Okinawa's remote islands! A complete guide to the hugely popular Kerama Islands!

Are you wondering what the Kerama Islands are like? What can you do there? And how do you get there?

The Kerama Islands are a group of islands south of Okinawa that are famous as a world-renowned diving spot.
It's close enough to Naha to visit on a day trip by ferry, making it a popular and easily accessible island destination.

This time, we'll provide you with basic information about the Kerama Islands, including beaches, diving spots, recommended locations, how to get to the Kerama Islands, and recommended accommodations.
If you're planning a trip to the Kerama Islands, reading this article will help you enjoy your trip. Please use it as a reference!

<Contents>

1. What kind of place are the Kerama Islands?
1-1. Best season to visit the Kerama Islands!!
1-2. How to get to the Kerama Islands
1-3. Boarding location

2. Enjoy the sea around the Kerama Islands
2-1. Aharen Beach, Tokashiki Island
2-2. Furuzamami Beach (Zamami Island)
2-3. Ama Beach, Zamami Island

3. Let's go diving in the Kerama Islands!
3-1. Kerama Islands Diving Spots!
3-1-1. Tokashiki Island, Shimosone
3-1-2. Otokoiwa Rock, Zamami Island
3-1-3. Kuroshima Minami Rippyo (Southern Kuroshima Landmark)
3-1-4. Kubajima, Kubase

4. What to do in case of rain

5. Enjoy the scenery of the Kerama Islands!
5-1. For sunset viewing, visit the Unajinosachi Observatory on Zamami Island.
5-2. Panoramic View! Enjoy a panoramic view of the village and the Kerama Islands! Takatsukiyama Observatory on Zamami Island!
5-3. Aharen Observatory on Tokashiki Island offers a panoramic view of the cobalt blue sea!
5-4. For whale watching, head to Aran Observatory on Tokashiki Island!

6. If you're staying in the Kerama Islands, this is the place we recommend!
6-1. Tokashiki Marine Village (Tokashiki Island)
6-2. Sea Friend (Tokashiki Island)
6-3. Charvilla (Zamami Island)
6-4. Minshuku Robinson (Zamami Island)
6-5. The Village of Free Spirits: Seedrun (Akajima Island)

7. Precautions
7-1. Seafox
7-2. Tokashiki Co., Ltd.
7-3. Sea Friend

8. What should I bring?

9. In case of bad weather or cancellation of ferry service

1. What kind of place are the Kerama Islands?

The Kerama Islands are an archipelago consisting of more than 20 islands of varying sizes, scattered in the East China Sea, approximately 40 km west of Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture (southern Okinawa Island).
While some islands are only about an hour away from Naha and a 20-minute ferry ride away, administratively the area is divided into two villages: Tokashiki Village, centered around Tokashiki Island, and Zamami Village, centered around Zamami Island.

With some of the clearest waters in the world, this area is a popular spot for scuba diving and whale watching!

Furthermore, the Kerama Islands region was highly regarded for its humpback whale breeding grounds and diverse ecosystems extending from the coast to the open sea, leading to its designation as the Kerama Islands National Park on March 5, 2014 (Coral Day).
While Okinawa also has other islands like Miyako Island and Ishigaki Island, one of the reasons for its popularity is that it's easily accessible from Okinawa Main Island.

Reference site: Zamami Village Tourism Topics

1-1. Best season to visit the Kerama Islands!!

The Kerama Islands, Chibishi Islands, and Okinawa Main Island are home to a variety of colorful fish, with schools of juvenile fish and migratory fish being particularly noteworthy from summer to autumn.

In winter, there are many sea slugs, and you might even spot humpback whales from a cruiser when diving in the Kerama Islands or Chibishi Islands.
Additionally, whale sharks can sometimes be seen in "Nagannu North" of the Chibishi Islands after the coral spawning season (May to June).

From mid-May onwards, the sunshine gets stronger, marking the start of the best season for those who enjoy terrain-focused and wide-angle photography!
As the sunlight intensifies, you can enjoy fantastical scenes at scenic spots!

[Regarding typhoons]

July to September is the peak typhoon season. Frequent ferry cancellations are almost certain. There's a possibility you won't be able to leave the island, so travel while the ferries are still running.
Also, the sea is rough and dangerous before the typhoon, so please be careful.

1-2. How to get to the Kerama Islands

To get to the Kerama Islands, you can take a high-speed boat or ferry from Naha.

Those unfamiliar with ferries should bring motion sickness medication. While tickets can be purchased at the town hall on the day of travel, during peak seasons like summer, reservations can fill up quickly, making boarding difficult.
Making a reservation at the town hall is recommended.
You can check the timetable and fares here.

Tokashiki Village Official Website
Zamami Village Official Website
(You can also check the ship's operating status!)
Reservations can be made starting exactly two months before the boarding date.
While there is no cancellation fee for same-day cancellations, it is considered good manners to contact us as soon as possible so that other passengers can enjoy the experience.

