33 recommended snorkeling spots on Miyako Island (Ikema Island, Kurima Island, Irabu Island, Shimoji Island)!

 

The color of the sea in the Miyako Islands, consisting of Miyako Island and eight surrounding islands of various sizes, is so beautiful that it is called "Miyako blue.

Miyakojima, a remote island in Okinawa, is surrounded by such beautiful sea, white sandy beaches, and colorful coral reefs. Along the coast, tropical fish, sea turtles, and a variety of other creatures live, creating a sparkling underwater world.

In this issue, we will introduce recommended beaches in the Miyako Islands, also known as the "holy land of snorkeling," which are full of attractions!

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33 recommended snorkeling spots on Miyako Island

Miyako Island Area

Snorkeling spots on Miyako Island (1) "Aragusuku Beach

Aragusuku Beach is located on the eastern tip of Miyako Island, just before Higashi Henna-zaki. The shallow, brilliant emerald green waters are crystal clear, making it a popular snorkeling spot among the locals.

The free parking lot has been expanded, changing rooms are available, and the staff standing near the entrance to the beach will kindly provide beach information such as swimming precautions and information on each store, making it perfect for tourists who are new to Miyako Island♪.

In addition to colorful branch and rose corals, the water is teeming with tropical fish, many of which swim very close to your body while snorkeling.

⇒Shinshiro CoastFor more information on

Click here for SUP & snorkeling tours to enjoy the waters of the Aragusuku Coast.

 

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Snorkeling spot on Miyako Island (2) "Imugya Marine Garden

Imugaya Marine Garden, located in the southern part of Miyako Island, is a beach park created by utilizing a natural cove. A small mountain rises near the natural cove, and with a promenade, bridge, and observatory, it is a popular sightseeing spot for visitors to enjoy activities other than playing in the ocean.

The underwater world of Imgae Marine Garden is known for its very large population of clownfish, made famous in the Disney movie "Finding Nemo". It is also a spot where you can see butterfly fish, lurid snappers, and other famous tropical fish, as well as minnows, spoonbills, and more.â

In the Imgae Marine Garden, there is a high probability of encountering sea turtles!

Although the sandy beach portion is small, the waves are so gentle that it is called a natural swimming pool, making it a perfect place for snorkeling and playing on the shore.

⇒Im Gyor Marine GardenFor more information on

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spot (3) Shigira Beach

Located on the southern shore of Miyako Island, "Shigira Beach" is a man-made beach with shallow water, making it easy for beginners to swim. It is located in the "Shigira Resort," a group of resort hotels on Miyako Island, but it can be used even if you are not staying at the hotel.

Even though it is an artificial beach, the underwater environment is rich with colorful tropical fish, such as the blue-spotted trevally, and dozens of different types of coral.

There is also a high probability of encountering sea turtles swimming.

Lunch and snacks are available at the adjacent Shigira Beach House, which also rents deck chairs and snorkel sets (for a fee). This beach is also recommended for families with children who want to enjoy swimming at a leisurely pace.

⇒Shigira BeachFor more information on

Click here for tours to swim with sea turtles

 

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Snorkeling spot on Miyako Island (4) "Yoshino Beach

About 2 kilometers before Higashihennazaki on the east coast of Miyako Island is "Yoshino Beach," a typical Miyako Island snorkel point. The road to the beach is down a very steep slope, so please be careful of the speed of your car.

The beach is about 500 meters of pure white sand. The water is only about 2 meters deep at the deepest point, so it is best to avoid snorkeling at low tide.

Here and there in the sea, you will see clusters of yellow and yellow corals and branching corals that have grown close to the surface, colorful blue and yellow sparrows, small clownfish, starfish, sea cucumbers, and many other marine creatures.

⇒Yoshino CoastFor more information on

 

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Snorkeling spot on Miyako Island (5) "Yonaha Maehama Beach

Yonaha Maehama Beach, locally called "Maipama," is the representative beach of Miyako Island. It has been ranked the best beach in the world many times in various beach rankings, and its beauty has been called the best in the East.

In addition to the beautiful sandy beach and emerald green ocean, the beach is also popular for its spectacular view. Kurima Island in front of the beach, and the Kurima Ohashi Bridge connecting the two islands.

