Lying in the Korea Strait, just to the south of mainland South Korea, Jeju is the largest island in the nation and is a very popular tourist destination amongst both Koreans and foreigners alike. Besides its incredible scenery and natural riches, the island’s enduring popularity is in part down to the fact that South Koreans weren’t permitted to travel abroad until the late 1980s.

This meant that the island was developed as a holiday destination, and there are loads of hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions in Jeju to check out, as well as a number of fascinating museums and quirky theme parks.

Meaning ‘huge village across the sea,’ Jeju has its own distinct culture, which is quite different from that of the mainland; this is evident in its two main cities of Jeju City and Seogwipo. The main reason that people visit, however, is to unwind and enjoy its marvelous outdoors. With its gorgeous countryside and jagged coastline dotted with stunning beaches, Jeju Island has a plethora of lovely scenery and fantastic recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

1. Jeju Stone Park

Full of interesting looking rocks and sculptures, Jeju Stone Park is a great place to head to if you want to learn more about the island’s rich cultural heritage. Myths and legends have long swirled around Jeju’s many natural wonders. As such, many of the rocks in the park represent folklore tales that have been passed down from generation to generation.

For instance, the distinctive Dol Hareubang sculptures – or ‘grandfather rocks’ as they are commonly called – are said to protect the island and ward off evil spirits. Set among some wonderful countryside, the solemn-looking rocks of Jeju Stone Park certainly do look very impressive, and the stories behind them make them come alive before your eyes.

2. Daepo Haean Jusangjeolli Cliff

Somewhat similar in appearance to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway in Northern Island, Daepo Haean Jusangjeolli Cliff is a spectacular rock formation that is well worth checking out if you have the chance. Now a Natural Monument, the jagged cliff was formed when Hallasan Mountain erupted; the cooling lava created the beautiful formations we see today.

Lying along the island’s southern coastline, Daepo Haean Jusangjeolli Cliff looks particularly spectacular when a large wave crashes against the rocks. From amid the surf, you can see its peculiar square and hexagon shapes re-emerge before you.

3. Dongmun Market

Established all the way back in 1945, Dongmun Market’s many shops and stands sell everything under the sun, with glistening fresh fish displays lying next to stalls laden with fruits, vegetables, meat, and more.

As vendors also sell clothes, stationery, and souvenirs, it is just as popular with tourists as it is with locals, and wandering around is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening.

There is loads of delicious local food to be had in the market. As dusk falls, people head here to enjoy its fabulous street food, with dumplings and seafood being particularly popular. As it is a traditional market, Dongmun is a great place to visit if you want to get a taste for local life in Jeju City.

4. Jeongbang Waterfall

Lying on the outskirts of Seogwipo, Jeongbang is one of the most famous waterfalls on the island, and with good reason. Shooting off the top of a cliff, Jeongbang’s white waters plunge directly into the ocean below. It is remarkably the only waterfall to do so in the whole of Asia.

Towering to a height of 23 meters, the majestic falls certainly make for a dashing sight, as rugged rocks and tree-topped cliffs lie to either side of it. There aren’t many other waterfalls like it in the world.

To get up close to Jeongbang, visitors need to clamber over a series of boulders and loose stones. As these can get quite slippery with the waterfall’s spray, it is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes.

5. Hallim Park

Offering up the perfect mix of culture and nature, Hallim Park has something for everyone in the family to enjoy; there is even a children’s amusement park for young ones to get a thrill out of. Covering a vast area in the northwest of the island, Hallim Park has lots of delightful gardens for you to wander around, and each of them has a different theme or look with various types of fauna and flora on show.

Tucked away amongst its bonsai, water, and palm tree gardens are a small zoo, a charming little restaurant, and a traditional folk village where you can learn more about Jeju’s local culture and customs. On top of all of this, its two main attractions are the enthralling caves of Ssangyonggul and Hyeopjaegul, which you can venture inside to take a look at.

6. Hyeopjae Beach

Blessed with dazzlingly bright white sands and sparkling turquoise waters, Hyeopjae Beach in the west of Jeju Island certainly paints a very pretty picture. While its warm sands are perfect for lounging peacefully on, its inviting waters make for some great swimming, and the views out over the nearby Biyangdo Island are simply stunning.

As there are several restaurants and cafes lying along the beach, with amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and parasols all on offer, you can easily spend a whole day or more relaxing at Hyeopjae Beach.

7. Spirited Garden

With its peaceful look and feel, the immaculately presented Spirited Garden is a delight to stroll around. Centuries-old bonsai trees lie alongside rambling hills, picturesque stone bridges, and gently gurgling waterfalls. Designed to set your soul at ease, the garden was founded all the way back in 1968 by Bum-Young Sung. Since then, numerous important heads of state have strolled around its harmonious landscapes. Representing both the nature and beauty of Jeju, the Spirited Garden is a fascinating blend of art, nature, and philosophy, and is definitely worth visiting if you have the chance.