Best Beaches in Okinawa: Sun, Sand & Snorkeling Spots

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  • Best for snorkeling right off the shore

    • Cape Maeda (Onna) – Famous Blue Cave tours
    • Sesoko Beach (Motobu) – Clear shallow reef

  • Best for families with kids

    • Emerald Beach (Motobu, near Churaumi Aquarium) – Safe, net-protected, with showers, lifeguards, and nurses on duty

  • Best for romantic sunsets

    • Sunset Beach (Chatan) – Golden skies by American Village
    • Sesoko Beach (west coast) – Orange sunset with Ie Island backdrop

  • Best coral gardens

    • Kerama Islands day trip – Tokashiki & Zamami Islands boast “Kerama Blue” waters teeming with tropical fish

Quick Picks

  • Snorkeling (close-to-shore):

    • Cape Maeda (Onna) – Blue Cave with guided snorkel tours
    • John Man Beach (Odo) – Quiet southern cove for experienced snorkelers at high tide
    • Honorable mention: Sesoko Beach (Motobu) – Walk to corals at low tide

  • Families (facilities & calm waters):

    • Emerald Beach (Motobu) – Lagoon with lifeguards, showers, & jellyfish nets
    • Zanpa Beach (Yomitan) – Wide sandy beach with double-net swim area, free parking, and rentals

  • Powder-sand lounging & scenery:

    • Nirai Beach (Yomitan) – White sand and cobalt waters at Alivila resort
    • Mission Beach (Onna) – Natural hideaway with sugar-white sand (closed in winter)

  • Sunset & photo spots:

    • Sunset Beach (Chatan) – Golden-hour skies next to American Village
    • Sesoko Beach – Famous orange sunsets with Ie Island on the horizon
    • Cape Zanpa Lighthouse – Panoramic sunset views (next to Zanpa Beach)

  • Quiet, uncrowded coves:

    • Okuma Beach (Kunigami) – Far-north getaway with tranquil sands
    • Tokei & Peace Beaches (Kouri) – Natural snorkel spots off the tourist track
    • Odo “John Man” Beach – Local secret for snorkeling (only swimmable at high tide)

  • Day Trip Island Beaches (Keramas):

    • Aharen Beach (Tokashiki) – Lively bay with rentals and offshore islet
    • Tokashiku Beach (Tokashiki) – Secluded bay with sea turtles grazing in shallows
    • Furuzamami Beach (Zamami) – Coral reefs right off shore (Michelin ★★)
    • Ama Beach (Zamami) – Gentle waters, often turtles

Map & How to Use This Guide

This guide is organized by region and interest so you can plan efficient beach-hopping routes.

  • Use the interactive Okinawa map with color-coded pins for snorkeling, family-friendly, and sunset spots.

  • Toggle the wind/tide overlay:

    • East wind → East-facing beaches = choppy, West coast = calm
    • West wind → West-facing beaches = rough, East coast = calm

Driving times:

  • Naha → Motobu/Yanbaru (far north): ~2 hours
  • Naha → Onna: ~1 hour
  • Naha → southern beaches: ~30–40 minutes
  • Onna/Chatan → Motobu/Yomitan: ~45–60 minutes

Legend:

  • Blue = snorkel spots
  • Orange = sunset/photo spots
  • Green = family-friendly beaches
  • Purple = quiet coves

Safety, Seasons & Conditions

  • Beach season: April–October (peak July–Sept).

  • Water temps:

    • Spring: 21–24°C (wetsuit recommended)
    • Summer: 28–30°C (warmest, busiest, typhoon risk)
    • Autumn: 26°C (fewer tourists, still warm)

  • Typhoons: Common July–Oct, check forecasts, avoid ocean if storms near.

  • Winds:

    • East wind → go West coast (Onna/Motobu)
    • West/North wind → go South/East coast (Nanjo, Uruma)

  • Tides:

    • Low tide = exposed flats (e.g., Miibaru), not good for snorkeling
    • High/rising tide = best for snorkeling (clear water, depth)

  • Jellyfish: Box jellyfish (May–Oct). Many beaches have nets + vinegar stations.

  • Hazards: Sea urchins, stonefish, rip currents outside reefs.

  • Emergency numbers: 118 (Coast Guard), 119 (Ambulance).

Best Beaches by Region (Main Island)

Okinawa’s main island (沖縄本島) stretches over 100 km with beaches across North (Yanbaru/Motobu), Central (Onna/Yomitan/Chatan), and South (Nanjo/Itoman).

