Must-visit Attractions in South Jeju Island

Jeju, also known as Jeju-do, is a stunning island in South Korea. Often referred to as the “Hawaii” of Korea due to its partly tropical climate, this island is a favorite among travelers. Among its many attractions, Seogwipo stands out for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors an unforgettable experience in southern Jeju. Check out our list of must-visit attractions in south Jeju to make the most of your time on this enchanting island!

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Yeomiji Botanical Garden 여미지 식물원

• Address: 93, Jungmungwangwang-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 중문관광로 93
• Open hours: 09:00-18:00 | Outdoor Garden open until sunset.
• Contact: (+82) 064-735-1100
• Admission fee: Adults 9,000 won ($6.7) / Teenagers 6,000 won ($4.5) / Children 5,000 won ($3.7)
• Website: www.yeomiji.or.kr

If you are a nature and plant lover, visiting Yeomiji Botanical Garden within Jungmun Resort is a must. Renowned as one of Asia’s foremost botanical marvels, it boasts a distinctive ambiance that captures the essence of the southern region. 

Inside, you’ll encounter an impressive array of around 2,000 rare tropical and subtropical plants, meticulously curated across themed sections such as the Flower Garden, Water Lily Garden, Jungle Garden, Subtropical Fruits Garden, Cactus, and Succulent Garden, not to mention an Observation Platform for breathtaking views. Beyond its indoor confines, the outdoor garden beckons with its Jeju Native Garden, along with charmingly crafted Korean, Japanese, Italian, and French folk gardens. 

Conveniently, they also offer tour train shuttles between areas, allowing easy access to the Jungmun Tourist Complex and the majestic Cheonjeyeon Falls.

Teddy Bear Museum 테디베어 박물관

• Address: 31, Jungmungwangwang-ro110beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 중문관광로110번길 31
• Operating hours: 09:00-18:00 (Last admission 17:30)
• Contact: (+82) 064-738-7600
• Admission: Adults 12,000 won ($9) / Teenagers 11,000 won ($8.2) / Children 10,000 won ($7.5)
• Website: www.teddybearmuseum.com

Surely, most people had a teddy bear during their childhood, right? But teddy bears are more than just toys now; they’re often seen as best friends or even part of the family. The Teddy Bear Museum in the Jungmun Tourism Complex on Jeju Island is Korea’s first teddy bear museum, opening its doors in April 2001. 

Inside, you can explore a wide collection of teddy bears worldwide and learn everything you want to know about these cuddly companions. The museum also includes two galleries, a gift shop, and a cafe, making it a perfect place to spend time with friends, family, or loved ones. Plus, you can enjoy a view of Jungmun Beach from the outdoor garden.

Cheonjiyeon Falls 천지연 폭포

• Address: 2-15 Namseongjung-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
• Open hours: 9:00 – 22:00 (No Entry Past 21:20)
• Contact: (+82) 064-733-1528
• Admission: Adults 2,000 won ($1.5)/ Teenagers & Children 1,000 won ($0.75) 

Cheonjiyeon Falls is a must-see spot on a sunny day. Its name, “sky connected with land,” reflects the heavenly sight of water flowing from above. The surrounding wooded area is home to wild dampalsu trees and rare plants, designated as a Natural Monument. 

Standing 22 meters tall and 12 meters wide, the falls’ clear waters are a habitat for Mutae eels and are designated as Natural Monument No. 27. A stroll along the subtropical path to Cheonjiyeon Falls offers the soothing sound of waterfalls. At Cheonjiyeon Falls, you’ll spot the intriguing “face of Chunjiyeon,” a stone resembling a human face, especially noticeable at noon. Plus, there are fossils of shellfish and eels to discover.

Soesokkak Estuary 쇠소깍

• Address: 128, Soesokkak-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 쇠소깍로 128
• Open hours: +82-64-732-1562

Soesokkak Estuary in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, was once called ‘Soedun’ before it became known as ‘Soesokkak.’ It’s where the Hyodoncheon Stream meets the ocean, forming a wide river. The cliffs here have unique lava formations and pine trees, and the water is a deep blue. It’s a great backdrop for stunning photos. 

You can enjoy leisure sports like Tewoo boat rides, transparent kayak tours, and water bicycle rentals. These activities provide unique perspectives of the estuary’s beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Jeongbang Falls 정방폭포

• Address: 37, Chilsimni-ro 214beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 칠십리로214번길 37
• Operating hours: 09:00-17:50 
• Contact: +82-64-733-1530
• Admission: Free

Jeongbang Falls is one of Jejudo Island’s top three waterfalls, alongside Cheonjiyeon Falls and Cheonjeyeon Falls. It holds a unique distinction as the only waterfall in Korea that directly plunges into the sea. 

Standing at 23 meters, the cascading water creates a thrilling sound against the backdrop of the black cliff. Surrounding the falls are cliffs and ancient pine trees, forming a picturesque view known as “Jeongbanghapok,” which is listed as one of Yeongju’s Ten Scenic Sights. Plus, you can enjoy a panoramic sea view from the observatory at the top of the cliff.

