42+ Hidden Gems on Jeju Island You Need to Explore in 2025

Jeju Island, South Korea’s tropical gem, is often celebrated for its scenic coastlines, Hallasan Mountain, and bustling tourist hubs like Seongsan Ilchulbong and Manjanggul Cave. But if you think you’ve seen all Jeju has to offer — think again! In 2025, it’s time to venture off the well-worn paths and uncover the island’s hidden treasures that most tourists miss. From secluded oreum trails and mystical forests to tranquil beaches and local art villages, Jeju is bursting with surprises that reward the curious traveler.

Jeju Island’s Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss in 2025

Whether you’re a hiker seeking solitude in fog-covered volcanic hills, a photographer chasing unique Instagram-worthy backdrops, or a culture lover longing to connect with traditional haenyeo divers and sacred temples, this guide to Jeju’s best-kept secrets will show you a side of the island you’ve never seen before.

With 42+ secret spots perfectly suited for 2025’s adventure seekers, digital nomads, eco-tourists, and slow travelers, we’ve broken down Jeju’s hidden gems by category — so you can explore the island based on your vibe. You’ll discover charming fishing villages, lava tunnels untouched by tour groups, underrated hiking oreums, and even tiny offshore islands where time seems to slow down.

🌿 1. Secret Natural Wonders in Jeju

 

• Gwangchigi Beach – Serene views with Seongsan backdrop

• Darangshi Oreum – Lush cone-shaped hiking paradise

• Seonheul Gotjawal Forest – Mystical lava-rock forest trails

• Yongyeon Pond – Emerald waters near the city

• Hwansang Forest – Fantasy-like nature for mindful walks

🏖️ 2. Underrated Beaches to Unwind

• Hado Beach – Snorkeling with fewer crowds

• Aljakji Beach – Black pebbles & romantic sunsets

• Woljeongri Beach (quiet end) – Calm waters & cute cafés

• Iho Tewoo Beach – Famous horse lighthouses

• Secret Cove near Hyeopjae – Peaceful coastal escape

🧘 3. Hidden Temples & Sacred Sites in Jeju Island

• Yakcheonsa Temple – Grand Buddhist site off the radar

• Gwaneumsa Temple – Quiet temple at Hallasan’s base

• Sanbanggulsa Grotto – Cliffside cave temple

• Bomunsa Temple (Gapado) – Tiny island temple of peace

• Bultapsa Temple – Meditative forest retreat

🚶 4. Offbeat Hiking & Oreum Trails in Jeju Island

• Saryeoni Forest Trail – Serene path through cedar woods

• Eoseungsaengak Trail – Short trail with epic views

• Roe Oreum – Wildflower-covered hike

• Byeoldobong Oreum – 360° island panorama

• Jeolmul Forest Paths – Wooden decks in pine shade

🖼️ 5. Artistic & Cultural Hideaways in Jeju Island

• Jeoji Art Village – Art cafés and mural streets

• Udo Island Folk Areas – Heritage and slow-living charm

• Gosan Village – Fishermen stories & secret feasts

• Seongeup Village (less-touristy corner) – Authentic Jeju homes

• Hamo-ri Village – Quiet coastal traditions

🗺️ 6. Islands off Jeju’s Beaten Path in Jeju Island

• Gapado Island – Peaceful trails and haenyeo heritage

• Marado Island – Korea’s southernmost point

• Biyangdo Island – Snorkeling near a tiny volcano

• Chagwido Island – Rugged beauty via boat

• Beophwan Seawall – Great for sea stargazing

📸 7. Secret Instagram-Worthy Spots in Jeju Island

• Saebyeol Oreum at sunrise – Fog-draped views

• Seopjikoji Cliffs – Rugged edge and hidden caves

• Aewol Slow Road – Roadside cafés with a view

• Gapado Observation Point – Peaceful ocean scenes

• Gotjawal Park Corners – Forest shots with fantasy vibes

🛶 8. Water Adventures Off the Grid

• Sea Kayaking along Olle Trail 7 – Explore hidden coasts

• Snorkeling near Biyangdo – Coral coves away from crowds

• Fishing Villages in Hamo-ri – Try fishing the local way

• Manjanggul Side Caves – Hidden lava tube branches

• Secret swimming spots near Hado – Clear waters, no crowds

🐎 9. Local Experiences & Outdoor Fun

• Horseback Riding in West Jeju – Open-field coastal trails

• Haenyeo Seafood Experience – Raw abalone with a view

• Wildflower Watching in Darangshi – Spring paradise

• Picnic in Jeolmul Forest – Scenic and shaded escape

• Camellia Hill’s Back Trails – Flowers and hidden paths

💡 10. Insider Travel Tips for Jeju 2025

• Visit during shoulder seasons – Fewer crowds, better light

• Use Naver or KakaoMap – More reliable than Google Maps

• Explore early mornings – Golden light and peace

• Rent a car or scooter – Public buses miss many gems

• Respect haenyeo culture – Support without disturbing 🙏

Jeju Island isn’t just about the postcard places — it’s a vibrant land where the real magic lies in the lesser-known corners. Whether you’re hiking a silent oreum, walking among 1,000-year-old nutmeg trees, or watching haenyeo divers at sunset, these 42+ hidden gems offer soulful adventures far from the crowds.