Geoje
Geoje is South Korea's second-largest island and is almost entirely overlooked by international visitors. The island has a different character from Jeju — it is partly industrial (one of the world's largest shipyards operates here, which is interesting in its own way) and partly scenic coastal peninsula. The spring camellia forests are remarkable. The hiking around the southern coast is good. Prices are significantly lower than Jeju.
Why visit
Korea's second largest island with coastal scenery, camellias in spring, good hiking, and a working shipbuilding industry that gives it a different character from Jeju.
Crowd level
Receives Korean domestic visitors but very few international tourists.
Best time
April-May or September-October
Getting there
Bridge-connected to the mainland. 1.5hrs by bus from Busan.
Tradeoffs
Less famous than Jeju for a reason — fewer headline attractions. The payoff is genuine quiet and significantly lower prices.
Direct comparisons
Layers
Region
At a glance
- Country
- South Korea
- Region
- South Gyeongsang
- Fresh Air Score
- 77/100
- Cost level
- $
- Distance from Jeju
- 140 km