25 Recommended Snorkeling Spots on Okinawa's Remote Islands! A Comparison of Miyako, Yaeyama, and Kerama

Where are the best places to go snorkeling on Okinawa’s outlying islands?

In this column, we’ll introduce 25 recommended snorkeling spots on Okinawa’s outlying islands, categorized by the Miyako Islands, the Yaeyama Islands, and islands accessible on a day trip from the main island.

Our staff, who live in Okinawa, have put together this guide covering everything from the unique features of each island and how to get there to tips on choosing between guided tours and independent travel. We hope you find it helpful when planning your trip!

Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Miyako Island.

If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended snorkeling tours in Miyako Island▼

 

Snorkeling on Okinawa's Remote Islands | Comparing the Features of Each Island

The remote islands of Okinawa are broadly divided into three groups: the Miyako Islands, the Yaeyama Islands, and the islands surrounding the main island.

Since how to get there and how to enjoy the ocean vary by area, let’s start by getting a general idea of the big picture!

Area	Directions (General Guide)	Recommended for
Miyako Islands (Miyako Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Ikema Island)	Driving from Miyako Island via the bridge	For those who want to visit multiple beaches by rental car, or see sea turtles and the Yaese Reef
Yaeyama Islands (Okinawa) (Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island, Kohama Island, Hateruma Island)	By boat from Ishigaki Island to the other islands	For those who want to enjoy the ocean by boat—including manta ray sightings and visits to uninhabited islands
Islands Surrounding the Main Island (Kerama Islands, Minna Island, Kouri Island, Sesoko Island)	By boat or bridge from Naha or Motobu	For those who want to take a day trip to see the ocean on a remote island while sightseeing on the main island

A major feature of the Miyako Islands is that Miyako Island is connected by bridges to Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Ikema Island, and Kurima Island.

Since you can travel back and forth between the islands without worrying about ferry schedules,My First Trip to a Remote IslandIt's perfect for that, too!

 

Recommended Snorkeling Spots in the Miyako Islands

Since there are almost no rivers in the Miyako Islands, soil rarely flows into the sea, resulting in crystal-clear waters stretching as far as the eye can see.

We’ll introduce seven spots, ranging from the beaches of Miyako Island to Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, and the Yaese Reef off the coast of Ikema Island.

Your Chance to Spot Sea Turtles!
▼Click here for recommended sea turtle tours in Miyako Island▼

 

Miyako Island (Okinawa)

Miyako Island, the central island of the Miyako Islands, has many snorkeling spots that are accessible on foot from the beach.

There are many beaches within driving distance of the airport, so you can enjoy the ocean starting the very day you arrive.Charm of Miyako IslandIt is!

Yoshino Coast

Yoshino Beach, located on the east side of Miyako Island, is a spot where you can see coral right near the shore.

You can see tropical fish even without going too far out to sea, so it’s a great spot for beginners. At low tide, you’re more likely to brush against the coral, so be sure to check the tide times before entering the water.

For information on parking and rentals,Guide to Snorkeling at Yoshino Beach...is introduced here.

Aragusuku Coast

Shinjo Beach, located near Yoshino Beach, is a popular beach known for its abundance of coral and tropical fish.

You might even see sea turtles, and if you're lucky, you might be able to swim with them!

Im Gyor Marine Garden

Located south of Miyako Island, Imgya Marine Garden is a seaside park that makes the most of a cove surrounded by rocks.

The waves are calm, making it feel like a natural pool, so even those who aren't used to the ocean can enjoy snorkeling at their own pace.

Shigira Beach

Shigira Beach, located in the southern part of Miyako Island, is a beach with calm waters situated in a resort area.

You can see coral and tropical fish even in shallow waters, and you might even spot a sea turtle, so it's a popular spot for families with children!

For information on parking and facilities,Guide Article on Shigira Beach...is introduced here.

Click here for the Miyako Island Snorkeling Tour

 

Irabu Island and Shimoji Island

Irabu Island was connected to Miyako Island by the Irabu Bridge, which opened in 2015. Shimoji Island is connected to Irabu Island by a small bridge.

Places like the Blue Cave and the beaches in the coves—which are quite different from those on Miyako Island—A Sea of TerrainThis is an area where you can enjoy [...].

The Blue Cave on Irabu Island

The Blue Cave, located on the coast of Irabu Island, is a mystical spot where the water glows blue as sunlight filters through.

Since the area around the cave is quite rocky, it's safest to go on a guided tour. The best part is that you can enjoy both cave exploration and snorkeling at the same time!

Head to Irabu Island's New Attraction!
▼Click here for our recommended Blue Grotto tours▼

Nakanoshima Beach

Nakajima Beach on Shimojishima is a cove with relatively calm waves.

