Victoria Lupascu 
Not sure where to stay in Jeju, South Korea? I feel you! Navigating South Korea’s hiker’s paradise island can be a challenge due to its size, especially if you’re headed there for the first time. But that’s why I’m here!
I meticulously compared all the areas on the island and came up with a list of the top 6 places worth visiting for different types of vacationers! I also cherry picked top-rated hotels in every place and sorted them nicely by budget, so you can literally book your stay in minutes after reading my guide!
Jeju City is the best area to stay on Jeju Island, especially if you’re coming here for the first time. This town has countless attractions, plus it’s such a great base if you want to explore the other areas, which I’ll also talk about below.
NOTE: Remember to book your hotels in Jeju in advance. Everything sells out super fast here!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
These are the best hotels on the island, all located in Jeju City:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Jeju City – the best place to stay for the first time
- 2. Seogwipo City – where to stay in Jeju for outdoor activities
- 3. Jungmun – where to stay in Jeju for families
- 4. Seongsan – a cool place to stay in Jeju for nature and culture lovers
- 5. Hamdeok Beach – where to stay on Jeju Island for the beach
- 6. Aewol – best place to stay in Jeju away from the crowds
- BONUS 1: Best beachfront hotels on Jeju Island
- BONUS 2: Most romantic hotels on Jeju Island
- FAQs about hotels in Jeju, South Korea
- Final thoughts on the best areas to stay in Jeju Island
The map below will help you visualize all the areas to stay in Jeju that I’ll talk about in this post:
- Jeju City: for first-timers
- Seogwipo City: for outdoor activities
- Jungmun: for families
- Seongsan: for culture and nature
- Hamdeok Beach: for beaches
- Aewol: for seclusion
1. Jeju City – the best place to stay for the first time
Most visitors start their holiday in Jeju City, the island’s capital, whether they’re coming by plane or boat.
Jeju City is where the Jeju airport is located (just a 1h flight away from central Seoul), plus it has many of the most popular attractions.
Think natural wonders (volcanic tubes, national parks), cultural attractions (giant shrines), delicious food, and nice beaches. I mean, just check out the views from the Sarabong volcanic tube (map)!
Due to its stunning volcanic landscapes, unique culture, and beauty, Jeju is often called the Hawaii of Korea!
Jeju is a prime destination for hiking, and about halfway between Jeju City and Seogwipo (the 2nd largest city on the opposite side of Jeju City), you’ll find the Hallasan mountain (map).
This place has the tallest volcano peak in Korea (around 2000 m or 6300 ft). You can take a hike all the way to its summit or choose any of the easier trails nearby! This is one of the top experiences for most travelers on Jeju Island.
Now, everyone raves about food in Jeju, which is very different from that in the rest of Korea. The best place to taste local food is the Dongmun Traditional Market (map) in Downtown Jeju. And there’s also a handy Facebook Group, Jeju Good Eats, where you can ask for personal recommendations from the locals!
NOTE: Google Maps offers limited functionality in South Korea. Use alternative apps like Kakao (recommended) or Naver Map to plan your journey across Jeju Island, including all trips by public transport and cars.
PRO TIP: Catch a sunset at the Dakmeoru Coast (map) for some surreal views and beautiful pictures!
GETTING AROUND: Renting a car in Jeju Island gives you more flexibility and comfort than public transport. Public buses exist but only run once every hour. The island is likely bigger than you think, and driving all around the place will feel tiring if you’re staying for less than 5 days. If you’re really short on time, base yourself around one area and explore its surroundings. Taxis, tourist packages, and private drivers are also good options if you want to explore without a car.
TIP: If you don’t drive, buses 240, 740, and 781 run once every hour from the Jeju Intercity Bus Terminal (map) to different trailheads around Hallasan (Eiromok, Yeongsil, and Seongpanak).
Now let’s check out where to stay in Jeju City!
Did anyone order a dreamy 5-star hotel for their trip to Jeju City? This gorgeous city hotel has a rooftop infinity pool that offers breathtaking views over the skyscrapers! But that’s not it. It also comes with an indoor pool, rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, and 5 restaurants! Plus, all the luxury comes inside Jeju’s landmark building!
