A Seasonal Guide to Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island, a real gem with its dramatic coastlines and rich cultural heritage, is an extremely popular tourist destination for good reason.
Located off the southern coast of South Korea, this island was formed by a volcanic eruption two million years ago and is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
It’s no wonder Jeju Island attracts millions of travellers who flock there year after year.
If you’re visiting Jeju Island anytime soon, here’s a guide on the best time to visit, what to expect from peak seasons, and how to plan your vacation according to your weather preferences.
Jeju Island Weather and Climate
Understanding the weather patterns and climate of Jeju Island is crucial for planning the perfect trip.
The weather forecast (and even the crowds) varies widely from the shoulder seasons to the off-peak seasons, and it’s not all clear blue skies all the time.
Jeju has a subtropical climate, characterised by mild winters and warm summers.
The average temperature on Jeju Island ranges from roughly 5°C in January, the coldest month, and even in winter, the mercury rarely dips below zero.
In the summer months, the heat ramps up to approximately 30°C in August, the hottest month, with high humidity levels making the heat feel more intense – think sticky and sweaty shirts.
As for Jeju’s monsoon season, you can expect heavy rain usually from June to mid-July, with the island having a 35% chance of rain on a typical day. June is the wettest month with the most rain.
But hey, don’t let that put you off.
June to August is a fabulous time to visit Jeju. You can go all-out with beach activities, and the warm temperatures and stunning landscapes are a godsend if you’re a beach lover
With that said, let’s move on to when you should actually visit Jeju Island:
The Best Time to Visit Jeju Island, South Korea
Spring Season (March-May): Beautiful Mild Weather and and for Cherry Blossom Lovin'
Ah, spring - without a doubt, one of the best times to travel to Jeju Island.
The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C, which is sublime for outdoorsy adventures like hiking and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Oh, and don’t forget the lower hotel prices and smaller crowds during this shoulder season (March to May) as well.
Couple that with spring being particularly famous for cherry blossoms and canola flowers that blanket the island from mid-March to early April, and you’ve got a winner.
Keep an eye out for the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival and pay a visit to the Seogwipo Canola Flower Field if you’re really into spring flowers.
Spring is also an incredible time to stretch your calves and trek up to the volcanic crater peak of Seongsan Ilchulbong (or Sunrise Peak) for mild temperatures and jaw-dropping views.
Summer Season (June-August): The Absolute Peak Tourist Season and Plenty of Heat
For those who hate the heat and humidity, summer is a terrible time to visit Jeju.
On the flip side, if you're all about beach activities and warm temperatures don't bother you, then summer is undoubtedly the best time to visit Jeju Island.
Do take note, however, that this period coincides with the summer holiday in South Korea – that means plenty of crowds and higher prices, which isn't ideal if you're the sort who hates jostling with throngs of people. In that case, consider one of the off-peak seasons.
That said, when it comes to water activities and beach-hopping, there's no better time to head here – if you don't mind the many tourists, that is.
Autumn Season (September-November): Cooler Temperatures and Fewer Tourists
Autumn is another gorgeous season to visit Jeju Island, with mild weather and comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
Oh, and the island’s landscapes are a visual feast from September to November as the leaves change during the autumn foliage season.
Picture a setting that’s practically custom-made by Mother Nature, ideal for activities like hiking – for instance, this is the perfect window to climb Mount Hallasan and tick it off your bucket list.
Being a shoulder season, autumn offers fewer crowds, less rain, and reasonable accommodation prices that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, making it a great time to visit Jeju.
Winter (December-February): An Off-Peak Season That's a Snowy Wonderland
Jeju is a beautiful and popular destination all year round, but during winter, the island’s breathtaking beauty reaches new heights.
The average winter temperatures range from 5°C to 7°C, and the Jeju winter scenery is out of this world. Also, lower prices and smaller crowds are a huge draw during this off-peak season.
However, for some, winter isn’t an ideal time to visit Jeju because of the strong winds and frosty temperatures.
For an epic adventure and fairytale scenery, hiking Mount Hallasan is a must-do during winter, with its peaks occasionally blanketed in snow.
