Beaches & Water
Crystal-clear Kerama Blue waters, white sand beaches, and some of the best snorkeling in Japan.
Kerama Islands
Group of islands 40 minutes by ferry from Naha. Known for Kerama Blue water clarity and abundant coral reefs. Sea turtles and tropical fish everywhere. Some of the best snorkeling in all of Japan.
Furuzamami Beach
Fine white sand beach on Zamami Island with crystal-clear shallow water perfect for snorkeling. Coral reefs just offshore with tropical fish. Consistently ranked among Japan's top beaches.
Naminoue Beach
Naha's only city beach sitting right below Naminoue Shrine on a limestone cliff. Turquoise water in the middle of the city. Easy to reach on foot from Kokusai Dori. Popular with locals.
Emerald Beach
Beautiful white sand beach inside Ocean Expo Park near the aquarium. Calm shallow water ideal for families. Three swimming areas with lifeguards. Vibrant turquoise color.
Manza Beach
Located near the famous Manzamo Cape. Popular for water sports including snorkeling and jet skiing with lush green cliffs as backdrop. Resort area with facilities and equipment rentals.
Sunset Beach
Wide sandy beach in the American Village area. Named for its spectacular sunsets. Walking distance to shopping and restaurants. Live music and beach bars in summer.
Zanpa Beach
Quiet beach near Cape Zanpa lighthouse. Beautiful coral reefs and less crowded atmosphere. Great snorkeling spot with clear water. White sand and calm waves.
Aharen Beach
Stunning crescent-shaped beach on Tokashiki Island in the Kerama chain. Crystal water perfect for snorkeling. Sea turtles frequently spotted near the reef. Day trip from Naha.
Nirai Beach
Natural beach in southern Okinawa with untouched scenery. Rocky tide pools teeming with marine life at low tide. Less touristy than northern beaches. Good for a quiet escape.
Mission Beach
Hidden beach tucked away in Onna Village behind a private gate. Small entrance fee keeps crowds down. White sand and clear turquoise water surrounded by jungle. Feels like a private paradise.
Ikei Island Beach
Connected to Okinawa main island by an underwater road. Long white sand beaches with some of the clearest water around. Great for swimming and snorkeling. BBQ facilities available.
Tokashiku Beach
Quieter alternative to Aharen Beach on Tokashiki Island. Sea turtles regularly swim in the shallow water here even close to shore. One of the most reliable turtle spotting locations in Japan.
Hatenohama Beach
Stunning 7 km white sand strip accessible only by boat from Kume Island. Pure white sand surrounded by turquoise water. Feels like the end of the world. Excellent snorkeling from the sandbar.
Minna Island
Tiny crescent-shaped island just 15 minutes by ferry from Motobu. Crystal clear water and white sand. Minimal development means pristine conditions. Great for a half-day beach escape.
Blue Cave Snorkeling (Cape Maeda)
Swim into a sea cave where the water glows electric blue from refracted sunlight. Guided snorkeling tours include equipment and...
Shisa Making Workshop Okinawa
Paint and decorate your own Okinawan guardian lion (shisa), the pairs sit on every rooftop in Okinawa. One open-mouthed (catches good...
Sefa Utaki (UNESCO Sacred Site)
The most sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom, a natural rock formation where kings prayed. The triangular rock opening framing Kudaka...
Okinawa Awamori Distillery Tour
Tour an awamori distillery, Okinawa's indigenous rice spirit aged in clay pots. Stronger than sake, aged varieties (kusu) develop...
