Last weekend, I finally made it to Seogwipo, the southern city of Jeju Island, and honestly, it completely stole my heart. Compared to Jeju City, Seogwipo feels more peaceful and surrounded by nature - with cliffs, waterfalls, and endless ocean views... Amazing! It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment. Whether you’re into hiking, sightseeing, or just relaxing with a cup of tea, Seogwipo has a little bit of everything!
If you want to fill out your Seogwipo bucket list, check out this article and make sure to save these places for future visits.
1) Seongsan Ilchulbong (Seongsan Sunrise Peak)
Our first stop was Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. Even though it’s technically on the eastern side of Jeju, it’s an easy trip from Seogwipo and absolutely worth the early wake-up call. Climbing to the top takes about 20–30 minutes, and the view of the sun rising over the ocean is just breathtaking. The crater at the summit makes it feel like you’re standing on another planet! If you’re not a morning person, it’s still beautiful any time of day, but that sunrise is something really special.
2) Marado Island
Next, we took a short ferry ride to Marado Island, the southernmost point of Korea. It’s tiny, quiet, and perfect for a half-day trip. You can walk around the whole island in about an hour, passing green fields, lighthouses, and stunning coastal cliffs. The sea breeze felt amazing, and the island has this raw, untouched vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. Oh, and don’t miss trying Marado jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles). it’s famous here for being the “southernmost jjajangmyeon” in Korea!
3) Osulloc Tea Museum
After all that exploring, make sure to step by the Osulloc Tea Museum for something more relaxing. Surrounded by green tea fields, the air smells faintly of tea leaves, and it’s honestly one of the most calming places I’ve ever been. You can learn a bit about Korea’s tea culture, try different teas, and of course, enjoy their famous green tea or hallabong ice cream. The whole place has a modern, cozy atmosphere - perfect for an afternoon break or Instagram photos!
4) Jusangjeolli Cliff
Jusangjeolli Cliff was one of the most impressive natural sights I’ve seen in Jeju. It’s a series of hexagonal rock columns formed by lava that cooled after an ancient volcanic eruption. The pattern looks so geometric it’s hard to believe it’s natural! Standing on the viewing deck, you can watch waves crash dramatically against the cliffs. it’s both powerful and peaceful at the same time. If you’re into photography, this is definitely a must-see spot.
5) Jeongbang Waterfall
If you visit Seogwipo, you definitely shouldn’t miss Jeongbang Waterfall — one of the coolest spots on Jeju Island. It’s the only waterfall in Korea that falls straight into the ocean, which makes it really special. The view is amazing, especially when the sunlight hits the water and creates a rainbow. It’s also a great place to relax, take some photos, and feel the ocean breeze. Legend says a dragon once lived under the waterfall, adding a bit of mystery to this beautiful place.
6) Oedolgae Rock
Before heading back, we stopped by Oedolgae Rock, one of Seogwipo’s most famous coastal landmarks. The name literally means “lonely rock,” and it stands tall in the ocean, separated from the mainland. According to local legend, the rock was once a woman waiting endlessly for her husband lost at sea. The surrounding trail offers amazing ocean views, especially at sunset. it’s quiet, romantic, and full of Jeju’s signature charm.
Seogwipo turned out to be the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Every corner had something unique — from volcanic cliffs to peaceful tea gardens and hidden islands. What I loved most was how connected everything felt: the sea, the wind, and the slow island rhythm that makes you forget about city life. Especially if you live in Seoul, Seogwipo allows you to relax, reset and recharge your social batteries.
If you ever need a weekend escape from the mainland, Seogwipo should be at the top of your list. Whether you come alone, with friends, or even for a quiet solo trip, this coastal gem will definitely leave you refreshed and inspired.
Last weekend, I finally made it to Seogwipo, the southern city of Jeju Island, and honestly, it completely stole my heart. Compared to Jeju City, Seogwipo feels more peaceful and surrounded by nature - with cliffs, waterfalls, and endless ocean views... Amazing! It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment. Whether you’re into hiking, sightseeing, or just relaxing with a cup of tea, Seogwipo has a little bit of everything!
If you want to fill out your Seogwipo bucket list, check out this article and make sure to save these places for future visits.
1) Seongsan Ilchulbong (Seongsan Sunrise Peak)
Our first stop was Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. Even though it’s technically on the eastern side of Jeju, it’s an easy trip from Seogwipo and absolutely worth the early wake-up call. Climbing to the top takes about 20–30 minutes, and the view of the sun rising over the ocean is just breathtaking. The crater at the summit makes it feel like you’re standing on another planet! If you’re not a morning person, it’s still beautiful any time of day, but that sunrise is something really special.
2) Marado Island
Next, we took a short ferry ride to Marado Island, the southernmost point of Korea. It’s tiny, quiet, and perfect for a half-day trip. You can walk around the whole island in about an hour, passing green fields, lighthouses, and stunning coastal cliffs. The sea breeze felt amazing, and the island has this raw, untouched vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. Oh, and don’t miss trying Marado jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles). it’s famous here for being the “southernmost jjajangmyeon” in Korea!
3) Osulloc Tea Museum
After all that exploring, make sure to step by the Osulloc Tea Museum for something more relaxing. Surrounded by green tea fields, the air smells faintly of tea leaves, and it’s honestly one of the most calming places I’ve ever been. You can learn a bit about Korea’s tea culture, try different teas, and of course, enjoy their famous green tea or hallabong ice cream. The whole place has a modern, cozy atmosphere - perfect for an afternoon break or Instagram photos!
4) Jusangjeolli Cliff
Jusangjeolli Cliff was one of the most impressive natural sights I’ve seen in Jeju. It’s a series of hexagonal rock columns formed by lava that cooled after an ancient volcanic eruption. The pattern looks so geometric it’s hard to believe it’s natural! Standing on the viewing deck, you can watch waves crash dramatically against the cliffs. it’s both powerful and peaceful at the same time. If you’re into photography, this is definitely a must-see spot.
5) Jeongbang Waterfall
If you visit Seogwipo, you definitely shouldn’t miss Jeongbang Waterfall — one of the coolest spots on Jeju Island. It’s the only waterfall in Korea that falls straight into the ocean, which makes it really special. The view is amazing, especially when the sunlight hits the water and creates a rainbow. It’s also a great place to relax, take some photos, and feel the ocean breeze. Legend says a dragon once lived under the waterfall, adding a bit of mystery to this beautiful place.
6) Oedolgae Rock
Before heading back, we stopped by Oedolgae Rock, one of Seogwipo’s most famous coastal landmarks. The name literally means “lonely rock,” and it stands tall in the ocean, separated from the mainland. According to local legend, the rock was once a woman waiting endlessly for her husband lost at sea. The surrounding trail offers amazing ocean views, especially at sunset. it’s quiet, romantic, and full of Jeju’s signature charm.
Seogwipo turned out to be the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Every corner had something unique — from volcanic cliffs to peaceful tea gardens and hidden islands. What I loved most was how connected everything felt: the sea, the wind, and the slow island rhythm that makes you forget about city life. Especially if you live in Seoul, Seogwipo allows you to relax, reset and recharge your social batteries.
If you ever need a weekend escape from the mainland, Seogwipo should be at the top of your list. Whether you come alone, with friends, or even for a quiet solo trip, this coastal gem will definitely leave you refreshed and inspired.