Wanderyn
Udo Island
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
city · KR

Udo Island

Recommended stay: 1 day
Getting around: Udo is reached by ferry from Seongsan Port on Jeju's east coast (about 15 minutes); once on the island, rental scooters, e-bikes, and small electric buggies are the standard way to do the loop road, since regular rental cars from mainland Jeju aren't permitted on the island. A round-island loop takes 2-4 hours depending on how many stops you make.
Hours: Ferries run frequently during the day but stop by early evening and can be suspended in rough seas - plan to catch a return sailing well before the last one to avoid being stranded if conditions change.

Udo ("Cow Island," named for its shape) is the most-visited of Jeju's outlying islands, known for its white and black sand beaches, turquoise-tinted water that looks more Southeast Asian than Korean, and Udo peanut ice cream, sold everywhere and something of a running joke among repeat visitors to Jeju. Haenyeo (female free-divers) still work the waters around the island, part of a tradition UNESCO has recognized as intangible cultural heritage.

The island is small enough to circle by scooter or e-bike in a few hours, with stops at Seobinbaeksa Beach (white sand), the black sand beach near Haujichi, and a lighthouse at the island's peak with panoramic views back toward Seongsan Ilchulbong. It gets busy with day-trippers from Jeju in peak season, so an early ferry over helps you beat the crowds to the best beach spots.

Udo Island FAQs

How do I get to Udo Island?

By ferry from Seongsan Port on Jeju's east coast, about a 15-minute crossing.

Can I rent a car on Udo?

No - regular rental cars aren't permitted; visitors use rental scooters, e-bikes, or small electric buggies to get around.

What is Udo famous for?

Its white and black sand beaches, turquoise water, peanut ice cream, and haenyeo (female free-divers) who still work the surrounding waters.

How long does a full loop of Udo take?

Two to four hours by scooter or e-bike, depending on how many stops you make.

Is Udo crowded?

Yes, especially midday in peak season with day-trippers from Jeju - an early ferry helps beat the crowds to the best beaches.

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