10 activities to enjoy on Miyako Island for a family vacation
Table of Contents
- 1 What is a family trip to Miyako Island?
- 2 Characteristics and Recommendations for Family Travel on Miyako Island
- 3 10 Family Tours for Families
- 3.1 Miyakojima Family Tour①Available for ages 8 and up! Experience Slow Diving & Snorkeling-AM Course-!
- 3.2 Miyako Island Family Tour 2: Yaebise (Yabiji) Half-Day Boat Snorkeling Tour
- 3.3 Miyako Island Family Tour ③ Sea Kayak & Limestone Cave Exploration & Snorkel Tour - Lunch Included
- 3.4 Miyako Island Family Tour 4: MEDIUM SUP Tour
- 3.5 Miyako Island Family Tour ⑤Snorkeling & Sunset Kayak Tour
- 3.6 Miyako Island Family Tour ⑥Standard Fishing - Half Day Course
- 3.7 Miyako Island Family Tour ⑦ Snorkeling & Sea Kayak Tour at "Nakanoshima Beach" Natural Aquarium
- 3.8 Miyako Island Family Tour (8) Motor Paragliding
- 3.9 Miyakojima Family Tour ⑨Let's play in the mangrove forest of Shimajiri! Mangrove Canoe Tour
- 3.10 Miyakojima Family Vacation Activity 10 [Miyakojima Starry Sky] Starry Sky Night Photo Tour
- 4 Five recommended sightseeing spots for family trips to Miyako Island
- 4.1 Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (1) Waiwai Beach
- 4.2 Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (2) Irie Bay Observatory
- 4.3 Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island ③Kenko Fureai Land Park
- 4.4 Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (4) Nagayama Beach
- 4.5 Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (5) Sanitzuhama Fureai Hiroba
- 5 summary
- 6 Started handling rental cars!
Let's have fun with the whole family on a trip to Miyako Island! Miyako Island is a remote island nearly 300 kilometers from the main island of Okinawa. The island is rich in nature, including oceans and mountains, and offers a sense of serenity that cannot be experienced in the city. The rich natural environment that exists only on a remote island is perfect for a family vacation.
In this issue, we will introduce popular tours recommended for family travelers to Miyako Island, many of which can be joined by children as young as 5 or 6 years old, so the whole family can participate.
What is a family trip to Miyako Island?
Miyako Island was formed by the uplift of coral reefs, which is why the island is surrounded by coral reefs, giving it the Miyako blue color. Yaebise, the largest table-top coral reef in Japan, is also located on this remote island, making it an ideal place for snorkeling and diving.
The tours are suitable for family trips as they can accommodate groups and small children. We encourage you to consider it as a candidate for your next family vacation.
Characteristics and Recommendations for Family Travel on Miyako Island
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, Miyako Island is rich in coral reefs and offers a wide variety of marine activities. At night, the sky is filled with stars. It is a hybrid tourist destination that can be enjoyed both during the day and at night.
In addition to the beach, there are many sightseeing spots such as an observatory where you can see the whole area and historical sites where you can learn about the history, so you will never get tired of enjoying yourself.
10 Family Tours for Families
Miyakojima Family Tour①Available for ages 8 and up! Experience Slow Diving & Snorkeling-AM Course-!
This is a slow diving experience for ages 8 and up. In slow diving, you will be escorted one-on-one by a guide. There is no need to swim on your own as the guide will escort you. Children do not have to swim on their own because they are escorted by a one-on-one guide.
In addition, breathing, which is considered difficult when diving, is done with a full-face mask, so it is safe to breathe in the same way as on land. This tour is safe for beginners and children. This is a unique experience diving tour that can be enjoyed by families of three generations in peace.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyako Island Family Tour 2: Yaebise (Yabiji) Half-Day Boat Snorkeling Tour
This tour allows you to snorkel in one of the largest coral reefs in Japan. Since the tour is conducted at snorkeling spots where the water is shallow, elementary school students and up can participate. Even if you do not dive deeply, you can enjoy rare tropical fish and the clear ocean, making this tour a very satisfying experience.
Even if you are afraid of diving, you can enjoy the ocean and see fish swimming in the water just by floating on the surface. This is a half-day tour that takes about 3 hours, so it is easy to join with children.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyako Island Family Tour ③ Sea Kayak & Limestone Cave Exploration & Snorkel Tour - Lunch Included
This tour is recommended for those who want to experience the full range of activities that can be enjoyed on Miyako Island. The entire tour lasts 5 hours and includes sea kayaking, snorkeling, and limestone cave exploration. 6 years old and up can participate, and the tour starts in the morning hours.
