The places, most named first
From the 5 guides that rank for "best beaches in okinawa"
Named by 3 of 51. Miyako IslandJapan Guide says the prefecture's very best beaches are on smaller islands such as Miyako.A forum poster says any beach on Miyako Island is very clear, with coral and fish.
Named by 3 of 52. Cape MaedaFrom the Kuraha bus stop, the cape is a 15 to 20 minute walk.Cape Maeda has the Blue Cave, which glows cobalt from light reflected off the sea floor.Named by 2 of 53. Ishigaki IslandIshigaki is a one-hour flight from Okinawa Island and has an unspoiled coastline.The island has five main beaches.
Named by 2 of 54. Yonehara BeachSnorkelers favor Yonehara for calm clear water and varied coral reefs.A forum poster rates Yonehara highly for snorkeling.
Named by 2 of 55. Kabira BayThe bay has some of the bluest water in Okinawa and is best seen by glass-bottom boat.A forum poster says currents are quick, so the bay suits glass-bottom boats, not swimming.
Named by 2 of 56. Okuma BeachBy car it takes about two hours from Naha on the expressway.Okuma is a starting point for the hike to Hiji Otaki Falls.
7. Senaha BeachA sand beach with few rocks where the water deepens after about 20 meters.It has no lifeguards, showers or restrooms, so bring everything.
8. Nirai BeachThe author calls it one of the best Okinawa beaches for families.It earned Japan's top AA water quality rating from the Ministry of Environment.
9. Manza BeachAbout 50 minutes by car from Naha on the expressway, outside rush hour.
10. Moon BeachReached from Naha by direct bus number 120.
11. Mibaru BeachAbout 40 minutes by car from central Naha.
12. Odo KaiganAbout 45 minutes by car from central Naha.
13. Zampa BeachAbout 70 minutes by car from central Naha.
14. Futamigaura BeachReached by a 55-minute ferry from Okinawa Island, with shades of blue sea and rock formations.
15. Hatenohama BeachA four-mile sandbar reachable only by boat, suited to a day trip.
16. Funauki BeachA forum poster called it the best place visited; it is reached by boat or a short footpath from Shirahama.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name March to April and October to November as the best time to visit Okinawa.
Questions people ask
- Which part of Okinawa has the best beaches?
- Japan Guide says the prefecture's best beaches are on smaller islands such as Miyako, not the main island.
- What is the best month to go to Okinawa?
- For swimming on the main island, Japan Guide gives May to October.
- Are beaches in Okinawa swimmable?
- Yes, mostly May to October, but watch for strong currents and box jellyfish from June to October.
- What are some of the best beaches on the main island of Okinawa?
- Japan Guide lists Manza, Moon, Okuma, Emerald, Mibaru, Zampa, Sunset, Cape Maeda and Odo Kaigan.