1-3. Boarding location

The boarding point is Naha Tomari Port (departing from in front of the Naha Tomari Port Terminal "Tomarin").
If you are coming to the port by rental car, there is a multi-story parking garage called "Tomarin Annex Parking" next to the Tomarin Building.(Tomarin Annex Parking Lot)
There's also an underground parking lot at Tomari Wharf!(Tomari Wharf Underground Parking Lot)

2. Enjoy the seas of the Kerama Islands

Kozamami Beach / (C) OCVB

If you're going to the Kerama Islands, the beach is definitely the best option! There are tons of beaches in the Kerama Islands!
Here, we introduce beaches that are safe and enjoyable for families.
We'll also introduce you to beaches in the Kerama Islands where you can see turtles!

2-1. Aharen Beach, Tokashiki Island

This is the most popular beach for marine leisure activities on Tokashiki Island. The Kerama Blue waters are incredibly beautiful, and the white sandy beach truly gives you a tropical feeling. The exceptional clarity of the water is truly breathtaking.
I was also captivated by this ocean and went there for a day trip! It was easy to do as it was a day trip.

2-2. Furuzamami Beach (Zamami Island)

Furuzamami Beach is the most popular beach on Zamami Island. In the summer, it attracts many tourists, and the beach is lined with colorful beach umbrellas, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the resort atmosphere of Okinawa.
The sea gets deep very quickly after you enter it, so this beach is recommended for snorkeling.
Since it's a bit far from Zamami Port, it's best to thoroughly research island transportation options such as village buses and rental shop shuttle buses in advance.

2-3. Ama Beach, Zamami Island

This beach is the second most popular spot on Zamami Island after Furuzamami Beach! You can see an uninhabited island in front of you, and Aka Island beyond.
It doesn't have the resort atmosphere with rows of beach umbrellas, but that's precisely why it has so many hidden fans—you can feel the laid-back Okinawan charm here.
Also, you can see turtles at Ama Beach around high tide!
Apparently, they come to feed on seaweed near the shore at that time of year, so they are relatively easy to spot!
Seeing turtles on the beach is something unique to the Kerama Islands!

3. Let's go diving in the Kerama Islands!

In the endlessly transparent Kerama Blue world, you can encounter schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and manta rays—a breathtakingly beautiful sight.
The inland sea between Aka Island and Zamami Island, home to many famous diving spots, is registered under the Ramsar Convention as a globally valuable coral reef area. Since Zamami Island was awarded two stars in the Michelin Green Guide, the number of international visitors has been increasing!

The islands are bordered by indented coastlines, and the inland seas feature diverse topography including rocky areas, caves, sandy areas, and coral reefs.
The ecosystem that thrives there is incredibly diverse! Why not experience this world-renowned ocean for yourself?

3-1. Kerama Diving Spots!

Divers visiting the Kerama Islands should check this out!!
There are many points to consider, but I've summarized the ones you absolutely can't miss!

There are over 100 diving spots in the Kerama Islands alone.
Moreover, the Kerama Islands are said to be among the top five in the world, with a maximum visibility of approximately 30 meters.

From large marine life like dogtooth tuna, whitetip reef sharks, and Napoleon wrasse to sea slugs... there's so much to see!
You can also enjoy a wide range of features, including tunnels and dynamic terrain!
Among them, I'd like to introduce some of the most representative points in the Kerama Islands.

3-1-1. Tokashiki Island, Shimosone

One of the big dive spots in the Kerama Islands. There is a shallow reef in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by deep sea at depths of 30 to 50 meters.
The water flows well here, and plump tuna swim around actively. Because it's in the open ocean, swells are common, and it's a difficult spot to access unless the conditions are just right.
Organisms: Dogtooth tuna, Yellowtail snapper, Rainbow runner, Blue surgeonfish, etc.

3-1-2. Otokoiwa Rock, Zamami Island

One of the popular spots in the Kerama Islands. The currents are good and encounters with migratory fish are frequent. The rock is written as "Otokoiwa" (男岩) but pronounced "U
It is pronounced "Gan," and the rocks that rise from the surface of the sea are exactly as the name suggests.
There's a current around the rocks, and the north side is great for macro fish watching, while the southeast side is like a flower garden with soft cola-colored trees.
This is a prime spot known for its exceptionally dense fish population, something you can only see in the Kerama Islands!
Creatures: Ribbon eels, butterflyfish, dogtooth tuna, fusiliers, etc.

3-1-3. Kuroshima Minami Rippyo (Southern Kuroshima Landmark)

The famous Manta Point! It's a manta ray cleaning station from summer to early autumn. A manta ray is something every diver wants to see at least once!
You might be able to stop and get a good look at a hovering manta ray.
Marine life: Manta rays, whitetip reef sharks, fusiliers, anthias, etc.

3-1-4. Kubajima, Kubase

This is one of the spots where you're likely to encounter many turtles. The area itself is shallow, but you can also sometimes encounter large marine life such as giant trevally. The channel-like sections can sometimes experience strong currents.
Living organisms: turtles, purse crabs, turmeric mussels, fusiliers, etc.

4. What to do in case of rain

It's a shame to come all the way to the Kerama Islands only to find it's raining!
If the waves are rough due to heavy rain, it may be dangerous to go out to sea, so please check with your local shop.
I think it would be perfectly fine if it's just a little rain.
Also, for those who don't plan to go to the beach, why not take a stroll around the island with an umbrella?
Feel free to spend your time relaxing! However, there's no play area here...
It might be nice to take your time and enjoy sightseeing.

