Jeju Island has a way of quietly stealing your heart. With its dramatic volcanic coastlines, misty waterfalls, citrus-scented air, and slow island rhythm, it feels worlds away from the fast pace of mainland South Korea. This guide is for Jeju Island for First Time Visitors — sharing the places, experiences, and little details that made our first trip feel effortless and unforgettable.
Johannes and I quickly realized that Jeju isn’t about rushing from sight to sight. It’s about lingering over coffee, ocean views, and moments that feel simple yet unforgettable. This Jeju Island guide for first time visitors covers everything you need to know: what to do, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get around.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As always, all recommendations are based on our genuine experiences.
If you’re curious about the outfits I’m wearing throughout this guide, all of my looks in Jeju are from Cocopiña. Their feminine silhouettes and effortless pieces felt perfect for Jeju’s relaxed island pace — comfortable enough for long days exploring, yet polished enough for slow mornings at cafes and coastal walks.
Best Things to Do in Jeju Island
One of the reasons Jeju is such an incredible destination is the variety of experiences packed into one island — especially for Jeju Island for First Time Visitors who want a mix of nature, culture, and scenic highlights without feeling overwhelmed.
Oedolgae Sea Stack
Located in Seogwipo, this dramatic sea stack rises straight out of the ocean and is especially beautiful at golden hour. It’s an easy walk and one of the most photogenic coastal spots for first-time visitors.
Jeju Island Waterfalls
Jeju is famous for its waterfalls — and seeing them in person feels almost surreal.
- Cheonjeyeon Falls – A three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
- Jeongbang Waterfall – One of the only waterfalls in Asia that flows directly into the ocean.
Jusangjeolli Cliff
These striking hexagonal volcanic rock pillars look almost unreal. Formed by cooling lava, they’re one of Jeju’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Camellia Hill Botanical Garden
A peaceful botanical garden known for seasonal blooms — including the dreamy pink muhly grass in fall. It’s romantic, quiet, and perfect for a slower afternoon.
Soesokkak Estuary
Best visited during high tide, this serene estuary is a hidden gem where freshwater meets the sea. Calm, scenic, and uncrowded.
Seongsan Ilchulbong
Also known as Sunrise Peak, this volcanic crater is one of the most famous things to do in Jeju Island. The sunrise hike is absolutely worth the early alarm — watching the sun rise over the ocean feels magical.
Haenyeo Culture & History
One of the most unique cultural experiences on Jeju is learning about the haenyeo, the island’s legendary female free divers.
- Watch the haenyeo dive (usually around 1:30 or 3pm) and try fresh seafood ramen nearby.
- Visit the Jeju Haenyeo Museum to learn about their history and resilience — we loved this museum and left with a deep appreciation for Jeju’s heritage.
Jeju Island Beaches
- Hamdeok Beach – Soft sand and turquoise water.
- Woljeongri Beach – Known for its cafes lining the shore.
- Hyeopjae Beach – Clear water with views of Biyangdo Island.
Osulloc Tea Museum
A beautiful stop surrounded by green tea fields, where you can learn about Korean tea culture and enjoy matcha desserts.
Hallasan Mountain
If you have time and good weather, hiking Hallasan is one of the best things to do in Jeju Island. We missed it due to rain, but it’s high on our list for next time.
Best Cafes in Jeju Island
Jeju Island cafes deserve their own spotlight — especially those celebrating the island’s famous tangerines.
Cafe Gyulkkot Darak
One of the most aesthetic cafes we visited. Incredible coffee, beautiful pastries, and interiors that feel straight out of Pinterest.
Gamttanam
A charming tangerine farm cafe where you can enjoy citrus treats — and even go tangerine picking during the right season.
Seogwipean Bakery
Perfect for fresh bread and pastries paired with coffee, especially after exploring nearby waterfalls.
Landing Coffee
A sleek, modern cafe with great drinks and a relaxed atmosphere.
Oleun Cafe
Minimal, calm, and ideal for a slow coffee break between sightseeing.
Urban Jungle Cafe
Located near Hamdeok Beach. We didn’t make it here, but it’s very popular for its tropical vibe.
Comma Cafe
Near Hyeopjae Beach — another spot we missed but had saved for its coastal views.
Manor Blanc
Famous for its seasonal pink grass in fall, this cafe is as beautiful as it is peaceful.
Jejue in Farm
A cozy spot serving both coffee and breakfast — we absolutely loved starting our day here.
Where to Stay on Jeju Island
Choosing the right area to stay can completely shape your experience, which is why this section is especially helpful for Jeju Island for First Time Visitors deciding how to plan their base on the island.
✨ Luxury
- Parnas Hotel Jeju – A stunning luxury hotel with ocean views, beautiful rooms, and resort-style amenities. Perfect for a relaxing stay.
🌿 Mid-Range & Boutique
- Seogwipo area hotels for easy access to waterfalls and nature.
- Boutique stays near Woljeongri or Hamdeok Beach for cafe hopping and coastal walks.
💸 Affordable Options
- Guesthouses and small hotels in Jeju City offer great value and are ideal for road-trippers exploring the island.
Getting Around Jeju Island: Rent a Car 🚗
Public transportation on Jeju Island is limited, and distances between attractions are larger than they seem. Renting a car is essential for first-time visitors.
We booked our car through Klook, which made everything easy and stress-free. Having a car gave us the freedom to explore cafes, beaches, and hidden spots at our own pace — and it truly made our Jeju trip unforgettable.
🌿 Practical Tip: Download Naver Maps instead of Google Maps for accurate navigation in South Korea.
Jeju Island Tours: A Stress-Free Way to Explore
If you prefer not to drive every day or want to see the highlights without worrying about logistics, booking a guided tour is another great option — especially for Jeju Island for First Time Visitors. One popular choice is this Jeju Island Top Attractions Tour, which covers some of the island’s most iconic sights in one day and is ideal if you’re short on time or visiting for the first time.
We love using Klook for experiences like this because it makes planning incredibly easy. Beyond this specific tour, there are so many different Jeju tours available on Klook — from full-day sightseeing routes to nature-focused experiences and cultural highlights. It’s a convenient way to explore the island without the stress of navigating, parking, or planning each stop yourself.
🌿 Practical Tip: Tours are especially helpful on rainy days or if you’re only in Jeju for a short stay and want to maximize what you see.
Final Thoughts: Is Jeju Island Worth Visiting?
Jeju Island isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. A place where volcanic cliffs meet soft beaches, where tangerine-scented cafes invite you to slow down, and where nature gently reminds you to breathe deeper.
For first-time visitors, Jeju offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and calm. Whether you’re hiking at sunrise, sipping coffee by the sea, or learning about the island’s incredible haenyeo women, Jeju leaves a quiet mark on your heart.
If you’re planning your first trip, I hope this Jeju Island travel guide helps you experience the island in a way that feels intentional, beautiful, and deeply memorable.
Check out my other South Korea blog post about visiting Seoul.