As soon as you enter the water, you'll see a vast coral reef and tropical fish. Since there are no lifeguards, please be careful of the currents and the tides while swimming.

 

Ikemajima and Yaese

Ikemajima, connected to Miyako Island by the Ikemajima Bridge, is a small island surrounded by beautiful waters known as “Ikemajima Blue.”

Off the northern coast of Ikemajima lies "Yaese," one of Japan's premier snorkeling spots.

Yabiji (Yaebiji)

Yaese is one of Japan's largest coral reef systems, stretching approximately 17 km north to south and 6.5 km east to west.

In 2013, it became the first natural coral reef to be designated as a National Scenic Spot—natural monumentwas designated as [...].

Since this location is only accessible by boat, be sure to join a boat tour. Because you can only visit on days when sea conditions are favorable, we recommend booking well in advance to allow for some flexibility in your schedule!

Head to one of Japan's largest coral reefs!
▼Click here for recommended Yaese tours▼

Click here for the Yaeyama Islands Tour

 

Recommended Snorkeling Spots in the Yaeyama Islands

The Yaeyama Islands are a group of islands accessible by boat from Ishigaki Island.

The appeal lies in the unique marine environments you can only experience by boat—such as waters where you can see manta rays and islands that appear only at low tide. Here are eight spots to explore, starting from Ishigaki Island, Iriomote Island, Kohama Island, and Hateruma Island.

 

Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island, the gateway to the Yaeyama Islands, is a popular destination known for its waters where you can encounter manta rays and sea turtles.

Since ferries to the surrounding islands also depart from Ishigaki Port, let’s start your Yaeyama trip on Ishigaki Island!

Blue Cave of Ishigaki Island

The Blue Cave on Ishigaki Island is a cave located in the Yonehara area in the northern part of the island.

Since there are rocky areas along the way, it’s best to go on a tour. You can enjoy both cave exploration and snorkeling in the surrounding coral reefs!

Click here for the Blue Cave tour on Ishigaki Island

The Phantom Island (Hamajima)

The "Phantom Island" refers to "Hamajima," an island made entirely of sand that floats between Kohama Island and Taketomi Island.

Because it sinks into the sea at high tide and changes its appearance with the ebb and flow of the tides,phantom islandIt is known as [...]. Since there are no regular ferry services, join a shore excursion to cross by boat.

Click here for the "Phantom Island" Tour

Kabira Bay

Kabira Bay, one of Ishigaki Island’s most iconic scenic spots, is a breathtaking location featuring an expanse of emerald-green sea.

However, the currents in the bay are strong, andNo SwimmingThat's right. Enjoy the underwater world by taking a glass-bottom boat tour or joining a tour that departs from the Kabira Bay area.

Click here for the Kabira Bay Tour

 

Iriomote Island (Okinawa)

Iriomote Island, where subtropical forests cover most of the island, is a nature-rich island known for the Iriomote cat.

The high-speed ferry ride from Ishigaki Port to Uehara Port takes about 45 minutes. Please note that in winter, the Uehara route is prone to cancellations and may be rerouted to Ohara Port.

Barras Island

Barasu Island, located off the coast of Uehara Port on Iriomote Island and between Iriomote and Hatoma Island, is an island formed by layers of coral fragments.

Surrounded by living coral reefs, you can enjoy both a beach visit and snorkelingPopular ToursThat's where it's headed!

Click here for the Baraas Island Tour

Hoshizuna Beach

Hoshisuna Beach is a beach in the northern part of Iriomote Island that is famous for its star-shaped grains of sand.

The waves are calm, and you can see coral and small tropical fish just by swimming a short distance. It's a great spot even for first-time snorkelers.

Click here for Iriomote Island snorkeling tours

 

Kohama Island

Kohama Island, located roughly in the center of the Yaeyama Islands, is about a 25- to 30-minute ride by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port.

The area is surrounded by the Ishinishi Lagoon, one of Japan's largest coral reefs.

Kubazaki Coast

Hosozaki Beach, located at the western tip of Kohama Island, is a scenic spot offering a breathtaking view of Iriomote Island right before your eyes.

The nearby Yonara Strait is known as a migration route for manta rays. Since it’s difficult to navigate these waters on your own, be sure to join a tour to enjoy the experience safely.

Click here for the Kohama Island Snorkeling Tour

 

Hateruma Island

Hateruma Island is Japan's southernmost inhabited island.

You can enjoy a leisurely island getaway surrounded by the crystal-clear waters known as “Hateruma Blue.”

