Things to Do in Jeju in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Jeju
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Crystal clear skies offering the year's best views of Hallasan summit - visibility exceeds 15km (9.3 miles) on most days versus summer's 3-5km (1.9-3.1 miles)
- Camellia blooms peak in February with over 250 varieties flowering across the island, creating spectacular red carpets at Camellia Hill and wild coastal areas
- Lowest accommodation prices of the year - hotels average 40-60% less than peak summer rates, with luxury resorts often under ₩150,000 ($115) per night
- Winter migrant birds arrive in massive flocks at Seongsan wetlands - over 100,000 birds including rare black-faced spoonbills only visible January through March
Considerations
- Strong winter winds average 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) making coastal activities uncomfortable and often forcing closure of Seongsan Sunrise Peak trail
- Many outdoor attractions close early (4:30pm versus summer's 7pm) due to shorter daylight hours, limiting afternoon exploration time
- Ocean water temperature drops to 14°C (57°F) making swimming and water sports impractical without thick wetsuits
Best Activities in February
Hallasan National Park Winter Hiking
February offers the clearest mountain views and snow-dusted landscapes without extreme cold. Eorimok trail (7km/4.3 miles roundtrip) provides stunning winter scenery with 90% visibility success rate versus 30% in summer. Crisp 4-8°C (39-46°F) temperatures are perfect for hiking without overheating. Sunrise hikes reveal frost-covered volcanic formations impossible to see in other seasons.
Seongsan Wetland Bird Watching Tours
February is peak season for winter migratory birds with over 40 species including endangered black-faced spoonbills. Early morning tours (6-9am) offer the best wildlife viewing when birds are most active in the cool air. Professional guides provide telescopes and identify rare species only present during winter months. The 2km (1.2 mile) boardwalk circuit is comfortable in crisp February weather.
Camellia Festival Garden Tours
February marks peak camellia blooming season with over 6,000 trees displaying vibrant red, pink, and white flowers. Camellia Hill showcases 250+ varieties in perfect 10-15°C (50-59°F) temperatures ideal for walking the 2.5km (1.6 mile) garden paths. Wild camellia forests along southern coastal trails create natural tunnels of blooms unavailable other times of year.
Traditional Market Food Tours
February brings winter specialties like fresh sea bream, winter radish kimchi, and hot jeju black pork stews perfect for cool weather. Dongmun Market offers indoor comfort during the 6 rainy days typical in February. Cool temperatures make walking between food stalls comfortable while sampling hot dishes. Local citrus reaches peak ripeness with hallabong and golden orange harvests.
Manjanggul Cave Exploration
February's cool surface temperatures (4-18°C/39-64°F) create perfect contrast with the cave's constant 11-21°C (52-70°F) interior. The 1km (0.6 mile) walking path through this UNESCO lava tube offers comfortable exploration without summer's oppressive heat. Winter lighting displays illuminate unique lava formations visible year-round but most comfortable to explore in cooler months.
Coastal Drive Photography Tours
February's clear skies and dramatic storm waves create spectacular coastal photography conditions. The 180km (112 mile) coastal road circuit offers unobstructed views of distant mountains and neighboring islands impossible to see in hazy summer conditions. Winter storm swells produce dramatic wave crashes against basalt cliffs, while low UV index (4) provides soft natural lighting all day.
February Events & Festivals
Jeju Fire Festival
Annual burning of Saebyeol Oreum grassland recreating traditional farming practices. Spectacular nighttime flames against winter sky with traditional performances and local food stalls. This UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event draws locals and creates dramatic photography opportunities.
Camellia Festival
Island-wide celebration of peak camellia blooming season with special garden openings, photography competitions, and traditional tea ceremonies. Multiple venues across Jeju showcase rare camellia varieties with extended hours and cultural performances.