If you find yourself with an extra day on Jeju Island, Udo Island is the place to go. If you haven't heard of it, Udo is an island 15 minutes off the eastern coast of Jeju-do, known best for its peanuts and beautiful views.
Technically, Udo Maritime Park is the complete name of the place (u = cow, do = island), but because most people call it Udo Island in English, that's the name I'll mainly stick to. South Korea has many small islands off its coasts, but Udo, Dokdo, and Jeju-do are by far the most famous.
And for as gorgeous as Jeju City & Island are, I think Udo may actually have it beat— particularly when it comes to beaches on Udo Island. But don't take my word for it; head to cow island to judge for yourself. This is my complete guide to visiting Udo Island, from start to finish!
I know some of you will check out this guide while already on the island, so just click the name of the section in the table of contents to 'jump' to any of these things to do on Udo Island. Below is everything you need to know before you board that Udo Island ferry.
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⛴️ How to Take the Udo Island Ferry
Best Time to Visit Udo Island: April-September
Transit Time Around The Island: 3-4 hours by electric bike
Before anything else, you must know that you need your passport to be able to take the ferry or submarine to Udo Island, so make sure you have your passport or Korean National ID with you, especially if you are a foreigner (this is something you must always take with you wherever you go!).
The ferry ports that take you between Udo and Jeju-do operate from 7am or 8am to between 5pm and 6:30pm (depending on the season). That said, there are two ports on Jeju Island that can take you to Udo: Seongsan Port and Jongdal Port.
The most easily-accessible port for tourists is the one at Seongsan Harbor, where I left from every time I've made the trek to Udo Island. On the Udo side are Haumokdong Port (하우목동항) and Cheongjin Port (우도천진항).
While you'll likely see both Udo Island ports during your visit, you'll probably be taking the same route as most visitors take: starting from Seongsan Port on Jeju and arriving at Cheongjin Port on Udo.
If you are visiting Udo by bus, look for the following buses at the Jeju City Bus Terminal: 111, 112, 201, 211, and 212. Get off at Seongsan Harbor, which is a colossal white building with a round-archway entrance. If you wish to go there and board the ferry using your private car, you may do without restrictions
As for rental cars, typically these are not allowed to enter the island, but there are exceptions. To learn more about these, consult the Jeju Tourist Information Center first. If you brought your car with you and they tell you that you can't take it to Udo, there's a three-story parking structure nearby.
You can expect to pay around ₩5000 to park for the day, which is more than reasonable for Korea.
As soon as you're inside the terminal, the first thing you must do is locate a booth with a yellow sign that has 승선신고서 작성대 written on it. This translates to "Boarding Declaration Form Preparation Stand."
At this desk, fill out two forms with your name, birthday, and phone number. If you know you’re allowed to bring your car to the ferry, you should also include the type and model of the vehicle you are driving. Doing so grants you two tickets, one for the ferry to Udo and the other for your ferry back to Jeju.
After signing everything, just pick a line that leads to any booth; all ticketing counters can process tickets for the Udo Island Ferry. The typical entrance fee to Udo Island is ₩10000 for adults, ₩8100 for students, and ₩7000 for the elderly or those with disability. Children from ages 3-7 can enter for ₩2400 only.
Drivers should prepare to spend around ₩21,600 to ₩37,000 depending on the number of seats their vehicle has. Once you have a ticket, they'll give you a brochure with specific ferry times that depend on the season.
From here you simply follow the signs leading you down the hall opposite the purchasing desk, and then to the left. From there you will go outside where a worker will collect your ticket to board, and then you just need to take a seat on the floor inside and enjoy your 15-minute trip to Udo.
🚲 How to Get Around Udo Island
There are two piers on the island, Cheonjin Port and Haumok-dong Port. Both ports are surrounded by multiple rental shops where you can borrow electric bicycles, small cars, scooters, or even catch the public bus.
