The Best Time To Go To Okinawa: When to Plan Your Okinawa Trip

Aug 20

For mild weather and fewer crowds, the best times to visit Okinawa are generally late March–April and late October–early December. These periods offer warm-but-comfortable temperatures and relatively low tourist volumes. If beaches and warm seas are your priority, June–October has hot weather and ocean temperatures near 27–30°C, though keep in mind that typhoon risk peaks in August–September (along with the highest heat and humidity). For seasonal highlights, note that cherry blossoms bloom much earlier in Okinawa (mid-January to mid-February) and whale watching season runs from December through March. Below, we’ll break down Okinawa’s climate, tourist seasons, and month-by-month highlights to help you pick the perfect time for your trip.

Okinawa at a Glance: Climate Overview by Month

Average monthly high/low temperatures (°C) and rainfall (mm) for Okinawa. Okinawa’s subtropical climate has hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rain peaks in May–June (tsuyu rainy season), while typhoons are most frequent in August–September.

The table below summarizes key climate and travel factors for each month in Okinawa’s main island (Naha area). It includes average air and sea temperatures, rainfall, daylight, as well as an estimated “Crowds” and “Prices” index (1 = low/off-peak, 5 = very high peak season). Signature events and brief verdicts (“Best for…”) are noted to highlight what each month offers. (Climate data are long-term averages and typhoon stats are historical probabilities.)

Month	Air Temp (High/Low °C)	Rainfall (mm)	Rainy Days	Sea Temp (°C)	Daylight (hrs)	UV Index	Typhoon Risk	Crowds (1–5)	Prices (1–5)	Signature Events	Best For…	Watch-Outs
Jan	19 / 13	120	24	22	11	6	~0%	1	2	Early sakura; New Year holidays	Cool-weather sightseeing, culture	Chilly swims (water ~21–22°C); some wind
Feb	19 / 14	117	22	22	11	8	~0%	1	1	Cherry blossoms peak (north Okinawa); Whale watching	Cherry blossoms, whale watching	Cooler weather; limited beach swimming
Mar	21 / 16	153	22	22	12	10	~0%	2	2	Spring school holidays (late Mar); some beaches reopen	Comfortable hiking, early beach days	Unpredictable showers; spring break crowds late month
Apr	24 / 18	166	18	23	13	11	~0%	3	3	Beach season starts; Late Apr = Golden Week rush	General sightseeing, snorkel (water ~23°)	Golden Week crowds (late Apr); occasional rain
May	27 / 21	251	21	25	13	11	~1%	2	2	Tsuyu rainy season (~mid-May start); Naha Dragon Boat (Hari) early May	Budget travelers (post-GW); lush scenery	Rainy season peaks (carry rain gear)
Jun	29 / 24	273	20	27	14	11	~2.6%	2	1	Rainy season (~until late Jun); Firefly & lily festivals; off-peak calm	Diving before crowds, less tourists	Hot and humid; some early typhoon activity
Jul	31 / 26	183	20	29	14	11	~7.4%	4	4	Summer matsuri & fireworks; school holidays from mid-July	Beach vacations, water sports (calm seas)	Very hot; watch for typhoons late month
Aug	31 / 26	268	23	29	13	11	~11.6%	5	5	Obon holiday crowds mid-Aug; Eisa dance festivals all month	Island hopping, warm water diving	Peak typhoon season; highest humidity
Sep	30 / 25	168	20	28	12	10	~8%	3	3	Peak typhoon impacts (esp. early Sep); Summer ends	Late-summer beach trips, surfing (typhoon swells)	Typhoon disruptions possible; still hot
Oct	27 / 22	159	19	27	12	8	~3.8%	3	3	Naha Tug-of-War (mid-Oct); end of typhoon season	Best all-around: beach + culture	Occasional storm tail-ends; jellyfish linger until Oct
Nov	24 / 19	128	20	25	11	6	~1.6%	2	2	Autumn cultural events; marathon races; cooler nights	Sightseeing, photography (clear skies)	Swimming cools (water ~25°); shorter days
Dec	21 / 15	116	21	24	11	5	~0%	2	3	Illuminations & holiday displays; Whale watching starts	Mild weather getaways, snorkel with wetsuit	Some attractions close around New Year; ocean chilly

Note: Climate values are rounded long-term averages for the Naha area; “Typhoon Risk” indicates rough historical likelihood of tropical storm impacts. Crowd/Price indices are relative estimates.

