Planning a family holiday is both exciting and stressful, especially when traveling with young kids.
Our family trip to Jeju, Busan, and Seoul turned out to be an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, frustrations, and many moments of joy.
Let me share how it went.
Our 13-Day Family Adventure in South Korea: A 3-Part Series
Join us as we take you through an unforgettable family trip across Jeju, Busan, and Seoul. From scenic landscapes and volcanic peaks to bustling city streets and cultural landmarks, we explored it all.
This 3-part series will walk you through each destination, highlighting the best spots, hidden gems, and family-friendly activities.
Day 1: Arrival in Jeju – Exploring Before Check-In
Our family adventure in Jeju began with an early morning arrival - 8am!
Upon landing, we needed to collect our rental car from Lotte Rent-A-Car.
And we booked 10.30AM for the car rental collection to avoid paying additional day of rental.
So we have a lot of time at the airport before collecting our car.
Lotte Rent-A-Car Jeju Airport Shuttle Experience
Unlike in Singapore, there was no physical desk at Jeju Airport.
We located the shuttle bus pick-up area outside Gate 5.
The landmark is the Paris Baguette Jeju Airport Rental Car House Branch.
There is also a board that shows the timing of the shuttle. Since they have very frequent intervals, so we did not bother checking the timing.
We got to the shuttle bus area and was transported to the Lotte Rent-A-Car Auto House - Taking roughly 10+ mins.
The staff were efficient and courteous, making the rental process smooth.
We presented our international driving permits, signed the necessary documents, and received the keys to our vehicle.
You know South Korea do not use google map right? So we got to use Naver Map, which is predominantly in Korean.
That posed a challenge.
After some trial and error, we managed to set up the GPS and embarked on our journey.
Dongmun Market
Dongmun Market is one of Jeju's most renowned markets, offering a vibrant array of fresh produce, street food, and local specialties.
Our first destination was Dongmun Market, a market hub of activity.
The market's lively atmosphere and diverse stalls provided a sensory feast. Some how, it was not really crowded or we are there at a non peak timing.
We sampled grilled squid priced at 22,000 KRW (approximately $22).
The squid was fresh and flavorful, grilled and torched with butter. Though we found the price slightly steep.
The highlight was the peanut ice cream.
Its light, creamy texture and aromatic peanut flavor delighted the children and us alike.
Strolling through the market offered an authentic glimpse into Jeju's daily market scene.
Yongduam Rock (Dragon Head Rock)
Yongduam Rock, also known as Dragon Head Rock, is a natural lava formation resembling a dragon's head, steeped in local legend.
With time to spare before check-in, we proceeded to Yongduam Rock.
The formation's unique shape and the surrounding coastal scenery were captivating.
We parked nearby and walked along the coastal path to get a closer view.
But if you do not have spare time. Can also skip this place lah.
Rainbow Coastal Road
The Rainbow Coastal Road is a scenic drive offering panoramic views of Jeju's coastline.
Continuing our exploration, we drove along the Rainbow Coastal Road.
The route provided stunning vistas of the ocean on one side and lush greenery on the other.
The open road and gentle sea breeze made the drive exceptionally pleasant.
This journey allowed us to immerse ourselves in Jeju's picturesque landscapes.
If you have spare time, you can drive along here. Park along the sides, take some pictures.
Sukseongdo – Aged Black Pork BBQ Experience
Sukseongdo is a renowned restaurant in Jeju, celebrated for its aged black pork barbecue, attracting both locals and tourists.
As evening approached, we headed to Sukseongdo to experience Jeju's famed black pork barbecue.
The restaurant is known for its cross-aging process, enhancing the meat's flavor and tenderness.
Upon arrival, we noticed a queue, a testament to its popularity.
The wait was approximately an hour, but the anticipation made it worthwhile.
Once seated, the staff assisted in grilling the meat, ensuring it was cooked to perfection.
The smoky aroma and succulent texture of the black pork were exceptional.
The children enjoyed the interactive dining experience, making it a memorable meal for the family.
Jade Hotel Check-In
After a fulfilling dinner, we proceeded to check into our hotel.
