South Korea isn’t known for its beach destinations, but if you want gorgeous beaches and landscapes plus quirky culture and attractions, this is where you’ll find it.
However, traveling in Jeju isn’t as easy as other beach destinations. Jeju is huge, and getting between towns can be difficult. That’s why you need to be careful when choosing your Jeju accommodation.
We’ve created this neighborhood guide to make things easier for you. In our round up of where to stay in Jeju, we’ll take you through the best areas, and top things to do in each.
Let’s get going!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Jeju.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Private Cottage | Best Airbnb in Jeju
This cottage is located near Hyeopjae Beach, often said to be the most beautiful in South Korea. It’s an old style style house that contains all the modern amenities you’ll need for your stay, including a full kitchen and private open-air bath.
Gallery Hotel Be Jeju | Best Hostel in Jeju
This hostel in Jeju opened in 2018, and has all the most modern facilities. It’s located right in the center of the city and surrounded by shops and restaurants. The comfortable rooms have their own private bathroom, and some of them even have terraces.
Grim Resort | Best Hotel in Jeju
This definitely not grim resort is right in the heart of Jeju City. It offers an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, and family rooms if needed. It’s also on the beachfront, so you won’t have to go far to enjoy the ocean during your stay.
Jeju City
Jeju City is the capital of the island and the main entry point when you come from the mainland. As you might expect, it’s also a popular spot for shopping, eating, and sightseeing because of this easy access.
Seogwipo City
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Jeju on a budget, then try Seogwipo City, located about two hours from Jeju City. With its rustic vibe, this is the second largest city on the island and offers accommodation, food, and shopping for a wide range of budgets and tastes.
Jungmun Tourist Area
Last but not least, you have the Jungmun Tourist Area, a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Jeju with kids. Located close to Seogwipo City, this is exactly what it sounds like.
Jeju is a subtropical paradise full of nature activities, a fascinating culture, and great nightlife. However it’s also a huge island with limited transport between the cities, so where you stay is pretty important.
Jeju City is the main city on the island, and a ideal for first-time visitors to Jeju. It’s the entry point to the island, and offers the perfect combination of nature, great shopping and even better food.
Seogwipo City is located in the south of the island. It has a more relaxed atmosphere, and is our top pick for those traveling on a budget. It’s got stunning waterfalls to explore, as well as plenty of affordable places to eat.
The Jungmun Tourist Area is a great choice for families staying in Jeju. As you might imagine, this area is packed with attractions to keep everyone happy and engaged.
3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay In Jeju
There are lots of great neighborhoods in Jeju, but here are three of the best for travelers.
1. Jeju City – Where to Stay in Jeju for a First Visit
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Jeju City – Try the traditional Korean noodle soup, Olrae Guksu.
- BEST Place to Visit in Jeju City – Hike up Mount Hallasan to enjoy the views and work off the food!
Jeju City is the capital of the island and the main entry point when you come from the mainland. As you might expect, it’s also a popular spot for shopping, eating, and sightseeing due to its easy access. This is what makes it one of the best places in Jeju to stay for a short or long visit.
Basing yourself in Jeju City doesn’t have to mean staying in the city itself. This location offers the best of both worlds, with popular nature experiences just a short trip away. So, make sure you get out there and enjoy everything this city can offer!
Yesjun Guest House | Best Hostel in Jeju City
With lots of common spaces, this accommodation in Jeju is perfect if you want to connect with fellow travelers. It offers male and female dorms and a great breakfast. Best of all – a portion of what you pay is donated to a local charity.
Astar Hotel | Best Hotel in Jeju City
If you want a little bit of luxury while you’re in Jeju city, this hotel will fit the bill. It’s located within walking distance from the Bus Terminal for easy access to the city. It also has a a sauna, restaurant, and fitness center on-site for your convenience.
Entire Apartment | Best Airbnb in Jeju City
Located right in the heart of Jeju, this apartment is ideal for couples who want easy access to city attractions. It has one bedroom,one bathroom, a full kitchen and a promenade out front that makes for a lovely coastal walk. The furnishings are plain but comfortable – and it’s super budget-friendly!
Entire Apartment is one of our favourites in Jeju but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things To See and Do in Jeju City
- Try some local eats at Dongmun Market.
- Have some meals in the local eateries for the best food you’ll have in South Korea.
- Explore the famous lava tunnel Manjanggul Cave.
- Spend some time relaxing next to the turquoise water of Yongyeon Pond
- Enjoy the pristine beaches, such as Iho Tewoo Beach or some of the more isolated beaches near Hallim Park.
- Get out of the city and have a barbecue at Gwakji Gwamul Beach.
- Grab some bargains at the Jeju Jungang Underground Shopping Centre.
