Welcome to Jeju Island, a jewel of South Korea known for its spectacular landscapes, pristine beaches, and mouthwatering local cuisine. If you are a nature lover and foodie like me, then buckle up for the perfect weekend in this paradise!
Day 1: Arrival & Initial Exploration
Morning: Arrival in Jeju Island
Kickstart your weekend adventure with a morning flight to Jeju Island. The island is well connected, and flights operate regularly from major South Korean cities. Upon arrival, head straight to the car rental service – we recommend AVIS – to pick up your vehicle. The convenience of having your own wheels cannot be overstated in Jeju.
Lunch: Abalone Porridge
Your first meal in Jeju should be something special and authentic, like the abalone porridge from Badang-Gil. Nestled close to the airport, this local shop serves one of the best renditions of this island specialty. It’s a comforting and hearty bowl that’s sure to leave you wanting more!
Afternoon: WA’View Cafe and Nature Trail
Post lunch, head to WA’View Cafe, known for its splendid views and delicious desserts. Do not miss their orange cake – a delectable blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Post dessert, it’s time for a tryst with nature. Visit a local waterfall (Jeju is home to many) and then head to the scenic Geumneung Beach. Take a relaxing stroll and soak in the stunning vistas of the ocean.
After the beach, try a tangerine snack from a local vendor – Jeju is famous for its sweet, juicy tangerines.
Evening: Souvenir Shopping & Hotel Check-in
Before calling it a day, pay a visit to Innis Free and the Osulloc Tea Museum. You can pick up some Jeju-special beauty products, teas, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to ask for a tax refund!
After a fulfilling day, head to The Grand Sumorum Hotel for your night’s stay.
Dinner: Jeju Black Pork BBQ
Your first dinner in Jeju has to be the island’s famous Black Pork BBQ. We recommend trying it at the restaurant in Seogwipo-si. The pork is juicy and full of flavor, and don’t miss out on the crab fried rice – it’s divine!
Dat 2: Delving Deeper into Jeju’s Charm
Morning: Coffee Breakfast & Cold Noodles
Begin your day with a coffee breakfast at your hotel before heading out to try Jeju’s famous cold noodles at a chain within the Jeju Folk Village Temple. They serve some of the best noodles on the island!
Daytime: Jeju Folk Village & Sunrise Peak
Post lunch, explore the Jeju Folk Village, a place where many old Korean dramas were filmed. Then, it’s time to visit Sunrise Peak. If you’re up for it, hike to the top for mesmerizing panoramic views.
Evening: Grand Hyatt Jeju
Check into the Grand Hyatt Jeju, the epitome of luxury on the island (fun fact: this is the same hotel they filmed Singles Inferno Season 3). This exceptional hotel offers stunning views, spacious rooms, and top-notch amenities. Its highlight is the rooftop pool, where you can take a dip while enjoying panoramic vistas of Jeju. Indulge in the hotel’s diverse dining options, ranging from authentic Korean cuisine to international flavors.
Located in Jeju City, it provides easy access to nearby attractions and a vibrant nightlife scene. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and comfort of the Grand Hyatt Jeju for an unforgettable evening.
Dinner: Grand Restaurant Buffet
Dinner at the Grand Restaurant Buffet in Grand Hyatt Jeju is an extravagant affair that presents a culinary journey through Korean and international cuisines. With live food stations offering fresh seafood, sushi, local Jeju specialities, and a wide array of Western dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Desserts range from traditional Korean rice cakes to a delightful variety of Western-style sweets.
The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, and the top-notch service completes the unforgettable dining experience. It’s a grand feast that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant flavors and culinary wealth of Jeju.
Day 3: Relax & Return
Morning: Rest and recover
After two action-packed days, the final day of your Jeju getaway is all about relaxation and rejuvenation. Start by giving yourself the luxury of sleeping in, a true vacation treat. Let the tranquility of the island seep in as you enjoy a leisurely morning with no rush.
Spend the first part of your day exploring the hotel’s amenities. You could choose to hit the hotel spa for a soothing massage or relax by the pool with a book. Perhaps enjoy a late breakfast or brunch at one of the hotel’s restaurants, savoring the final tastes of Jeju.
Afternoon: Returning home
As the afternoon rolls around, it’s time to gather your belongings, check out of the hotel, and head back to the airport. Don’t forget to soak up the last sights of this beautiful island during the drive, storing the memory for times when you crave a little sunshine and sea.
Trip Wrap Up
This weekend getaway to Jeju Island serves as a perfect testament to the island’s beauty, culture, and culinary delights. From the moment you land, every day is a new adventure, filled with delicious food, breathtaking views, and memorable experiences.
Over the course of the trip, we indulged in local delicacies like Abalone porridge and Jeju Black Pork BBQ, explored beautiful natural landscapes like Geumneung Beach and Sunrise Peak, and dived into the history of the island at Jeju Folk Village. Staying at luxurious hotels like The Grand Sumorum and Grand Hyatt Jeju added a touch of extravagance to the experience.
On the final day, taking a step back to unwind and absorb the memories made was equally important. This is the essence of Jeju – a balance of adventure and relaxation, modernity and tradition, nature and culture.
As you journey back home, you carry with you not just souvenirs, but also the essence of Jeju – the sounds of the waves, the taste of fresh seafood, the fragrance of tangerines, and most importantly, unforgettable memories. Until next time, Jeju!