The check-in process was smooth, and the accommodations were comfortable.
The children, exhausted from the day's activities, quickly settled in.
Day 2: Exploring Jeju’s East Coast – Bagels, Volcanoes, and Night Markets
After a restful night, we woke up feeling refreshed and ready to explore Jeju’s east coast.
The day promised delicious food, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant night markets, and we decided to make the most of it.
London Bagel – A Trendy Start to the Day
London Bagel is a popular café in Jeju, known for its fluffy bagels and cozy interiors.
We started our day with breakfast here, drawn by the hype and the Instagram-worthy setup.
The café had a variety of bagel flavors, and we tried options like garlic butter, truffle, and salted butter.
Each one was fresh and delicious, paired perfectly with coffee and tea.
However, the bill—60,000 KRW (approximately $60) for five bagels and two drinks—made it clear this was more of a treat than a regular breakfast spot.
The views outside and the warm atmosphere made it a pleasant start to our day.
Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) – Nature’s Majesty
Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak, is one of Jeju’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We arrived in the early afternoon, just in time to explore its unique volcanic landscape.
The crater, formed thousands of years ago by volcanic eruptions, rises dramatically from the sea.
There are two trails: one free and one paid.
We decided on the free trail, as we were unsure how far the kids would want to go.
The views from the trail were still breathtaking, with endless stretches of ocean and lush greenery surrounding us.
Lunch at a Nearby Restaurant
A Taste of Jeju’s Seafood
After exploring the crater, we stopped at a nearby restaurant for lunch.
The menu featured Jeju’s seafood specialties, and we ordered abalone porridge, raw abalone, and ramen.
The abalone porridge was creamy and hearty, the perfect comfort food after our walk.
Raw abalone was a unique experience—fresh and slightly chewy, with a briny taste of the sea.
The ramen, with its hot and flavorful broth, was a safe and satisfying choice for everyone.
The meal was a lovely way to recharge before continuing our day.
Seogwipo-si Olle Night Market – A Convenient Dinner Stop
The drive to Velum Resort was about an hour, so we decided to stop for dinner at the nearby Seogwipo-si Olle Night Market.
The night market is famous for its bustling atmosphere and diverse street food options, making it a must-visit for any foodie.
The moment we arrived, we were greeted by the delicious aroma of grilled seafood, sizzling skewers, and sweet desserts.
The kids were thrilled to explore, pointing out everything from fried snacks to colorful drinks.
We started with grilled squid, priced at 18,000 KRW (about $18).
It was slightly cheaper than at Dongmun Market but not as flavorful.
We also tried Jeju’s tangerine desserts, which were sweet and refreshing.
The kids loved picking their own skewered meats and rice cakes, while we enjoyed local dishes like spicy stir-fried noodles and fish cakes.
The lively music, friendly vendors, and bustling atmosphere made the market an enjoyable stop.
Check-In at Velum Resort
After dinner, we made our way to Velum Resort for check-in.
It is just 15 mins drive away from the market.
The resort’s staff were welcoming, and the check-in process was smooth.
BUT!!!!
We stayed at level 3. And there is no lift to go up to level 3. What a bum!
We have to carry the luggages up 3 levels of stairs. I would expect better though.
And so luckily, our room was spacious and cozy, with everything we needed for a comfortable stay.
Day 3: Waterfalls, Heritage, and Family Fun
Sojeongbang and Jeongbang Waterfalls
We started the day with a visit to Sojeongbang Waterfall.
It was a small but peaceful spot where the water flows directly into the sea.
The sound of the water crashing on the rocks was calming, and the kids enjoyed walking around and picking up little stones.
Charlotte kept saying she found the “perfect pebble” and made us promise to keep it for her.
After that, we headed to Jeongbang Waterfall, and wow, this one was much bigger.
It is the only waterfall in Asia that flows directly into the ocean, and standing close to it was an amazing experience.
The mist from the waterfall cooled us down, and Charlotte was super excited to climb the rocks nearby.
We had to keep a close eye on her, but she was so happy pretending to be a little adventurer.
Charlene joined in, and the two of them had us laughing with their “explorer poses.”
