Planning Your Trip to Jeju: Flights and Transportation

The gateway to Jeju Island is Jeju International Airport (CJU), one of the busiest regional airports in Asia. It connects seamlessly with major cities across South Korea, including Seoul (both Gimpo and Incheon airports), Busan, and Daegu, as well as numerous international hubs such as Tokyo, Shanghai, and Taipei. The airport is well-equipped with modern amenities, car rental services, and convenient transport options, making it an ideal starting point for your adventure.

When booking flights, travelers often find that budget-friendly airlines such as Jeju Air, T’way Air, and Eastar Jet offer competitive fares, especially for domestic routes. For international visitors, flying into Seoul first before taking a short domestic flight to Jeju is a common and convenient choice. It's wise to book flights in advance to secure the best prices, particularly during peak seasons like spring cherry blossom time and fall foliage.

Transportation on the island itself can vary based on your travel style. Many visitors opt to rent a car since Jeju’s attractions are spread out and public transit can sometimes feel limiting. Driving offers the freedom to explore hidden beaches, remote hiking trails, and scenic coastal roads at your own pace. For those who prefer not to drive, Jeju has a comprehensive bus system with well-marked routes connecting popular sites, though schedules should be checked ahead of time to avoid long waits.

Taxis are another practical option; they are plentiful, reasonably priced, and can be hailed on the street or booked via smartphone apps like KakaoTaxi, which supports English language use. For the more adventurous or eco-conscious, renting bicycles is also popular, especially for exploring the Jeju Olle Trail, a network of well-maintained walking and cycling paths through some of Jeju’s most breathtaking scenery.

Top Hotels and Accommodation Options in Jeju

Jeju offers a broad spectrum of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. For those craving luxury, a handful of world-class hotels deliver five-star comforts alongside magnificent ocean or mountain views. The Shilla Jeju is renowned for its elegant rooms, award-winning spa, and prime beachfront location. Not far behind is Lotte Hotel Jeju, boasting lavish amenities including multiple fine dining options and a sprawling outdoor pool. Hyatt Regency Jeju also stands out with modern design and superb access to Jeju City’s attractions.

Travelers seeking a boutique feel or mid-range comfort will find excellent options such as Jeju Bom Stay, a charming property known for its personalized service and cozy rooms, perfect for couples or small groups. Maison Glad Jeju offers spacious accommodations and easy access to shopping and entertainment areas, while Hotel Leo impresses with its tasteful interiors and proximity to Jeju’s ferry terminal — ideal for island-hopping excursions.

Backpackers and budget-conscious tourists shouldn’t worry either. Guesthouses such as Backpacker’s Home Jeju provide clean, friendly dormitory-style stays with communal kitchens and social areas, great for meeting fellow travelers. Jeju Friend Hostel similarly offers affordable yet comfortable lodging in central locations. Lover’s Island Guesthouse, set near scenic spots, combines budget pricing with a warm local atmosphere that many guests rave about.

No matter the style of stay, early booking is advised, especially during popular travel periods, to secure the best rates and preferred rooms.

Must-See Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities

Jeju’s natural beauty is nothing short of spectacular and exploring it is among the island’s great joys. At the heart of the island lies Hallasan National Park, home to Hallasan Mountain, South Korea’s tallest peak. The well-marked hiking trails leading to Hallasan’s summit pose a rewarding challenge with the promise of panoramic vistas across Jeju and the surrounding ocean. Along the way, hikers admire rare alpine flora and volcanic landscapes that tell Jeju’s geological story.

Another iconic natural wonder is Seongsan Ilchulbong, or Sunrise Peak. This striking tuff cone rises dramatically from the sea, making it a prized spot to watch the sun’s first light. Many visitors rise early to climb the crest and bask in the breathtaking sunrise views, a truly unforgettable Jeju experience.

For those hoping to explore the island’s coastline on foot, the Jeju Olle Trail offers over 400 kilometers of walking paths that wind through fishing villages, black lava beaches, grassy fields, and along cliffs with unobstructed ocean views. The Olle Trail is ideal for travelers who want immersive nature walks combined with local cultural encounters.