How to Choose Your Month (Tailoring to Your Interests)

If you want beach days & warm water: Aim for June through early October. Sea temperatures hover around 27–30°C, beaches are fully open, and marine visibility is often excellent. July–August guarantee hot days and bath-warm water but bring intense sun (UV Extreme) and peak crowds (late July–Aug). Early July or September provide warm seas with fewer people (watch for typhoons in Sep). Early summer (late June–early July) can be great once tsuyu fades.

If you want calm weather & lower crowds: Choose late March–April or late October–early December. You’ll get mild-to-warm temps, manageable humidity, and far fewer tourists. April often feels like early summer before the rains. Late Oct–Nov brings sunny skies, warm days, and low crowds. Avoid major holiday weeks (Golden Week, Silver Week years).

If you want festivals & culture: July–October shines. Eisa dance season runs through summer (culminating late Aug–early Sep). Naha Haari dragon boat races occur in early May (Golden Week). Naha Great Tug-of-War anchors October. Expect vibrant nights, live music, and frequent fireworks.

If you want wildlife/seasonal nature: Mid-Jan–Feb for cherry blossoms and humpback whales (Dec–Mar). May–Jun can feature coral spawning windows (diving). Summer brings sea turtle nesting and high manta encounter rates at certain islands.

Budget-first travelers: Target shoulder periods: early Mar, late May–mid Jun, mid/late Sep, early Dec, and mid-Jan (excluding New Year). Avoid Golden Week, Obon, and New Year.

Okinawa Weather 101 (What’s Different Here)

Subtropical climate basics vs mainland Japan. Summers are long, hot, humid; winters are short and mild. Even January daytime highs average near 19–20°C, but UV is strong much of the year (often Very High to Extreme in spring–summer). Plan for shade and hydration June–September.

Rainy season (tsuyu). Arrives earlier than most of Japan: typically mid-May to late June. Expect frequent short tropical downpours rather than all-day rain. Landscapes turn lush; carry a compact umbrella or light shell.

Typhoon season. June–October, peaking August–September. Most storms cause 1–3 days of wind/rain and travel disruption; forecasts provide ample warning. In peak months, build buffer days, buy weather-covering insurance, and book flexible rates.

Sea conditions. Water temps range ~21–22°C in winter to 28–30°C in late summer. Visibility is often 20–30 m (sometimes more) with top clarity in late spring and autumn. Box jellyfish (habu kurage) are a summer concern (roughly June–October); swim inside netted beaches and heed flags. Currents/tides vary; always follow beach signage.

Daylight & UV. About 11 hours daylight in winter, up to 14 hours in summer. UV index: High to Extreme from April–August. Sun protection is essential year-round.

Month-by-Month Guide to Okinawa

Below, each month starts with a quick verdict and covers weather, crowds, events, best-for, watch-outs, and booking tips.

January – Mild Winter, Early Sakura & Whale Watching

Weather. Highs ~19–20°C, lows ~13–15°C. Sea ~21–22°C. ~110–120 mm rain, ~24 days with some precipitation (often light or brief showers). Windy at times.

Crowds & Prices. New Year’s week (Dec 28–Jan 3) is busy and pricey. Mid/late January is one of the quietest, cheapest periods of the year.