Lunch at a Local Korean Restaurant
By lunch, everyone was hungry, so we stopped at a small restaurant we spotted along the way.
The smell of the food hit us the moment we walked in, and we ordered beef stew and a broth-based soup.
The beef stew was rich and flavorful, with big chunks of tender meat.
The broth was simple but delicious, and the kids happily finished their bowls.
Charlene called it “the best soup ever,” and Charlotte agreed, nodding as she slurped hers up.
The staff were kind and even brought a small extra side dish for the kids, which made them smile.
This warm meal gave us the energy to continue exploring.
Folk Village
After lunch, we visited the Jeju Folk Village.
This place felt like stepping back in time.
We rented an electric car for 25,000 KRW (about $25), which made it easier to get around with the kids.
The kids were thrilled when they saw the rabbits and geese waiting to be fed.
For just 1,000 KRW (about $1), we bought little packets of carrots, and the kids carefully handed them out.
Charlene giggled every time a rabbit nibbled on her carrot, while Charlotte was more serious, making sure each animal got a fair share.
Walking through the traditional houses was interesting, and the kids kept asking funny questions.
Charlene asked if people here had TVs, and when we said no, she looked so shocked.
The village was huge, but the interactive parts like animal feeding kept everyone happy and entertained.
Herb Garden (Skipped Due to Weather)
We planned to visit the Herb Garden in the evening to see the lights come on after sunset.
But the wind was so strong that it made being outside uncomfortable.
The kids were already getting tired, so we decided to skip the garden and head straight for dinner.
Dinner at Maendorong Noodles
For dinner, we chose Maendorong Noodles, which is known for its pork broth noodles.
The smell of the food as we walked in made us all hungry again.
The pork broth noodles were creamy and rich, and Charlene finished hers so fast we joked she was a noodle expert.
Charlotte tried the bibimbap-style dry noodles and loved mixing the sauce herself.
The kids kept debating which dish was better, and we had a good laugh listening to their “reviews.”
It was a simple and satisfying meal to end the day.
Day 4: Tea, Beaches, and a Scenic Night Market
Our fourth day in Jeju was a mix of relaxation and adventure.
We started the day with a calm visit to a tea museum, enjoyed a windy beach, and ended it with a unique night market experience after a scenic drive.
O’sulloc Tea Museum
We began the morning at the O’sulloc Tea Museum, a charming spot surrounded by green tea fields.
The museum showcased the history and culture of Korean tea, and it was a delightful way to start the day.
The kids were curious about the tea-making process and enjoyed the little exhibits.
Actually if you are not a tea person, no need to come here. Nothing much actually.
Although we picked up some tea-related souvenirs before heading out.
Hallim Park
Hallim Park is a great place to visit in Jeju, with beautiful gardens, cool caves, and a bit of culture.
It is perfect for families looking for something everyone can enjoy.
Beautiful Gardens to Explore
We started by walking through the gardens, which were full of colorful flowers and interesting plants.
The paths were easy to walk on, and the kids loved running around and spotting flowers.
We stopped many times to take photos because the gardens looked so pretty.
It was a calm and relaxing start to our visit.
Hyeopjaegul and Ssangyonggul Caves
Hallim Park has two unique caves: Hyeopjaegul Cave and Ssangyonggul Cave—that are very special because they are made from lava.
These caves are a must-see which I research.
Hyeopjaegul Cave
This cave is cool and refreshing inside, which was nice after walking in the sun.
It has special limestone formations, which are not common in lava caves.
As we walked along the path, we saw rocks hanging from the ceiling and others growing up from the ground.
The kids kept asking how the rocks were made, and it was fun to learn together.
Ssangyonggul Cave
The next cave, Ssangyonggul, is also called the "Double Dragon Cave."
It gets this name because it looks like two dragon-shaped lava tubes joined together.
This cave was bigger and felt more exciting.
The kids loved imagining dragons living there, and we all enjoyed the cool air and echoing sounds.
The spot where the two lava tubes meet was really interesting to see.
Both caves were fun and different from anything we had seen before.