The first step is to explore by sea kayak to the limestone caves. Check out the stalactites in the cave, called pumpkin holes, which are shaped like pumpkins. It is actually a power spot on Miyako Island, and it is said that if you make a wish and jump off the stalactite, your wish will come true. During the tour, you can actually jump into the stalactites, so if you are brave enough, you should definitely give it a try.
After the pumpkin hole, we will go snorkeling. This is a great value tour that is packed with activities and still includes lunch!
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Miyako Island Family Tour 4: MEDIUM SUP Tour
The middle SUP tour is a great way for the whole family to have fun on a big board, even if it is your first SUP experience. The attraction of this tour is that you can cruise on the crystal clear sea of Miyako Island by SUP.
The horizon that stretches in a straight line that can be seen after a short paddle is a view that only those who participate in the tour can see. Children and adults alike can easily operate the boat, and no special skills are required.
Another fun aspect is that everyone (up to 3 people) can ride on one board. Photos taken during the tour can be given to you after the tour, making it a great way to commemorate your trip.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyako Island Family Tour ⑤Snorkeling & Sunset Kayak Tour
This is a great tour that allows you to experience both snorkeling and kayaking in one trip! At the snorkeling spot, you can see sea turtles, coral field, and tropical fish. The snorkeling is at the point where the encounter rate of sea turtles is said to be 99%, so the probability of encountering turtles is high.
After the tour starts, the guide will give a lecture, so even children 6 years old and up can enjoy the tour. Even if you are not good at swimming, just putting your face to the water is enough.
The last kayaking tour to be conducted is also recommended at a time when you can enjoy the sunset. Tours starting at 15:00 noon allow you to enjoy kayaking with the sunset in the background.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyako Island Family Tour ⑥Standard Fishing - Half Day Course
Only on this tour can you experience fishing for colorful tropical fish. With the support of an instructor, there is no need to have any fishing experience. You will be taught how to assemble a fishing rod and how to put bait on it.
This tour is suitable for those who want to relax and enjoy fishing while admiring the beautiful ocean. After the tour, you will be introduced to an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) where you can eat the fish you caught. (Cooking fee will be charged separately.)
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyako Island Family Tour ⑦ Snorkeling & Sea Kayak Tour at "Nakanoshima Beach" Natural Aquarium
Snorkeling and kayaking at Nakanoshima Beach (Kayaffa) on Shimoji Island, which is said to be a natural aquarium. 5 years old and up can participate in this activity, making it suitable for family trips.
Colorful tropical fish and coral can be seen at one of the world's best snorkeling spots. The underwater world remains in its natural state, so you can enjoy the underwater world as it is in its natural state. This is the only place in Japan where you can see four of the six species of bear clams that can be seen in Japan.
The tour is held in an area where there are no waves at all, so even small children can enjoy the tour naturally. The tour is a great value because you can enjoy both snorkeling and sea kayaking in 3.5 hours.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyako Island Family Tour (8) Motor Paragliding
This tour allows you to view the sea of Miyako Island from the sky. Unlike the underwater view, you can fully enjoy the scenery of Miyako Island. You can see the sea of Miyako Island and sightseeing spots such as Irabu Ohashi Bridge and Higashi Heiannazaki from the sky. You can fly away from the sandy beaches of Miyako Island and feel the wind and birdsong.
The takeoff point will be changed depending on the wind conditions of the day. There are many takeoff points on Miyako Island, so you can enjoy a tour with a high probability of success. All flight points are located 15-25 minutes from the airport, making it easy to schedule a trip.
Everything you need for the tour can be rented free of charge, so you can come empty-handed.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyakojima Family Tour ⑨Let's play in the mangrove forest of Shimajiri! Mangrove Canoe Tour
This tour allows you to enjoy the mangroves of Miyako Island by canoe. This tour takes you canoeing at Shimajiri, where you can see all kinds of mangroves in Miyako Island. This tour allows you to observe the creatures and birds that live in the mangroves.
First, there is a lecture on canoeing at the beginning of the tour. The lecture makes it possible for canoeing beginners to participate without anxiety. In addition, mangrove canoeing is less affected by waves and wind than ocean canoeing. Therefore, it is reputed to be safe and enjoyable even with small children.
Enjoy canoeing in a relaxed atmosphere and feel the nature of Miyako Island. You can also get out of the canoe and observe subtropical plants and creatures on the mudflats.