Events & Highlights. Earliest cherry blossoms in Japan (late Jan): Nago, Nakijin Castle, Mt. Yaedake. Humpback whale watching in Kerama/Naha waters is excellent (Dec–Mar). Occasional marathons; cultural lull after New Year.

Best For. Peaceful, off-season trips with mild weather; photographers (whales + sakura); museum/culture days without crowds; winter diving (wetsuit).

Watch-Outs. Winter winds can add chill, some water activities limited. Outdoor pools often closed. Beach lifeguards not on duty yet.

Booking Tip. Easy for late Jan; book 4–6 months ahead if visiting over New Year.

February – Quiet & Cool, Peak Cherry Blossom and Whale Season

Weather. Similar to January. Highs ~19°C, lows ~14°C; rain ~115 mm; sea ~21–22°C.

Crowds & Prices. Low season. Occasional uptick around Lunar New Year or marathon weekends.

Events & Highlights. Sakura continues into early Feb (north first, then south/central). Whale watching peaks. Baseball spring training in warm Okinawa.

Best For. Budget/quiet seekers; hikers/cyclists in mild temps; divers (very clear water, fewer boats).

Watch-Outs. Some maintenance closures; weather can swing (sunny 20°C → windy 15°C).

Booking Tip. Generally last-minute friendly; monitor bloom forecasts if chasing sakura.

March – Spring Warming, Beach Season Begins (Early), Still Quiet

Weather. Highs ~21–22°C, lows ~16–17°C; ~150 mm rain; mix of sun/showers; sea ~22°C.

Crowds & Prices. Early March quiet. Late March sees school spring break uptick (last week).

Events & Highlights. Beach Opening ceremonies mid/late March. Azaleas (Higashi Village festival). Waterfalls and forests are lush.

Best For. Outdoor exploring (hiking/cycling) + early beach days; Blue Cave snorkeling with lighter crowds; families in late March (warmer beaches).

Watch-Outs. Fickle weather; jellyfish risk negligible (still cool water). Occasional windy days.

Booking Tip. Book ahead for the final week of March (spring break effect).

April – Early Summer Weather, Golden Week Looms

Weather. Highs ~24–26°C (late month ~27–28°C). Humidity rising but moderate. Sea ~23–24°C. Generally sunny, outside tsuyu.

Crowds & Prices. Moderate most of April. Golden Week begins ~Apr 29 → surge in crowds/prices into early May.

Events & Highlights. Early April fireworks/music fests, deigo blooms, late whale season in first week, small regional haarii (boat races) may appear late April.

Best For. All-rounders: comfortable sightseeing + beach/snorkel; honeymoons/couples; divers (warming water, great vis).

Watch-Outs. Golden Week crowds/traffic late month; UV climbing; occasional early rain front.

Booking Tip. For GW dates, book ASAP (flights 6+ months; hotels/cars 3–4+ months).

May – From Golden Week to Rainy Season

Weather. Highs ~27°C, lows ~22–23°C. Rainy season typically starts mid-May. May is wet (~250+ mm) but varies by year (from sparse showers to torrential spells). Sea ~25°C.

Crowds & Prices. Golden Week busy/expensive. Mid/late May drops to low season (quiet, deals).

Events & Highlights. Naha Haari (Dragon Boat) early May. Lily Festival on Ie Island (late Apr–early May). Fireflies in forests; occasional coral spawning (divers).

Best For. Deal hunters who can adapt to rain; divers; culture (boat races).

Watch-Outs. Rain & mosquitoes; heat building; typhoon risk still low but not zero.

Booking Tip. Outside GW, easy. For events (Haari, lilies), book around those dates.

June – Rainy Season Peak, Off-Peak Tranquility, Start of Typhoons

Weather. Wettest month (~260–280 mm), humid, highs ~29°C, lows ~25°C. Tsuyu ends late June; then hot/clear. Sea ~27°C. Longest daylight.

Crowds & Prices. Very low. Promotions abound; quiet beaches; occasional school trips.

