3 Best Sights in Northwestern Jeju, Jeju-do

This is a botanical garden, zoo, and cultural experience all wrapped up in one. At this Jeju-themed park, visitors experience the flora of Jeju while winding through a maze of greenhouses, orchards, and reptile enclosures. The walk-in bird sanctuary puts you face to face with peacocks and other native fowl. The water garden, traditional folk village, and bonsai and stone statue park represent the island's artistic heritage. There are even two small lava tubes guests can walk through. If your visit is short, Hallim Park is a great way to experience Jeju's many facets in just a few hours.

Korean travelers regard Geumneung Beach as Jeju's most "exotic," largely owing to its row of palm trees. It also gets some of Jeju's finest sunsets, when the descending sun turns the seascape around Biyangdo (Biyang Island) into a canvas of red, orange, and violet. The beach's shallow depth and concentration of volcanic rocks make it an ideal place for snorkeling. The shallow water also makes the beach popular with family vacationers, especially in summer. The beach has a free camping ground that's open year-round. Amenities: food and drink; toilets; lifeguards; showers. Best for: walking; swimming; sunsets; snorkeling.

One of the most popular beaches on Jeju's northwest coast is also one of its most picturesque thanks to its white sands, black volcanic rock, emerald sea, and the small volcanic island Biyangdo just off the coast. Gently sloping into shallow seas, the beach makes for a perfect family getaway. The sunsets from here (and nearby Geumneung Beach) are inspiring. The beach is lined with plenty of charming cafes and restaurants, as is the nearby town of Hallim. Also nearby is Hallim Park, an arboretum and one of the island's most popular tourist destinations. Amenities: food and drink; toilets; lifeguards; showers. Best for: walking; swimming; sunsets.