The Essence of Jeju: 3 Cafes That Embody the Island

Jeju is often referred to as Korea’s Hawaii. The island embodies the natural beauty of South Korea and is undeniable the most popular domestic tourism destination. If you need to take a break while exploring the island, there are hundreds of options to choose from. But, I’ll save you some time. Here are three cafes that truly embody the essence of Jeju.

Camelia Forest

Camelia Forest is one of Jeju’s most beautiful coffee shops. They specialize in delivering outdoor experiences focused on the essence of Jeju and its flowers.

The cafe makes you feel like you’re having a picnic with your friends and family in a stunning garden. The cafe’s outside is covered in camellia trees, much like its name suggests.

The camellia flower has a special meaning. It symbolizes love and affection. Which, you can feel for the beautiful island of Jeju as you laze about in the garden cafe.

The cafe’s interior is really nice, and there is a large window that provides a snapshot of gorgeous nature that embodies Jeju. It’s only when you look closely that you realize it’s not a painting, this is the essence of Jeju.

Camelia Forest (동백포레스트)

Address:  1751-2 Sinrye-ri, Namwon-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
Korean Address:  제주 서귀포시 남원읍 생기악로 53-38
Operating Hours: Wed - Mon: 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM
                 Tuesday: Closed

Gamttanam

Gamttanam is another coffee shop that embodies the essence of Jeju. Their menu items center on Jeju’s famous oranges.

The volcanic soil and ocean mineral-filled breezes of Jeju give birth to some of the juiciest, most refreshing oranges in the world. The freshness of the citrus is reflected in the coffee shop’s design.

It’s a perfect spot to visit to release all of the pent-up tension from life in the city. April, in my view, is the best month to visit because the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The coffee shop feels like something out of a fairytale.

Gamttanam (감따남)

Address:  1751-2 Sinrye-ri, Namwon-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
Korean Address:  제주 서귀포시 월산로 16
Operating Hours: Tues - Sat: 12:00 PM - 06:00 PM
                 Sun & Mon: Closed

Cafe Dendri

Dendri is another cafe in Jeju that is absolutely stunning. Their trademark is the structure of the cafe itself. The adorable blue-doored cottage is hidden among a picturesque tangerine orchard.

The round roof adds to the uniqueness of the architecture along with the blue accents. The cafe draws inspiration from the Greek paradise of Santorini. It is minimalist but absolutely stunning.

The coffee shop is best visited during the summer because it has tangerine trees just outside its door. Jeju tangerines reach peak color during the summer months. Plus, it is the ideal coffee shop to go and enjoy the essence of Jeju with your children. The orchid has plenty of room for them to run around and enjoy nature.

Dendri (덴드리)

Address:  Jeju-do, Seogwipo-si, Seongsan-eup, Samdal-ro, 28-1 KR
Korean Address:  제주 서귀포시 성산읍 삼달로 28-1
Operating Hours: Fri - Tues: 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
                 Wed & Thurs: Closed

Looking for more cafes in Jeju? Click Here to read about three cafes in Jeju serving the best green tea desserts!