Events & Highlights. Eisa Night street performances (often mid-June start). Hydrangeas bloom. Great manta/diving windows. Turtle nesting begins.

Best For. Divers/snorkelers (warm water, few crowds); budget travelers; romantic quiet resort stays.

Watch-Outs. Downpours; first typhoons possible; box jellyfish season begins; heat.

Booking Tip. Last-minute is fine; flights may rise late month as summer nears—book a bit ahead.

July – Hot, Sunny, Summer in Full Swing (Typhoons Brewing)

Weather. Highs ~31–32°C; very humid; frequent sun with brief storms. Rain drops vs June, but typhoons may start. Sea ~29°C.

Crowds & Prices. Early July moderate. Late July surges (schools break ~July 20). Prices climb.

Events & Highlights. Fireworks, beach parties, Eisa previews, Marine Day festivities, Ocean Expo Park summer events.

Best For. Beach lovers & families; snorkeling/diving; lively nightlife (beer gardens, beach bars).

Watch-Outs. Extreme sun/heat; typhoon watch mid/late month; jellyfish active; traffic in resort zones.

Booking Tip. Early July: easier. Late July: book 4–6+ months ahead (hotels, cars, inter-island flights).

August – Peak Summer: Hottest, Busiest, Culturally Rich (Typhoon Peak)

Weather. Hottest month (highs 32–33°C), humid, sea 29–30°C. Rain from afternoon storms and typhoons.

Crowds & Prices. Peak. Obon mid-Aug: busiest week. Highest prices; book far ahead.

Events & Highlights. Obon (neighborhood Eisa at night), 10,000 Eisa Dancer Parade (early Aug), All-Island Eisa Festival (late Aug/early Sep), Orion Beer Fests, major fireworks.

Best For. Maximum summer fun + deep culture immersion; families on school break; marine sports.

Watch-Outs. Typhoons likely; heat exhaustion risk; jellyfish peak; long lines at marquee attractions.

Booking Tip. Everything (flights, hotels, rental cars) book 6+ months ahead if possible. Reserve tours/attractions early.

September – Late Summer Transitions, Typhoon Season Continues

Weather. Still summer-like: highs ~30–31°C; sea ~28°C. Typhoon peak continues; when clear, superb beach days.

Crowds & Prices. Early Sep moderate; mid/late Sep quieter and cheaper (watch for Silver Week years).

Events & Highlights. Major Eisa Festival often late Aug/early Sep if not yet held. Surfing prime (typhoon swells). Great underwater conditions.

Best For. Summer conditions with fewer people; divers/snorkelers; couples or flexible travelers.

Watch-Outs. Weather uncertainty (storms/ferry/flight disruptions). Some seasonal services reduce frequency after Aug.

Booking Tip. Use flexible/cancellable rates. Book early only if Silver Week hits.

October – Clear and Calm Autumn, Cultural Festivities

Weather. One of the best months: highs ~25–28°C; humidity easing; sea ~26–27°C; typhoon risk waning. Many dry, sunny days.

Crowds & Prices. Shoulder/low season; modest bump around Chinese National Day and Naha Tug-of-War weekend.

Events & Highlights. Naha Great Tug-of-War (parades + giant rope pull). Shuri Castle Festival (late Oct/early Nov). Karate Day (Oct 25) demos. Halloween parties in nightlife areas.

Best For. Everyone: balanced beach + culture; families (not too hot); divers (warm water + great vis); photographers.

Watch-Outs. Occasional late typhoon possible early Oct; lifeguard season winds down late month; days shorter (~6pm sunsets).

Booking Tip. Book Naha early for Tug-of-War weekend; otherwise 1–2 months out is fine.

November – Warm Autumn, Tranquil & Sunny

Weather. Highs ~22–24°C; lows ~19–20°C; low humidity, clear skies; sea ~24–25°C. Typhoon risk ~nil.