In the area along the beach in front of Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & Resorts, there is a small reef where clownfish and blue-spotted trevally swim and gather, making it a great snorkeling spot.

During the season, jellyfish prevention nets are set up and monitors are stationed to ensure safe snorkeling.

It is also a famous starting and finishing point for the Miyakojima Triathlon.
Marine sports and mermaid photo tours are popular at Yonaha Maehama Beach, where the beautiful ocean is a picture perfect place♪.

⇒Yonaha Maehama BeachFor more information on

For more information on marine sports and a list of plans, click here↓↓.

Click here for the Marine Sports and Mermaid Photo Package Plan

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spot (6) "Sunayama Beach

Sunayama Beach is known for its arched rocks created by wave erosion! The blue ocean, white sandy beach, and fantastic arched rock formations are like a natural painting.

The approach to the beach is up a "sand hill" from the parking lot, which is quite a difficult walk due to the sand that passes through your feet...but the spectacular view you will see after crossing the sand hill will blow away all your fatigue.

The ocean can be deep in some places, and the further out you go, the more complicated the tidal currents become, so please be careful. The only natural shade on the beach is under the arched rocks, so if you get tired, take a break and enjoy snorkeling safely.

⇒Sunayama BeachFor more information on

 

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Snorkeling spot on Miyako Island (7) "Painagama Beach

This beach is adjacent to Hirara Port on Miyako Island. "Pai" means "south" in the Miyako dialect. The name of the beach is "Minami Nagama Beach" written in Chinese characters.

Painagama Beach is well known to residents of Miyako Island because of its easy accessibility. It is a popular beach for swimming, marine activities, and as a sunset spot where many people gather to watch the beautiful sunset at dusk. For snorkeling, clownfish and honeyeater clownfish can be seen around the coral anemones.

⇒Pina Nagama BeachFor more information on

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spot #8 "Boragaa Beach

Hora Izumi Beach is located on Miyako Island, near Higashi Henna-zaki, near a spring called Hora Izumi (Boragaa). The beach is located at the bottom of a cape cliff, and the rocky terrain allows for close-up viewing of coral reefs, coral anemones, Luris sparrows, clownfish, and other marine life.

It has a swimming pool that uses spring water, and for a fee, visitors can also enjoy an 80-meter-long water slide. In addition, "Pumpkin Hall," a famous power spot on Miyako Island, is located nearby.

⇒Boraga BeachFor more information on

For more information and a list of plans for the Pumpkin Hole Expedition, click here↓.

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spot (9) "Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach, located near Tulliver Seaside Park in downtown Miyakojima, is an artificial beach developed under the Hirara Port Coastal Resort Project, and is a limited-time beach. It is a safe place to enjoy swimming, but please note that snorkeling is prohibited.

It is also a beach with a spectacular view of the Irabu Bridge on Irabu Island on the opposite shore and the setting sun on the horizon, making it a popular sunset spot for local couples.

⇒Sunset BeachFor more information on

If you want to enjoy sunset SUP, click here↓.

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spot (10) Waiwai Beach

Waiwai Beach is an artificial beach located on the south coast of Miyako Island. Surrounded by tetrapods, it serves as a breakwater and is a popular place for activities.

The sandy beach is also home to sea turtle nests, so the encounter rate with sea turtles is very high when snorkeling. For this reason, sea turtle snorkeling is often offered on tours.

It is easily accessible, only about 14 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, so it is easy to visit. There is also a German Cultural Village near Waiwai Beach, a pavilion, plaza, and playground facilities where you can take a break after a stroll or activity!

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spot (11) Nishi-nohama Beach

Nishi no Hama Beach is located near Nishi Heiannazaki, the northernmost cape on Miyako Island. Nishi no Hama Beach has shallow waters and is more suited for swimming than for activities. From nearby Nishi Anana-zaki, you can see the ocean through the windmills and the Ikema Ohashi Bridge, one of the most spectacular views on Miyako Island.

There is also a snow salt museum and a restaurant nearby, so you can stop by to buy souvenirs or just take a break.

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spots ⑫Alassis Hida Beach

For those who enjoy the feeling of a private beach, Alassis Hida Beach is recommended. Located in the southwestern part of Ikema Island, Alassis Hida Beach is a natural beach with coral reefs and many tropical fish.

