12 Most Beautiful Beaches in Okinawa, Japan (And How to Get There)
Okinawa is the tropical paradise of Japan — and rightly so.
These islands have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand, turquoise water, and diverse marine life.
Whether relaxing at the beach, participating in water sports or exploring coral reefs, Okinawa has a beach for every type of person.
Here’s a guide to the 12 most beautiful beaches in Okinawa and how to get there.
1. Naminoue Beach
This beach is convenient to those staying in the city, located in Naha.
There is also an urban beach, unique in that it is situated under a backdrop of the iconic Naminoue Shrine that sits on a cliff.
Despite being in the middle of a city, the water here is clear and it’s a peaceful escape. Here you can swim, sunbathe and even snorkel a little.
The journey here is easy: it’s a roughly 10-minute taxi ride or a short bus trip from Naha’s city center.
2. Emerald Beach
Located in the Okinawa Ocean Expo Park, Emerald Beach features clear waters in an emerald green hue.
This family-friend beach has three zones — swimming, lounging and viewing.
It is great to combine with your day trip to the Churaumi Aquarium.
You can reach Emerald Beach by taking a bus (shown) from Naha to the Ocean Expo Park (about two hours).
3. Kouri Island Beach
Kouri Island Beach (Kouri-jima), where you can enjoy beautiful views and calm waters great for swimming and snorkeling.
Getting to Kouri Island is part of the adventure, traversing the picturesque Kouri Bridge with panoramic views of the ocean. Families flock here because of its shallow waters.
From Naha, it takes about 90 minutes by car to reach Kouri Island.
4. Furuzamami Beach
Another is Furuzamami Beach on Zamami Island, well worth a visit for fans of snorkeling.
With its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystem, it is a paradise for scuba divers and snorkellers. There are also facilities available like rental shops for snorkeling equipment on the beach.
To reach it, take a ferry from Naha to Zamami Island, about an hour’s ride, and walk or catch a shuttle to the beach.
5. Manza Beach
It is one of the most luxurious beaches in Okinawa near the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort.
With its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day. You can do activities here such as jet skiing and paddleboarding!
It’s a 90-minute drive from Naha, and parking is available close to the resort.
6. Yonaha Maehama Beach
Known as “the best beach in Japan,” Yonaha Maehama Beach on Miyako Island has seven km of white sand and calm, shallow waters.
It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing and photography.
You can fly to Miyako Airport from Naha, and the beach is a quick drive from there.
7. Sunayama Beach
On Miyako, Sunayama Beach is known for a scenic rock arch that frames the ocean beautifully.
There are also many big amenities, such as the zoo, several shopping centers, and even some pristine beaches for few numbers of population would ever enjoy.
It is just a 15-minute drive from Miyako Airport.
8. Aharen Beach
Aharen Beach on Tokashiki Island has clear waters and colorful coral reefs.
It is a great place for snorkeling and diving and includes a range of marine life.
To reach it, take a ferry from Naha to Tokashiki Island (about 35 minutes), and then transfer to a taxi or bus for the beach.
9. Sesoko Beach
Sesoko Beach, on Sesoko Island, is a hidden paradise with soft sand and clear waters.
Less crowded than other beaches, it’s an inviting option for a tranquil day by the sea.
The only way to get to Sesoko Island is by car crossing over the Sesoko Bridge from Naha, which takes about two hours.
10. Hatenohama Beach
On Kume Island, one of the most unique beaches in all of Okinawa has to be Hatenohama Beach.
It’s a thin sandbar with clear water that is surreal to experience.
Access is only possible with guided boat tours from Kume Island, a short flight from Naha.
11. Hamahiga Beach
Hamahiga Island is a less crowded place to relax on the sandy shores of Hamahiga Beach.
Its shallow waters and laid-back atmosphere are perfect for families with small children.
Hamahiga Island is a 90-minute drive from Naha.
12. Kondoi Beach
Kondoi Beach, on Taketomi Island, has shallow, calm water, and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
It is a perfect place for families and anyone seeking a more mellow beach outing.
To reach it, take a 10-minute ferry from Ishigaki Island to Taketomi Island.
Okinawa’s beaches run the gamut from adventure to relaxation to jaw-dropping vistas.
This guide will help you get to some of the best beaches Okinawa has to offer!
Remember the sunscreen and adventurous spirit as you explore these tropical treasures.
