20 Popular Offshore Islands to Visit on Your Okinawa Trip | Okinawa Residents Give You the Inside Scoop on the Best Islands!
Which of Okinawa's remote islands should you visit?
Recommended Islands by Purpose
Okinawa has many islands of various sizes, and the best island to choose depends on your purpose.
In this article,20 Recommended Destinations on Okinawa's Outlying IslandsWe'll introduce these by area and provide a comprehensive guide, including whether they're suitable for day trips, how to get there, and step-by-step directions.
Even if this is your first trip to a remote island, if you read this article, you're sure to find an island that's right for you!
◆For those looking for remote islands that can be visited as a day trip from Naha
◆For those who want to find a remote island that suits their interests, such as beaches or scenic drives
◆For those who want to check ferry and flight options in advance
Miyako Island (Irabu Island, Shimoji Island, Kurima Island, Ikema Island)
Click here for popular tours that include transportation↓
20 Recommended Remote Islands in Okinawa!
A Guide to Popular Islands by Area
From the area around the main island of Okinawa to the Miyako and Yaeyama regions,20 Popular Remote IslandsHere is a summary of all of them.
First, let's take a look at the characteristics of each area in this table!
| island name | Area | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Tokashiki Island | Kerama | Tomari Port: 40 minutes by expressway / 70 minutes by boat |
| Zamami Island | Kerama | Tomari Port: 50 minutes by expressway / 2 hours by boat |
| Aka Island | Kerama | Tomari Port: 50 minutes by expressway / 1 hour and 30 minutes by boat |
| Kudaka Island | Southern Main Island | Azama Port: 15 minutes by expressway |
| Ie Island | Northern Main Island | Motobu Port: 30-minute boat ride |
| Japan | Northern Main Island | Tokuchi Port: 15-minute boat ride |
| Kouri Island | Northern Main Island | Car (Bridge) |
| Kumejima | Kumejima | Naha Airport: 30-minute flight |
| Izena Island | Northern Remote Islands | Unten Port: 55-minute boat ride |
| Iheya Island | Northern Remote Islands | Unten Port: 80-minute boat ride |
| Miyako Island (Okinawa) | Miyako | Naha Airport: 45-minute flight |
| Irabu Island (port island) | Miyako | Car (Bridge) |
| Ikema Island | Miyako | Car (Bridge) |
| Kurima Island | Miyako | Car (Bridge) |
| Ishigaki Island | Yaeyama | Naha Airport: 55-minute flight |
| Taketomi Island | Yaeyama | Ishigaki Port: 10 minutes by expressway |
| Iriomote Island (Okinawa) | Yaeyama | Ishigaki Port: 40 minutes by expressway |
| Kohama Island | Yaeyama | Ishigaki Port: 25 minutes by expressway |
| Hateruma Island | Yaeyama | Ishigaki Port: 80–100 minutes by expressway |
| Yonaguni Island | Yaeyama | Ishigaki Airport: 30-minute flight |
About the remote islands around Miyako Island ↓
Tokashiki Island
Tokashiki Island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters known as “Kermadec Blue.”
Awaren Beach isWith a high likelihood of encountering sea turtles,...It's also a popular spot for snorkeling.
It's easily accessible—about 40 minutes by high-speed boat or about 70 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port in Naha—so a day trip is definitely doable.
◆Access: About 40 minutes by high-speed boat or about 70 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port in Naha
Click here for popular itineraries on Tokashiki Island
Click here for our sea turtle snorkeling tour ↓
Zamami Island
Kozamami Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Kerama Islands.
During the winter,whale watchingAnother appealing aspect is that you can enjoy it, too.
It takes about 50 minutes by high-speed boat from Tomari Port, or about 2 hours by ferry.
◆Access: About 50 minutes by high-speed boat or about 2 hours by ferry from Tomari Port in Naha
Click here for popular itineraries on Zamami Island
Aka Island
Aka Island, located next to Zamami Island, is,A quiet island life with few tourists...is playing.
Nishi Beach, with its white sand and crystal-clear waters, is the perfect spot to relax.
It takes about 50 minutes by high-speed boat and about 1 hour and 30 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port.