Other accommodation options in Jeju City
A modern hotel in Jeju City that offers rooms with views, a fitness center, a garden and free wifi
Set within walking distance of the attractions, this hotel has family rooms, free parking and free wifi
Spend time in Jeju City in style with this high-rise penthouse on the 18th-floor
Since all tourists arrive in Jeju City, the number of available hotels will probably drop significantly, and the prices per night often fluctuate. So, I thought I’d offer 3 more options just in case the main ones are already sold out:
- Lotte City Hotel ($$$) – Chill in the outdoor pool of this hotel 40 min away from Jeju Airport. The accommodation also has a fitness center and a spa center where you can relax after your flight.
- Jeju Gillime Pension ($$) – A super comfortable holiday home with lots of space, family rooms, and barbecue facilities. You can even rent scooters and motorbikes if you want to explore around the island!
- Ganderak Guesthouse ($) – This affordable accommodation is located on the Southern side of Jeju City, and it offers rooms with air-conditioning and private balconies.
Things to do in Jeju City
- Eat yummy food at Dongmun Traditional Market
- Watch the sunset over Dakmeoru Coast
- Admire the rocky views at Yongyeon Pond (map)
- Visit the National Museum or the Natural History Museum
- Drive to the iconic Manjanggul Lava Tube (map) to see amazing rock formations
- See the amazing nature of Western and Southern Jeju on a day tour
- Join a tour to see the highlights of Eastern Jeju
2. Seogwipo City – where to stay in Jeju for outdoor activities
Set on a rocky-volcanic coastline, Seogwipo is the island’s second-largest city and one of the best places to stay in Jeju for nature lovers and adventure junkies! For just a city, this place offers almost as much to do as all the activities in Seoul!
Seogwipo is located on the South side of Jeju Island, just 2h away from Jeju City. I recommend you stay in Seogwipo to see jaw-dropping waterfalls, explore the hiking trails, and admire the natural landscape!
HIKING TIP: Olle trails that surround the island also pass through Seogwipo. In fact, most hikers love no. 7 & 10, both of which pass very close to this city! The trails are from 4 to 8 hours long, but you can pick the one that’s the most accessible to you. They’re all mostly flat! TIP: Stop for coffee at Hueilot (map) on trail no. 10, it’s amazing!
Visit the Jusangjeollidae Cliff (map) near Seogwipo for an impressive natural encounter on the island! This volcanic rock formation was formed after the Hallasan volcano’s lava flowed into the sea, and it stretches for a few kilometers along the coast.
The Seogwipo City is also a great spot for cultural exploration, as here you’ll find some amazing temples like the Yakcheonsa Buddhist Temple (map) and local markets (Olle is the main one, map).
Hotels in the city center of Seogwipo are a great base to explore all these places, from the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak in the East (map) to the waterfalls and parks in the West. If you stay here, you’ll also be within walking distance of all the restaurants (where you can try the traditional black pork dish) and bars.
FUN FACT: Did you know you can ride a bike along the entire coast of Jeju? That’s right! The Jeju Fantasy Bicycle Path is over 230 km (143 mi) long, and it takes over 15 hours to complete! Of course, you can do just any chunk of it you want!
The whole city is pretty amazing, and by using public transport, you’ll easily get where you need to! The longest bus ride will be the one from the airport, but otherwise, the attractions are pretty close. Or you can always rent a car to get around the island easily.
Besides all the activities on land, you’ll find many underwater ones as well! Snorkeling and scuba diving fans will surely feel in their element!
This 5-star hotel has elegantly decorated rooms with large windows that overlook either the mountains or the sea and is perfect for both single travelers and families. Some of the amenities I liked here include 2 swimming pools, a lovely spa and wellness center, and a free airport shuttle.
Other accommodation options in Seogwipo City
Enjoy spacious rooms with ceiling-to-floor windows overlooking Seogwipo, a balcony, and free Wi-Fi
A super tranquil place in Seogwipo that offers family rooms, a sun terrace, and a street parking space
A beautiful home to stay in Seogwipo with air-conditioned rooms, free parking, and a lovely backyard
Since Seogwipo is the second largest city on Jeju island, there are so many hotel options here! I’ve offered the main ones above, but I wanted to give you 3 more options since we’ve got a bunch of them that look so good!
