Even in Korea’s cold, harsh winters, camellias bloom in fiery red, creating a beautiful scenery with a touch of warmth to the season. The best spots to catch camellias in bloom are milder-climate regions, including coastal towns, small islands, and forest paths. Camellias usually blossom from late November to early March, but their peak season depends on the region, so it is advised to check before visiting.

Jeju Island, Korea’s popular vacation destination, is known for having the earliest blooms of camellias. The sight of camellias in full bloom blending in with Jeju Island’s charming nature is like a work of art.

Camellia Hill, the largest camellia garden in Asia, comes alive with hundreds of vibrant red camellias as winter settles in. With January approaching, the red blossoms are joined by white and purple camellias, transforming the garden into a burst of colors. Take a walk through the European-themed garden, stone wall path, café, and picture-perfect photo zones, and you might just end up staying longer than you planned. In spring, the garden greets visitors with cherry blossoms and lavenders; summer brings hydrangeas; and autumn is painted in warm fall colors, making Camellia Hill truly an all-season destination.

Jeju Dongbaek Village not only offers a beautiful scenery of camellias, but it also provides a variety of camellia flower-based experiences, including camellia oil pasta-making, camellia soap-making, and a camellia bibimbap experience, allowing visitors to enjoy both the nature and culture of Jeju. For an immersive experience, visitors can stay in the village and soak in its quiet charm. In 2023, Jeju Dongbaek Village was recognized as the “Best Tourism Village” by the UNWTO for its community-led tourism initiatives and harmonious balance between people and nature.

Camelia Forest has become a social media favorite for its breathtaking camellias. The red fiery camellia petals fluttering down from the trees create an enchanting scenery that makes you feel like as if you’re stepping into a fairy tale. It also has a café where you can gaze upon the camellia flowers with a cup of tea or coffee in your hand. The best place to take memorable photos is by the window on the café’s 1st floor at the picture-like window frame.

Jangsado Sea Park in Tongyeong is a well-known camellia attraction that made an appearance in the popular Korean drama “My Love from the Star (2013).” The park can be reached by taking a ferry from Tongyeong Ferry Terminal for about 45 minutes or from Geoje Geunpo Port for about 15 minutes. Take a light stroll around the island for a majestic view of the ocean and camellias, and don’t forget to take a photo at the Camellia Tunnel on the way!

Haeundae Dongbaekseom Island was named so due to its abundant camellia trees, which is ''dongbaek'' in Korean. Dongbaekseom Island was once an isolated island but has gradually become connected to the mainland due to sedimentation over time. The island is also the perfect place to chill thanks to the dense pine forest and unobstructed ocean view of Busan. Dongbaekseom Island is recommended to travelers visiting Busan as it’s located next to Haeundae Beach.

Over 3,000 of camellia trees cover Odongdo Island, blanketing the island with red polka dots in winter. The breakwater that connects Odongdo Island from the mainland acts as a bridge for convenient access. Visitors can also take the tourist train called the Camellia Train that runs along the coastal road, offering stunning views of the ocean. The island offers many entertaining amenities like a walking trail, a lighthouse, and a music fountain.

Seonunsa Temple is a meaningful attraction for holding historical value and housing many cultural assets, but it also has a camellia forest that has been designated as a Natural Monument. The forest is situated behind the temple and is known to have been created a long time ago to protect the temple from wildfire. The scenery of the tranquil temple against the thick camellia forest is quite a sight to behold.

Seocheon Maryang-ri Camellia Forest, home to a grove of about 80 camellia trees, comes alive with bright red camellias blooming through lush green leaves from March to early May. Admire the flowers against the backdrop of vast blue west sea, and during the sunset, see them glow in golden light, creating a magical painting-like atmosphere. The park also offers a beautiful view of the nearby Oryeokdo Island.

* This column was last updated in November 2025, and therefore, the information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting.