We started our trip in South Korea at Jeju Island, named the Hawaii of Korea. It is known for its stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals. It’s off the coast of South Korea which is a perfect spot for a vacation and nature-lovers. We spent 3 days and 2 nights at Jeju exploring the whole island. I’d recommend exploring 1 side for a day then the other and you’ll need a car to easily go around the island. Here are our top things to do in Jeju Island:
Unique scenery at Jeongbang waterfall
We started the morning exploring Jeongbang waterfall, it’s 23m high and 10m wide. As we walked across the rocky path towards the huge waterfall there were lady’s cooking seafood, ahjummas (middle-aged women) fresh catch from the sea. They come here every morning to catch fresh seafood. To get to the waterfall it’s an easy hike down the stairs to reach Jeongbang Waterfall, we got up close and saw the water flowing right into the ocean. The perfect clear blue waters are stunning.
Oedolgae Rock
Close by the waterfall is the Oedolgae Rock, standing out in the sea it was named Oedolgae which means lonely rock. It’s 20m high rock and composed of grey trachyandesite which is dense and has tiny holes compared with basalt. The surrounding area is made by wave erosion creating unique rock patterns.
Jusangjeolli Cliff
Next, we arrived at Jusangjeolli Cliff. It has very unique rock formation patterns that are created from the crashing waves.
Cheonjeyeon falls and Seonimgyo Bridge
Next, we visited Cheonjeyeon Falls named ‘The pond of God’. Its name from the legend of the seven fairies serving the King of Heaven who came down to the pond on stairs of cloud and bathed in its clean waters. Its lovely deep clear and blue water is stunning.
Nearby there is the bright red Seonim Bridge also known as Chilseonyeogyo (Seven Nymphs Bridge), this moniker is attributed to the seven nymphs carved on both sides of the bridge. The nymphs symbolise the seven beautiful and legendary nymphs that would descend from heaven at night.
Tea-tasting at the Osulloc Tea Museum
We couldn’t leave Jeju without a visit to the green team museum. The “O” in Osulloc means to appreciate and enjoy, while “Sulloc” refers to a type of green tea.
The Jeju Tea Museum is a great place to learn about Jeju’s tea culture. The museum has exhibits on the history of tea, as well as demonstrations of traditional tea ceremonies. There is also a cafe where visitors can sample the island’s many varieties of tea.
→ More: Day trip to Busan
Delicious Cuisine
Jeju Island is home to a variety of delicious local dishes. The island is known for its black pork, fresh seafood, and unique desserts. There are many restaurants and cafes to explore, and trying the local cuisine is a must when visiting Jeju Island.
Jeju has local specialties that you must try. For breakfast, we tried Jeonbokjuk, an abalone porridge made out of abalone and rice. The abalone was so soft it melted in your mouth. For lunch, we tried Jagalchi, a grilled or boiled silver scabbard fish. You can’t miss their famous their black pork, a juicy pork belly from Jeju’s native black pig. Absolutely worth a try while you are there.
→ More: Explore Seoul palaces: Hanbok experience
Have you been to Jeju Island? Jeju Island has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, a challenging hike, or an exciting water sport, there’s no shortage of things to do on Jeju Island. With its stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals, Jeju Island is a great spot for a vacation.