- Jeju Bom Museum ($$) – These holiday homes in Seogwipo are perfect for anyone who loves natural landscapes and is traveling by car! The accommodation features all the facilities you need, including a restaurant, spacious rooms with great views, and free Wi-Fi.
- Casaloma Hotel ($$) – Chill in the outdoor pool of this accommodation that offers sea view rooms with a kitchen and private bathrooms.
- Good Day Pension ($) – Traveling on a tight budget? This hotel in Seogwipo is super affordable, and it has apartments with a kitchen and a dining area.
Things to do in Seogwipo City
- Visit the beautiful Jeongbang (map) and Cheonjiyeon (map) waterfalls
- Eat yummy food at Seogwipo Olle Market
- Explore the Yakcheonsa Buddhist Temple
- Be in awe of the marine life in Aqua Planet Jeju diving aquarium
- Catch a sunset near Saeyeongyo Bridge (map) or at the Oedolgae spot (map)
- Check out the Lee Jung Seob Art Gallery (map) for unique coral artwork
- See the beautiful flowers at Yeomiji Botanical Garden (map)
- Join a UNESCO Sports Tour of the South
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3. Jungmun – where to stay in Jeju for families
Planning a holiday with the little ones on the beautiful Jeju Island? You’re in for a treat!
Although you can find many places around the island with fun, kid-friendly activities, I think the Jungmun tourist area is the best, as it offers tranquility, tons of activities, and great hotels!
Set on the Southern coast of Jeju Island, Jungmun has nice beaches, green forests, and cool museums like the Teddy Bear Museum, all of which are located inside the Jungmun Tourist Complex (map).
There’s always something to do here, but that doesn’t mean you can get a minute of peace and quiet when you want to. The Jungmun Tourist complex is known as a place for relaxation, so if you’re looking to escape the crowds, this is the place to be!
A top activity in the area is surfing (along with other water sports), and the best place for it is Jungmun Saekdal Beach (map). Just try to avoid it during the hottest summer months (July to September) unless you want to pay quite a lot for umbrellas and chairs!
TEA LOVERS TIP: For a very special experience on Jeju Island, visit the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields! You can walk along the vast fields and visit a museum on-site, buy unique green tea ice cream and cosmetics, and try many other green tea specialties!
Oh, and if you can, tour the Camellia Hill Botanical Garden (map) from March to April to see its flowers in full bloom! Although walking here any time of year is magical and great for unwinding!
Finally, another thing that puts this place on the map is the super yummy food. Just like most coastal areas on Jeju Island, Jungmuns serves delicious seafood, so make sure you try some while you’re visiting. Jeju Osung (map) is a top recommendation for traditional food!
Now, compared to Jeju City and Seogwipo, there’s a limited number of good hotels in Jungmun. Book your stay here at least 2 months in advance!
Spend an unforgettable holiday with the kids on Jeju Island while staying at this fancy resort that offers great ocean views and a swimming pool. The hotel is set between lush greenery and not too far from a golf course.
Other accommodation options in Jungmun
Modern rooms with wooden furnishings, private bathrooms, and free wifi. The hotel also offers free parking
Enjoy your tranquil stay in Jeju at this great hotel that has family rooms with sea views and a garden
A spacious luxury apartment for 8 guests located just by the Saekdal Beach
Things to do in Jungmun
- Spend a family day at Jungmun Saekdal Beach
- See the beautiful Cheonjeyeon Waterfalls (map)
- Spend a day at the O’Sulloc Green Tea Fields
- Visit the Camellia Hill Botanical Garden (map)
- Enjoy the views at Jusangjeollidae cliff (map)
- Take the kids to the Teddy Bear Museum
- Check out the modern art at the Bonte Museum
4. Seongsan – a cool place to stay in Jeju for nature and culture lovers
Welcome to one of the most beautiful areas on Jeju Island! Seongsan is located on the Southeastern side of Jeju Island, pretty far from Jeju City, around 25 miles (40 km).
Seongsan offers the perfect combination: natural landscapes, great restaurants, iconic spots for sunrise watching, and breathtaking views! Plus, it has that small-town atmosphere that we all love!