Northern Okinawa (Yanbaru & Motobu Area)

Known for lush nature, uncrowded beaches, and stunning sunsets. From Naha: 90–120 min drive.

Beach 1: Kouri Beach (Kouri Island, Nakijin) — “Drive-up Island Paradise”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Northern (bridge-connected islet)
    • Sand: ★★★★☆ (powdery crushed-shell sand)
    • Snorkel: ★★★☆☆ (decent fish inside nets, better beyond)
    • Best for: Families, scenic drive, shallow play
    • Facilities: Toilets, showers, rentals, shops
    • Parking: Free (main park lot), overflow ¥300–¥500
    • Lifeguard: Yes (in season)
    • Best Months: April–October (nets in summer; turtles May–Aug)

  • Why Go

    • Just across the iconic Kouri Bridge, famous emerald waters + soft white sand.
    • Shallow, calm lagoon ideal for kids/toddlers.
    • Jellyfish nets & lifeguards in summer.

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Fish inside nets, but reefs better beyond (not recommended unless experienced).
    • Better snorkeling nearby: Tokei & Peace Beaches (no lifeguards).
    • Marine sports available (banana boat, diving intro).

  • Family Notes

    • Covered picnic areas + Fureai Plaza eateries (soba, kebabs, Blue Seal ice cream).
    • Crowded July–Aug weekends, arrive early.

  • Logistics

    • Hours: Swim area ~9:00–18:00 (in season).
    • Facilities: Toilets, coin showers (~¥100), lockers, rentals.
    • Accessibility: 1-min flat walk from car park.
    • Getting there: From Naha → Expressway → Kyoda exit → Route 58/110 → Kouri Bridge (~1h45).

  • Nearby

    • Kouri Ocean Tower, Heart Rock, other secluded beaches.
    • Photo tip: Sunset over Kouri Bridge with Yanbaru mountains = spectacular.

Beach 2: Sesoko Beach (Sesoko Island, Motobu) — “Crystal Clear Sunset Haven”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Northern (island via bridge)
    • Sand: ★★★★☆ (white coral sand)
    • Snorkel: ★★★★☆ (reef 500m out)
    • Best for: Snorkeling, sunsets, water sports
    • Facilities: Showers (¥500), toilets, lockers, food stand
    • Parking: ¥1000/day (on-site)
    • Lifeguard: Yes (Apr–Oct)
    • Best Months: June–Sept

  • Why Go

    • Legendary clarity + 800m white sand stretch.
    • Sunset views of Ie Island & Minna Island.
    • Mix of locals, families, and water sports groups.

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Coral starts 100–200m offshore, reef ~500m out.
    • Gear rental available.
    • Stick to buoyed area unless experienced.

  • Family Notes

    • Lifeguarded swim zone.
    • Shade limited – rent parasols.
    • Sand gets hot – water shoes for kids.

  • Logistics

    • Hours: 9:00–17:00 (to 18:00 peak summer).
    • Facilities: Showers, lockers, small changing room, snack shack.
    • Parking: Large dirt lot, fills quickly in high season.
    • Accessibility: Short walk down slope.

  • Nearby

    • Minna-jima ferry (amazing snorkeling).
    • Sesoko north shore undeveloped beaches.

  • Photo Tips

    • Split-level GoPro shots (reef + islands).
    • Sunset silhouettes on sand.

  • Responsible Visiting

    • Don’t touch coral, use reef-safe sunscreen.
    • Locals often do mini cleanups – join in.

Onna Coast (West Coast Resorts & Reefs)

The Onna Coast is Okinawa’s resort strip, stretching from Cape Manzamo down to Yomitan.

  • Known for upscale hotels, manicured beaches, and dramatic cliffs.
  • Central location: ~1 hour from Naha.
  • Offshore barrier reef = calm inner lagoons and accessible snorkeling.
  • Expect more crowds, but also top-notch facilities.

Beach 3: Cape Maeda (Blue Cave), Onna — “Snorkel & Dive Mecca”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Onna, Central West Coast
    • Sand: N/A (rocky entry, not a lounging beach)
    • Snorkel: ★★★★★ (marine life + famous cave)
    • Best for: Adventurous snorkelers, beginners with guides, scuba divers
    • Facilities: Parking, toilets, showers, rentals
    • Parking: ¥100/hour (large lot)
    • Lifeguard: No (rangers + tour guides only)
    • Best Months: May–Oct

  • Why Go

    • Okinawa’s most popular snorkel site.
    • Famous Blue Cave = glowing grotto with fish swarms.
    • Easy entry steps into deep water.
    • Reef walls teeming with clownfish, damselfish, turtles.