Crowds & Prices. Off-peak. Small bumps around Culture Day (Nov 3) and US Thanksgiving week.

Events & Highlights. Tour de Okinawa cycling (early Nov), continuing Shuri Castle events, food/craft fairs, stargazing-friendly skies.

Best For. Relaxed, temperate vacations; hiking/yanbaru nature; budget travelers who want nice weather; cool-but-swimmable seas.

Watch-Outs. Late-month northerlies bring cooler, windy spells; many beaches unsupervised; some attractions shift to winter hours.

Booking Tip. Flexible—book closer to travel; early Nov slightly busier.

December – Cooler Breezes, Holiday Festivities, Start of Whale Season

Weather. Highs ~21–23°C (cooler late month), lows ~16–18°C; more overcast spells with winter fronts; sea ~23–24°C.

Crowds & Prices. Low until Christmas–New Year, then busy/expensive again.

Events & Highlights. Holiday illuminations across the islands; New Year’s customs; Naha Marathon (early Dec); whale watching resumes late Dec.

Best For. Mild winter escapes; holidaymakers (mid-Dec quiet or festive New Year week); divers (Yonaguni hammerhead season).

Watch-Outs. Some shorter hours/maintenance closings; winter winds can chop seas; ferries may pause in strong fronts; New Year closures on Jan 1.

Booking Tip. Mid-Dec: easy. Late Dec/NY: book 3–6+ months ahead (rooms, dinners, events).

Special Seasons & Can’t-Miss Events in Okinawa

Cherry Blossom (Late Jan – Mid Feb): Earliest sakura in Japan. Best in northern Okinawa: Mt. Yaedake, Nakijin Castle. Pair with whale watching.
Beach Opening Ceremonies (Late Mar – Early Apr): Festive “first swim” events with blessings, drums, eisa.
Golden Week (Apr 29 – May 5): Peak domestic travel. Great weather; crowded/expensive. Naha Haari dragon boat races.
Haarii (May): Dragon boat races across many ports (lunar calendar timing). Wonderful local tradition.
Rainy Season (May–Jun): On–off showers, lush scenery, lower prices. Pack a shell/umbrella and pivot plans.
Typhoon Season (Jul–Sep): Plan buffers/insurance; expect occasional 1–3 day disruptions. Post-storm skies are spectacular.
Summer Festivals & Fireworks (Jul–Sep): Weekly matsuri somewhere; beer fests, concerts, big fireworks.
Eisa Dance Season (Jul–Aug): Neighborhood Eisa during Obon; big parades/finals in Aug–early Sep.
Obon (mid-Aug): Very busy; cultural depth; some family-run shops may close for a day or two.
Autumn Culture (Sep–Oct): Naha Tug-of-War, Shuri Castle events, village festivals.
Year-End & New Year (Dec–Jan 1): Illuminations, countdowns, first sunrise customs; some New Year’s Day closures.

Prices, Crowds, and Booking Windows

Cheapest months: Mid-Jan–early Feb, Feb, late May–mid Jun, mid/late Sep–early Oct, early Dec. Most expensive/busiest: August, late Apr–early May (GW), late Dec–early Jan (New Year), late July. Moderate shoulder periods: Mar, Apr (except GW), Oct, Nov.

Booking guidance:

Flights: Book far ahead for GW/Obon/New Year. Off-peak: a few months out often fine. LCC sales can be great in shoulder/low seasons.
Hotels: Low season = flexible. Peak (Aug, GW, NY) = book months ahead.
Car Rentals: Scarce in peak. Reserve early for summer/holidays; easier in low season.
Ferries: First-come; in peak, buy a day or two ahead. Consider flying to outer islands in busy weeks.
Restaurants/Activities: Reserve top spots/tours in peak (dive boats, whale tours, famous eateries).