One of the biggest attractions here is the Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (map), a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by an underwater eruption more than 100,000 years ago! Think of all the unique geological formations you can see here!
Everyone hikes around Seongsan Ilchulbong to catch the perfect sunrise. People come here from all over the island just for the experience! If you’re an early bird, definitely add this stop to your itinerary!
At the mountain’s base of Seongsan Ilchulbong Park, there are plenty of restaurants and bars where you can eat some nourishing food after your hike.
Also, cultural enthusiasts can check out the pretty cool Jeju Haenyeo Museum (map) about a community of women on Jeju Island who dive in the sea to collect shellfish!
FUN FACT: Haenyo is the name for these female divers in Korean. There are around 4,000 active divers today, a number that has drastically decreased over the years (it went down to 4,000 from 23,000+ in the 1960s).
If you want to learn more about the Jeju women divers’ lives, there’s a beautiful book called Island of Sea Women that I highly recommend you read before your trip!
PRO TIP: Take a ferry from Seongsan to the nearby Udo Island (takes just 20 minutes), rent an e-bike at the port, and tour the whole place! Most people who did this activity say it was the highlight of their trip!
This Seongsan hosts some of the most luxurious hotels on Jeju Island, so if you’re looking for something super fancy, check out my list below! ome of the most luxurious hotels on Jeju Island, so if you’re looking for something super fancy, then check out my list below!
Relax by the pool or at the spa center after a day of exploring Jeju Island at this fabulous hotel that offers free parking and a garden. All rooms are super spacious, and some of them even come with a balcony overlooking the mountains!
Other accommodation options in Seongsan
A comfortable mid-range hotel that has rooms with a kitchen, a private bathroom, and a nice location
Beachfront holiday homes with many facilities, including family rooms, a garden, and free parking
Perfect for a family or larger group, this apartment offers beach access and air-conditioning
Things to do in Seongsan
- See the Seongsan Ilchulbong peak (map)
- Go on a hike around the Seopjikoji area (map)
- Learn about the island’s brave women at Jeju Haenyeo Museum
- Admire the art at Bunker de Lumières Museum (map)
- Take lots of pictures at Seongsan Canola Flower Field (map)
- Check out the art at the Yumin Art Nouveau Collection Museum (map)
- Take a trip to the Udo Island (map)
- Drive to the Jeju Folk Village (map) to explore 1890s lifestyle in the country
5. Hamdeok Beach – where to stay on Jeju Island for the beach
Hamdeok Beach is located just 20 km (12 mi) East of Jeju City, and it’s a popular destination for day trips. But if you’re looking to spend most of your time at the beach, it’s better to base yourself around the beach instead of Jeju City. You don’t want to be navigating the island traffic every day, especially if you’re visiting without a car!
Hamdeok Beach is perfect if you’re traveling with a family and small kids. The waters here are shallow and calm most of the time! Plus, the beach has all the amenities you need for a pleasant stay, like cafés, restaurants, and plenty of opportunities for water sports activities.
There are 3 separate beaches in this area, so you can explore a new one every day!
Also, the nearby Seoubong Park (map), with its trail overlooking the sea and the green mountain, makes this a great spot for hiking.
TIP: Try the freshest seafood at the Gozip Dol Wooluck Hamdeok restaurant (map)! Their professional staff will tell you all about how to properly eat the cool dishes (the portions are pretty generous, too)!
NOTE: Free Wi-Fi and ATMs are widely available across Jeju Island. Credit card machines are also available at most places, but just in case, have small change when buying in smaller shops.
There are tons of great beachfront hotels in Hamdeok Beach, including family-friendly hotels and private accommodations.
The best luxury hotel by the beach, UTOP UBLESS has rooms with jacuzzis on the balcony overlooking the sea, a spa, table tennis, and many other luxury amenities. It’s a great option for couples and families looking to splurge on their stay!
Other accommodation options in Hamdeok Beach
The most iconic hotel by Hamdeok Beach awaits with beautiful views, an oceanfront location, and family rooms
A lovely 2-star hotel with a 24-hour front desk and 300 m away from the beach. They also have free Wi-Fi and private parking.