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Swim zone in front of entry + cave around the corner.
    • Most visitors use guided tours (life jackets, safety, photos).
    • No fins allowed in cave (too crowded).
    • Excellent for scuba diving (deep caves, 20m+ visibility).

  • Family Notes

    • Not suitable for small children (<8). data-preserve-html-node="true" data-preserve-html-node="true"
    • Good for older kids with guides.
    • Park area has scenic viewpoints + grass.

  • Logistics

    • Parking ~7:00–19:00.
    • Facilities: Restrooms, lockers, showers (¥100), rental shops, snack stand.
    • Accessibility: Long staircase down (not wheelchair accessible).
    • Getting there: Off Route 6 in Onna (~1 hour from Naha).

  • Nearby

    • Cape Manzamo (cliff views).
    • Ryukyu Mura cultural park.

  • Photo Tips

    • Cave interior glow at midday.
    • Cliff lookouts for cobalt sea views.

  • Responsible Visiting

    • Reef-safe sunscreen only.
    • No feeding/touching fish.
    • Obey safety flags.

Beach 4: Manza Beach (Seragaki), Onna — “Resort Beauty with Activities”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Onna (Cape Manzamo area)
    • Sand: ★★★★☆ (groomed, soft)
    • Snorkel: ★★★☆☆ (limited in swim zone, better on tours)
    • Best for: Resort day, water sports, families
    • Facilities: Full resort (showers, restaurants, rentals)
    • Parking: ¥500/day (non-guests)
    • Lifeguard: Yes (year-round)
    • Best Months: Apr–Oct

  • Why Go

    • ANA InterContinental resort beach, open to public.
    • Scenic peninsula with Cape Manzamo cliffs backdrop.
    • Double-net swim area, lifeguards, resort amenities.
    • Activities: jet skis, parasailing, inflatable water park.

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Coral limited inside swim area.
    • Resort offers glass-bottom boats & boat snorkel tours.

  • Family Notes

    • Lifeguards on duty year-round.
    • Kids’ ocean play park in summer.
    • Sandy gentle slope + safe double nets.
    • Outside food discouraged (use beach café).

  • Logistics

    • Open all year (lifeguards ~9:00–18:00 in summer).
    • Parking: ¥500, large lot.
    • Accessibility: Easy, paved resort paths.
    • Getting there: On Seragaki Island (via causeway), ~60–70 min from Naha.

  • Nearby

    • Cape Manzamo (2 min drive).
    • Nabee Beach (campground & public beach alternative).

  • Responsible Visiting

    • No glass, no littering.
    • Respect resort’s conservation rules.

Central Okinawa (Chatan, Yomitan & Okinawa City Area)

Beaches here = urban & family-friendly, with lots of nearby food and entertainment.

  • Calm waters, easy access.
  • Great for quick beach days or sunsets after shopping.

Beach 5: Zanpa Beach, Yomitan — “Fun in the Sun + Lighthouse Views”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Central-West (Yomitan)
    • Sand: ★★★★☆ (golden-white, wide)
    • Snorkel: ★★☆☆☆ (sparse coral inside nets)
    • Best for: Families, swimming, water sports, sunsets
    • Facilities: Showers, lockers, rentals, shop
    • Parking: Free (large lot)
    • Lifeguard: Yes (Apr–Oct)
    • Best Months: Apr–Oct

  • Why Go

    • Broad public beach + dramatic Cape Zanpa cliffs next door.
    • Double-net swim zone, lifeguards, BBQ area.
    • Great sunsets with lighthouse silhouette.

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Swim zone mostly sandy-bottom.
    • Some fish near rocks, but not rich coral.
    • Offshore dive tours available from nearby port.

  • Family Notes

    • Shallow safe swim area.
    • Rentals (parasols, floats).
    • Grassy park + giant Shisa statue nearby.

  • Logistics

    • Hours: Apr 1 – Oct 31, ~9:00–18:00.
    • Fees: Free entry + parking.
    • Facilities: Showers (paid), lockers, restrooms, BBQ area.
    • Accessibility: Easy flat walk from lot.
    • Getting there: ~45 min from Naha.

