Jeju Island, often dubbed the "Hawaii of Korea," has always been on my radar. As an avid traveler with a deep appreciation for Asian culture, I couldn't resist the allure of this volcanic paradise. This trip focused on exploring the southeastern part of the island, a region less traveled but brimming with authentic experiences. I discovered a blend of captivating landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and unique cultural insights. Let me share my adventure, hopefully inspiring you to add Jeju to your own travel bucket list.
A Hearty Start: Local Jeju Breakfast
My journey began with a growling stomach. I sought out a local breakfast spot that looked incredibly authentic. The staff seemed surprised to see a foreigner walk in, and the menu was in Korean and English (though the English version was only at the entrance). Their specialties were bracken fern pork hangover soup and seaweed pork hangover soup. The hearty broth, thick with ferns and flavorful meat, was topped with sesame seeds and chili powder. The seaweed version, using local Jeju horsetail seaweed, had a similar consistency and a deep, satisfying flavor. Both were incredibly warming and flavorful – no extra seasoning needed! I understood why these soups are a popular morning-after remedy. The accompanying purple rice, served perfectly separated and fluffy, was delicious on its own and even better dipped in the soup, absorbing the rich broth. The generous portions of pork, mostly shredded and melted into the soup, and the unlimited self-serve side dishes made the experience even better. This place is a true gem, offering delicious, authentic food without the long lines.
Caffeine Fix and Viral Treats
No trip to Korea is complete without daily coffee, and Jeju is no exception. I had to try a trending banana milk latte I'd seen online. The banana flavor was prominent, adding a sweet twist to the latte, although I’m not sure I could drink it every day. I also stumbled upon the famous flattened croissant cookies, a popular online purchase. They were crispy with hints of croissant and caramel, but honestly, they were just okay – worth trying once, but not something I'd rave about.
Breathtaking Coastal Views and K-Drama Magic
My first sightseeing stop was a location from the K-drama "Extraordinary Attorney Woo." Reaching this hidden gem required traversing a rocky path, but the reward was a breathtaking ocean view framed by a natural rock formation. Photos required carefully maneuvering through the hole in the rock, but the view was worth the effort. Jeju’s coastal scenery is stunning from any angle, but there's something special about standing on the shore, listening to the waves and taking in the vastness of the ocean.
Cafe Hopping and Scenic Wonders
Continuing south along the coast, I stopped at a cafe perched right on the shore, housed in a building that looked almost like a ruin. It offered adorable cloud-shaped cookies in various flavors and a plethora of cute merchandise. I couldn't resist buying a six-pack of cookies (stay tuned for an unboxing!).
Next, I visited Woljeongri Beach, a popular spot for Koreans, especially during the summer months due to its shallow waters. The cloudy weather didn't do justice to the typically azure waters, but the beach's beauty was still apparent. My main reason for visiting Woljeongri was to try a highly recommended rib restaurant.
Indulging in Jeju's Culinary Delights
The restaurant offered two set menus: ribs (spicy or non-spicy, or a half-and-half option). Each person had to order a set, and everyone at the table had to choose the same set. A robot served our food, which was a fun experience. We opted for Set A, which featured beautifully plated Jeju grilled pork, grilled abalone, and a variety of side dishes. The non-spicy ribs were a bit dry, but the spicy version was flavorful and tender. The abalone, topped with chopped onions and a simple soy sauce dressing, was fresh and delicious. The side dishes, served in a wooden basket, included a pancake with seafood, green onions, and chives, which surprisingly tasted better than it looked (despite its resemblance to Taiwanese oyster omelets). I especially loved the sweet pumpkin puree, and I couldn't get enough of the pickled octopus and the cheongyang peppers coated in soybean paste.
Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak and a Mysterious Candy House
After lunch, I headed to Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, a must-see on any Jeju itinerary. The ticketed area requires a climb, which I skipped due to time constraints. Seongsan Ilchulbong, formed by a volcanic eruption ten thousand years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While I didn't see a resemblance to a lava cake, the peak's grandeur and unique formation were impressive. The view from the observatory, overlooking the coastline, villages, and mountains, was truly spectacular.
Nearby, Seopjikoji, with its wide grassy cliffs overlooking the ocean, was another beautiful spot. Known for its vibrant yellow canola flowers in April, the location offered stunning coastal views even in the chilly February weather. While exploring, I stumbled upon a deserted, candy-colored building that looked like a haunted cafe. I couldn't find any information about it online, which added to its mysterious aura.
Seafood Feast to End the Day
My day concluded with a seafood feast at a local restaurant I found on Naver. The small seafood platter, more than enough for two, featured ten kinds of fresh seafood: abalone, oysters, sea snails, sea cucumber, sea squirts, shrimp, octopus, scallops, and more. The sashimi was fresh and firm, especially delicious dipped in the sweet, sour, and spicy chili vinegar sauce. The seafood ramen, brimming with octopus, crab, and other seafood in a spicy, flavorful broth, was a must-try. The meal was a perfect ending to a day filled with adventure and delicious discoveries.
My Jeju Island Adventure Continues…
This is just a taste of my Jeju Island escapade. Stay tuned for more about my culinary discoveries, cultural encounters, and explorations of this beautiful island.