Nishi Beach

Nishi Beach was named the No. 1 beach in Japan by TripAdvisor in 2012.

You can admire the coral reefs in the crystal-clear waters. As the area becomes more popular, the impact on the coral increases, so please refrain from touching or stepping on the coral, etc.EtiquetteLet's have fun while following the rules.

 

Offshore islands accessible as day trips from the main island of Okinawa

Even if you're staying on the main island of Okinawa, you can enjoy the ocean on the outlying islands on a day trip by taking a boat or crossing a bridge.

Here are eight spots to visit: the Kerama Islands, accessible by boat from Naha; Minna Island, accessible by boat from Motobu; and Kouri Island and Sesoko Island, which are connected by bridges.

 

Kerama Islands

The waters of the Kerama Islands, located west of Naha, are known as “Kerama Blue” and are famous for their exceptional clarity.

It takes about 35 minutes by high-speed ferry from Tomari Port in Naha to Tokashiki Island, and about 50 minutes by direct ferry to Zamami Island, so,day tripBut you'll still have plenty of fun!

Tokashiku Beach (Tokashiki Island)

Tokashiku Beach on Tokashiki Island is a beach with calm waves where you can swim in peace.

Sometimes sea turtles swim right by, so many people come here just to see them.

Ama Beach (Zamami Island)

Ama Beach on Zamami Island is a popular spot where you can see sea turtles.

Even if you spot a sea turtle, don't touch or chase it; just watch it from a short distance away.

Kitahama Beach (Aka Island)

The beach on Aka Island—whose name is written as “Kitahama” but pronounced “Nishibama”—is a white sandy beach that stretches for about 700 meters along the east coast.

Compared to Tokashiki Island and Zamami Island, it’s less crowded, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the coral and tropical fish in the calm waters.

Naganum Island

Nagan'nu Island is an uninhabited island located about a 20-minute boat ride from Tomari Port in Naha.

One of the best parts of joining a shore excursion to this island is being able to snorkel in shallow waters where you can touch the bottom! It’s one of the easiest outlying islands to reach from the main island.

Kahi Island

Kabi Island is an uninhabited island located about a 5-minute ferry ride from Zamami Island.

The main attraction here is the chance to see coral that has grown freely in an unspoiled natural environment. Since there are no restrooms or lifeguards, be sure to take a ferry or join a kayak tour to get there.

Click here for snorkeling tours in the Kerama Islands

 

Minna-jima Island

Minna Island, located about a 15-minute high-speed boat ride from Tokuchi Port in Motobu Town, looks like a croissant when viewed from the air.

It's also known as "Croissant Island" and is a popular destination because it's an outlying island that's easy to reach from the main island.

Minna Beach

Mizuna Beach is the island's main beach, located right next to Mizuna Harbor.

With its pristine white sandy beach and shallow waters stretching out into the distance, and with all the necessary facilities in place, even beginners can enjoy themselves with peace of mind.

Click here for the Minna Island Snorkeling Tour

 

Islands Accessible by Bridge (Kouri Island and Sesoko Island)

Kouri Island and Sesoko Island, located in the northern part of the main island, are connected to the main island by bridges.

Since you can cross by car without taking a ferry, you can combine it with sightseeing on the main island, such as a visit to the Churaumi Aquarium, andEasy to mix and matchThat makes me happy!

Tokei Beach (Kouri Island)

Tokkei Beach, located in the northern part of Kouri Island, is a beach with crystal-clear waters stretching out before you.

Since there are many rocky areas, be sure to wear water shoes when entering the water.

Sesoko Beach

Sesoko Beach on Sesoko Island—accessible via the Sesoko Bridge—is known for its crystal-clear waters, even among the beaches surrounding the main island.

It's about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport. Since there are specific periods when swimming is permitted, be sure to check with the management office before heading out.

Click here for snorkeling tours on the main island of Okinawa

 

Snorkeling Spots on the Main Island of Okinawa

For those who don't have time to travel out to the remote islands,Attractions on the Main IslandBut you can still enjoy snorkeling.

Here, we’ll introduce two of the most popular spots. The spots on the main island are:Article on Snorkeling on Okinawa Main IslandIt's covered in detail there.

 

The Blue Cave at Cape Maeda

The Blue Cave, located at Cape Maeda in Onna Village, is the most famous snorkeling spot on the main island of Okinawa.

Depending on sea conditions, there are days when you can't enter the cave, so it's safer to go on a tour.

Click here for the Blue Cave tour on the main island of Okinawa

 

Gorilla Chop in Sakimotobu

Saki Motobu Green Park in Motobu Town is affectionately known as “Gorilla Chop” because of a rock that looks like a gorilla is throwing a punch.