  • Nearby

    • Cape Zanpa Lighthouse (climb for views).
    • Nirai Beach (Alivila resort).
    • Yachimun pottery village.

  • Photo Tips

    • Sunset with lighthouse silhouette.
    • Drone above crescent beach (if rules allow).

  • Responsible Visiting

    • Respect lifeguard zones.
    • Pick up litter.

Southern Okinawa (Nanjo, Itoman & South Coast)

  • Pacific side (Nanjo): Shallow tidal flats, sandbars.
  • Itoman side (SW): Rugged coasts, hidden snorkel coves.
  • Less crowded, more raw/natural.
  • Few facilities — self-reliance needed.

Beach 6: Miibaru Beach (Nanjo) — “Tidal Shallows & Glass-Bottom Boats”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Southeast (Nanjo City)
    • Sand: ★★★☆☆ (coarse, long stretch)
    • Snorkel: ★★☆☆☆ (too shallow for much coral)
    • Best for: Walking at low tide, tide pools, glass-bottom boats
    • Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, small eatery
    • Parking: ¥500/day
    • Lifeguard: No
    • Best Months: May–Sept

  • Why Go

    • 2km of natural, undeveloped tidal flats.
    • Walk hundreds of meters out at low tide.
    • Kids love tide-pooling (crabs, starfish, baby fish).
    • Glass-bottom boat tours (¥1800 adults).

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Not great for snorkeling except at reef edge far offshore (not recommended).
    • Best for tide walks or paddle/kayak.

  • Family Notes

    • Fun for tide pool exploring.
    • Little shade — bring parasol or tent.
    • No lifeguard, so caution required.

  • Logistics

    • Always open (no official hours).
    • Parking: ¥500.
    • Facilities: Changing rooms (¥300), coin lockers, toilets, small café.
    • Accessibility: Park right on sand.

  • Nearby

    • Hyakuna Beach (quiet sacred beach).
    • Sefa Utaki (holy site).
    • Ojima Island (tempura stalls).

Beach 7: Odo “John Man” Beach (Itoman) — “Snorkelers’ Secret at the Southern Tip”

  • Snapshot

    • Region: Southwest (Itoman City)
    • Sand: ★★★☆☆ (pale sand with coral rubble)
    • Snorkel: ★★★★☆ (excellent coral at high tide)
    • Best for: Confident snorkelers, solitude
    • Facilities: Minimal (basic lot, sometimes porta-toilet)
    • Parking: Free (small lot)
    • Lifeguard: No
    • Best Months: June–Sept

  • Why Go

    • Remote, raw cove with thriving coral reefs.
    • Clear waters, fish schools, occasional turtles.
    • Quiet — often empty on weekdays.

  • Snorkeling Notes

    • Only at high tide (reef exposed otherwise).
    • Coral gardens 1–3m deep.
    • Watch for rip currents near reef gaps.
    • Reef shoes essential (sharp rocks, urchins).

  • Family Notes

    • Not for small kids (unsafe).
    • At low tide: safe tide-pooling.
    • No shops, bring water & food.

  • Logistics

    • Always open, daylight only.
    • Facilities: Almost none.
    • Parking: Small free gravel lot.
    • Accessibility: Dirt trail, rocky steps to sand.

  • Nearby

    • Cape Kyan (WWII memorial cliffs).
    • Bibi Beach Itoman (family-friendly alternative).

  • Photo Tips

    • Underwater reef shots.
    • Cliff + snorkelers silhouette at sunset.

  • Responsible Visiting

    • Protected marine park area — no coral collecting.
    • Pack out all trash.

Southern Beaches Safety Note

Remote southern beaches like Odo are tranquil but lack lifeguards and facilities.

  • Always snorkel with a buddy.

  • Let someone know your plans.

  • Self-reliance = key to safety.

Day Trips to the Kerama Islands (Snorkeling Heaven)

The Kerama Islands = Okinawa’s crown jewel.

  • 30–90 minutes by ferry from Naha.
  • “Kerama Blue” = neon turquoise water, 30m+ clarity.
  • Best coral and fish density in Japan.

Tokashiki Island

  • Access:

    • ~1 hr by slow ferry, 35 min by fast boat from Tomari Port (Naha).

  • Main Beaches:

    • Aharen Beach

      • Hub of activity, white sand, shallow waters.
      • Coral patches on bay edges.
      • Hanari Island offshore (kayak/banana boat tours).
      • Facilities: rentals, cafés, lifeguards in summer.
      • Observation deck nearby for panoramic views.