Jeju’s volcanic origins are also on full display at Manjanggul Lava Tube, a remarkable underground tunnel formed by flowing lava thousands of years ago. Strolling through the cavern’s vast chambers and unusual lava formations feels like entering another world.

Waterfall enthusiasts will delight in Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang Waterfalls. Cheonjiyeon cascades gracefully into a tranquil pond surrounded by subtropical vegetation, while Jeongbang is one of the few waterfalls in Asia that falls directly into the sea, creating a stunning coastal spectacle.

Cultural and Local Experiences

Jeju’s cultural tapestry is equally compelling, steeped in history and island traditions. A visit to Seongeup Folk Village offers a window into Jeju’s past, with thatched-roof homes, stone walls, and ancestral shrines preserved in a picturesque rural setting. Here, visitors can learn about Jeju’s unique customs and the famed haenyeo (female divers) culture that has shaped the island’s identity.

Art lovers will appreciate the island’s growing number of museums and galleries. The Jeju Museum of Art showcases contemporary Korean works, while the Jeju Folklore and Natural History Museum presents fascinating exhibits on local culture and ecology. Additionally, quirky spots like the Teddy Bear Museum and the Alive Museum offer fun family-friendly diversions.

To connect with the island’s heart and soul, participating in local festivals and markets is a must. The Jeju Fire Festival and the Tangerine Festival celebrate age-old agricultural traditions with vibrant performances and delicious food stalls. Jeju’s traditional markets, such as Dongmun Market, provide bustling atmospheres filled with local produce, street snacks, and handcrafts.

No culinary trip to Jeju is complete without sampling the famous black pork barbecue — succulent, flavorful meat typically grilled over coals and enjoyed with an array of vegetable sides and dipping sauces. Other local specialties worth trying include fresh abalone porridge, seafood hotpots, and mandarins that are juicier and sweeter than anywhere else.

For a calmer pace, visitors can partake in tea ceremonies at local tea farms or tour vast tangerine orchards to experience the agricultural roots that sustain Jeju’s economy and lifestyle.

Insider Tips for an Authentic Jeju Experience

To fully enjoy Jeju, timing can play a big role. The best months to visit are generally from April to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities flourish without the crowds that summer brings. Spring showcases colorful flowers like cherry blossoms and canola fields, while autumn offers crisp air and spectacular foliage.

Interacting with locals on Jeju is usually warm and welcoming if approached with respect. Simple gestures like learning a few Korean phrases, bowing slightly when greeting, and showing appreciation for cultural practices go a long way. It’s also appreciated if visitors avoid overly loud behavior and refrain from touching personal or sacred items in villages and temples.

Beyond the well-trodden paths, Jeju hides a treasure trove of lesser-known sites — secluded beaches like Woljeongri, quiet hiking trails around Bijarim Forest, and quaint coffee shops with panoramic sea views are just a few. Exploring outside the main tourist areas offers a more intimate glimpse into island life.

Helpful apps that enhance the Jeju experience include KakaoMap for navigation with English support, MangoPlate for local food recommendations, and Naver Weather to keep track of island weather changes. Planning visits around local event calendars will also let travelers tap into seasonal festivals and community happenings.

Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Jeju First-Timers

For those visiting Jeju for the first time, a well-rounded three-day itinerary can showcase the island’s highlights without feeling rushed. On Day One, landing at Jeju International Airport, visitors might settle into a luxury hotel like The Shilla Jeju before spending the afternoon hiking on Hallasan’s lower trails. The evening is perfect for savoring black pork barbecue at a local barbecue joint.

Day Two begins early with a sunrise trek at Seongsan Ilchulbong. After soaking in the spectacular views, the afternoon is ideal for exploring the mysterious Manjanggul Lava Tube and browsing Dongmun Market’s lively offerings.

Conclusion

Jeju Island is a captivating destination full of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Whether travelers are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life, Jeju promises an unforgettable journey. By planning ahead and immersing in the local ways, visitors can truly unlock the island’s irresistible charm and make memories that last a lifetime.