I highly suggest you rent either an electric bicycle or a scooter, because the island is deceptively large, with long strips separating one place from the next. Take note that you'll need an International Driver's License to rent cars and scooters, so if you don't have these, you’re limited to a bus or an electric bike on Udo Island.
Renting Electric Bikes
You can see the whole island of Udo by electric bike in about 4 hours. This is the method I opted for on my last trip, after taking the bus and renting a regular bike, previously— I highly recommend an electric bike.
It costs just ₩15000 per person to rent an electric bicycle (pronounced ja-jeon-caw), but this may not be the best option if you have kids. If you've never used an electric bike, it basically just helps you get up the steepest hills, like a temporary loosening of gravity's pull.
You still have to do all the biking yourself, but I'd say it takes about half the effort of a regular bike; that is to say, still some. While there aren't really dedicated bike trails on Udo Island, there are very few cars and well-paved roads.
So if you don't want to sweat, especially in the summer (when there's not rain), opt for the bus. Alternatively, make sure you get your international driver's license so you can (hopefully) rent a mini car.
Renting Scooters (Mini Cars)
You can see the whole island of Udo by mini car in about 3 hours. It costs ₩30000 to rent a mini car or motorbike, and you are legally required to have your international driving permit to be able to rent one. Unfortunately on my last trip, none of the shops were renting these to non-Koreans.
If you have a Korean ID (or even ARC) they may rent to you, but both shops I tried were honestly pretty rude with shooing me off. I don't know if they're just not used to foreigners anymore or had a bad experience, but I'd stick to the electric bikes.
You can also check Udorent to schedule your preferred mode of transportation in advance, but prices are generally lower onsite.
Udo Island by Bus
If you don't want to drive, that's fine. You can just ride the Coastal Tour Bus Line (관광순환버스) and see the whole island of Udo by bus in about 3 hours (I've done it!). For this option, you can purchase the tickets for these at Cheonjin and Haumok-dong ports.
The route the bus takes will also depend on what day it is - if it's an even-numbered day, the bus drives clockwise, but if it’s an odd-numbered day, it goes the opposite way. If you wish to stop somewhere along the route, you may simply ring the bell.
As of 2024, the Udo Island bus only stops at 8 main places around the island plus the two ports, with buses running every 15-30 minutes depending upon the season.
I took the bus around the island on my first visit, and I've rented a vehicle every time since. While it's convenient and pretty easy to take the bus, you're really at the mercy of their schedule. You can rent a regular bike and still take the bus, but I say it's really worth it to just spring for the electric bike.
🗿 Things to Do On Udo Island
It's for the clear blue skies that I always plan for Udo on the nicest weather day of my trip to Jeju! Unfortunately due to covid, many businesses closed over the last few years, so many lists of things to do on Udo are outdated.
So for those wondering what to do on Udo Island other than enjoying the sunshine, there are plenty of attractions beyond the beach. When you arrive on Udo Island, you'll be handed a guide to the '8 Scenic Views of Udo,' which vary widely in their uniqueness.
I've covered each of those below, which are almost all on the southern half of the island, as well as the much more interesting things to do on Udo Island. There are a deceptively large number of cafes on Udo, so you have a ton of options for resting and trying out the local peanut specialties.
I highly recommend downloading Naver and bookmarking the ports + places of most interest to you before you even catch the ferry. Otherwise it may get overwhelming to try and sort everything out, especially if you're not fluent in Korean.
The main path around the island is called the 'Olle Trail,' and at just over 11km (7 miles), it's very possible to visit all these Udo Island attractions in one day.
Jeonpo Mangdo (전포망도)
It seems only right to start with the Udo attraction that's not quite on Udo Island, at all: the view of Udo Island from the ferry. To clarify, this refers to those few minutes as the ferry approaches the island that all the Koreans clamor to one side of the boat to see the island in its cow-shaped entirety.
It is absolutely gorgeous (though someone may need to point out the cow shape to you, at first), and definitely worth standing up to see.
