Quick summary: Explore Jeju Island over four days with a mix of stunning waterfalls, scenic coastal drives, and the iconic Sunrise Peak. This family-friendly itinerary balances nature, culture, and relaxation with mid-range budget options and mixed transport.
Route map + stops
Jeju City
- Jeju City (μ μ£Όμ)
Nearest station: Jeju Bus Terminal β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Cheonjiyeon Waterfall (μ²μ§μ° νν¬)
Nearest station: Jeju City Bus Stop β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Manjanggul Lava Tube (λ§μ₯κ΅΄)
Nearest station: Jeju City Bus Stop β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Hallasan National Park (νλΌμ°κ΅λ¦½κ³΅μ)
Nearest station: Jeju City Bus Stop β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Dongmun Traditional Market (λλ¬Έμ¬λμμ₯)
Nearest station: Jeju City Bus Terminal β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage
Other
- Seogwipo Coastal Drive (μκ·ν¬ ν΄μλλ‘)
Nearest station: Seogwipo Bus Terminal β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Jeongbang Waterfall (μ λ°© νν¬)
Nearest station: Seogwipo Bus Stop β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) (μ±μ° μΌμΆλ΄)
Nearest station: Seongsan Bus Terminal β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Seopjikoji Coast (μμ§μ½μ§)
Nearest station: Seongsan Bus Stop β Line: N/A β Exit: Best exit: check station signage
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Arrive in Jeju City and explore the local markets and cafes. In the afternoon, visit Cheonjiyeon Waterfall for a peaceful nature walk, then enjoy a scenic Seogwipo Coastal Drive.
09:00 β Arrival and Explore Jeju City
Why go: Start your trip by getting acquainted with Jeju’s capital, its culture, and local cuisine.
Do:
- Visit Dongmun Traditional Market for local snacks and souvenirs
- Stroll around Jeju City streets and cafes
How to get there: Arrive at Jeju International Airport, take a taxi or bus to Jeju City center.
Cost / tickets: Free to explore; meals around 10,000β15,000 KRW per person
Time needed: 3 hours
13:00 β Visit Cheonjiyeon Waterfall
Why go: Experience one of Jeju’s most famous waterfalls surrounded by subtropical forest.
Do:
- Walk the scenic trail to the waterfall
- Enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings
How to get there: Take a local bus or taxi from Jeju City to Cheonjiyeon Waterfall.
Cost / tickets: Entrance fee approx 2,500 KRW
Time needed: 2 hours
16:00 β Seogwipo Coastal Drive
Why go: Relax with a scenic drive along Jeju’s southern coast with ocean views and cliffs.
Do:
- Drive or take a taxi along the coast
- Stop for photos and short walks
How to get there: Rent a car or take a taxi from Cheonjiyeon Waterfall area.
Cost / tickets: Free; transportation costs vary
Time needed: 2 hours
Day 2
Start with the unique Jeongbang Waterfall that falls into the sea. Head to Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) for a rewarding hike and panoramic views. Finish the day with a relaxing walk at Seopjikoji Coast.
09:00 β Jeongbang Waterfall Visit
Why go: Unique waterfall that falls directly into the ocean, a rare natural sight.
Do:
- Walk the trail to the waterfall
- Take photos and enjoy the sea breeze
How to get there: From Seogwipo, take a short taxi ride or local bus to Jeongbang Waterfall.
Cost / tickets: Entrance fee approx 2,000 KRW
Time needed: 1.5 hours
11:00 β Explore Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak)
Why go: Iconic volcanic crater offering panoramic views, especially at sunrise.
Do:
- Hike to the crater rim
- Enjoy views of the ocean and surrounding landscape
How to get there: Drive or take a bus from Seogwipo to Seongsan Ilchulbong area.
Cost / tickets: Entrance fee approx 5,000 KRW
Time needed: 3 hours including hike and rest
15:00 β Visit Seopjikoji Coast
Why go: Famous for dramatic cliffs and coastal scenery, perfect for a relaxing walk.
Do:
- Walk along the coast
- Visit nearby cafes and photo spots
How to get there: Short taxi ride from Seongsan Ilchulbong.
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1.5 hours
Day 3
Explore the fascinating Manjanggul Lava Tube in the morning. Spend the afternoon hiking in Hallasan National Park, choosing a trail suitable for your fitness level.
09:00 β Manjanggul Lava Tube Exploration
Why go: One of the longest lava tubes in the world, showcasing Jeju’s volcanic origins.
Do:
- Walk through the accessible lava tube section
- Learn about geology at the visitor center
How to get there: Drive or take a bus from Jeju City to Manjanggul Lava Tube.
Cost / tickets: Entrance fee approx 2,000 KRW
Time needed: 2 hours
13:00 β Hallasan National Park Hiking
Why go: Jeju’s highest mountain with diverse flora and stunning views.
Do:
- Choose a moderate trail suitable for families
- Enjoy nature and fresh air
How to get there: Drive or take a bus from Jeju City to Hallasan National Park entrance.
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 3β4 hours depending on trail
Day 4
Spend your final day shopping and tasting local foods at Dongmun Traditional Market before departure.
09:00 β Relax and Shop at Dongmun Traditional Market
Why go: Experience local life, shop for souvenirs, and try traditional foods before departure.
Do:
- Browse market stalls
- Try Jeju specialties like black pork and seafood
How to get there: Short taxi or bus ride within Jeju City.
Cost / tickets: Free to browse; food and souvenirs vary
Time needed: 2 hours
Logistics (read this first)
- Renting a car is recommended for flexibility and access to remote sites.
- Local buses connect major stops but may require transfers and longer travel times.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for nature trails and uneven terrain.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and light rain gear depending on season.
- Accommodation options range from guesthouses to mid-range hotels in Jeju City and Seogwipo.
- Plan for early starts to avoid crowds at popular spots like Sunrise Peak.
Local tips and guide
Jeju Island Local Guide
Jeju is a volcanic island known for its natural wonders including waterfalls, lava tubes, and Hallasan Mountain. The island’s south coast features dramatic cliffs and ocean views, while the east is famous for Sunrise Peak and coastal walks. Jeju City serves as the main hub with markets and cultural sites. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island fully, though buses connect major attractions. The island offers a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine, making it ideal for families and nature lovers.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
What is the best way to get around Jeju?
Renting a car offers the most convenience, though local buses serve major tourist spots.
Are the hikes suitable for families?
Yes, most trails like Sunrise Peak and parts of Hallasan have family-friendly options.
When is the best time to visit Jeju?
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for outdoor activities.
Is English widely spoken in Jeju?
Basic English is common in tourist areas, but learning simple Korean phrases helps.
Are there entrance fees for natural sites?
Most waterfalls and Sunrise Peak have modest entrance fees around 2,000β5,000 KRW.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert itinerary crafted by a seasoned travel planner specializing in South Korea.
Based on up-to-date local information, traveler reviews, and seasonal considerations for Jeju Island.
Last updated: 2024-06-01