Finding Your Stay: Which Area in Jeju is The Best for Travellers?

Jeju Island is a tourist destination in South Korea that is rarely visited by Western tourists.If you are travelling to Jeju, this review will help you find where to stay in Jeju.

Jeju Island lies at the southern tip of the Korean Peninsula and is renowned for its oval shape and volcanic origins. The island boasts a verdant natural landscape, a rich cultural heritage, delectable local cuisine, and a plethora of breathtaking tourist attractions.

While Jeju is famous for its stunning beaches, it offers much more than coastal beauty. Dominating the landscape is Hallasan, a majestic volcano featuring a crystal-clear lake nestled within its crater. The island is characterised by windswept grassy hills, stone-walled farmlands, and dense, tangled rainforests. Visitors can explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed lava tunnels, wander through charming rural villages, and embark on treks through magnificent river valleys adorned with colossal, spherical boulders.

Selecting the right accommodation in Jeju is paramount for an enjoyable and memorable experience. The island offers a diverse range of lodging options, from luxury resorts with breathtaking ocean views to quaint guest houses nestled in rural settings. Each area of Jeju presents its own unique attractions and atmosphere, making it essential to consider proximity to key sites, local amenities, and the type of experience you wish to have. For instance, staying near the vibrant beaches in the south allows for easy access to sun-soaked relaxation, while the northern region offers a more tranquil environment close to Hallasan National Park.

Moreover, your choice of accommodation can significantly impact your overall exploration of the island. A well-located base can enhance your ability to discover Jeju’s myriad attractions, including its stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks. Opting for a place that reflects the island’s character, whether through traditional Hanok-style lodgings or modern hotels, can also enrich your stay. Ultimately, the right choice of where to stay not only influences your comfort and convenience but also shapes your overall experience of Jeju’s enchanting beauty and vibrant culture.

Here, we will explain the best areas to stay in Jeju. You can choose which place to stay in Jeju suits you best!

1. Seogwipo-si

Seogwipo is a popular tourist destination in Jeju, celebrated for its strategic location that provides easy access to a wealth of attractions. From this charming area, visitors can explore Ungbong Peak and the breathtaking Baengnokdam Crater Lake atop Hallasan Mountain. The stunning Cheonjiyeon, Cheonjeyeon, and Jeongbang Falls are all within reach, as are the picturesque Seopseom and Beomseom Islands. With such an array of natural wonders nearby, Seogwipo serves as an ideal base for those eager to immerse themselves in the island's enchanting landscapes.

For accommodation, you can stay at Somerset Jeju Shinhwa World, Parnas Hotel Jeju, or Familia Hotel Jeju.

2. Jungmun Tourist Complex

The Jungmun area beautifully combines nature tourism with urban experiences, catering to both nature lovers and those seeking shopping and culinary delights. Visitors can take leisurely strolls to enjoy the stunning natural scenery, with breathtaking sights that often require no specific destination. Marvel at the columnar jointing of sculptural pillars that appear to have been intricately carved, and visit the picturesque three-tiered Cheonjeyeon Falls. A walk along Jungmun Saekdal Beach offers gorgeous views throughout the year, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. Additionally, the Alive Museum Jeju, featuring five themed exhibitions including captivating trick art and the delightful Jeju Teddy Bear Museum, is not to be missed, providing a fun complement to the area's natural beauty.

After a tiring day of activities, you can stay at selected accommodations such as Jungmun Resort or Benikea Jungmun Hotel.

3. Original Downtown of Jeju

The Original Downtown of Jeju, centred around the historic Jeju Fortress area, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich history and lifestyle, spanning from the Tamna Period to the present day. Visitors can explore the Jejumok-Gwana Government Office, which served as the political, administrative, and cultural hub of Jeju Island until the end of the Joseon Dynasty. Don’t miss Gwandeokjeong Hall, situated at the entrance of the government office; it is the oldest building in Jeju and a must-see for history enthusiasts. As you stroll along the Sanjicheon River, you’ll have the opportunity to uncover the intriguing corners of the original downtown, immersing yourself in the vibrant history and culture that define Jeju Island.

If you choose to stay in this area, you can stay at Ramada Plaza Jeju Ocean Front.

4. Nohyeong-dong

This area serves as a vital transportation hub, with well-developed routes connecting it in all directions. Nohyeong-dong is notable not only for its accessibility but also for its scholarly atmosphere, where values of morality and decency continue to shape the community's way of life. Visitors can explore attractions such as Jeju Loveland and the Mysterious Road. Jeju Loveland is an unconventional sculpture park themed around sexuality, featuring a variety of playful and humorous artworks, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking a light-hearted and exciting experience. Meanwhile, the Mysterious Road, which begins at the Ninety-Nine Valleys and meanders through Eoseungsaengak and Hanbyeok Reservoir, offers a peculiar phenomenon where vehicles appear to roll uphill on a steep incline. This intriguing optical illusion captivates many, turning it into a popular tourist attraction that never fails to spark curiosity.

If you are planning to stay in Nohyeong-dong, you can choose the eccentric SH Amber City Stay or the classic L&L Central Hotel.

5. Aewol-eup

Aewol-eup is a great place to spend some relaxing time while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Jeju Island. Aewol-eup is located away from the city centre and has a large area. It offers a variety of good restaurants and cafes throughout the Aewol-up area, in addition to Gwakji Beach with its fine sandy beach and Hyeopjae Beach, which is famous for its sunsets. Don't forget to take the kids to the Saebyeororeum Parasitic Cone sheep farm, which is a popular tourist attraction all year round.

If you are looking for accommodation in the Aewol-up area, you can choose Aewol Beach Hotel which is close to the beach or Jeju Private Aewol which has a tropical feel.

6. Gimnyeong-ri

Both Hallasan and the sea can be seen from the cosy village of Gimnyeng-ri. The village is home to cultural assets including Gimnyeonggul Cave and Manjanggul Cave as well as Kimnyoung Labyrinth Park and Gimnyeong Mural Village, making the area one of the most popular tourist attractions all year round.

If you are looking for accommodation in this area, try Jeju Gimnyeong mongsaengyi Pension.

7. Hallim-eup

Hallim-eup is a breathtaking destination on Jeju Island, celebrated for its stunning natural scenery, which includes picturesque caves, sprawling ranches, and beautiful beaches. Located on the western part of the island, this area is easily accessible via a scenic coastal road that connects a variety of renowned tourist attractions and resorts. Among its highlights is Hyeopjae Beach, known for its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, where visitors can discover numerous captivating sites that showcase the region’s enchanting beauty. Whether you’re in search of adventure or a peaceful retreat, Hallim-eup promises a delightful experience for everyone.

In this area there is Hallim Resort, an accommodation that you can choose for your vacation.

That's our review of where to stay in Jeju. Of course, the first time you want a perfect vacation experience. You can choose accommodation in Jeju that fits your budget and travel destination. For more detailed information, you can explore Traveloka and get the plane tickets and best hotels options at the best prices!