Climb Udobong for Jidu Cheongsa (지두청사)
This scenic view is only possible if you climb to the top of Udobong (Udo Peak), which sits just 430 feet above sea level. While Udo Peak may not be as much of a hiking feat as climbing Hallasan Mountain, the view is totally worth the short hike. Much like reaching Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak on Jeju Island, the view in the spring and summer will remind you a lot of the Isles of Scotland.
Jugan Myeongweol (주간명월)
A short distance from Jidu Cheongsa is actually a sea cave, which is located just under Udobong. The reflection of the mid-morning sun on the water inside is said to resemble the moonlight, so lots of people come here to enjoy it the view before heading further north. It's pretty uncommon, but sometimes you'll see visitors posing in the entrance with the glow of the sun as their backdrop.
Dongan Gyeonggul (동안경굴)
Probably the best-known cave on Udo Island, this beautiful natural formation is viewable up-close only by boat. The massive opening has spawned many a legend, keeping visitors coming from both Geommeolle Beach and the sandy area just below Seongsan Ilchulbong (boat trip prices vary per person and by the season).
Huhae Seokbyeok (후해석벽)
While this is technically referring to the view of Udobong from the side when in the water, the view from across the way is quite nice, as well. For those who can't afford the time or money to take a boat out, you can follow the wooden fence along the path to reach an overlook that's (I've been told) almost the same view.
Cheongjin Gwansa (천진관사)
Near Cheonjin Port (where most people arrive to Udo) is Cheonjin Village lookout point, from which you can see a stunning view of Jeju's Hallasan Mountain on clear days.
Yahang Eobeom (야항어범)
While most people won't have the chance to enjoy this view unless they actually stay on Udo Island overnight, the lights from the locals' fishing boats are said to make for a beautiful nighttime display on the water.
Seobinbaeksa (서빈백사)
The final 'scenic view' of Udo is one of its most famous beaches: Seobin Baeksa. Also known as Udo Sanho Beach or 'popcorn beach,' this large stretch of white sand beach is truly a view of its own. The deep blue water surrounding Jeju seems to stretch on for miles, and since it's right next to Udo's main port, it's very easy to get to.
Geommeolle Beach (검멀레해변)
Unlike most beaches on Jeju Island, Geommeolle Beach is not one that you'd want to set up your towel & umbrella on. This is because the black sand gets incredibly hot in the summer sun, and is surrounded by those gnarly-looking black lava rocks so characteristic of Jeju.
Rather, most people come here to take pictures on the rocks with the stunning background, and then take a boat out to see the caves during low tide (be sure to time it right, otherwise the water is too high for a trip!).
Hagosudong Beach (하고수동해변)
If you're visiting Udo Island for the beaches, this is your spot. Unlike the shell-filled or black lava beaches on most edges of the island, this one is bright white sand and shallow water almost as far as the eye can see. However because it's widely thought to be the most beautiful beach on Udo Island, it's almost always packed with beach-goers and their gear.
Mangru Light House (망루 등대)
Another one of the stunning places to visit on Udo Island is Mangru Lighthouse. One of only five lighthouses on Udo, this is by far the most-visited lighthouse on Udo thanks to its stark white exterior. It's also a great central spot to hang out, and you're guaranteed to find someone to take your picture.
Changkom Rock (창꼼바위)
This is best described as an ancient lava ring, big enough to comfortably fit a few people inside. Think of this like one of those Instagram frames that people used to pose in front of at parties; it's very nice to look at, but there's not much else going on. But locals love to come here for a picture, especially couples, so it's worth a stop for the selfie, alone.
Udo Botanical Garden (우도정원)
Udo Botanical Garden, also known as Udo Herb Garden, is a large and colorful garden on the northern end of the island. It's great for walking around & taking pictures for an hour or two, depending on whether you stop in at their café or not (and how many photos you take).
As you bike your way through the one lane circuiting Udo, you'll encounter the sweet scent of citrus blossoms, which you may at first confuse for honeysuckle. Once you arrive you'll be pleased to know that Udo has a breathtaking view of vibrant pink muhly and Korean lavender fields.
