Do You guyz know that South Korea has its own Hawaii? Well have you ever seen or heard of the Jeju Island which is portrayed in most of the K-dramas, yes it is popularly also known as the “Hawaii” of South Korea. South Korea is not just beautiful in its dramas but it has numerous landscapes that draws in the curious travelers to visit its volcanic wonders, green lush scenery, and decades old and rich tradition and cultural heritage.
Jeju Island has so much to offer with its destinations and exclusive experiences that attracts travelers of all kind from all across the world irrespective of their age and backgrounds. If you are in South Korea or planning a trip to be their shortly, this perfect itinerary that I have for you will assure that you make the most of it from your 3 days Jeju island trip. Also read: 12 Simple Hacks for Saving Money For Travel
Why You Must Visit Jeju Island?
Jeju Island offers a perfect blend of traditional Korean charm and modern age comforts, dramatic and eyegazing landscapes formed due to the volcanic erruptions, and a mild whether as compared to the mainland Korea. It Does not matter if you are a adventure seeker, nature lover , or a cultural and tradition enthusiast as Jeju has plenty to offer for pretty much every kind of traveler over the 3 days short trip. The major sight seeings in Jeju ranges from underground Lava Tubes to coastal blue beaches and waterfalls, which will ensure everyday single day you spend in Jeju becomes a lost lasting memory.
Day 1 of 3: Arrival and Eastern Jeju Wonders
Ferry Experience and First Impressions
Even the way you arrive in Jeju can become memorable and a stay with you forever, whether you come to the Island by flight or take a ferry to reach there. One of the most common and popular mode of transport to reach Jeju Island is an overnight ferry.
It is not very luxurious but offers a comfortable bed to sleep and an amazing ambiance with its vintage Korean decoration and a unique wake up call that will wake you up with classic pop music from the late 70’s which will make your ferry journey to Jeju worthwhile. I would highly recommend you carry some light snacks and drinks with you when you board the ferry as food options that it has on offer usually is limited to warm cup noodles and local soju. Also read: How To Get Cheap Flights to Bangkok from the USA- Insider Tips You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Love Land: An Adult Theme Park
The very first sight seeing that you can begin exploring your Day 1 at Jeju is Love Land which is popular for the collection of its erotic sculptures and statues that helps make people aware of reproduction and sex education. I would highly recommend you to opt for a taxi or public bus option when buying an entry ticket for this adult themed public park which will cost you around 9000 Korean Won.
This might not be a necessary place to visit for every one but I will still advice you to visit here and spend a little time as it has humorous and light experience which is perfect to began with before you move on to explore other natural wonders Jeju has to offer.
Manjanggul Lava Tube: Beneath the Surface
After having a mixed experience of erotic wild thoughts and science of human reproduction, you can next make your move towards the Manjanggul Lava Tube which is in the northwest of Jeju and also one of the UNESCO’s worlss heritage site. This is one of a kind geological wonder that expands to several miles under the earth’s surface, but since it so old and surface under the earth tends to weaken due to the natural phenomenon like earthquake etc only upto 1 Kilometer is open for visitors to go inside.
The temperature inside the tube drops drastically and therefore I would recommend you carry a light layered clothes or a hoodie when visiting here. The tunnel inside is well lit and is pretty much accessible to all the travelers which makes it an inspiring and educational visit. You have to get an entry ticket to go inside the Tube which will cost you around 2000 Korean Won.
Day 2 of 3: Eastern Sunrise and Coastline Adventures
Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (Sunrise Peak)
The most popular sight seeing that you will find common in almost Jeju Island Itinerary is the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak. It’s iconic scene of the sunrise peak that visitors crave to witness with their own eyes and willingly do an early moring hike to capture the mesmerising scene is its speciality. Even if you are not able to witness the Sunrise peak due to bad whether, every single step you take towards the peak on your hike will rewards you with an aww struck views and scenes that will make you feel the hike worth it.
The hike is about 45 minutes long from that starting point to the peak and it has a entry ticket which costs 2000 Korean won. The black sand beaches at the base are very popular for its Jeju’s legendary ladies those are expert free divers and collects valuable materials from sea like pearls, sea weed, gems etc and they do it all without even using any breathing support device. It gives a deep cultural insights and touch of local pride looking at their daily routine.
