable views of Seopseom island. Just follow course 6 of the Jeju Olle Trail, which will take you across Soesokkak estuary to the Olle market.

What better way to end an already perfect day than by watching a magical sunset?!?

Where to sleep

Whether you’re staying in Jeju City or Seogwipo, here are my recommendations if you’re on a budget and traveling solo:

• Ganderak Guesthouse: (Jeju City)
  For its location right in the center of Jeju City, its friendly host and the fact that the place is also a book cafe, perfect tfor relaxing a bit before starting your exploration.

• Slow Citi Guesthouse: (Seogwipo)
  For the cozy rooms, lovely ambiance, the kind and friendly owners and the location. Oh, and I forgot the simple but free breakfast and all this at a more than affordable price.

• Jeju Aurum Pension: (a few kilometers from Seogwipo)
  When I said you should book somewhere secluded, I meant a place like this with sea views, kind staff, and peaceful tranquility. A couple of nights away from the city center are always welcome, and this is even truer when you’re on the move and exploring a lot.

How to get to Jeju

• By flight (the simplest and most economical way):
  This is by far the fastest way (1hr) to get to the island and pretty cheap too, especially if you plan your trip in advance. You can fly to Jeju from any domestic airport in the country, with Busan’s Gimhae International Airport being the closest.

Best time to visit Jeju

I’d say it all depends on what you’re looking for but if you want to swim, lie on the sand and hike in comfort, you should consider visiting the country in spring (late March to early June) and autumn (late September to November). One season you should avoid is late summer, as typhoons can occur and you wouldn’t want to be stuck indoors on your vacations, believe me.

Tips

• Before visiting Jeju, remember that the attractions listed above are mainly spread between the North and South of the island. So, it’s best to plan at least a few days in both Jeju City and Seogwipo, which will make your trip to Jeju-do easier.
  Plan more days in Seogwipo, as the city more attractive than Jeju City though.
• Check the weather forecast in advance, as it can be quite fickle on the island.
• Download Naver Map, as Google Maps doesn’t really work in Korea.
• Buy a T-Money card: it’s used to pay for public transport in Korea and you really can’t do without it. You can top up your card in Jeju’s convenience stores, but you can only do so in cash.
• Make sure to buy a SIM card: although WiFi is available almost everywhere in the country, you’ll need one in some remote areas. Plus, data is expensive in Korea, but don’t worry: there are great packages for tourists too. You can buy one at the airport, in a convenience store or in mobile provider stores.
• Download Papago: the best app if you don’t speak a word of Korean!
• Get a “travel card”, as sometimes your usual card won’t work!

> You can also check bus’ timetables and other information by following this link!

In a nutshell

Whether you’re planning to travel to Jeju for a few days or a couple of weeks, you can be sure that the magical island and its incredible landscapes won’t leave you indifferent!
Ready to embark on an adventure filled with natural treasures and create unforgettable memories?

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