Because it is located behind the 4-star villa Island Terrace Neela, it is one of the lesser-known and hidden spots in the area. If you stay at Island Terrace Neela, you can easily visit it on foot, so you can schedule an overnight stay for your trip.

This beach is also an attractive spot because it is located on the west coast and offers a beautiful sunset view of the sun setting into the horizon.

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spots⑬ Hirase Ogamizaki Beach

Hirase Ogamizaki Beach is a craggy, rocky natural beach located in the northeastern part of Miyako Island. It is rich in coral and tropical fish, and snorkeling can be enjoyed, but beginners are advised to refrain from doing so because of the rocky beach. Nevertheless, you can see the original unmaintained Miyakojima Beach.

Its location on the east coast offers beautiful sunset views in the evening.

 

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Miyako Island Snorkeling Spots⑭Maya Beach

Located across from the Maya Fishing Port in the Hirara Nishihara area, about 24 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, Maya Beach is a hole-in-the-wall beach that is rarely mentioned in tourist magazines, on the Internet, or in other media. It is rarely visited by tourists because there is little information about it.

Both sides of the fishing port offer marine activities, but the right side has more coral and tropical fish, so it is better to use this side for snorkeling. The currents become faster during high tide, so please check the tide chart before visiting.

 

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Miyako Island snorkeling spot (15) Manatsu Beach

Manatsu Beach is a popular photo spot with tunnel-shaped rocks on the beach. It is said that the tunnel was formed by the erosion of coral uplifted by the sea. Although the tunnel is now inaccessible because it could collapse at any time, it is still possible to take pictures from a short distance away, so be sure to visit the beach for a commemorative photo.

The waters of the Manatsu Coast are very clear and coral reefs grow in shallow water, so if you enter the sea for a short while, you can observe coral from the sea.

 

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Irabu Island Area

Snorkeling spots on Irabu Island (1) "Watakuchi no Hama

Watariguchi Beach is located on Irabu Island, northwest of Miyako Island, and is the most popular beach on Irabu Island, stretching approximately 800 meters and 50 meters wide in an arch shape.

The gradation of blue gradually turning to blue toward the horizon in the shallow ocean is very beautiful and relaxing just by looking at it! The sand on the beach is pure white and smooth! When you walk barefoot, the smooth white sand tickles the soles of your feet, making it a very pleasant beach.

⇒Watakuchi BeachFor more information on

Click here for photo plan at Watakuchi no Hama ↓.

 

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Snorkeling spot on Irabu Island (2) "Sawada no Hama

The beach of Sawada on Irabu Island offers a unique view of the sea dotted with numerous large and small rocks. It was selected as one of the 100 best beaches in Japan in 1996 for its beautiful seascape and clear water quality. Sawada no Hama is a shallow beach with bright turquoise blue waters and relatively calm waves.

However, since the beach is quite shallow, there are no coral reefs and few fish, so it may not be suitable for snorkeling. This beach is suitable for playing in the surf with small children and for beachcombing (collecting shells from the beach).

At sunset, the colors of the sunset reflected on the surface of the water and the rock formations create a magical world view.

⇒Sawada BeachFor more information on

 

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Snorkeling Spot on Irabu Island (3) "Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is famous in mainland Okinawa, but there is also a Blue Cave here on Irabu Island! Compared to mainland Okinawa, snorkeling in the Blue Cave on Miyako Island attracts fewer tourists, allowing you to fully enjoy nature.

In addition to snorkeling, there are also other ways to reach the entrance of the Blue Cave, such as by glass boat or kayak, so those who do not want to swim but still want to enjoy the Blue Cave can do so.

⇒Blue CaveFor more information on

For more information about the Blue Cave Tour, click here↓.

 

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Snorkeling spot on Irabu Island (4) "Bijas

Bijas" is located not far from the Blue Cave. It has a reef edge (a point where the water goes from shallow to deep at once), which makes you feel like diving even though you are snorkeling. The tour plan that includes the Blue Cave and Bijas is popular.

For more information about snorkeling tours in Bijas, click here↓.