◆Access: About 50 minutes by high-speed boat or about 1 hour and 30 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port in Naha
Click here for popular itineraries on Aka Island
Kudaka Island
Kudaka Island is known as a sacred island where legends of the creation of the Ryukyu Islands are still told.
There are many sacred sites (Mitake) on the island....are scattered here and there, allowing you to experience a unique atmosphere.
It’s also appealing because it’s only about a 15-minute high-speed boat ride from Azama Port, making it easy to combine with sightseeing in the southern part of the island.
◆Access: About 15 minutes by high-speed ferry from Azama Port
Click here for popular itineraries on Kudaka Island
Ie Island
The symbol of Ie Island, which lies off the coast of the Motobu Peninsula, isIe Island Tatchu (Shiroyama)It is.
From the summit, you can take in a panoramic view of the entire island of Ie and the sea off the northern coast of the main island.
It's about a 30-minute ferry ride from Motobu Port, and it's a popular destination for day trips!
◆Directions: About a 30-minute ferry ride from Honbu Port
Click here for popular itineraries on Ie Island
Japan
Minna Island is crescent-shapedA small island known for its white sandy beachesThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
It is located near the main island and is especially popular with day-trippers looking to go swimming.
It's easily accessible—it's only about a 15-minute ferry ride from Tokuchi Port.
◆Directions: About a 15-minute ferry ride from Tokuchi Port
Click here for popular vacation packages on Minna Island
Click here for popular tours on Miyako Island ↓
Kouri Island
Kouri Island isKouri BridgeAn outlying island connected to the main island that can be reached by car.
The cobalt-blue sea visible from the bridge has become a popular spot for drivers.
Heart-shaped rock "heart lock"Tinu Beach, which features [...], is also a must-see."
◆Directions: About 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Click here for popular itineraries on Kouri Island
Click here for car rentals on Miyako Island↓
About Driving Routes on Remote Islands ↓
Kumejima
The biggest attraction on Kumejima is,Hate BeachAn uninhabited island consisting entirely of sand, known as [name].
A Stretching Landscape of White Sand...has been attracting many travelers.
It's easily accessible—just a 30-minute flight from Naha Airport—so it's highly recommended even for first-time visitors to the outlying islands.
◆Access: About 30 minutes by plane from Naha Airport / About 3 hours and 30 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port
Click here for popular travel packages to Kumejima
Izena Island
Izena Island isBirthplace of King Shō En of the Ryukyu KingdomAn island with a long history, also known as...
A tranquil rural landscape stretches out before you, allowing you to experience Okinawa’s unspoiled natural beauty.
It's about a 55-minute ferry ride from Unten Port, and with few tourists, you can enjoy a peaceful time there.
◆Directions: About 55 minutes by ferry from Unten Port
Iheya Island
Iheya Island isThe northernmost inhabited island in OkinawaIt is known as the
Its charm lies in the unique landscapes created by nature, such as Kumaya Cave and the rocky cliffs of Tana.
It takes about 80 minutes by ferry from Unten Port, but that’s what helps preserve its tranquility.
◆Directions: About 80 minutes by ferry from Unten Port
Miyako Island (Okinawa)
Miyako Island isMiyako blueA popular remote island known for its stunningly vibrant ocean waters.
Yonaha Maehama Beach isOne of the prefecture's finest white-sand beachesIt is known as the
It's about a 45-minute flight from Naha Airport, and it's a popular choice to visit it as part of a tour that includes the nearby islands connected by bridges.
◆Directions: About a 45-minute flight from Naha Airport
Click here for the classic Miyako Island tour↓
Click here for popular plans for Miyako Island
Irabu Island (port island)
Connecting Miyako Island and Irabu IslandIrabu BridgeIt is one of the longest free bridges in Japan.
The view of the ocean's gradations from the bridge is the very essence of a road trip!
There are also quiet, beautiful beaches scattered throughout the area, such as Watari-guchi Beach.
◆Directions: About 20–30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Held on Irabu Island! Check out these popular tours below↓
![[Miyako Island/Irabu Island/Kurima Island/1 Day] With a Local Guide☆ Island Sightseeing Photo Tour Visiting Scenic Spots on 2 Islands! Highly Recommended for Girls' Trips 《Free Transportation & Photo Files Included》 (No. 891)](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/S__223707140-825x510.jpg)
Click here for popular itineraries on Irabu Island
Ikema Island
The Northernmost Point of Miyako IslandIkemajima, located in [...], is connected by the Ikemajima Bridge.