This spot features a sea teeming with coral, but swimming in the surrounding area may not be permitted when cruise ships are arriving at or departing from Motobu Port.

 

How to Choose a Snorkeling Trip to a Remote Island

Once you've decided which island you want to visit, think about whether you'll join a tour or go on your own, and whether you'll make it a day trip or stay overnight on the island.

If you know what each option is best suited for, it'll make it easier to plan your trip.

No need to worry, even if it's your first time☆
▼Click here for recommended snorkeling tours in Miyako Island▼

 

Join a tour or swim on your own

To visit spots such as Yaeyama Islands, the Phantom Island, and Barasu Island—which are accessible only by boat—you must join a tour.

Since tours include equipment rentals and guide support, they're a great option for those who aren't confident swimmers or for families with children.

While you can enjoy the spots accessible from the beach on your own, many of them aren't supervised, so be sure to swim with at least one other person.

 

Should we make it a day trip or stay overnight on the island?

The Kerama Islands and Minna Island are islands that are easy to visit on a day trip from Naha or Motobu.

On the other hand, since the Miyako Islands and the Yaeyama Islands are accessible only by plane,ResidentialLet's make a plan. Even if the weather prevents us from going in the water on a certain day, as long as there's some flexibility in our schedule, we can try again on another day.

 

Things to Keep in Mind When Snorkeling on Okinawa's Remote Islands

To enjoy the waters of Okinawa safely, there are some precautions you should be aware of before heading out.

Be sure to check for sunlight, dangerous wildlife, changes in the weather, areas where swimming is prohibited, and what to bring.

 

Be careful of ultraviolet rays

The sun in Okinawa is stronger than on Honshu, and you’re still exposed to UV rays even when you’re in the water.

With rash guards and sunscreen,Measures against ultraviolet raysMake sure to stay hydrated regularly to prevent heatstroke.

 

Beware of dangerous creatures

The waters off Okinawa are home to creatures such as jellyfish that can be dangerous to humans.

Since many beaches don’t have jellyfish-proof nets, be sure to minimize exposed skin by wearing a rash guard, leggings, and water shoes. In the summer, jellyfish warnings may be issued.

 

Beware of sudden squalls

Even when it's sunny in Okinawa, you can suddenly be caught in a heavy downpour.

If the weather changes while you're out at sea, don't push yourself—and if you're on a tour, follow the guide's instructions.

 

Places Where Swimming Is Prohibited and Precautions When Swimming Alone

In Okinawa, there are places like Kabira Bay on Ishigaki Island,No SwimmingDepending on the location, season, and time of day, there are places where swimming is not allowed.

When swimming on your own, be sure to check the local signs and information provided by the management office. At beaches without lifeguards, you should also be mindful of ocean currents and the tides.

 

Recommended personal belongings and attire

Be sure to bring clothing that protects your skin—such as rash guards and water shoes—as well as sunscreen and something to drink.

Equipment such as masks and fins is often available for rent through tour operators or marine shops. Since some beaches don’t have concession stands, it’s a good idea to buy drinks in advance.

 

Can you visit multiple islands on a single trip?

If you're going all the way to Okinawa, you'll want to visit Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and the Kerama Islands, right?

However, traveling between areas is more difficult than you might expect. Be sure to check your transportation options before making plans.

 

Air travel is the primary means of getting from one area to another.

Travel between the Main Island, the Miyako Islands, and the Yaeyama Islands is generallyairplanewill be.

Naha Airport serves the main island, Miyako Airport and Shimojishima Airport serve the Miyako Islands, and Ishigaki Airport serves the Yaeyama Islands. Since the number of flights is limited, you should expect to have very little time to spend in the water on travel days.

 

We recommend limiting each trip to one area.

Within the same area, you can visit multiple islands by bridge or boat. In the Miyako Islands, you can tour the islands by car, and in the Yaeyama Islands, you can do so by boat from Ishigaki Port.

Why not limit each trip to a single area and visit it a few times to find your favorite island?

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Snorkeling on Okinawa's Remote Islands

 

summary

Snorkeling on Okinawa’s outlying islands offers different experiences depending on the area: the Miyako Islands, where you can tour the islands by rental car; the Yaeyama Islands, where you can take a boat to uninhabited islands and the “Manta Sea”; and the Kerama Islands and Minna Island, which are accessible as day trips from the main island.

First.Areas I'd like to visitPick one and think about whether you'd prefer to enjoy it on a tour or on your own.

If you're planning to go snorkeling on Miyako Island, be sure to check out the tours where you can see sea turtles and the Yaese tours!

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.