Stay in a resort where you can practice water activities like scuba diving and snorkeling; ideal for adrenaline junkies
Things to do in Hamdeok Beach
- Try a new water activity at Hamdeok Beach
- Have dinner at the Gozip Dol Wooluck Hamdeok Restaurant
- Go hiking on the scenic trails in Seoubong Park
- Catch a sunset at the local seafront park (map)
- Visit the nearby Bukchon Dol Hareubang Park with cool sculptures of local legends (map)
6. Aewol – best place to stay in Jeju away from the crowds
Have we got any tourists who can’t stay too far from the sandy shores but appreciate the countryside vibe?
I’m sure we do, and I’ve found the most amazing area where to stay in Jeju Island! Aewol is an area located pretty close to Jeju City, only 1h away. This is awesome if you want to stay closer to the main city on the island but enjoy the privacy and quietness of the island’s rural area.
Gwakji Beach (map) is one of my favorite beaches here with crystal blue waters and sugary white shores, ideal for relaxing under the sun. Pack your bags and get ready to spend a few days doing nothing, sunbathing on the beach, and trying a bunch of watersports!
The area stretches from the coast up until the middle of the island, so you’ve got some ground to cover as there are more attractions as you move into the island’s center. You’ll find parks, natural spots, and some hiking areas as well.
NOTE: A lot of the attractions around Aewol are stretched out, so it’s best to use a car to get around. Unfortunately, there weren’t any luxury hotels worth recommending in Aewol. After all, this isn’t your typical tourist spot. Olle Resort & Spa is the closest it gets to it, but I still wouldn’t call it luxury. If you want a luxury vacation by the beach, check out the accommodation around Hamdeok Beach.
Other accommodation options in Aewol
All-white rooms with a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and a balcony with sea views await at Aewol Hotel
Enjoy your stay in Jeju Island in this budget hotel that offers simple rooms with a bathroom, a bar, and free Wi-Fi
Set near the beach, this cozy condo has rooms with ocean views, a kitchen, free parking, and a TV
Things to do in Aewol
- Try some watersports on Gwakji Beach
- Spend a fun day at Park Jeju (map) hiking area
- Go on a hike around Saebyeol Oreum (map)
- Visit the Arte Museum Jeju in northwest Jeju
- Take the kids to the Jeju Teseum theme park (map)
- Check out the unique Gueomri stone salt (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$150 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$100 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$50 |
| 📍 Best area: | Jeju City |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Grand Hyatt Jeju |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Ventimo Hotel & Residence |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Elin Hotel |
BONUS 1: Best beachfront hotels on Jeju Island
Still thinking about where to stay in Jeju, South Korea? I know it’s hard to decide when there are so many amazing options like Jeju City and Seogwipo!
But since you’re coming to an island, I’d recommend staying at a beachfront hotel! These places offer amazing views, they’re right near the sandy shores, and look so cool! Check out the list below:
Luxury (US$150 and up)
- Parnas Hotel – Wake up to the perfect sea view in the comfortable rooms of this hotel in Jeju located on Jungmun Beach. Featuring spacious rooms with ceiling-to-floor windows and a balcony with a seating area, the accommodation is definitely a keeper! Just wait until you see the indoor and outdoor pools, eat at all of the 7 restaurants, and relax with a massage or facial at their spa center.
Mid Range (US$50 – US$80)
- Pension Haneul Tari – Set on the outskirts of Jeju City, these holiday homes are perfect for tourists who want to be more self-sufficient, and maybe cook their own food or have more privacy. Decorated with simple yet modern furniture, the houses have lots of space and all the necessary facilities like a kitchen, a dining area, and barbecue facilities. Of course, you can see the beach from most rooms, and there’s even a furnished terrace where you can enjoy your breakfast and the wonderful views!
Budget (up to US$50)
- Nice View Guesthouse – Set in Seongsan, the best area to stay on Jeju Island for outdoor activities, this super affordable guesthouse offers the most amazing sea views! It’s a bit more modest, but at this price, you’ll get everything you need for your stay, including comfortable rooms with a private bathroom and a balcony, a continental breakfast, and free parking!