From the observation deck halfway across the bridge, you can enjoy a picturesque view of the ocean.
The laid-back atmosphere of a fishing village is another charm unique to this island.
◆Directions: About a 35-minute drive from Miyako Airport
Held on Ikema Island! Check out these popular tours below↓
Click here for popular itineraries on Ikemajima
Kurima Island
Kurima Island is a remote island just past the Kurima Bridge—a great spot for a casual visit.
From the Ryugu-jo Observation Deck,The Coastline of Miyako IslandThe view of the city is a panoramic view of the
There are also cafes scattered throughout the area, making it a popular spot to stop during a road trip!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Held on Kurima Island! Check out these popular tours below↓
Click here for popular itineraries on Kurima Island
Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island, the central hub of the Yaeyama Islands, is,A Base for Exploring Remote IslandsA convenient island.
Ferries depart from and arrive at the Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal, serving various islands such as Taketomi Island and Iriomote Island.
This island serves as the starting point for sightseeing in the Yaeyama Islands, and the beauty of Kabira Bay is not to be missed.
◆Directions: About 1 hour by plane from Naha Airport
Click here for popular itineraries on Ishigaki Island
Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island isRed-tiled roofs and white-sand pathsAn island where rows of traditional houses line the streets, preserving a village landscape typical of Okinawa.
A tour of the island by water buffalo cart is a leisurely experience unique to Taketomi Island.
It's only about a 10-minute ride by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port, so you can easily enjoy it as a day trip.
◆Directions: About 10 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port
Click here for popular itineraries on Taketomi Island
Iriomote Island (Okinawa)
Most of Iriomote Island is covered by subtropical virgin forest.A Treasure Trove of NatureIt is.
Canoeing on the Mangrove River and jungle trekking are gaining popularity.
It's also known as the island where the endangered Iriomote cat lives.
◆Access: Approximately 45 minutes from Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal to Ohara Port / Approximately 50 minutes to Uehara Port
Click here for popular itineraries on Iriomote Island
Kohama Island
Kohama Island is a peaceful island that has become famous as a filming location for TV dramas.
Located in the center of the islandsugar roadFrom there, a sweeping panoramic view unfolds.
It's about a 25-minute ride by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port, so you can easily enjoy it even on a day trip.
◆Directions: About 25 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port
Click here for popular itineraries on Kohama Island
Hateruma Island
Hateruma Island isJapan's southernmost inhabited islandIt is a special island known as...
Nishi Beach is renowned for having some of the clearest waters in the Yaeyama Islands.
It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port, but please note that services are often canceled due to rough seas.
◆Directions: About 1 hour and 40 minutes by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port
Click here for popular itineraries on Hateruma Island
Yonaguni Island
Yonaguni Island isThe Westernmost Point of JapanA romantic, remote island located in .
On the seafloor, a reef resembling an ancient ruin stretches out, andPopular Diving SpotsThe first two are the following.
It's about a 30-minute flight from Ishigaki Airport—you'll enjoy a trip that's a little different from the other islands.
◆Directions: About 30 minutes by plane from Ishigaki Airport
Click here for popular itineraries on Yonaguni Island
How to Choose an Okinawan Island? Recommendations by Purpose
If you're having trouble choosing an island, I recommend working backward from the purpose of your trip.
Here, we've selected and introduced islands that are perfect for your specific needs!
Click here for popular tours on Miyako Island ↓
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Miyako Island.
About the outlying islands accessible from Miyako Island ↓
People who want to enjoy the ocean and the beach
Where Yonaha Maehama Beach is locatedMiyako Island (Okinawa)and ... andJapanis recommended.
Both have shallow waters and high water clarity, making them ideal for families looking to go swimming.
It's the perfect choice for anyone looking for photo-worthy scenery!
Click here for popular tours on Miyako Island ↓
Click here for popular plans for Miyako Island
Click here for popular vacation packages on Minna Island
Snorkeling and Diving
People who want to have fun
The Kerama Blue sea stretches out before youTokashiki Islandinterpoint (interword separation)Zamami Island...is a classic.
