Things To Do
in Hallim

Hallim is a coastal township on Jeju Island's northwest coast, known for its dramatic lava caves and lush botanical displays. It is home to Hallim Park, white-sand beaches like Hyeopjae, and scenic coastal paths along basalt rock formations. The area offers easy day trips to tea museums, seaside cafes, and ocean viewpoints that showcase Jeju’s volcanic origin.

Visitors can expect a relaxed, nature-forward vibe with plentiful photo opportunities and easy coastal strolls.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Hallim
morning
:

Arrive at Hallim and check into your accommodations. After settling in, take a refreshing stroll along the beautiful coastline to soak in the stunning ocean views. Savor a local breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh seafood dishes that Hallim is known for.

afternoon
:

Explore the Hallim Park, where you can wander through the lush botanical gardens and admire exotic plants. Don't forget to visit the traditional folk village within the park to learn about Korean culture and heritage. Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the beach for a captivating view of the horizon. Treat yourself to dinner at a charming seaside restaurant, indulging in Hallim's renowned grilled fish. Cap off the evening with a relaxing beach walk under the starlit sky.

day 2
Cultural Discovery
morning
:

Start your day visiting the nearby Jeju Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can appreciate local and international exhibits. Take your time to explore the thought-provoking displays and installations. Afterward, head to a traditional market for a hearty Korean breakfast.

afternoon
:

Join a guided tour to explore Hallim's historical sites such as the ancient temples and shrines in the area. Engage with local artisans and learn about traditional crafts during your journey. Pause for lunch at a quaint eatery serving authentic Jeju dishes.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural performance showcasing traditional Korean music and dance. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in Jeju black pork, known for its unique flavor. Spend the rest of the evening mingling with locals at a cozy bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍜Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-60
🚇Public transport day pass$5-8
Coffee in a cafe$3-6
🏨Budget hotel room per night$50-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and accessible nature
  • Compact, walkable town with diverse outdoor options
  • Nightlife is limited within Hallim itself
  • Public transport frequency may be lower on weekends; car rental can be convenient
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "실례합니다" - Excuse me
  • "이거 얼마에요?" - How much is this?
  • "화장실 어디에요?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "영어로 말해 주세요" - Please speak in English

Places to Visit in Hallim

Visit one of these nice places.

Hyeopjae Beach and Basalt Rock Formations

Wide white sands with striking black basalt rocks—great for wide-angle coastal shots at sunrise or sunset.

Hallim Park Landscapes

A diverse garden setting with palm groves, succulents, and rock formations offering colorful backdrops for nature photography.

Ssangyonggul Cave Entrance

Dark limestone passages and stalactites; capture dramatic light contrasts and textures at the cave mouth.

Geumneung Beach and Sunset Overlook

Calm shoreline with soft sunset colors reflecting off the water—perfect for tranquil seascapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hallim

Jeju cuisine emphasizes seafood, pork, citrus, and dairy, with many fresh-market ingredients and island-produced flavors.

Hallim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jeju Black Pork BBQ

Juicy grilled pork slices served with local greens and dipping sauces; widely available at Hallim-area eateries.

Must-Try!

Haemul Jeongol (Seafood Hot Pot)

A bubbling pot of shellfish, fish, vegetables, and spices, perfect for sharing after a day of sightseeing.

Abalone Porridge (Jeonbokjuk)

Creamy porridge enriched with tender abalone pieces, commonly found in coastal restaurants.

Hallabong Citrus Desserts

Sweet citrus desserts and beverages made from Hallabong mandarins, a Jeju specialty.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hallim Market

A small local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and quick bites ideal for a light lunch or snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jeju has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, springs are mild, autumns are pleasant and windy, and winters are cool but generally milder than mainland Korea. Rain is common in the late spring and early summer, with typhoon risk during the summer monsoon season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

A polite bow or nod is common; greet with '안녕하세요' (annyeonghaseyo).

Shoes and Temple Etiquette

Remove shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces; behave quietly and respectfully at temples and sacred sites.

Queuing and Quiet Behavior

Form lines patiently in public spaces; keep voices low in public transport and galleries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jeju is generally very safe, but watch for strong currents and waves at coastal areas. Be cautious near lava tubes and caves, especially in damp or dark sections. Always follow local guidance on hiking and beach conditions, and keep valuables secure in tourist areas.

Tipping in Hallim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not common in Korea; in high-end establishments a service charge may already be included. If you choose to tip, do so discreetly in cash and only if there is outstanding service.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash (Korean won) is useful for small purchases and markets. ATMs are common for cash withdrawals, with many signs in English.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; great for coastal walks and photography without the peak heat.

Summer

Warm to hot and humid with occasional typhoons; expect crowded beaches and lush greenery; carry sun protection and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and clearer skies; ideal for outdoor hikes and seaside strolls with comfortable conditions.

Winter

Cool but relatively mild compared to mainland Korea; rain is common and some outdoor sites are less crowded.

Nightlife Guide

Hallim at Night

Hallim itself is quiet at night, with cozy seaside cafes and small bars. For more vibrant nightlife, head to Jeju City or Seogwipo, where there are late-night venues, live music spots, and night markets during peak tourist seasons.

Hiking in Hallim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Songaksan Trail

Coastal hike offering dramatic sea views and volcanic scenery, suitable for a half-day excursion.

Geomun Oreum Trail

Moderate hike around a volcanic cone with panoramic Jeju views; a classic Jeju Island traverse.

Aewol Coast Walk

Seaside trail with views across the west coast and opportunities for sunset photography.

Airports

How to reach Hallim by plane.

Jeju International Airport (CJU)

Main gateway to Jeju Island; numerous domestic and international flights. AccessHallim by taxi, car rental, or shuttle; typical drive time from the airport to Hallim is about 60-90 minutes depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hallim is relatively walkable along the coast and in the village center, with most sights reachable on foot or a short local bus ride. Some coastal paths may have uneven surfaces; plan for a light to moderate pace and bring water. A car rental can make timing easier for rapid shifts between parks, beaches, and caves.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Korean-speaking Jejuans with a distinct island identity and dialect. The area sees seasonal workers and a steady stream of domestic and international tourists.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Popular among locals and visitors; local leagues and casual matches are common during holidays.

Baseball

A favored pastime with local parks and community games, especially during summer tournaments.

Diving and Snorkeling

Coastal Jeju offers snorkeling and diving opportunities around clear waters and abundant marine life.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic around Hallim is generally light to moderate, with more congestion during peak summer tourist season. Public buses serve Jeju Island but routes may be less frequent than in major cities; renting a car provides flexibility for coastal day trips and cave visits.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hallim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist at many restaurants; look for tofu, mushroom dishes, and vegetable bibimbap. When in doubt, ask for a no-meat broth and confirm seafood-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities on Jeju Island include clinics and hospitals in Jeju City and Seogwipo. Hallim itself has smaller medical services; for major needs, travel to Jeju City’s hospitals (e.g., national university hospital) or Seogwipo Medical Center. Carry travel insurance and keep emergency numbers handy.

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Read more in our Korea, South 2025 Travel Guide.

Korea, South Travel Guide