Click here for plan details ↓
Miyakojima Family Vacation Activity 10 [Miyakojima Starry Sky] Starry Sky Night Photo Tour
The last activity we would like to introduce is the "Starry Sky Night Photo Tour. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, Yaeyama, including Miyako Island, has the best star-gazing opportunities in Japan. Of the 88 constellations, 86 can be seen, and all of the first magnitude stars can be observed. The Milky Way and the Summer Triangle can be clearly observed visually. The air is very clean and there are few city lights, so you can get a clear view of the stars.
In this tour, you will be photographed by a professional photographer! It is difficult for individuals to take beautiful pictures due to white balance and backlighting problems. Let's create your best memories in the fantastic space of Miyako Island!
Click here to book a starry sky tour of Miyako Island.
Five recommended sightseeing spots for family trips to Miyako Island
Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (1) Waiwai Beach
The first sightseeing spot we would like to introduce is "Waiwai Beach. Waiwai Beach is an artificial beach located about 14 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, near Ueno German Cultural Village. Waiwai Beach is an artificial beach, so it is well maintained and very beautiful.
The breakwater also makes it possible for families with small children to enjoy the beach because the waves are not so high and there is an Azumaya, a plaza, and playground facilities where they can take a break. There are plenty of activities, and you can even encounter sea turtles while snorkeling nearby. Let's have fun at Wai Wai Beach, the perfect place for a family vacation!
For more information about Wai Wai Beach, click here↓.
Address: 962 Ueno, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 14 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Parking: Available
Restaurant: None
Toilet: Yes
Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (2) Irie Bay Observatory
The next spot we will introduce is Irie Bay Observatory. Irie Bay Observation Deck is located in the southern part of Miyako Island and offers a panoramic view of Irie Bay! Parking is also available, so you can use it for a short break when driving around Kushima.
For more information about Irie Bay Observatory, click here↓.
Address: Hirara Aza Shimoji, Miyakojima City
Access: 13 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Parking: Available
Dining: -
Toilet: -
Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island ③Kenko Fureai Land Park
Kenko-Fureai Land Park is a performance area that offers a variety of elements for children to enjoy, such as Azumaya (a small resting area), playground equipment, and a plaza. Toilets and showers are also available for light exercise and fun on the playground equipment.
Nearby is a cape with a beautiful view from the cliffs, where visitors can stroll along the boardwalk and watch the rough waves crashing against the cliffs. The park also has a seaside creature interaction corner and a flowerbed maze, so not only children but also adults can enjoy themselves. Please come and visit the park.
Click here for more information about Health Fureai Land Park ↓↓ Click here for more information about Health Fureai Land Park
Address: 2511 Hirara Karimata, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan
Access24 min. drive from Miyako Airport
Parking: Available
Restaurant: None
Toilet: Yes
Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (4) Nagayama Beach
Nagayama Beach is a wide beach with fine sand located at the head of Irabu Island. The sight of the fine sand dancing in the waves is very beautiful. The beach is so beautiful that it has been featured on the cover of a Miyako Island guidebook, but it is almost deserted, so you can enjoy the feeling of a private beach! You can enjoy Miyako blue in peace because it is not crowded and you will not be separated from your children.
Address: Sawada, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan
Tel: (0980) 78-5513 (Fisheries and Tourism Division, Irabu Branch Office, Miyakojima City)
Swimming season: Year-round
Shower: No
Toilet: None
Fee: Free of charge
Stores: None
Recommended Family Tourist Spots in Miyako Island (5) Sanitzuhama Fureai Hiroba
The last spot we will introduce is Sanitzuhama Fureai Hiroba. Sanitzuhama Fureai Hiroba is located on the road from Hirara District to Kurima Island, and is marked by a monument of a Miyako horse. Nearby Sanitzuhama is a precious wetland where migratory birds fly to during low tide when the mud flats dry out.
It is also a place where events are held such as the Sanitzuhama Carnival in the summer and the Miyako Kakuri Tournament in the fall. It is recommended to visit at low tide to observe the creatures on the mud flats, and at high tide to take beautiful pictures of the ocean! Sanitsu Beach has a strong image of mud flats, but at high tide, you can enjoy one of the best views in Miyako Island.
For more information about Sanitzuhama Fureai Hiroba, click here↓.
Address: Shimoji Yonaha, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Parking: Available
Restaurant: None
Toilet: Yes
summary
Miyako Island offers many tours that are perfect for family trips. All tours allow you to enjoy the ocean and nature of Miyako Island to the fullest, and are sure to be enjoyable.
If you come to Miyakojima, you can not only sightsee but also make your trip memorable by taking a tour with your whole family. All of the tours introduced here are safe and enjoyable even for children, so please refer to them when you travel to Miyakojima.
Started handling rental cars!
We'll also reserve a rental car, which fills up quickly!
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Miyako Island Tours