There are also spots for advanced divers, such as the underwater ruins off Yonaguni Island.
There are many areas where you're likely to encounter sea turtles, and there's plenty to enjoy underwater!
Click here for popular itineraries on Tokashiki Island
Click here for popular itineraries on Zamami Island
Click here for our sea turtle snorkeling tour ↓
People who want to enjoy scenic drives
Crossing the BridgeScenic DriveIf you want to enjoy [...], I recommend Kouri Island or Irabu Island.
A popular itinerary includes a tour that takes in both the Ikema Bridge and the Kurima Bridge on Miyako Island.
The gradation of colors in the ocean as seen from the bridge is so beautiful, you'll want to take a picture of it.
Click here for popular itineraries on Kouri Island
Click here for popular itineraries on Irabu Island
Held on Irabu Island! Check out these popular tours below↓
![[Miyako Island/Irabu Island/Half-Day] Guided ☆ Island Sightseeing Photo Tour Visiting Scenic Spots! Recommended for first-time visitors to Miyako Island and girls' trips 《Transportation arrangements available upon request & free photo files》](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/S__222830598-825x510.jpg)
Click here for the Kurima and Ikema Islands Tour
People who want to enjoy Okinawan culture and the local streetscape
Taketomi Island, where streets lined with red-tiled roofs still remain, isFor those who want to experience the authentic Okinawan atmospherePerfect for!
I also recommend islands like Kudaka and Izena, where the history and beliefs of the Ryukyu Islands are still very much alive.
Why not experience Okinawan culture while enjoying the island’s laid-back pace?
| Objective. | Recommended Islands |
|---|---|
| Ocean & Beach | Miyako Island, Minna Island |
| Snorkeling and Diving | Tokashiki Island, Zamami Island, Yonaguni Island |
| Scenic Drives | Kouri Island, Irabu Island, Ikema Island, Kurima Island |
| Culture and Townscape | Taketomi Island, Kudaka Island, Izena Island |
Click here for popular itineraries on Taketomi Island
Click here for popular itineraries on Kudaka Island
Offshore Islands Accessible as Day Trips from Okinawa Main Island
For those with limited time, we recommend islands that can be visited as a day trip from the main island.
We've compiled a list of islands you can visit on a day trip, organized by how to get there.
| Area | island name | Estimated Access Time |
|---|---|---|
| Departing from Naha | Tokashiki Island, Zamami Island, Aka Island, Kudaka Island | About 15 to 50 minutes by high-speed ferry About 70 minutes to 2 hours by ferry |
| From Headquarters and the Northern Region | Ie Island and Minna Island | 15 to 30 minutes |
| Cross the bridge | Kouri Island, Irabu Island, Ikema Island, Kurima Island | A few to over ten minutes by car |
About the relative locations of Miyako Island and Okinawa ↓
Offshore Islands Accessible as a Day Trip from Naha
From Tomari Port and Azama Port in Naha,Kerama Islandsand ... andKudaka IslandYou can visit it on a day trip.
If you take a high-speed ferry, it's easy to plan a trip that leaves in the morning and returns in the afternoon.
Keep in mind the risk of ferry cancellations, so be sure to allow plenty of time.
Click here for popular itineraries in the Kerama Islands
Click here for popular itineraries on Kudaka Island
Offshore Islands Accessible on a Day Trip from the Main Island and the Northern Region
From Motobu Port and Tokuchi Port,Ie Islandand ... andJapanYou can get there in a short amount of time.
Day-trip packages that combine a visit to the Churaumi Aquarium are also popular.
We recommend planning this as part of your sightseeing in the northern area!
Click here for popular itineraries on Ie Island
Click here for popular vacation packages on Minna Island
Remote Islands Accessible by Bridge
Kouri Islandand ... andIrabu Island (port island)For example, islands you can reach by car via a bridge are especially convenient.
The appeal is that you can sightsee at your own pace without having to worry about the ferry schedule.
If you're traveling by rental car, you can even tour several remote islands connected by bridges in a single day!
Held on Irabu Island! Check out these popular tours below↓
Held on Irabu Island! Check out these popular tours
About Car Rentals on Miyako Island ↓
How to Get to Okinawa's Remote Islands
Ways to get to the remote islands are:airplaneinterpoint (interword separation)Ferries and high-speed boatsinterpoint (interword separation)橋It can be divided into these three categories.
