Udo Island: A Must-Visit Spot During Your Jeju Trip
If I had to recommend just one place to visit during a trip to Jeju Island, it would definitely be Udo Island. It’s the perfect destination for a day trip, offering a unique charm that sets it apart from the rest of Jeju.
Essential Tips for Your Udo Trip
One key aspect of a smooth Udo trip is reserving an electric car ahead of time. Not only does this make exploring the island easier, but it also allows you to take in all the sights at your own pace. And, don’t forget to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially during peak times.
Udo Island Overview
Udo is a small island located off the eastern coast of Jeju and is accessible by ferry. The main departure point is from Seongsan Port, though there are also ferries from Jongdal Port. Udo has two primary ports for entry: Haumokdong Port and Cheonjin Port, with most tourists arriving at either of these two locations.
In this guide, I’ll be focusing on Haumokdong Port, a popular entry point for visitors arriving from Seongsan Port. Ferries from Seongsan typically depart on the hour (e.g., 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, etc.).
Important Notes on Ferry Times
- Last Ferry: The last ferry from Haumokdong Port to Jeju departs at 6 PM. Make sure to confirm this before your trip, as missing the last ferry could leave you stranded overnight.
- Ferry Frequency: While most ferries depart on the hour, early morning and late afternoon schedules may vary. During peak season or when there are large crowds, additional sailings are sometimes added.
- Arrival at Seongsan Port: Plan to arrive at Seongsan Port at least 10 minutes before your scheduled ferry departure to avoid any last-minute stress.
Weather Conditions
Before heading to Udo, it’s essential to check the weather. High waves or bad weather often result in ferry cancellations, so it’s crucial to confirm ferry departure status on the day of your trip. I’ll provide the phone number for ferry status updates if needed.
Renting an Electric Car on Udo
Located just 50 meters from Haumokdong Port, CocoNara is a well-known electric car rental service on Udo. It’s the only rental shop near Haumokdong Port that allows advance reservations, setting it apart from other nearby companies.
CocoNara
Address: 105 U-mok-gil, Udo-myeon, Jeju City, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province.
Their rental shop is conveniently located right in front of the intersection when you disembark from the ferry at Haumokdong Port. Unlike some other rental companies that aggressively try to attract customers (often demanding cash as soon as you arrive), CocoNara offers a more professional and hassle-free experience.
How to Reserve an Electric Car
For convenience, you can make a reservation through Naver Shopping, though you should be cautious of some companies with poor reviews or issues. A full-day electric car rental typically costs around 40,000 to 50,000 KRW. While cheaper options exist, it’s important to be wary of their quality and service.
When I visited Udo, I chose CocoNara because they only offer full-day rentals, ensuring that cars are available when you arrive. Even if you arrive late, you won’t have to worry about them running out of vehicles.
CocoNara: Why It Stands Out
- Variety of Vehicles: CocoNara offers a range of electric vehicles, from standard cars to scooters and even electric bicycles. There are also two-seater electric cars, allowing you to ride side-by-side or front-to-back.
- Friendly Service: The staff at CocoNara are known for their kindness and professionalism. I’ve previously rented from a well-known company at Cheonjin Port, but the vehicle was in poor condition, and their customer service was lacking. CocoNara was a refreshing change with its well-maintained vehicles and smooth service.
- Efficient Rental Process: Once you request your rental, they will inspect the vehicle while you wait in a comfortable, air-conditioned or heated room (depending on the season). You’ll be called by name when your car is ready.
Driving Around Udo
Here’s a map of Udo Island for reference. It typically takes 1–2 hours to drive around the island. If you stop for photos or take breaks, it can take 2–3 hours. Keep in mind that the electric cars are designed to last for one full lap around the island. Driving more than one lap could result in battery drainage, so be cautious.
Additional Tips
- Hundertwasser Park: At CocoNara, they offer discounted tickets to Hundertwasser Park, a trendy hotspot on Udo, at a lower price than what’s available on social media. It’s a highly recommended spot to visit.
- Vehicle Inspection: Always inspect the vehicle and take a video before departing to ensure there are no issues.
