Best Time to Visit Jeju Island: What Each Season is Like

When is the best time to visit Jeju Island? Honestly, it depends on what kind of trip you want. Spring, summer, autumn, and winter each show a completely different side of Jeju.

I’ve visited in different seasons and no two trips ever felt the same. In this guide, I’ll share what each month is like, the seasonal highlights you can look forward to, and a few personal tips to help you decide when to go.

Best time to visit Jeju Island

If you just want the short version, here it is. The best time to visit Jeju Island is in spring (late March to May) and autumn (October to early November).

Spring gives you cherry blossoms, canola flower fields, and mild weather that’s perfect for sightseeing. Autumn brings blue skies, golden silver grass, and the most comfortable hiking season. Both times of year feel fresh, colorful, and not too crowded.

Summer is fun if you’re dreaming of Jeju beaches and swimming, but keep in mind that July is the rainy season and August can be hot and busy. Winter is calm and peaceful with fewer tourists, and you might even catch snow on Hallasan if you’re lucky.

No matter when you go, Jeju has something that makes it worth the trip.

Jeju island weather by season

Spring (March to May)

Spring is one of my favorite times to visit in Jeju. Temperatures start at around 10–15°C in March and climb to about 20°C by May, so it never feels too hot or too cold. 

Mornings can still be chilly, so I usually bring a light jacket, but by the afternoon I’m comfortable walking without layers.

I love how the air feels fresh and clean this time of year. It makes hiking or just exploring the coastline really enjoyable.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Jeju is warm, humid, and honestly a little unpredictable. Daytime highs hit 28–30°C in August, and the sea warms to around 23–26°C. 

Perfect for swimming, but you should know July is rainy season. I always keep a raincoat or umbrella in my car because showers can come out of nowhere. 

Humidity can feel heavy, but if you’re into beaches and water sports, this is your season. 

For me, summer in Jeju is all about balancing time at the coast with a few café or museum stops when it pours.

Autumn (September to mid-November)

Autumn in Jeju feels like the perfect balance. In September, it’s still warm with daytime highs around 25°C, then by November it cools to 12–18°C. 

I like to pack layers because mornings can be chilly but afternoons are often sunny and clear. 

It’s one of the easiest seasons for planning a trip, since the weather stays pretty steady and you don’t have to worry much about rain or mosquitoes.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Jeju is cold but not freezing unless you’re on Hallasan. Along the coast, daytime temperatures usually sit between 5–10°C, but nights drop lower and the wind makes it feel colder. 

I’ve seen snow at the summit of Hallasan, and it’s beautiful, though you’ll want proper gear if you hike. 

I actually enjoy winter here because it’s quiet. Hotels are cheaper, restaurants aren’t packed, and the air feels extra clear on sunny days. If you don’t mind bundling up, winter can be surprisingly peaceful.

Jeju Island weather month by month

I like using this table as a quick reference, then choosing my season based on what vibe I want. Whether it’s cherry blossoms, beach days, or quiet winter walks, you can match your trip to the month that feels right for you.

When to visit Jeju Island (by interest)

Best time to see cherry blossoms in Jeju

Late March to early April is when I mark in my calendar for flowers. 

Jeonnong-ro Street in Jeju City turns into a tunnel of blossoms, and I love strolling under the petals with a coffee in hand. 

Hallim Park is another favorite because you get cherry blossoms and bright yellow canola flowers in one place. 

Want something quieter? Head to the roads near Jeju National University. Fewer crowds, just as pretty.

Best time for beaches in Jeju

If you want sun, sea, and sand, July through early August is my go-to. 

I love beaches like Hamdeok (northeast) for its calm water and easy access to cafés. Hyeopjae and Geumneung in the northwest are also stunning with their turquoise water and black lava rocks.

For something more dramatic, Jungmun Beach has stronger waves and wide golden sand. I always go early to grab a spot and stay until sunset.

Best time to hike Hallasan

For hiking, autumn is unbeatable. September through October gives you cool, clear weather and incredible mountain colors. 

Yeongsil Trail is my go-to when I want panoramic views without a full-day hike, while Eorimok is perfect if I want a mix of forest and ridges. 

If you’re after a real challenge, the Seongpanak to Gwaneumsa route takes you to Baengnokdam Crater Lake at the summit. 

If you can manage snow, winter hikes up Hallasan are unforgettable but tough. Bring spikes for your boots and start early as the trails can ice over quickly.

Best time to see fall foliage in Jeju

Late October into early November is the best time for Jeju fall colors. The colors change quickly, but if you get it right, Hallasan’s Yeongsil looks like it’s on fire with reds and golds. 

Bijarim Forest is another must. The 500-year-old nutmeg yew trees turn golden, and the red volcanic soil makes the colors pop even more. On quieter days, I like Saryeoni Forest for a slow walk through orange and yellow tunnels of trees.

And if you like something different, Hueree Natural Park in Seogwipo has fields of pink muhly grass in October that feel straight out of a dream.

Best time for budget travelers

Traveling to Jeju island on a budget? I’d aim for the off-peak months: December through February or sometimes early March. Flights are cheaper, hotels cut prices, and you’ll often have places to yourself. 

Sure, it’s windy and cold, but the cafés are cozy and the views don’t disappear. 

Best time for festivals in Jeju

• Jeju Fire Festival (March): This one lights up Saebyeol Oreum with massive flames, fireworks, and performances. It’s wild, crowded, and unforgettable.
• Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival (early April): Streets in Jeju City and Seogwipo glow pink, with concerts, food stalls, and flower walks. It’s short but sweet, so timing is everything.
• Jeju Canola Flower Festival (mid-April): If you love endless yellow fields, this is your dream. It usually happens right after cherry blossoms, so you might get both if your timing’s lucky.
• Seongsan Sunrise Festival (January 1): Start the year on top of Seongsan Ilchulbong, watching the first sunrise with thousands of locals. There’s music, performances, and a lot of energy for 6 AM.
• Jeju Olle Walking Festival (early November): Hike along different Olle trails, eat local snacks, and enjoy live performances along the way. It’s active but super fun, and the autumn scenery makes it even better.
• Bangeo Festival (early November): This one celebrates Jeju’s famous yellowtail fish. You’ll get fishing events, seafood tastings, and fireworks by the harbor in Moseulpo. It feels more local, and the food is fantastic.

Where to stay in Jeju

I like splitting my stay between Jeju City and Seogwipo. Jeju City makes things easy for the airport and night markets, while Seogwipo feels slower and puts you right by the waterfalls. Here are a few places I think are worth checking out:

Final thoughts

Jeju really is a year-round destination, but knowing when to go makes all the difference. Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, or just a quiet café by the sea, a little planning will help you enjoy it more.

If you’re still building your itinerary, my 3-day Jeju itinerary is a great place to start. It covers the west, south, and east of the island without feeling rushed.

Food is another big part of Jeju, so check out my what to eat in Jeju guide for black pork, abalone, and all the sweet treats you shouldn’t miss.

And if you’re planning the bigger picture, my Korail Pass guide and Korea train travel tips will help you make the most of your trip beyond the island.