Here at Udo Botanical Garden, you can experience the intoxicating blooms up close and personal, along with a variety of other local and imported warm weather plants. This is where the infamous Udo Island pink grass (muhly grass) is located.
People Watch at a Cafe (카페)
This is one of my favorite things to do in Seoul and everywhere else in Korea, Udo Island included. I highly recommend ordering a peanut latte (iced or hot), and then sitting back to enjoy the view.
Ziplining Near Udobong (짚라인)
The Udo zipline was closed for most of the pandemic, but is normally open seasonally (in warm weather). Riding across offers a complete in-air view of Udo Island, which makes the moderately-steep price more than worth it.
Udo Island Submarine Ride (우도잠수함)
Probably one of the most unique things to do on Udo Island, taking a submarine ride is something that needs to be booked in advance, but I guarantee you'll never forget the experience.
Tourists who love beaches and gardens will never run out of things to do on Udo Island. Nature lovers will love the slow and easy vibe offered to all visitors. Here are 11 places on Udo Island that I love to come back to during my trips here.
Dongangyeonggul (주간명월)
Head to the Geommeolle Beach (검멀레해변), a black-sand beach seen below Udobong Peak, and join the boat tour that takes you to the "whale's blowhole." This tour is only available when the tides are low, but you can still admire the view of the waves crashing against the cliffs.
Huhaeseokbyeok (후해석벽)
Early risers who want to see the majestic view of the sun should find time to visit this rock cliff next to Geommeolle Beach, one of the best beaches in Jeju. Locals say a volcanic explosion that occurred 2 million years ago created these cliffs, and like the many other spectacular sites on Udo Island, it’s a popular spot for selfies.
Juganmeyongweol (주간명월)
Did you know that you can see the moon in the late morning? This beautiful cave lets you watch the sunlight form a natural moon-like shape thanks to its intricately-shaped ceiling.
Jeonpomangdo (전포망도)
Jeonpomangdo is a viewpoint shows you the outline of the cow lying down from a certain angle. I had a hard time finding it, but after walking along the ridge, I could finally see the cow after which the island was famously named.
The rich green grass shrouding the cliffs and ridges emphasize the blue of the sea below, so this is another memorable spot for pictures.
Hamdeok Seoubong Beach (함덕 서우봉 산책로)
Climb just a little to witness the golden cosmos flower patch at the Seoubong Peak. This gorgeous view of the yellow garden is most delightful around October-November.
Rothem Garden Restaurant (로뎀가든)
If you feel like listening to a bit of history, come to the west side of Udo Island to try the Hallasan Mountain-shaped Fried Rice. The staff of Rothem Garden will tell you a short story about how Mt. Hallasan came to be as they formed the rice into the shape of a mountain.
This delicious delicacy is a mix of egg, meat, and cheese. Plus, if you feel like trying out Jeju Island's famous black pork, they serve it here along with various seafood.
Biyangdo Island (비양도)
Similar to Dokdo Island in the northern part of the country, Biyangdo is not a place that many people visit. Fewer than 100 people live on the island year-round, but it's a popular day trip from Jeju, and easily visited from Udo. The highlights of a trip to Biyangdo Island are the hike to the top of the peak, the lighthouse, secret fishing spots, and view of Jeju-do that can't be beat.
🍜 What to Eat on Udo Island
You couldn't go on a day trip to Udo Island without trying some of the local fare, so allow me to make some recommendations.
- Drink a peanut latte (ground peanuts in a sweet latte) or peanut liquor, both of which are Udo Island specialties.
- Try homemade peanut ice cream, which you can find at a multitude of cafes on Udo island (most of which are marked on the map above).
- Abalone anything— most people opt for the porridge or stew (jeonbokguk), even in the summer heat.
- Any snacks and dishes with garlic are highly sought-after on Udo, because the local environment is perfect for growing all sorts of plants, and the local residents pride themselves on their quality garlic & chives.