Beaches, Markets, and Aquariums in Jeju Island
I would recommend you to pay a visit to any attraction like Hanwha Aqua Planet Jeju or Seopjikoji to experience an amazing marine life and eye catching coastal scenery. Hamdeok Beach is considered to be one of the best for relaxation, swimming ,and exploring authentic Korean Beach culture. If you have any plans to explore authentic street food and local made street wares on Jeju then I would highly advice you to visit Jeju Traditional Market. It is also an ideal place to buy souvenirs for your friends and relatives back home.
Day 3 of 3: Southern Jeju and Natural Beauty
Jeongbang Waterfall: Ocean Meets Freshwater
Residing on the southern edge of the Jeju Island, Jeongbang waterfall flows directly into the scenic ocean that produces a rare natural phenomenon which is a dream come true to capture for every professional nature and wildlife photographer. To reach Jeongbang waterfall you can board a bus number 701 that will drop you close to the waterfall from where you can a short walk and reach the final destination after paying an entry ticket fee which costs aroung 2000 Korean won. I would suggest you to hop over to Cheonjiyeon Falls which is situated about forty five minutes west along the Jeju Olle Trail, which is another scenic waterfall that is often overlooked when visiting Jeongbang Waterfall.
Jungmun Lava Columns: Artistry of Nature
Now its time to head towards the western part of the Jeju Island to Jungmun’s popular Lava columns, which has intricated hexagonal shaped formations formed by the cooling of lava erupted from the hot active volcano and powerful decades old caves. The international convention centre and turquoise blue waters that can be accessed from the Jungmun city makes it one of the Jeju’s most iconic spots to click photos. This mesmerising natural beauty has a small entry fee that costs around 2000 Korean won.
Natural Swimming Pool and Cliff Diving
If you are someone who is intrigued by the off beat and untouched places, then I would suggest you to make your way towards the “natural swimming pool” located near Oedolgae Rock. This hidden and off beaten swimming pool offers chilling ice water, cliff diving experience perfect to shoot an Instagram reel or mark one more accomplishment in your adventure list is a perfect tranquil escape away from the crowds. In summer season you can expect to get warm waters and join the local daredevils jumping off the rocks if you think you are brave enough!
Where to Stay on Jeju Island
Kim’s Cabin Guesthouse
Kim’s Cabin Guesthouse is situated near Seongsan, offers a convenient access to almost every hiking trails that you might take in Jeju along with its authentic Korean culinary heritage. Since it as an traditional and local place please do not expect to get western breakfast options rather you must savour and appreciate the popular authentic dishes like seafood Porridge and homemade fermented kimchi radishes making you immerse deep into the local flavours. It’s location is very prime and it is well connected to popular sight seeing and bus routes, just a short taxi ride and you are there.
Doldam Guesthouse
If you are someone who loves the smell of freshly baked bread and wide ocean view from your stay, then Doldam Guesthouse is a perfect location for you to stay in Jeju Island. The journey to reach this palce is unique and exciting in itself as it will offer you rural bus experience and a stroll through the fiels that has strong garlic fragrant. It has a perfect blend of village charm and comfortable modern amenities which makes it an ideal stay to explore southern Jeju.
Some Important Transportation Tips
Jeju Island offers a perfect balance between the convenience and the adventure. It gives you a flexibility to rent a car and escape unpredictable bus schedules and infrequent travelling routes. But if you are someone travelling on really tight budget then you can navigate through public transport like bus with a little bit of a planning and patience with the help of some locals as the bus and taxi networks in Jeju covers almost all major attractions.
Conclusion: Why This Jeju Island Itinerary Is Best For You
With the help of this 3 day Jeju Island itinerary, you can cover almost every popular sight on the island and experience quirky adult themed park, dramatic natural landscapes and rich culture of the Jeju which makes it one of the most attractive Korean destination. Right from the coastal peaks to the lava tubes beneath the earth’s surface and majestic waterfalls, every sight paints a impactful and never forgettable picture of Jeju in every traveler’s mind.
With a proper and careful planning and a zeal to discover new places, this itinerary will make it possible for visitors to dive deep into the miracle of Korea’s island paradise, making the trip to Jeju unforgettable and worth while.