Exploring Udo: A Guide to Jeju Island’s Mini Me

Udo is an island off of an island. Situated just 3.5 kilometers off the east coast of Jeju Island in South Korea, Udo is a scenic drop of land that you can explore in a day, climbing peaks, riding scooters or bikes, swimming, and seeing horses along the way. Any trip to Jeju is incomplete without a day trip to Udo.

The island is named U-do, 우도, meaning Cow (U우) Island (do도) because they say the island looks like a cow lying down. I didn’t see it, but that’s the etymology nevertheless.

A lot of Korean dramas and movies have been filmed on some of the beaches around Udo and in some of the cafes. It’s a popular place for Korean’s to visit while on their summer vacation to Jeju. Get there early to avoid the crowds!

Getting to Udo

The only way to get to Udo is by ferry from Jeju Island. Ferries leave from Seongsan port every 30 minutes between 8am and 5pm daily. I recommend trying to catch the ferry before 9am to have some quality time with the island before the crowds start coming. And if you can visit on a weekday, that’s even more ideal.

You can bring a car to Udo, but rental cars are prohibited. And I wouldn’t recommend driving on Udo anyway, the best way to get around is by bike or scooter.

To help make the early ferry, stay near the port after hiking the Seongsan Ilchulbong crater. We stayed at Hotel Playce Camp Jeju. Book it here!

Get your ferry ticket

The port ticket office doesn’t have the most visitor friendly aesthetic, all the signs are in Korean. But I found it pretty easy nevertheless.

With tickets in hand, head back out where you came in and turn the corner to line up for the next ferry. I was there about 9am on a weekday so it was empty, making it pretty easy.

The ferry ride isn’t more than 15 minutes, and the get a unique view of the crater.

Getting Around Udo

As you debark at Seongsan Port on Udo, you’ll be greeted by rental places offering regular bikes, battery powered bikes, scooters, and these little 2-person covered scooter type things that look so cute, but look pretty terrible for the person not driving.

Note: you must have a Korean drivers license or a motorcycle international drivers license, a normal one for cars doesn’t work. I was kind of bummer when I couldn’t rent a scooter, but the electric bikes we ended up getting were actually the best bet. You’re riding a bike so you have unimpeded views of what you’re passing by, and the electric assistance give you a little boost so it’s not a struggle peddling around.

There’s one main road going around the island, though I recommend turning down any road that strikes your fancy, you really can’t get lost.

Hit the Road: 7 Essential Udo Stops

From the port, we headed east, making our way around the island in a counter clockwise direction. Here are the 7 essential stops on Udo.

1. Seobinbaeksa (Sanho) Beach

It doesn’t take long after you hop on your bike to come across some beautiful scenery. Sanho Beach’s emerald waters and white sand make this beach one of the most popular on Udo. And it’s no surprise.

2. GeommeolleBeach

The black rocks of Geommeolle creates a beautiful contrast against the white sand and crystal blue water.

3. Udobong peak

Next to Geommeolle Beach is Udobong Peak, the highest point on Udo is home to a white lighthouse, gives you a panoramic view of the island and a unique perspective of Jeju Island.

Even if you don’t climb the peak, hang out for a while just below it to and appreciate the beauty.

4. Biyang-do

An island off an island off an island, Biyang-do is accessible from Udo via land bridge. Horses, cafes, cool buildings and landscapes. Chill out for a bit on Biyang-do.

5. Hagosudong Beach

Change into your bathing suit and spend a few hours swimming and searching for seashells on Hagosudng Beach.

6. Coco Mama

After all the riding, beaching and swimming, it’s time to grub on some of Udo’s famous seafood at Coco Mama.

7. Ice cream near the port

Udo is known for it's peanut ice cream. After riding back to the port and returning your rented mode of transportation, head to the ice cream shop on the corner and cool down. Head to the 2nd floor to eat your ice cream with a cool view of the port.

Let me know if I missed anything or how you enjoyed exploring Udo!