 

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Snorkeling Spot on Irabu Island (5) Shiratorizaki

Shiratorizaki is located on the west coast of Irabu Island, just beyond the Irabu Bridge in the northwestern part of Miyako Island. The view of the East China Sea from this cape, with its wild waves lapping against the precipitous cliffs, is very powerful. There is a covered pavilion where visitors can take a rest and relax while watching the sunset.

There are snorkeling and diving spots nearby, and because the tides are fast, you can observe marine life that you cannot see on other beaches.

 

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Snorkeling spots on Irabu Island (6) Triangle Point

The triangular point on Irabu Island is the most spectacular spot in the Miyako Archipelago. The sea seen from the 70-meter-high cliff is very clear, and the sea's changing hues due to the difference in tides is a beautiful sight. The thrill and beauty of the view from the cliff is very popular, and in recent years it has been featured frequently in guidebooks and SNS, attracting many tourists during the hot season.

From here, you can go down to the beautiful ocean overlooking the beach and snorkel. You can experience the spectacular view with your whole body while observing the coral reefs and marine life.

 

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Snorkeling spots on Irabu Island (7) Nagayama Beach

Nagayama Beach is located on Irabu Island and is characterized by fine, powdery white sand compared to other beaches.

It is also one of the most beautiful beaches on Miyako Island, and was chosen as the cover of a Miyako Island guidebook. Because Nagayama Beach is located in the eastern part of Irabu Island, sunrise can be viewed even early in the morning.

Click here for more information about the diving tours in Bijas.

 

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Shimojishima Area

Snorkeling spots on Shimoji Island (1) "Nakanoshima Beach

Nakanoshima Beach, located along the outer road on the southwest coast of Shimoji Island, next to Irabu Island, is a highly transparent beach where you can encounter schools of tropical fish of the butterfly fish family, clownfish, and barracuda as soon as you enter the water.

In addition, the large rock in the center of the beach is home to a large number of coral formations and a wide variety of fish! Please note that there are no stores, parking lots, toilets, or showers on this completely natural and pristine beach!

⇒Nakanoshima BeachFor more information on

Click here for snorkeling at Nakanoshima Beach

Slow diving at Nakanoshima Beach is here↓.

 

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Shimoji Island snorkeling spot (2) "17END

Among the clear, clean waters of Miyako Island, Shimoji Island's "17END" is said to have the most beautiful sea.

When the weather is clear, sunlight reflects off the surface of the ocean, creating a sparkling clear turquoise sea. At low tide, the white sandy beach appears far out to sea, and the sand patterns in the shallows created by the ebb tide are very beautiful.

You can also go to 17 END! Click here for private tour with sightseeing on Irabu Island↓.

 

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Ikema Island Area

Snorkeling spots on Ikema Island (1) "Funakusu Beach

Located on the north side of Ikema Island, commonly known as "Ikema Block," is Funakusu Beach. The entire beach is covered with fine, silky sand, and coral reefs dot the beach from about 20 meters from the surf.

The clarity of the water is excellent, and the shallow branching corals are surrounded by many small, colorful fish of the spiny dogfish and butterfly fish types, making this beach a snorkeling mecca worthy of its name.

⇒Funakusu BeachFor more information on

Snorkeling spot on Ikema Island (2) "Yabiji

Yabiji is located on the northern side of Miyako Island, about 30 minutes by boat from Ikema Island. It is also called the "Phantom Continent" because it appears only during low tide from spring to summer, between high and middle tides!

The huge coral reefs, measuring 6.5 kilometers from east to west and 17 kilometers from north to south, are truly a "continent. There are about 100 coral reefs of various sizes, which are home to a wide variety of marine life.

It is difficult to go to the Yaebise area by yourself, so you will have to join a tour. Please enjoy the "Phantom Continent" by taking a cruising tour or diving tour, which are held only during this season!

⇒eight-holed arrow whistleFor more information on

For details and a list of Yaebise tours and plans, click here↓.

 

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Snorkeling spots on Ikema Island (3) Ohama

Ohama is a natural beach located on Ikema Island, just across the Ikema Ohashi Bridge from Miyakojima. On the Ikema side of the Ikema Ohashi Bridge, there is a row of restaurants and souvenir shops, and the beach can be accessed by going down the stairs there.

The shallow waters make it safe for children to enjoy swimming in the sea. From the rooftop observation deck at the restaurant, you can see Ogami Island on the left, Seto in front of the restaurant, and the Ikema Ohashi Bridge. There is also a restaurant where you can have a meal after playing in the sea, allowing you to spend a relaxing time.

