The memory of Udo ligers like a watercolor– crimson skies fading into crystal-clear seas ๐
The Allure of Udo ๐๏ธ
After exploring Udo, be sure to visit an island restaurant for a taste of local flavors.
Just 15 minutes by ferry from Jeju’s Seongsan or jongdal Ports, Udo is one of the largest of Jeju’s 63 surrounding islets, spanning 5.9square kilometers. Each year, more than two million travelers cross the strait to experience its charm. With an extensive coastal road, breathtaking beaches, and scenic view points, Udo is a compact paradise best explored by foot, scooter, e-bike, or electric mini-car.
A day trip easily fits into most itineraries, but to truly experience its magic, stay overnight. At dusk, the sky melts into shades of pink and orange; by dawn, the horizon glows over tranquil waves. These are the moments that stay etched in memory— when sea, sky, and land blur into one jaw dropping palette ๐ค๏ธ
1. Udobong Peak โ The Soul of the Island โฐ๏ธ
If Udo resembles a resting ox, Udobong Peak forms its head. Also known as Soemeori Oreum(“OX-Head Hill”),this grassy rise is crowned with a cluster of pines planted in the 1950s. The view from the summit captures not only Udo’s pastoral serenity but also Jeju’s iconic landscapes-Hallasan’s silhouette and the distant spire of Seongsan Ilchulbong rising over the sea.
2. Geommeolle Beach โ Black Sands and Hidden Caves โซ
Tucked beneath Udodong’s cliffs, this small beach glimmers with jet-black volcanic sand known for its natural heat-therapy qualities. Local lore tells of whales once dwelling inside the nearby Geommeolle Cave, accessible only at low tide. The contrast between the dark shore and turquoise water makes it a photographer’s favorite ๐ธ
3. Hagosudong Beach โ A Slice of the Tropics ๐๏ธ
With powder-soft white sand and shallow, emerald waters, Hagosudong feels almost Caribbean. Along its edge, pastel cafรฉs and seaside restaurants invite visitors to linger over iced coffee or a seafood lunch. You could find some gorgeous island restaurant here. It’s the island’s most beloved spot for summer swims and Instagram-worthy views โจ
4. Biyangdo โ The Camperโs Paradise โบ
After enjoying some beautiful island restaurant, Just offshore lies Biyangdo, a tiny uninhabited islet and one of Korea’s top three backpacking destinations. Here, camping means returning to pure nature — no artificial lights, only starlight and the whisper of waves. From Yeonpyeong Campground’s watchtower, sunrise and sunset unfold in the same frame, painting the horizon gold and crimson. Bring a tent, and you’ll leave with a lifetime memory ๐
5. Hongjodan Goe Beach โ Jejuโs Fiery Sunset ๐
Once called Coral Beach, this western shoreline gained its current name after scientists discovered its pinkish sands are formed by red algae, not coral. When evening falls, the setting sun ignites the sky above Jeju’s mainland, casting a golden reflection across the pastel-blue water. Few places capture Udo’s tranquil beauty like this one.
The Taste of Udo: Donโt Miss the Peanut Ice Cream ๐ฆ
In Island restaurant, Lining the beaches are restaurants and snack bars serving everything from local Jeju specialties to fusion fare and fresh seafood. But no trip to Udo is complete without trying its signature treat– peanut ice cream.
Made with locally grown peanuts one-third the size of ordinary ones, this creamy dessert is sprinkled generously with roasted peanut powder. Sweet, nutty, and delightfully crunchy, it’s a taste that defines summer on Udo ๐
Travel Info ๐ข
Ferries
- Seongsan Port โ Udo Cheonjin Port: Every 30 min, 15-min ride
- Seongsan Port โ Udo Haumokdong Port: Hourly, 15-min ride
- Jongdal Port โ Udo Haumokdong Port: 6 trips daily, 15-min ride
Island Circulation Bus
- Stops at 8 main attractions; unlimited hop-on/hop-off
- Interval: every 20 minutes
Electric Vehicles โก
Since August 2017, gas-powered rental cars have been banned on Udo, making electric cars the islandโs new favorite. Rates vary by company but typically range from โฉ30,000โโฉ50,000 for three hours. Helmets are mandatory, and insurance is recommended.
Source:โFrom Island to Island: Top 5 Attractions in Udo, Jejuโ โ Editor Minsoo Kim, published on May 10, 2023.