Cheonjeyeon Falls 천제연 폭포

• Address: 132, Cheonjeyeon-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 천제연로 132
• Operating hours: 09:00-19:00 * Last ticketing 1 hr. before closing
• Contact: +82-64-760-6331
• Admission: Adults 2,500 won ($1.88) / Children 1,350 won ($1) / Free for ages 6 & younger

Cheonjeyeon Falls, famously known as “The Pond of God,” is the largest among the three major waterfalls on Jeju Island. It comprises three distinct sections, each captivating in its own right. The initial cascade plunges into a pond with a depth of 21 meters, followed by two subsequent falls that eventually merge into the sea. Adjacent to the first waterfall lies a cave where water gracefully descends from the ceiling.

Nearby, you can explore Cheonjeyeon Valley, where you’ll find Seonimgyo Bridge, adorned with seven nymphs, and the octagonal Cheonjeru Pavilion. These landmarks are steeped in legend, adding to the natural beauty and mystique of the area.

Jungmun Beach 중문색달 해변

• Address: 29-51 Jungmungwangwang-ro 72beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 중문관광로72번길

For beach enthusiasts, Jungmun Beach is a must-visit destination. Crowned the best beach in Korea by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, it boasts a picturesque setting surrounded by cliffs. With its sandy shores and panoramic views, the beach exudes romance and charm. 

Nestled within Jungmun Resort, you can indulge in various recreational activities. From windsurfing and waterskiing to parasailing, there’s no shortage of adventures. Dive into the cobalt-colored ocean for a refreshing swim, then unwind on the sandy hill while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves crashing against the cliffs. Jungmun Beach offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for beach lovers.

Jungmun Daepo Coast Jusangjeolli Cliff 중문 대포 주상절리대

• Address: 36-30, Ieodo-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 이어도로 36-30
• Operating hours: 09:00 -18:00
• Contact: +82-64-738-1521
• Admission: Adults 2,000 won ($1.5) / Teenagers & Children 1,000 won ($0.75) 

If you’ve searched for attractions in Jeju, you’ve likely encountered images of Jusangjeolli Cliff. These stunning stone pillars, arranged along the coast, are a designated cultural monument of Jeju Island. Formed by the meeting of volcanic lava from Hallasan Mountain and the Jungmun Sea, the cliff features rock pillars resembling cubes or hexagons, giving the impression of expertly carved stone. 

Towering at 20 meters tall, the cliff is a popular destination for observing high tide and sea angling. The high tide waves breaking against the cliff face give an amazing picture of the ocean around the pillars.

Hwangwuji Haean (Coast) 황우지해안

• Address: 766-1 Seohong-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do

Located on the 7th course of Olle-gil in Seogwipo, “Hwangwuji Haean (Coast)” is a hidden gem of Jeju Island. Its shallow ponds, formed by rocks, provide ideal conditions for snorkeling. From “Hwangwuji Haean,” you can delight in gazing upon the crystal-clear emerald sea.

Moreover, the “Hwangwuji Coast” boasts 12 caves, including the historic site known as “Hwangwujigul” or “Yeoldugul” on the southwestern coast of Sammaebong. This geological wonder awaits exploration, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich history and natural beauty.

Waljong Art Gallery 왈종미술관

• Address: 30, Chilsimni-ro 214beon-gil, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주특별자치도 서귀포시 칠십리로 214번길 30)
• Operating hours: 10:00-18:00 / Closed Mondays
• Admission: Adults 5,000 won ($3.7) / Children 3,000 won ($2.25) / Preschoolers Free
• Website: walartmuseum.or.kr (Korean only)

For those seeking a different perspective on Jeju beyond its natural wonders, a visit to Waljong Art Gallery offers a unique experience. Situated atop the cliff near Jeongbangpokpo Falls, this gallery showcases the works of Korean artist Lee Wal Jong, who has called Jeju home for many years. Lee’s inspiring artworks capture the essence and beauty of Jeju in his distinctive style. Visitors can immerse themselves in his creations while enjoying breathtaking sea views from the gallery’s glass-walled second floor. It’s a captivating way to appreciate Jeju’s allure through the eyes of a talented artist.

Seokbujak Museum 석부작 박물관

• Address: 8941, Iljudong-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do | 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 일주동로 8941
• Operating hours: 10:00 – 17:30 daily
• Contact: +82-64-739-5588
• Website: www.seokbujak.com

For flower enthusiasts, the Seokbujak Museum on Jeju Island is a haven where you can witness the island’s unique flora in one place. Symbolizing Jeju’s essence with its stones, wind, and women, the museum’s spacious park boasts 30,000 basalt stones, creating a picturesque setting.

Inside the Open Exhibition Hall, you can admire a breathtaking display of over 1,000 wildflowers and plants, all elegantly showcased on basalt. Furthermore, the hall has about 10,000 Seokbujak objects, which are used to drill holes in stones and place plants or flowers within. There is also a charming cafe and an area for experiencing the Orange Mandarins Program.

In conclusion, a trip to South Jeju promises an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and endless exploration. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, lounging on pristine beaches, or diving into local traditions, there’s excitement around every corner. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of South Jeju and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, set out on your journey, and let the wonders of Jeju Island captivate your heart and soul.

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