If you’re travelling during the transition from autumn to winter, be sure to visit the iconic Camellia Hill, where these pretty-in-pink flowers bloom from mid-November to January – an excellent winter activity to add to your itinerary.
Planning Your Trip to Jeju Island
When you’re planning your trip to Jeju Island, a stay of four to seven days is ideal to experience the island’s best -covering enough natural sights, cultural spots, and outdoor activities to keep boredom at bay.
Think about your interests: Are you into exploring volcanic landscapes, lounging on the beaches, hiking, or diving into the local culture? Plan your itinerary based on what you enjoy and the respective seasons, as some activities are better suited to certain times of the year.
Always keep the island’s climate in mind as you plan. It’ll affect what you can do and how you’ll experience your trip.
For more ideas and inspiration, check out our 5-day Jeju itinerary to help you make the most of your trip!
Finding the Right Accommodation on Jeju Island
Jeju Island runs the gamut when it comes to the sheer range of places to stay, no matter your budget or style.
Whether you’re after a swanky luxury resort, a boutique hotel made for hipsters, or a budget-friendly guesthouse or hostel that won’t break the bank, you’ll find just what you need.
Staying in Jeju City or Seogwipo City puts you smack in the middle of the action. No matter where you choose to stay, you'll have easy access to all the island’s major attractions and activities.
Top Tour Ideas and Activities to Experience Jeju Island
Jeju Island is brimming with activities that showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Hallasan Mountain: As the highest peak in South Korea and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Hallasan offers breathtaking views and has up to seven hiking trails for you to tackle.
Manjanggul Lava Caves: Explore one of the world’s longest lava tubes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a mind-boggling geological wonder that provides a firsthand look at the island’s volcanic roots.
Beaches: Chill out and relax on beautiful beaches like Hyeopjae Beach and Hamdeok Beach, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying water sports.
Avoiding the Peak Seasons for a More Relaxed Trip
If you’re looking for a chill, budget-friendly getaway, the shoulder seasons are the way to go for a visit to Jeju Island.
During these times, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better rates on places to stay.
Skipping the peak tourist season means you can have a more peaceful and personal experience without feeling like just another sardine in a tin about to explode.
Budget-Friendly Travel Options for Visiting Jeju Island
Travelling to Jeju Island doesn’t have to be pricey. During the off-season (December-February), you’ll find lower rates for accommodation and flights.
Guesthouses and hostels are great budget-friendly options, too.
Plus, many of the island’s natural attractions are either free or have minimal entry fees, so you can enjoy your trip without bursting your budget - just plan wisely.
Surfing, Hiking, and Outdoor Activities on Jeju Island
Jeju Island is a paradise for outdoor and water sports fans. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, or scuba diving, there’s always something exciting to do.
Summer’s perfect for hitting the waves, while spring and autumn offer great weather for hiking Hallasan and other scenic trails.
No matter when you visit, you’re sure to find plenty of fun activities to dive into and enjoy.
Jeju: A Versatile Travel Destination, No Matter the Weather
Jeju Island is a versatile destination throughout the year.
And the best season to visit Jeju Island depends on your interests.
Whether you enjoy spring with its fantastic weather, summer with plenty of sun, sand, and sea, the fiery autumn foliage, or the fairytale-like winter landscapes, Jeju Island has something for everyone.
By considering what you like to do, you can choose the best time to visit Jeju Island and plan accordingly for a memorable experience that'll linger long in your memory.
Commonly Asked Questions
Is autumn a good time for hiking on Jeju Island?
Autumn is a fab time for hiking. You've got temperatures that are comfortable even if you work up a sweat, and plus stunning fall foliage you'll see on trails is to die for, especially those on Hallasan. The autumn months offer epic scenery and fewer crowds, perfect for outdoor activities - what's not to like?
What is the best time to visit Jeju Island for cherry blossoms?
The best time to visit Jeju Island for cherry blossoms is from late March to early April. That's when the island truly comes alive with beautiful beot-kkot, especially during the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival, a seasonal fest you'll be lucky to catch.
Does it snow on Jeju Island during winter?
Yes it does. You'll be able to see it on the peaks of Hallasan Mountain during winter.