The best way to get around varies by island, so be sure to check in advance.
Remote Islands Accessible by Plane
From Naha Airport, you can fly to Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and Kume IslandAir Mail...operates the service.
Most flights to Yonaguni Island depart from Ishigaki Airport, though there are also some islands with direct flights from the mainland.
If you want to cut down on travel time, I recommend flying!
Remote Islands Accessible by Ferry or High-Speed Boat
Most of the Kerama Islands and Yaeyama Islands are accessible by ferry or high-speed boat.
There are convenient ferry services to several islands from the Ishigaki Port Remote Islands Terminal.
Since ferries may be canceled due to sea conditions, be sure to check the schedule in advance.
Remote Islands Accessible by Car or Bridge
Since Kouri Island, Irabu Island, Ikema Island, and Kurima Island are connected by bridges,rent-a-carYou can hand it over directly there.
Since you aren't tied to a ship's schedule, you can plan a trip with a high degree of flexibility.
Another unique charm of remote islands connected by bridges is that the drive itself becomes part of the sightseeing experience.
| island name | How to access |
|---|---|
| Miyako Island, Ishigaki Island, and Kume Island | By plane from Naha Airport |
| Yonaguni Island | By plane from Ishigaki Airport (some direct flights to the mainland are available) |
| Kerama Islands, Kudaka Island, Ie Island, Minna Island, Izena Island, Iheya Island, and part of the Yaeyama Islands | Ferries and High-Speed Boats |
| Kouri Island, Irabu Island, Ikema Island, Kurima Island | Bridge (accessible by car) |
Click here for car rentals on Miyako Island↓
Click here for popular Miyakojima Car Rental Plans
Best Time to Visit Okinawa's Outlying Islands
The way you enjoy a trip to a remote island varies greatly depending on the season.
Choose the best season based on your plans.
About the Best Time to Visit Miyako Island ↓
Spring and Fall | Recommended for sightseeing and island hopping
The weather is mild in spring and fall, andPerfect for sightseeing and island hoppingThat time of year.
Compared to midsummer, the sun isn't as strong, making it easier to explore on foot.
This time of year is also a great choice for those who want to avoid typhoon season.
Click here for island sightseeing tours↓
![[Miyako Island & Irabu Island] One-Day Bus Tour of the 5 Miyako Islands & Scenic Spots (No. 928)](https://miyako-tour.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/sightseeing_his-3-825x510.jpg)
Summer | Recommended for Water Activities
Going to the beach andMarine ActivitiesIf you want to enjoy [...], summer is the best time of year.
However, please be aware that ferry service may be canceled due to typhoons.
If you set aside a buffer day, you'll be able to handle changes to your itinerary with flexibility.
Click here for popular "Classic Tour" packages↓
Winter | Recommended for Sightseeing and Whale Watching
In winter, around Zamami Islandwhale watchingThe season when you can enjoy [...].
Since it's not the beach season, there are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy a quiet stay.
Since the temperatures are milder than on the mainland, it's a popular destination for winter trips to Okinawa.
Latest! Whale-Watching Tours
Click here to see the popularity ranking
Things to Keep in Mind When Traveling to Okinawa's Remote Islands
When planning a trip to a remote island, there are a few things you should know in advance.
Ferries and high-speed boats may be canceled due to sea conditions, so be sure to allow plenty of time in your itinerary.
Since the number of rental cars is limited on some islands,advance reservationis recommended.
Since many islands have few restaurants and convenience stores, gathering information in advance will give you peace of mind.
In Okinawa, where the sun is strong, it’s important to use sunscreen and stay hydrated regularly, among other thingscountermeasures against heat strokeLet's not forget to do that, either.
What to Wear on a Trip to Miyako Island ↓
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Okinawa's Remote Islands
summary
Each of Okinawa's remote islands has its own unique charm.
The island you choose will depend on whether you want to enjoy the ocean, take a scenic drive, or experience the local culture.
Taking into account how to get there and whether it’s possible to make it a day trip,The Perfect Island for YouFind the perfect spot and enjoy a wonderful trip to Okinawa’s outlying islands!
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