Crowd/Cost Index (1–5):

1: Feb, early Mar, mid-May–mid Jun, mid-Sep–early Oct, mid-Nov–mid Dec
2: Jan (except NY week), late Jun, Sep (overall), Nov (overall), early Dec
3: Mar (overall), Apr (except late Apr), late Oct, Christmas week
4: late Mar/early Apr, early May (GW), early Jul
5: GW peak, late Jul–Aug (Obon), late Dec–early Jan

Rain & Typhoon Game Plan (Contingency)

Stay flexible. Swap outdoor/indoor days based on forecast.

Top rainy-day picks:

Churaumi Aquarium (arrive early or late)
Okinawa World & Gyokusendo Cave (huge limestone cave + crafts)
Shuri Castle Park exhibits (bring umbrella for grounds)
Museums: Prefectural Museum & Art Museum; Himeyuri Peace Museum; Navy Underground HQ
Shopping: Aeon Rycom, Ashibinaa Outlet, covered arcades on Kokusai-dori (Heiwa-dori)
Workshops: Ryukyu glass-blowing, bingata dyeing, sanshin lesson, Okinawan cooking
Indoor fun: Round1 (bowling/arcade), karaoke, spas/onsen, climbing gyms

Typhoon tips:

Before: Stock snacks/water, charge devices, cancel boat trips, follow hotel guidance.
During: Stay indoors; enjoy hotel amenities; don’t go out.
After: Check transport status; expect ocean to need a day or two to settle; pivot to land activities first.

Insurance & buffer: Highly recommended July–October. Add buffer days to itinerary.

Mindset: Showers pass; rainbows and post-storm clarity are common. Use rainy time for culture, food, and planning.

What to Pack for Okinawa (By Season)

Spring (Mar–Apr):

Light layers: tees + light jacket/windbreaker; shorts + long pants mix
Beachwear: swimsuit, rash guard
Compact umbrella/rain shell; hat/sunglasses; reef-safe sunscreen

Summer (May–Aug):

Breathable clothes (linen/cotton, moisture-wicking)
Sandals + reef shoes; multiple swimsuits; rash guard/stinger suit
High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen; aloe; sunglasses; UV umbrella/hat
Insect repellent; portable fan; dry bag/ziplocks; power bank (typhoon season)

Autumn (Sep–Nov):

Sep: summerwear; Oct–Nov: add light hoodie/sweater for nights
Umbrella (Sep typhoons); windbreaker (late fall breezes)
Sunscreen still needed; lip balm for drier late fall

Winter (Dec–Feb):

Mild-winter kit: long pants, long-sleeve + sweater/light coat; windproof jacket
Closed shoes; umbrella or hooded rain jacket
Wetsuit for ocean activities; moisturizer for drier days

Year-round essentials: Travel insurance (esp. typhoon season), International Driving Permit (for rentals), personal meds + seasickness pills, snorkel mask/contacts or prescription mask, camera/GoPro, some cash for small shops.

Sample Itineraries by Season

3 Days (Shoulder Season: Late Mar or Late Oct)

Day 1 (Naha & South): Shuri Castle Park → Shikinaen Garden → lunch on Kokusai-dori → Prefectural Museum (if hot/drizzly) or Cape Chinen (if sunny) → evening sanshin live house.
Day 2 (Central Beaches & Culture): Cape Manza → beach time (Manza/Zanpa) → Ryukyu Mura crafts → sunset at Zanpa → seafood izakaya in Onna.
Day 3 (North): Churaumi Aquarium (early) → Nakijin Castle or Kouri Island → optional fruit farm → return to Naha.

5 Days (Summer: Early Jul or Mid Aug)

Day 1: Arrive Naha → relax Naminoue Beach → Kokusai-dori evening.
Day 2: Kerama day trip (Tokashiki/Aharen Beach) snorkeling/kayak → Tomari seafood dinner.
Day 3: Drive north via Cape Manza → Churaumi Aquarium (midday AC break) → Emerald Beach → stay up north.
Day 4: Sesoko/Irabu beaches or Yambaru (Daisekirinzan/Hiji Falls) → central Okinawa evening Eisa or fireworks.
Day 5: Nakagusuku Castle AM → Cape Zanpa → optional surf lesson (conditions permitting) or Okinawa World cave → depart.