- Try one of the UNESCO recognized hikes, like Geomun Oreum. See the island’s 9 dragon peaks or Seongsan Ilchulbong for sites that are culturally and historically important.
- Try the local food at restaurants like Jeju Hukdon Saesang Suragan or Myeongjin Jeonbok.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Seogwipo City – Where to Stay in Jeju on a Budget
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Seogwipo City – Take a stroll through the internationally inspired Yeomiji Botanical Gardens.
- BEST Place to Visit in Seogwipo City – Jeongbang Falls – the only waterfall in Asia that drops into the ocean.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Jeju on a budget, then try Seogwipo City. With its rustic vibe, this is the second largest city on the island and offers accommodation, food, and shopping. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on your trip, this is the place to come.
Seogwipo City is ideally located to allow you to explore the southern parts of the island. You’ll find some of the most spectacular natural landscapes and attractions here, so don’t miss out on these sites!
Seogwipo City New Town Accommodation | Best Airbnb in Seogwipo City
This Airbnb has the convenience of a hotel and the privacy of a homey environment. Suitable for two guests, this large house has stunning views over the ocean. It’s close to everything, and has an outdoor terrace where you can sit and enjoy warm beach nights.
Seom Guest House | Best Hostel in Seogwipo City
Located in one of Jeju’s best neighborhoods, this hostel offers simply stunning views over the water. It also has a shared lounge and terrace. A continental breakfast is offered every morning, so you can fuel up before you head out into the city.
Jeju I’ve Hotel and Resort | Best Hotel in Seogwipo City
This hotel is in the best area if you want to be between the city and natural landmarks. It’s right on the edge of Halla Mountain and offers free-standing cabins where you can enjoy your holiday in privacy. Each cabin has a full kitchen and dining area and there are two swimming pools and a restaurant on-site.
Things To See and Do in Seogwipo City
- Try some tea samples at the O’sulloc Tea Museum.
- Hike one or more of the Olle Trails.
- Snap up some bargains at the Seogwipo Maeil Olle Market.
- Head over to Chilsimni Food Street for lots of eateries and South Korean delicacies.
- Marvel at the volcanic rock formations of Jusangjeolli.
- Check out some of the local farmers’ markets, like the Every day Market (Mae-il shi-jang) or the Five Day Village Market.
- Take the kids to Jeju Waterworld for the day.
3. Jungmun Tourist Area – Best Neighborhood in Jeju for Families
- COOLEST Thing to Do in Jungmun Tourist Area – Try the seafood – this area is said to have the best on the island.
- BEST Place to Visit in Jungmun Tourist Area – Relax on the colorful sands of Jungmun Beach.
The Jungmun Tourist Area, a great place to stay in Jeju with kids. Close to Seogwipo City, this is a designated tourist area with a vacation feel and lots of attractions to enjoy. It’s the perfect place for the kind of vacation where you don’t have to plan or organize anything!
It’s also full of bars and clubs, so it’s a great place to consider if you’re after good nightlife in Jeju.
Daepyeong-ri Ocean View | Best Airbnb in Jungmun Tourist Area
This house is suitable for up to four guests and offers stunning ocean views. It’s in a small beach town with amazing ocean views and access. The house is conveniently located close to the bus station and shops, so you can have a relaxed stay.
Jeju Hiking Inn | Best Hostel in Jungmun Tourist Area
With lots of welcoming common spaces, this South Korean hostel is one of the best places to stay in Jeju. It’s reasonably priced, and full of personality. There’s a shared lounge, private shower area, communal kitchen, and a delicious breakfast. It’s also close to the bus stop and to the Jungmum Tourist area for extra convenience.
Y Resort Jeju | Best Hotel in Jungmun Tourist Area
This hotel in Jeju is just minutes from the beach. It offers its own pool and spacious, fully equipped rooms with balconies and kitchenettes. Some rooms also include a spa bath and a private beach, so you can get some sun in peace.
Things To See and Do in Jungmun Tourist Area
- Have a drink at local spots like Ogseupeob, South Bounder, or Brown Tap Craft Beer.
- Take the kids to see the Teddy Bear Museum.
- Spend some time sampling at the Chocolate Museum.
- Get out in nature at Jeju Loveland, or try the local restaurants.
- Relax and go for a swim at Hyeopjae Beach.
- Take in the views as you wander across Seonim Bridge.
- Enjoy a perfect slice of nature at Cheonjeyeon Falls.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Jeju
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Jeju and where to stay.
What To Pack For Jeju
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Jeju
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Jeju
Jeju is a little-known beach destination with a lot to offer. Whether you like shopping, culture, nature or you’re just curious – this is a great place to visit for anyone traveling South Korea.
Rest assured that South Korea is safe for any traveler. Despite tensions with the North, everywhere in South Korea is unspoiled and is a must-visit for any intrepid explorer!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around South Korea.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Jeju.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