    • Tokashiku Beach

      • Quiet, fewer people.
      • Famous for sea turtles feeding in shallows.
      • Facilities: small gear rental, showers.
      • Magical sunsets, serene vibes.

Tip:

  • Morning = Tokashiku (turtles).
  • Afternoon = Aharen (activities).
  • Book ferries early in high season.

Zamami Island

  • Access:

    • 50–70 min by ferry from Naha.

  • Main Beaches:

    • Furuzamami Beach

      • Top snorkeling site, coral right off shore.
      • Two Michelin stars for beauty.
      • Vibrant reef fish & occasional turtles.
      • Facilities: rentals, eateries, lifeguards in summer.

    • Ama Beach

      • Calm, shallow seagrass bay.
      • Famous for turtle grazing encounters.
      • Camping site just behind beach.
      • Volunteer turtle conservation group in nesting season.

Tip:

  • Ferry: Queen Zamami III (50 min fast), large ferry (2 hrs, cheaper).
  • Shuttle/walk to Furuzamami (20 min).
  • Walk to Ama Beach (20 min opposite direction).

Kerama vs. Main Island

  • Main Island = convenient, varied (Blue Cave, Sesoko, Odo).
  • Kerama Islands = superior clarity, density of coral/fish.
  • Verdict: If time allows, do Kerama once for unforgettable snorkeling.

Sample Beach-Hopping Itineraries (Car-Friendly)

Half-Day “Snorkel & Chill” (Onna Coast)

  • Morning: Cape Maeda by 8am → Blue Cave snorkeling.
  • Midday: Cape Manzamo cliffs.
  • Afternoon: Swim + lunch at Manza Beach.
  • Sunset: Sunset Beach (Chatan).

Family Fun Day (Motobu & Yanbaru)

  • 8:00 – Drive to Kouri Bridge + Kouri Beach.
  • 11:00 – Churaumi Aquarium (or Emerald Beach).
  • Afternoon – Sesoko Beach (kids can snorkel/play).
  • Evening – Treats: Blue Seal ice cream or Nago Pineapple Park.

South Coast Sunrise to Sunset

  • Sunrise – Azama Beach (over Kudaka Island).
  • Morning – Miibaru Beach (glass-bottom boat).
  • Lunch – Oujima Island tempura stalls.
  • Afternoon – Bibi Beach Itoman or Odo Beach (snorkel at high tide).
  • Sunset – Cape Kyan cliffs.

Kerama Day-Trip Blueprint

  • 9:00 – Ferry to Zamami.
  • 10:00 – Snorkel Furuzamami Beach.
  • 13:00 – Ama Beach for turtles.
  • 15:30 – Return to Zamami village, shower.
  • 16:00 – Ferry back to Naha.
  • 18:00 – Dinner on Kokusai Dori.

Beach Day Packing List

  • Snorkel set + defog solution.
  • Rash guard or swim shirt.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Water shoes.
  • Hat + sunglasses.
  • Beach mat/towel.
  • Dry bag + floating strap.
  • Cooler with water/snacks.
  • Bug spray.
  • First aid kit (vinegar for jellyfish).
  • Cash (¥100, ¥500 coins).

Beach Etiquette

  • Don’t touch or step on coral.
  • Observe wildlife, don’t chase or feed.
  • Obey lifeguard zones & red flags.
  • No loud music or rowdy drinking.
  • Camping/fire only if permitted.
  • Follow drone rules (registration, permits, avoid crowds).
  • Respect turtle nesting sites (no lights, no flash).
  • Leave beaches cleaner than you found them.

Food, Showers & Conveniences

  • Onna/Resorts: Beach cafés + Route 58 soba shops.
  • Motobu/North: Emerald Beach facilities; Sesoko cafés; Michi-no-Eki stations.
  • Central/City: Sunset Beach = American Village; Araha Beach = family restaurants.
  • South: Miibaru’s soba café; Ojima Island’s fresh tempura; Itoman Fish Market.
  • Showers: ¥100–¥300 coin showers at most major beaches; public onsens as alternative (e.g., Senagajima Onsen).

FAQs – Okinawa Beaches & Snorkeling

Q1: When is the best month for beaches and snorkeling in Okinawa?

  • Best months: July & August (28–30°C water, vibrant marine life, all services open).

  • Trade-offs: Peak crowds + typhoon risk.

