Hamahiga Island is a small island in the central part of Okinawa Main Island that can be accessed without taking a boat. On the coast of Hamahiga Island, I found "Kainowa, the Sea Gallery, and Ukigumo, the Sky and Coffee Shop," a gallery that displays and sells accessories made from seashells, with a cafe attached.
It was the perfect relaxing space to enjoy a leisurely coffee break while gazing at the calm sea.

1. Open-air cafes on Hamahiga Island

The ocean view instantly captivates you the moment you step inside. Two sides of the cafe area are made of glass windows, and the ocean-facing side can be fully opened up.
The furniture and flooring are in muted colors, which makes the blue of the sea stand out even more, creating a beautiful contrast.

Of the six seats, which are spaced comfortably apart, we were lucky enough to get a window seat this time. It was a prime spot where we could enjoy our meal while feeling the blue of the sea and the breeze.

I visited during a still chilly time of year, but the sunshine made it pleasantly warm, allowing me to enjoy a comfortable lunch. When the weather is nice, the sea sparkles even more, making sunny days perfect for watching the floating clouds.

Although there is no air conditioning in the cafe area, the breathtaking view and the refreshing breeze create an irreplaceable sense of comfort.

The area at the back of the building, separated by glass, is a gallery where handmade accessories made from turban shells and trochus shells are sold.
Apparently, there will also be exhibitions by craftspeople and artists for a limited time.

2. I had lunch.

The main lunch item is a sandwich, and set menus are also available. Because many of the ingredients are sourced from within Okinawa Prefecture and Hamahiga Island, it's popular with both locals and tourists.

I ordered the chicken tikka sandwich with soup set. It's a spicy dish made with Okinawan chicken marinated in a unique blend of spices and then grilled. You can also enjoy a change of flavor with the special aurora sauce.

I wrap the sandwich in paper and take a big bite with both hands.

Even after a satisfying meal, dessert is a must. The most popular item is this cheesecake. Sprinkled on top is salt from a salt workshop on Hamahiga Island. The slightly salty flavor is a perfect match. Even those who don't have a sweet tooth will enjoy this treat.

They have a wide variety of drinks, but I ordered the hibiscus and lemon soda recommended by the staff. The hibiscus and lemon had just the right amount of tartness, and it was refreshing after the meal.

3. Accessories born from the sea

The gallery displays shell craft accessories. Each piece is handmade and unique, and many are made of 18-karat gold (K18), making them suitable even for those who are sensitive to metal.
Creamy stripes with intricate shimmer of white, green, and pink. Apparently, you can't really tell what color it will become until you actually polish it.

Wedding rings are becoming increasingly popular. What a beautiful design!

4. Access and Business Hours

The Sea Gallery Kainowa and the Sky and Coffee Ukigumo are located about an hour from Naha Airport via the expressway. After crossing the Kaichu Road, Henza Island, and the Hamahiga Island Bridge to Hamahiga Island, turn left at the first T-junction. Continue along the coast for about 500 meters and you will see it on your right.

There are four parking spaces in front of the store, and another four spaces to the left of the store.

If traveling by bus, take the Uruma City Community Bus Ikeiya-Keina Line from the JA Okinawa Yonashiro Branch, get off at "Higa Port," and it's an 8-minute walk from there.
Bus travel can be quite time-consuming due to frequent delays, but if you have the time, it can be a relaxing and enjoyable bus journey.
This spot is highly recommended for those exploring Hamahiga Island, which has many places associated with Ryukyuan mythology, or for those who simply want to quietly gaze at the sea and relax.

Shirokuma Tours offers affordable Okinawa package tours. A wide variety of options are available, including tours to Ishigaki and Miyako Islands.

For local experiences and optional tours such as snorkeling and sightseeing bus tours, choose Tabi Plus One.

For diving in Okinawa, from license acquisition and fun dives to introductory experiences, choose Oceans Dive Tour.