Important Udo Travel Reminders
- Check the Weather & Ferry Status: Always verify the weather and ferry schedule before heading to Udo. Even if the weather seems good, ferries may not depart if the waves are too high. Feel free to ask for details on how to check this information.
- Ferry Departure Points: While ferries depart from both Seongsan Port and Jongdal Port, Seongsan Port is more popular, spacious, and has more frequent sailings. I recommend taking the ferry to Haumokdong Port from Seongsan Port, as ferries usually leave on the hour.
- Electric Car Rentals: Udo has several electric car rental shops with varying prices and reservation options. To avoid issues, choose a reputable company with verified reviews, like CocoNara.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a smooth and memorable trip to Udo Island!
The phone number for Seongsan Port Passenger Terminal in Jeju is 064-782-5671.
You can call this number to check ferry schedules and departure status.
Udo Island is a small, picturesque island located off the eastern coast of Jeju Island, South Korea. It is one of the most popular day-trip destinations for visitors to Jeju due to its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural experiences, and accessible location. The island’s name, “Udo” (우도), translates to “Cow Island,” as its shape resembles a cow lying down.
Here’s a brief introduction to Udo Island:
Key Features of Udo Island:
- Location and Access:
- Udo is located about 3.8 km from Seongsan Port, and visitors can reach the island by ferry. The ferry departs primarily from Seongsan Port and occasionally from Jongdal Port.
- The ferry ride takes around 15 minutes, and ferries run frequently throughout the day, with the first ferry usually departing in the morning and the last one returning in the evening.
- Stunning Natural Scenery:
- Udo is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and volcanic landscapes. Some of the most famous spots include:
- Seobin Baeksa Beach (서빈백사해변): A pristine white coral sand beach with striking turquoise waters.
- Hagosudong Beach (하고수동해변): A popular beach with soft white sand and calm waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
- Geommeolle Beach (검멀레해변): A unique black sand beach with stunning sea cliffs and caves.
- Udo Peak (우도봉): Offers a panoramic view of Udo and the surrounding ocean, providing fantastic photo opportunities.
- Udo is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and volcanic landscapes. Some of the most famous spots include:
- Local Culture and Food:
- Udo is known for its agricultural products, especially peanuts and garlic. Visitors often enjoy Udo peanut ice cream, a local specialty made from the island’s fresh peanuts.
- The island also has a strong tradition of haenyeo (female divers), who dive without breathing equipment to harvest seafood. You can sometimes see these divers in action, and there are seafood restaurants offering fresh catches from the sea.
- Outdoor Activities:
- Visitors can explore Udo by renting electric cars, scooters, or bicycles, as personal vehicles are restricted for non-residents.
- Hiking and walking trails around the island provide a scenic way to explore the coast and countryside.
- Boat tours around Udo offer a unique perspective of the island’s dramatic coastline, including sea caves and cliffs.
- Key Attractions:
- Udo Lighthouse (우도 등대공원): Located at the highest point on Udo, this lighthouse offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
- Hundertwasser Park: A colorful and artistic park that has become a rising hot spot for visitors.
- Biyangdo Island (비양도): A small island located just off Udo, known for its natural beauty and great spots for photography.
- Ferry and Transportation:
- There are two main ports on Udo: Haumokdong Port and Cheonjin Port, where ferries from Seongsan or Jongdal Port dock.
- Public circulation buses operate around the island, making it easy to travel between key sites. However, most visitors prefer renting electric vehicles for convenience.
- Tips for Visiting:
- Weather check: Always check the weather before visiting, as ferries may not operate during bad weather or high waves.
- Ferry times: The last ferry typically departs Udo around 6 PM, so plan your day accordingly.
- Advance electric vehicle rental: It’s recommended to book your electric car rental in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Why Visit Udo?
Udo offers a serene escape from the more crowded areas of Jeju Island. It combines beautiful beaches, unique geology, and a laid-back island atmosphere, making it a perfect day-trip destination for those looking to experience Jeju’s natural wonders in a quieter setting.
Whether you’re looking to relax on its beaches, explore the island by electric vehicle, or learn more about the traditional haenyeo divers, Udo Island provides a little bit of everything for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.