They gave us a chance to learn about Jeju’s volcanic past while having a little adventure.
But overall, I felt the caves were no that impressive though. Have seen other caves and this 2 caves seem too underwhelming.
A Quick Stop at the Folk Village
The park also has a small folk village with old Jeju houses and traditional items.
Since we had already visited a bigger folk village the day before, we did not stay long here.
Lunch at a Local Restaurant
For lunch, we stopped at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes.
We ordered spicy pork stew and bibimbap, both of which were delicious.
The pork stew was hearty and full of flavor, though a bit too spicy for the kids.
They stuck to the bibimbap and simple side dishes like marinated tofu and stir-fried spinach.
It was a satisfying meal, and we left feeling refreshed.
Hyeopjae Beach
After lunch, we headed to Hyeopjae Beach, known for its clear blue water and soft white sand.
The beach was stunning, but the wind was incredibly strong that day.
The kids attempted to build sandcastles but gave up after the wind kept blowing the sand away.
Instead, we walked along the shore, enjoying the waves and the cool breeze.
The highlight was the sunset.
The sky turned shades of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting beautifully on the water.
We captured some amazing family photos, and the view was so breathtaking it made the windy weather worth it.
Arboretum Night Market
With the kids feeling sleepy, we decided to let them nap in the car while we drove an hour to the Arboretum Night Market.
The drive was heavy. We met with the 6pm off work traffic. Traffic is slow and heavy. So we decided to take it slow.
By the time we arrived, the kids were awake and ready to explore.
The night market had a quieter vibe compared to others we visited, but the food made it a worthwhile stop.
We tried garlic prawns with rice, grilled Pork skewers, and a beef steak.
The garlic prawns were juicy and flavorful, and the kids loved the grilled pork.
But it was very cold and windy.
Around 5 Degrees + Wind. Brrrrr... Super cold!
Day 5: Hiking Hallasan and Exploring Jeju’s Coast
Mount Hallasan
We started the morning early, gearing up for a hike on Mount Hallasan, the tallest mountain in South Korea.
While the mountain offers longer trails for experienced hikers, we opted for the shortest one, which was 1.3 km long with an elevation gain of about 1100+ meters.
It sounded manageable, but with kids, it turned out to be quite the workout.
Charlotte took to the trail like a pro, marching ahead and encouraging us to keep up.
Charlene struggled a little halfway and needed to be carried at times, which was exhausting but also a reminder of how little she still is.
The trail was surrounded by lush greenery, and the cool mountain air made the effort feel rewarding.
After 40+ mins of hike, we finally reached the top. The view was breathtaking.
The vast expanse of Jeju stretched out below us, and the kids were so excited to spot tiny cars and buildings in the distance.
The descent was much easier, and Charlene kept herself entertained by singing songs and pointing out interesting rocks.
By the time we got back to the car, we were tired but proud of what we had accomplished.
Lunch at Saekdal Hangover Soup
After the hike, we needed something hearty to refuel.
We stopped at a nearby restaurant called Saekdal Hangover Soup.
The menu featured comforting bowls of soup with beef or pork broth, served alongside rice and simple side dishes.
The broth was rich and flavorful, and it was just what we needed after the hike.
The kids enjoyed the rice, dipping it into the soup and slurping it up happily.
It was a simple but satisfying meal that gave us the energy to continue exploring.
Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff
Our next stop was Daepo Jusangjeolli Cliff, a natural wonder formed by cooling lava that created hexagonal rock columns along the coast.
We paid a small entry fee and took a short walk down to the viewing area.
The sight of the cliffs, with waves crashing against them, was mesmerizing.
The kids were fascinated by the unique shapes of the rocks and kept asking how they were made.
Charlotte even tried to count how many sides each column had, which kept her busy for a while.
We took our time soaking in the beauty of the place, snapping photos and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Yongmeori Beach (Closed Due to High Tide)
We planned to visit Yongmeori Beach, known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and tide pools.
Unfortunately, when we arrived in the late afternoon, the beach was closed due to high tide.
We were disappointed but decided to explore the area around the beach instead.
There was an observatory platform nearby that offered stunning views of the coastline.
