How many days in Seogwipo?
For a perfect Seogwipo experience, we recommend staying a minimum of 3 days. This is enough to explore the sights, like the Olle market, and spend some time discovering the nearby highlights. Planning to see more of Jeju island? Check out our Jeju island itinerary for how to get around and the best things to see!
How to get to Seogwipo
From Jeju city, the capital in the north of the island, there are two convenient ways to reach Seogwipo – by car or by bus. We found the bus journey to be both easy and affordable.
We recommend Bus 201 or 202. These are the scenic routes that circle the coast of the Island from Jeju city to Seogwipo. Bus 201 goes around the eastern side of the island and bus 202 goes around the west. But if you’re in a hurry you can take bus 182 which goes direct from Jeju city to Seogwipo through the middle of the island.
Where to stay?
We stayed at Pine Hotel and really enjoyed it. However, the location was a bit further out from the centre of Seogwipo. We would recommend staying somewhere nearer to the Olle market as this is quite central and most of the buses pass through here.
Wanting to book?
Follow the links below for all your accommodation, transport, & activity needs!
Seogwipo Maeil Olle market
This first highlight is a must see in Seogwipo! The massive Olle market is open every day between 7am and 9pm. Both locals and tourist go here for the atmosphere and to check out the range of goodies they have for sale. They have everything you could imagine, from housing goods to all the local traditional foods.
It is quite a unique place and gives you insight into some traditional Korean customs. You will be able to see the locals hand making kimchi or tteokbokki while other places are preparing san-nakji (live octopus dish).
We recommend to visit the Olle market in the afternoon when it really comes alive. Score a big bag of fresh Jeju mandarins and try some local delights like the ones above or, Jeju’s specialty, the black pork bun.
Best things to do in and around Seogwipo
Hwanguji Coast
The south coast of Jeju is stunning. For an afternoon/evening walk we recommend heading to the Hwanguji Coast. Here they have a walking trail which takes you past the Oedolgae rock formations and natural pools. You can even walk down and swim at the natural pools.
Lee Jung Seop Street
Near the Olle market, you will find this tiny cute street with many shops selling souvenirs and handmade items. Definitely worth checking out!
Chase waterfalls
In the south of Jeju, you’ll find the best waterfalls on the island. Very close to Seogwipo are the Jeongbang and Cheonjiyeon falls. Both of these are very pretty and are the perfect easy morning activity. Entrance fees for each of the waterfalls cost ₩2,000.
We recommend checking out both but we preferred the Jeongbang waterfall. It is less crowded and the only waterfall in Korea that falls directly into the sea!
Jaguri Park
Located next to the sea, Jaguri Park is a local area with a great atmosphere. This lovely little park sets the stage for a easy afternoon, surrounded by several inviting coffee shops and restaurants.
You’ll find couples going for an evening stroll, kids running around, people walking their dogs, and sitting down to enjoy the sunset. It’s the perfect hangout spot to relax. Bring along some snacks and a drink and enjoy.
Saeseom Island & Saeyeongyo Bridge
Just off the coast of Seogwipo is a little island park called Saeseom. Saeseom island is connected to the mainland by the impressive Saeyeongyo bridge. This area is great for a short walk, and offers beautiful views over the ocean, Seogwipo and the harbour. Also a good place to see the sunset!
Jungmun Saekdal beach
About an hour away (by bus) from Seogwipo you’ll find a stunning beach with white sand, turquoise water and surrounded by lush forest and palm trees. Take either bus 510, 520 or 521 to get here. From the busstop, it is a very scenic 15 minute walk down to the beach.
Make sure to bring enough water and some snacks. Stay here until sunset on the beach or go to the The Cliff bar and restaurants. This is a bit more pricey, but has music and many comfy seats with great sunset views.
Daytrip to Mt. Hallasan
If you are into hiking and are looking for a challenging hike near Seogwipo, than we recommend climbing to South Korea’s highest point! This is mount Hallasan on Jeju island, which is about 45 mintues from the Olle market. Read all about this full day hike in our guide to hiking mt. Hallasan!
Where to eat in Seogwipo
There are so many delicious restaurants in Seogwipo, many of which you can find near the Olle market (another good reason to stay near here). These were some of our favourites!
Dessert 39 – cute and modern coffee place
Yatri Restaurant / 야뜨리 – Indian restaurant close to Jaguri park
코바코 서귀포점 – delicious Japanse curries
만복반미 서귀포 올레시장점 – Bahn Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) for take-away
용우동서귀포점 – great local rice dishes and udon noodles (from the photo below)
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