BONUS 2: Most romantic hotels on Jeju Island
Planning a romantic getaway to one of the most popular holiday islands in South Korea? Then you’ll need some amazing hotels where you and your partner can enjoy romantic dinners, couple’s massages, and some relaxing time at the spa.
Luckily, I’ve got the right places that offer that and more, so let’s have a look:
Luxury (US$150 and up)
- The Seaes Hotel & Resort – This green oasis in Jungmun is the perfect hotel where to stay in Jeju with your partner! Surrounded by natural landscapes and amazing views, the hotel offers all the privacy you need along with amazing spa facilities, facial treatments, and a hot tub to enjoy in the sunset. Start your day with some room service, and then head out to enjoy the sun on the terrace or right at the beach!
Mid-range (US$60 – US$120)
- Hotel Sirius – Set in Jeju City, this fabulous hotel offers everything you need for a perfect stay! Think delicious food, swimming pools, and incredible views! During this holiday, you and your partner can relax in your private spa bath, hit the gym, and sunbathe on the terrace at noon! La dolce vita!
Budget (up to US$60)
- Jubilee Chalet – If you both love nature and prefer to stay in a more homie-style accommodation, then check out this place! It offers spacious apartments with baths, a balcony, and a small kitchenette. Here, no one will disturb you, and you can enjoy your romantic holiday to the fullest while admiring the beautiful sea views and exploring the Seogwipo area.
FAQs about hotels in Jeju, South Korea
🚗 Where to stay in Jeju if you don’t have a car?
Jeju City is one of the best areas to stay in Jeju without a car. You can easily get around this place by using public transport. Plus, most tours around the island depart from Jeju City.
📅 How many days do you need on Jeju Island?
I’d recommend spending at least 8 days on Jeju Island, especially if you’re coming for the first time and want to tour the whole island. For shorter stays (less than 5 days), base yourself in only one area so you’re not stuck in your car all the time.
📍Is it better to stay in Jeju City or Seogwipo?
If you’re coming just for one day or 2, then I’d recommend staying in Jeju City. For longer stays (5+ days), I recommend staying in both cities because they have so much to offer. The ride between Jeju City and Seogwipo takes 1 hour (1h 20 min by bus).
🤔 Where to stay in Jeju for first timers?
Jeju City is the best area to stay in Jeju if you’re coming for the first time. Getting around this city is easy as everything is just a minute walk away and there are many amazing hotels like Grand Hyatt Jeju.
🌱 What is the best time to visit Jeju?
The best season to visit Jeju is mid-spring and early fall (March-April, September-October). The summers are too hot, and winters are too cold in Jeju.
🌋 What part of Jeju Island is best?
The South and Southwest of Jeju have the most dramatic natural landscapes, while the Northeast has excellent beaches. However, beautiful scenery is really to be seen all over the island.
✅ Can I swim in Jeju Island?
Absolutely! Jeju is not a prime sea vacation destination, but it has swimmable beaches all over! Hamdeok Beach is a must if you want to focus on a seaside vacation during your stay here.
🛣️ Where to stay in Jeju with car?
You’ll be more flexible if you’re traveling by car because you can aim for accommodation outside the town centers, which usually has a calmer vibe. However, anywhere with private parking in Jeju will do, even in Downtown Jeju.
Final thoughts on the best areas to stay in Jeju Island
We’ve reached the end of our guide on where to stay on Jeju Island! Hopefully, my tips helped you find the ideal spot for you! Ideally, plan a longer stay (over a week), and divide your itinerary between 2 major spots (Jeju City & Seogwipo) so you can experience the island to the fullest.
And if you’re still thinking about hotels, these are my 2 absolute favorite ones in Jeju City:
- Grand Hyatt Jeju – a 5-star hotel with a stunning outdoor pool with sea views, rooms with ceiling-to-floor windows and a spa center
- Ventimo Hotel & Residence – this modern hotel has simply decorated rooms overlooking the city, a garden and a fitness center
As I mentioned, Jeju Island is a major holiday destination, so I highly recommend booking your hotels in advance if you want to pay a fair price per night at your favorite accommodation.
Well, this is where we part ways (for now). Enjoy your trip to Jeju Island and leave me a comment below if you have any questions!
Happy exploring,
Victoria
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