7 Days (Outer Islands Add-On: Oct or May)

Days 1–2: Naha + central sights at relaxed pace.
Days 3–5: Fly to MiyakoorIshigaki: Maehama/Yoshino (Miyako) or Kabira/Iriomote/Taketomi (Ishigaki).
Days 6–7: Return to main island; shopping on Kokusai-dori; Senagajima Umikaji Terrace before flight.

Okinawa Trip FAQs (FAQPage-ready)

**Q: When is the overall best time to visit Okinawa?**A: Generally late March–April and late October–early December for the best balance of weather and crowds. If picking a single month, October is a strong all-around choice.

**Q: When is rainy season in Okinawa and does it ruin trips?****A:**Mid-May to late June. Showers are frequent but often brief. With a flexible plan and indoor options, trips are still very enjoyable—plus it’s cheaper and less crowded.

**Q: When is typhoon season and how likely are disruptions?****A:**June–October, peaking August–September. Expect the possibility of 1–3 days of disruption if one passes nearby. Build buffers, buy insurance, and stay flexible.

**Q: Can you swim in winter in Okinawa?**A: Yes, but it’s cool (sea ~21–22°C in Jan–Feb). Many locals wait until spring openings; use a wetsuit if you plan to snorkel/dive.

**Q: When is water warmest and visibility best for diving/snorkeling?****A:**Warmest June–September (sea ~28–30°C). Best vis is often late spring and autumn (April–May, Oct), balancing warm water and clear seas.

**Q: When do beaches officially open, and are there lifeguards year-round?****A:**March–April openings; lifeguards typically on duty through October. Winter swimming is at your own risk (many nets/guards removed).

**Q: When is cherry blossom season in Okinawa (and where to see it)?****A:**Late January to mid-February. Best spots include Mt. Yaedake, Nakijin Castle, Nago Park, Yogi Park.

**Q: Best time for families with young kids?****A:**Late Oct–early Nov (warm but not hot, fewer crowds) or early April (before tsuyu). If summer break, late June–early July beats Obon crowds.

**Q: Best time for budget travelers?****A:**Mid-May–mid June, mid/late September, early December, February. Avoid GW, Obon, New Year.

**Q: Is Golden Week a good time to go?**A: Weather is great, but it’s crowded/expensive. Book early and plan around queues or choose off-the-beaten-path spots.

**Q: Obon crowds—how busy is it, and how to plan?****A:**Very busy. Book early, expect traffic and full ferries. Enjoy the Eisa culture, but schedule drives off-peak and reserve restaurants/tours.

**Q: Do I need travel insurance for typhoons?**A: Strongly recommended July–October for weather delays/cancellations and flexibility.

**Q: Are jellyfish a concern—when and how to avoid stings?**A: Mainly June–October. Swim inside nets, wear rash guards, avoid night/low-light swims, heed flags. Vinegar is used for first aid.

**Q: Which months are best for whale watching?****A:**January–March (tours run late Dec–early Apr). Buffer an extra day in case of rough seas/cancellations.

**Q: What’s the humidity like and how do I cope?****A:**High most of the year; very high in summer. Wear breathable fabrics, hydrate, take A/C breaks, use umbrellas/hats, and schedule strenuous activities for mornings/evenings.

**Q: We want to drive—what should we know?****A:**Left-hand traffic; IDP required; low speed limits; expressway tolls; use MAPCODE/GPS; book early in peak; never drink and drive. Driving is safe and ideal for exploring.

You’re ready to time your trip like a local. Enjoy the islands!

things to do in okinawa