 

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Snorkeling spot on Ikema Island (4) Ikidu Beach

Ikizu Beach is a natural beach on Ikema Island that is said to have been used as a filming location for the NHK TV drama Jun to Ai. Heart Rock, a heart-shaped rock formed by the forces of nature, is located on the beach and is known as a power spot for romance. Although it is a compact spot compared to other beaches, you can enjoy the feeling of a private beach. It is a great place to visit with a couple or someone you are interested in, and it is sure to improve your relationship.

It is also a snorkeling spot because of its abundance of coral and tropical fish. Because it is on the west coast, you can also watch beautiful sunsets and enjoy snorkeling while watching the sunset.

 

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Snorkeling spot on Ikema Island (5) Kaginmihida Beach

Kaginmihida Beach is located in the northwestern part of the island, just across the Ikema Ohashi Bridge from Miyakojima. It is located just after crossing the Ikema Ohashi Bridge in a clockwise direction. After parking your car in the parking lot, follow a rope called the Ikema Rope down to the beach.

The waters of Kaginmihida Beach are relatively shallow, allowing visitors to observe coral, tropical fish, coral, and other marine life and play on the shore. Although most of the waters are shallow, as you head a little further out to sea, the waters become deeper, making snorkeling an enjoyable experience.

 

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Kushima Area

Snorkeling spots on Kurima Island (1) "Nagama Beach

Walking barefoot on Nagama Beach on Kurushima Island, the powdery sand feels pleasant on the soles of the feet. A few meters from the beach is a coral reef, where you can see many tropical fish such as clownfish and snappers.

However, on days with strong southerly winds, there are areas with strong wave swells and fast currents, so please be careful when snorkeling!

⇒long stretch of beachFor more information on

Click here for photo plan at Nagama beach

 

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Snorkeling spot on Kuruma Island (2) Nagasaki Beach

Nagasaki Beach is located in the western part of Kuruma Island, which is located in the southwestern part of Miyako Island. Nagasakihama is a very calm beach because it is surrounded by rocks, which act as a breakwater. Sunset views can be seen over the rocks.

Since it is rarely mentioned in guidebooks and attracts very few tourists, you can enjoy a romantic atmosphere alone with your loved one.

 

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Snorkeling spot on Kurima Island (3) Musunun Beach

Musunun Beach on Kushima Island is a beach named "Musunun" in the local language, meaning "exorcism of insects," and is the site of an annual festival in April to pray for extermination of pests and a good harvest. The waves are a bit high, so it is not suitable for swimming for beginners, but it is a good spot for snorkeling as there are many creatures.

It is also one of the best sunset spots on the island, so you can watch the sun set into the horizon.

 

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Snorkeling Spots on Kuruma Island (4) Kuruma Island - Octopus Bottom Beach

The beach down the road from Tako Park, symbolized by the octopus monument on Kushima Island, one of the Miyako Islands, is also home to an abundance of tropical fish. There is also a coral reef where snorkeling can be fully enjoyed. Although it is a beach, it is rocky and there are no native trees, so if you want to take a break under the shade of a tree, it is recommended to go to Taco Park.

 

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Snorkeling Spot on Kurima Island (5) Cat's Tongue Beach

Cat's Tongue Beach is a shallow natural beach located near Kushima's port, Kushima Port, in the southwestern part of Miyako Island. The beach is named as such because of its shape like a cat's tongue. There is almost no coral or tropical fish inhabiting the beach, but it is recommended for snorkeling beginners as the shallow waters make it safe to enjoy the activity. The water is so clear that even the locals come here to admire the scenery.

Cat's Tongue Beach, with its cute name, is a very calm and healing place to relax and enjoy the view of the Raima Blue.

 

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summary

How was it? Miyako Island is an island rich in nature, with clear blue seas and dazzling sunshine. The island's flat terrain without high mountains allows visitors to enjoy beautiful seascapes from a variety of locations.

Why don't you enjoy snorkeling and swimming at the beaches of Miyako Island, where you can enjoy the beauty of the natural landscape to the fullest?

All the fun of Miyako Island is here↓.
Miyako Island Tours