We spent some time there, taking photos and letting the kids run around.
Even though we couldn’t access the beach, the area still offered plenty to enjoy.
Dinner at Jeongseok Rice and Side Dishes
For dinner, we chose a local restaurant near our resort called Jeongseok Rice.
The menu featured simple but delicious meals like grilled beef and rice, as well as spicy pork dishes.
The kids loved the grilled beef, and we enjoyed the spicy pork, which had just the right amount of heat.
The portions were generous, and the flavors were on point.
It was a comforting end to a day full of adventures.
Day 6: Indoor Fun and Quality Time at Pororo Park
After a few days of outdoor exploration, we decided to dedicate Day 6 to the kids and spend the day at Pororo Park, an indoor theme park centered around the beloved Korean cartoon character.
It turned out to be a day full of laughter, fun rides, and precious family moments.
Pororo Park
We arrived at Pororo Park around lunchtime and decided to get all-park access tickets.
The all-park access meant no time limits on any of the zones and unlimited rides.
It was a great deal, especially since the park was not crowded that day.
The kids immediately ran to their favorite rides, and to our surprise, they could hop on the same ride three or four times in a row without waiting.
Charlene was especially thrilled with the mini train ride, while Charlotte loved the ball pit and climbing structures.
The interactive play zones were a hit, and we spent hours watching them explore and giggle as they tried everything.
There was also a small café inside, which made things super convenient.
We had a light lunch there with sandwiches, pasta, and juice for the kids.
The food was reasonably priced and included kid-friendly options, which kept everyone happy.
The best part of the day was seeing the kids’ faces light up with excitement every time they tried something new.
Charlotte kept saying, “Best day ever!” and Charlene agreed with a big smile.
We ended up staying from noon until the park closed at 6 PM.
The kids were completely exhausted but still talking about their favorite moments as we left.
Day 7: A Morning Rush and Saying Goodbye to Jeju
Day seven marked the end of our time in Jeju as we prepared to head to Busan.
It was a day of last-minute packing, a hectic morning drive, and a bittersweet farewell to the island.
The Morning Rush
We started the day bright and early, but with the usual chaos of getting everyone ready.
The kids were still half-asleep as we hurried to pack our bags and load the car.
We had to return the rental car by 10:30 AM to avoid late charges, and the drive to the rental car facility was about an hour.
There were three possible routes to choose from:
- A 60-minute mountain route with super winding roads
- A 65-minute route with some mountain trails and narrow one-lane roads
- A 70-minute detour with wider two-lane roads
We decided on the 70-minute route, preferring the safer and less stressful drive, especially with the kids in tow.
We left the resort at 9:15 AM, quickly pumped petrol, and hit the road.
Some parts of the journey even had average speed monitoring zones, where we had to maintain exactly 80 km/h for 10+ kilometers.
This added to the pressure, but we managed to stay on track.
Against all odds, we arrived at the rental car facility at 10:20 AM, beating the GPS’s estimated arrival time by a few minutes.
Returning the car was a breeze, and the shuttle bus took us back to the airport without any issues.
Flight to Busan
At Jeju Airport, we grabbed a quick snack before boarding our flight to Busan.
The kids were excited about flying again, even though it was a short journey.
The flight was smooth, and we landed in Busan by early afternoon.
As soon as we stepped out of the airport, the contrast between Jeju and Busan was striking.
While Jeju felt laid-back and natural, Busan greeted us with tall buildings and a city vibe.
From Jeju to Busan: A New Chapter Begins!
After enjoying the peaceful vibe of Jeju, we were excited to head to Busan, a city full of energy and new experiences.
From beautiful beaches to busy markets, we were ready to explore what this vibrant city had to offer.
Stay tuned as we share all the fun moments in Busan!
Our 13-Day Family Adventure in South Korea: A 3-Part Series
Join us as we take you through an unforgettable family trip across Jeju, Busan, and Seoul. From scenic landscapes and volcanic peaks to bustling city streets and cultural landmarks, we explored it all.
This 3-part series will walk you through each destination, highlighting the best spots, hidden gems, and family-friendly activities.