- Marinated crabs are even better here than on Jeju; I swear. You can often even find them as a banchan, or a side dish served alongside your main meal, though only at the seafood-centric restaurants.
☕ 5 Best Cafes on Udo Island
My memories of Udo Island always seem to involve peanuts (usually in ice cream form). You can go anywhere on the island and find this treat in the nearest cafe. Almost all of the restaurants and coffee shops have a variation of it, many also with a peanut cafe latte on the menu. You can even go on a 'peanut ice cream pilgrimage' if you want! The following five cafés let you do that.
Café Blanc Rocher
This coffee shop has a nice outside deck with a marvelous view of Hagosudong Beach. The scenery from the café is picturesque, and you can enjoy the sea breeze with a cup of coffee and baked goods that utilize Udo peanuts.
Café Tolcani (카페 톨칸이)
Café Tolcani is a hidden café with a great view of the beach. You can try their peanut-shaped Hanrabong éclair or try various signature coffee blends listed on their menu.
Dalgian Café (달그리안 카페)
Situated near the popular hotspot of the Udo area, this Industrial café lets you enjoy the view of the scenic cliffs above Geommolle Beach while sipping their house blend or eating the Udo-famous peanut ice cream.
Udo Marilyn Monroe (우도 마를린먼로)
This minimalist café is a tribute to the late actress Marilyn Monroe. Tourists enjoy a generous heap of sweet-tasting dishes despite being slightly pricey. For dessert, you can enjoy a cup of peanut ice cream with peanuts grown from their garden.
This bakery café is a favorite stop for bikers cycling along the Olle trail. Their rainbow black pork burger is a must! Their buns also come in rainbow colors!
🌅 Where to Stay on Udo Island
One day is not enough to tour the entirety of Udo. That's why people look for where to stay on Udo Island.
우도돌담길민박 바깥채 (Udo Doldamgil B&B Outside House)
This charming little bed and breakfast offers the stuff you need for a one-day stay. Moreover, this tiny house is part of a delightful little village. Inside, you can tell that the staff put extra care into maintaining the cleanliness of the rooms.
They also have a small kitchen and an outdoor table, so if you're planning to cook for yourself or some friends, this is an excellent place to base yourself.
후해석벽 (Hoohae Sugbyug)
After a day full of walking, you deserve to have a comfortable stay in a clean, comfortable, and spacious room. This place has everything you need, including rows of restaurants and convenience stores nearby.
This pension is also just a few kilometers away from Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, so you can just head out of your room during the wee hours of the morning to witness the sunset touch the volcano.
Overall, the island's vibe is ideal for solo travel. Not only is it easy to get around, but you don't really need an itinerary for Udo Island; just drive around and there's always something to do. Introverts would particularly love the slow and easy vibe on a sunny day.
So if you're looking for this kind of comfort, book a ticket to Jeju and head to Udo. You'll definitely have a fun time.
Joey Rana says
You think they can make an exception in bringing a van if our party has 2 2 year olds and 2 over 65 years old?
Max says
No, unfortunately they won't make any exceptions (trust me; we've tried!).
jen says
@Joey Rana, I read that they have changed the regulation in 2023 not sure from which month but you could bring your van if your party has someone below 2 y.0 and/or over 65 y.o
Jen says
Hi, in regards to the bus. I find a PDF brochure that said the bus runs 2 ways so I’m a bit confused you said that the route depends on whether the date is odd or even numbered. This is the brochure link but not sure if it’s the latest one or not
Max says
Jen,
This may have changed since my most recent visit to Udo last year. If the bus line has expanded again since covid restrictions eased, that's great to hear! But that link won't download for me, so I don't feel comfortable sharing it on the site. In the end, if you're planning to visit Udo in the winter, you'll find a lot of attractions and amenities closed, regardless, and this usually includes a lighter bus schedule. So it may be better to plan your winter trip under the assumption that the bus will run relatively infrequently (and if it runs even more frequently, then that'll mean even easier travel once you're there!).