  • Great alternatives:

    • June: warm, less crowded, some rain early.
    • September: warm, fewer tourists, some typhoon risk.
    • October: cooler, wetsuit needed, fewer crowds.

  • Avoid: November–March unless wearing a wetsuit (water ~20–22°C).

Q2: Which beaches are safest for kids?

  • Emerald Beach (Motobu): Lagoon-style, lifeguards, jellyfish nets.
  • Kouri Beach: Very shallow + calm, summer nets.
  • Zanpa Beach (Yomitan): Double-netted, lifeguards, wide sand.
  • Sunset Beach (Chatan): Gentle waters, lifeguards, playgrounds nearby.
  • Nirai Beach (Yomitan): Resort-managed, open year-round, even turtle hatchlings in summer.
  • South Coast options: Bibi Beach Itoman, Toyosaki (Chura Sun) Beach – engineered with nets + breakwaters.

Q3: Do I need water shoes and a rash guard?

  • Yes, highly recommended.
  • Protects against sharp coral, urchins, rocks.
  • Rash guards = sun protection + jellyfish defense.
  • Many tours require rash guards or wetsuits.

Q4: Can I camp on the beach?

  • Allowed in some spots:

    • Ama Beach (Zamami) – designated campground.
    • Zanpa Beach – has BBQ/camp zones.
    • Miibaru Beach (Nanjo) – informal free camping under trees.

  • Not allowed: Resorts & park beaches (Emerald, Manza, Sunset).

  • Always: stay above high tide line, avoid fires, leave no trace.

Q5: Are there lifeguards at Okinawa beaches?

  • Yes, April–October at major beaches (Zanpa, Emerald, Manza, Sunset, Araha).
  • No at minor or remote beaches, and off-season.
  • Keramas: Lifeguards present at popular beaches in summer.
  • Tip: Check flags/signs; follow lifeguard whistles.

Q6: What about jellyfish and sea urchins?

  • Jellyfish:

    • Box jellyfish May–Oct.
    • Swim in netted areas.
    • Wear rash guards/leggings.
    • Treatment = vinegar, not fresh water.

  • Sea urchins:

    • Hide in rocks.
    • Prevention = water shoes.
    • If spined: don’t dig deep, seek medical care.

  • General rule: “Look, don’t touch” – applies to all marine life.

Q7: Is shore snorkeling good on the main island, or should I do Kerama instead?

  • Main island:

    • Great shore spots: Cape Maeda, Sesoko, Odo, Gorilla Chop, Minna-jima.
    • Convenient and varied (reefs, caves, drop-offs).

  • Keramas:

    • National park reefs, denser coral, 30m+ clarity.
    • Worth it for serious snorkelers/divers.

  • Verdict:

    • Casual snorkelers: main island fine.
    • Enthusiasts: Kerama is a must.

Q8: What’s the etiquette around reefs and sea turtles?

  • Don’t step on coral, don’t touch or take shells.
  • Observe turtles from a distance.
  • Float calmly → turtles may approach on their own.
  • On nesting beaches: no lights, no flash photography, no handling hatchlings.
  • Never feed fish or marine animals.

Q9: Are there showers, toilets, and rentals at beaches?

  • Major beaches: Yes (showers = coin-operated, lockers, rentals).

  • Examples:

    • Emerald Beach: free showers + lockers.
    • Zanpa: showers (paid), lockers.
    • Manza/Sesoko: full rentals (snorkel, SUP, kayaks).

  • Remote beaches: Usually none – bring your own gear.

  • Clue: Paid parking = likely has facilities.

Q10: Can I fly a drone at the beach?

  • Rules:

    • Drones >100g must be registered in Japan.
    • Max altitude 120m, line of sight only.
    • No flying over crowds or near airports/military bases.
    • National parks (Keramas, Cape Hedo) may require permits.

  • Tips:

    • Fly at sunrise/uncrowded times.
    • Don’t disturb wildlife.
    • Always check for local signage before launching.

Final Tips

  • Start early – mornings = calm water + fewer people.
  • Check tides & winds daily (apps or local boards).
  • Stay flexible – switch coasts if windy.
  • Support locals – buy snacks, juice, or soba nearby.
  • Respect nature – Okinawa’s beauty depends on it.

Whether you’re snorkeling “Kerama Blue,” chasing sunsets in Motobu, or enjoying family playtime in Yomitan, Okinawa’s beaches guarantee memories of salt, sun, and serenity. > Tanoshinde ne!

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