Ihoteu Beach (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Ihoteu Beach?
What makes it 85% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler reaches the beach by city bus in 20 minutes, joins low-cost surfing lessons, photographs the color-lit horse lighthouses at dusk, and returns easily, but evening facilities are limited.
Positives:
- Easy access: Bus 101 from Jeju City terminal stops right at the beach entrance.
- Social atmosphere: Group lessons let you meet other travelers at a low cost.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: Restrooms and changing rooms fill up quickly during peak hours.
- Unpredictable winds: Strong gusts in winter can cancel paddling and surfing sessions.
What is Ihoteu Beach?
- A compact urban beach lies just west of Jeju City’s downtown district
- Breakwaters extend into the sea, each topped by a horse-shaped lighthouse symbolizing Jeju’s equine heritage
- A gentle shoreline of mixed yellow-and-gray volcanic sand framed by a pine-tree promenade
What is so special about Ihoteu Beach for solo trip?
- Close to downtown Jeju with simple bus access
- Horse-shaped lighthouses offer unique solo photo ops
- Small-group surf or SUP lessons ideal for meeting others
- Calm, shallow waters suit beginners and peaceful paddles
- Affordable activities and local snacks keep costs low
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a lesson, a coastal walk, and lighthouse photos without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Ihoteu Beach
Join a surf or SUP group lesson:
Learn basic surf moves or paddle board on the calm shore.
Tip: Book online a day ahead and arrive 15 minutes early to meet your group.
Kayak along the coast:
Paddle past the twin horse-shaped lighthouses and explore small coves.
Tip: Ask vendors about hourly rates and pack a waterproof pouch for your phone.
Photograph the horse lighthouses:
Capture sunrise or sunset lighting on the red and white towers.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise and use a tripod for stable long exposures.
Jog or walk the pine-lined path:
Follow the trail under pine trees linking both lighthouses.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and pause at benches for clear ocean views.
When is the best time to visit Ihoteu Beach (Jeju, South Korea)?
Vendors for water sports run June–August. Spring and fall bring calmer winds. Winter can be windy—check forecasts before kayaking. Summer weekends get busy; aim for weekday mornings.
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Reviews of Ihoteu Beach (Jeju)
Rakesh
You can’t go i to the water. If you want to sit in the beach and have food along with seeing planes land then you will enjoy. I was with kids and was somewhat disappointed as they couldn’t go in the water (weed and rocky)
CS Chai
A long stretch of sandy beach located very near to Jeju City. A nice place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery and sea breeze. There are two unique horse-shaped lighthouses at the end of the beach, one red in colour and the other is white. Many visitors come to take photos with them here.
Melissa LovesIceCream
Lovely beach, toilet at public car park
Jo Lee
Iho Tewoo beach is the must visit if you are taking public bus, this is also the best place for a panoramic view of the 2 horse lighthouses. To get to the Iho Tewoo Horse Lighthouses, just walk along the beach and there's a nice relaxing walking path along pine forest. It is just about 5 to 10 minutes.
Unicorn Inwonderland
Clean sand beach and if you go on a good day, you will see a beautiful sunset. Overlooking the lighthouse with red and white horses located like another landmark of Jeju Island.
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bus fare (Jeju City → Iho Beach, one-way) | KRW 1,200 |
| Group surfing lesson (1 hr, incl. gear) | KRW 30,000 |
| Snack or coffee at a beach stall | KRW 5,000 |
| Total Estimated | KRW 36,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Ihoteu Beach
- Early start: Begin at sunrise to avoid crowds and lush morning light.
- Advance booking: Reserve lessons online to secure your spot and better rates.
- Pack light: Bring only water, a towel, and your camera for easy movement.
Map of Ihoteu Beach
Address: 1665-13 Iho 1(il)-dong, Cheju, Jeju-do, South Korea
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