Why Jeju Island Is the Perfect Winter Getaway
제주특별자치도 서귀포시 호근동 399
JW 메리어트 제주 리조트 앤 스파

After returning from a long Thailand trip in mid-December, I had no year-end travel plans, but a sudden wave of wistfulness led to a spontaneous Jeju Island getaway from December 30, 2025, to January 1, 2026.
It was my first time experiencing Jeju in the middle of winter, welcoming the New Year with the sound of the winter sea, mild weather that felt like late autumn, and a family trip that felt both exciting and unexpectedly easy to arrange.
From revisiting Samgumburi memories to a special night at JW Marriott Jeju in a Hinoki room, this trip was full of small, warm moments that made the start of 2026 feel calm and bright.
A Last-Minute Winter Jeju Trip for New Year’s
In mid-December, I came back from a long trip to Thailand and thought I would stay home for the year-end.
But I felt a little wistful, and suddenly booked Jeju Island for December 30, 2025 to January 1, 2026.
Flights and hotels were surprisingly easy to reserve, which made the decision feel almost meant to be.
First Winter Sea in Jeju and Mild Weather Surprise
Our flight was at 9 AM, and our child was still groggy on the way.
I’ve been to Jeju about five times, but this was my first winter visit, so everything felt a bit unfamiliar.
Even the winter sea felt like a first-time experience for me.
A Beach Day That Felt Like Late Autumn
Fortunately, the weather was mild, almost like late autumn rather than deep winter.
Because of that, our child played in the sand for quite a while, which made the day feel relaxed and easy.
Returning to Samgumburi with Family Memories
We also visited Samgumburi, a place filled with memories for my husband and me.
Over ten years ago, we took pictures together in a silver grass field there.
Now we were standing in the same place with our child, and it felt quietly emotional.
Checking In at JW Marriott Jeju After Two Years
We spent our first night at JW Marriott again after two years.
We’re loyal Marriott fans, so returning felt like coming back to a familiar favorite.
We were especially happy to be assigned to a Hinoki room.
Welcome Tea, Snacks, and a Child’s Curiosity
The welcome tea and snacks were as beautiful as ever.
“Daddy, what is this?” was the first thing our child asked, and it made us laugh.
These small moments made the hotel experience feel warm rather than formal.
Winter Night Soak and a Family Pool Moment
That night, I enjoyed a half-body soak in the winter night air of Jeju.
Meanwhile, my husband and child swam before we checked out the next day.
Our child refused to enjoy hot springs on our Japan trip last year, but now has grown and knows how to enjoy it.
Lounge Treats Like Ice Cream and Udo Peanut Coffee
The lounge offered ice cream for kids, and we tried different flavors like chocolate and Udo peanut.
I also had a cup of coffee filled with Udo peanuts, just like two years ago.
It felt nostalgic in the best way, like repeating a small tradition.
Bonfire and Roasted Sweet Potatoes in a Winter Night Event
The swimming pool was still wonderful, and there was a winter night event featuring a bonfire and roasted sweet potatoes.
Our child loved it so much, and honestly, I did too.
It’s hard to have this kind of experience unless you go camping, so it felt special to do it at a hotel.
Mild Weather Made the Event Even Better
The weather was pleasantly mild, which made standing outside for the event feel comfortable.
I really hope they continue offering winter events like this in Jeju.
Service Details That Left a Lasting Impression
Once again, I was impressed by the beautiful hotel uniforms and the friendly staff.
It was adorable to see our shy child manage short little conversations.
The staff even took the initiative to capture photos of the stunning sunset, which felt genuinely thoughtful.
Kids’ Café and Breakfast That Still Feels Worth It
The kids’ café was well-maintained and enjoyable, giving our child a comfortable space to play.
Breakfast was still excellent, and it helped start the day in a calm, satisfying way.
Even small routines like breakfast felt more special on this winter New Year trip.
Why I’ll Always Search for This Hotel in Jeju
The cost of a one-night stay has risen a lot, so it’s not a place I can visit often.
But every time I go to Jeju, it’s still the hotel I find myself searching for.
This winter New Year trip left me with excitement, anticipation, and the feeling that we started 2026 in a warm way.
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