5. Enjoy the scenery of the Kerama Islands!

Wouldn't you like to see a beautiful sunset since you've come all this way?
The sea is beautiful, but the scenery is also stunning! There are many great spots, but here are four of my top recommendations!
We'll introduce you to locations that are full of romantic atmosphere, as well as excellent spots for whale watching during the winter months.

5-1. For sunset viewing, visit the Unajinosachi Observatory on Zamami Island.

The Onna-no-Saki Observatory offers a panoramic view of the setting sun. It's a romantic location where you can spend time reminiscing about the day's memories!
However, there are many stairs to get to the observation deck, so be careful where you step!

5-2. Panoramic View! Enjoy a panoramic view of the village and the Kerama Islands! Takatsukiyama Observatory on Zamami Island!

You can enjoy not only the beautiful gradation of colors in the sea off Kozamami, but also a panoramic view of the sea off Ago-no-ura.
Furthermore, while there are two observation decks at Takatsukiyama Observatory, the first one offers a view of the Zamami settlement.
You can see Furuzamami Beach from the second observation deck!

5-3. Aharen Observatory on Tokashiki Island offers a panoramic view of the cobalt blue sea!

A scenic observation deck offering panoramic views of Aharen Beach. It's about a 10-minute walk from the beach.
This observation deck is extremely popular because it offers a panoramic view of the cobalt blue sea!

5-4. For whale watching, head to Aran Observatory on Tokashiki Island!

This observation deck on Tokashiki Island, also known as the Whale Strait, is ideal for whale watching.
Of course, we have binoculars available! Let's go whale watching!

6. If you're staying in the Kerama Islands, this is the place we recommend!

While many guests are accustomed to receiving hospitality at hotels on a regular basis, there are few luxury hotels in the Kerama Islands; instead, there are many guesthouses and pensions.
Among them, I'd like to introduce some recommended hotels and guesthouses. I've selected five facilities from among many guesthouses and hotels.

6-1. Tokashiki Marine Village (Tokashiki Island)

Located on the only beachside location in the Kerama Islands, this property boasts a pristine white sand beach right in front of it, making it perfect for swimming.
You can encounter sea turtles on the beach right in front of the hotel!

[Tokashiki Marine Village (Tokashiki Island)]
TEL：098-987-2426
Access: 10 minutes by shuttle bus from Tokashiki Port
Click here for the Tokashiku Marine Village official website.

Please make your hotel reservation here.

6-2. Sea Friend (Tokashiki Island)

Located near the port in the Aharen settlement on Tokashiki Island, this property offers three types of accommodations: pension, log cabin, and guesthouse.
This inn has a restaurant with the same name, "Sea Friend Seafood Restaurant," right in front of it, so you won't have any trouble finding food.
It might be a good place not only for accommodation, but also for lunch or evening drinks.
Of course, we also offer diving services and marine sports, so it's recommended for those who want to enjoy a variety of activities.

[Sea Friend (Tokashiki Island)]
TEL：098-987-2836
Transportation: Upon arrival at Tokashiki Island, please proceed to the Sea Friend shuttle bus waiting in the parking lot after disembarking. Departure will be made once all passengers have arrived.
Click here for the Sea Friend official website.

Please make your hotel reservation here.

6-3. Charvilla (Zamami Island)

Located just a one-minute walk from the ferry terminal on Zamami Island.
The first floor has a cafe, and the lawn garden has stylish tables and chairs that you can use freely.
This is a relatively new inn, not a traditional Okinawan guesthouse. You can stay here with peace of mind.
Also, it comes with a kitchenette, so it's recommended for families.

[Charvilla (Zamami Island)]
TEL：098-987-3737
Access: 1 minute walk from Zamami Port. It's the second house on the right from the village's only traffic light.
Click here for the official Charvilla website.

Please make your hotel reservation here.

6-4. Minshuku Robinson (Zamami Island)

This guesthouse is located in Ama, a relatively quiet village on Zamami Island. It's a guesthouse that specializes in snorkeling.
You'll receive heartfelt hospitality that, while simple, allows you to feel the island's atmosphere. They'll also guide you to the beautiful ocean.
Even customers meeting for the first time can feel a sense of camaraderie, as if they're all fellow lovers of the ocean. It's highly recommended for those seeking a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

[Robinson Inn (Zamami Island)]
TEL：098-987-2676
Click here for the official website of the guesthouse Robinson.

6-5. The Village of Free Spirits: Seedrun (Akajima Island)

We offer rooms where everyone, from divers to families, can relax comfortably.
From diving and snorkeling to sea kayaking and swimming, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Aka Island throughout the year, including whale watching in winter.
Here, no one is concerned with time. You can relax and unwind. Why not indulge in the luxury of taking off your watch and being completely natural?
After enjoying the sea and sightseeing on Akajima Island, relax in our large public bath. You'll be ready for another energetic day tomorrow.

[Free-spirited Village Seedrun (Akajima Island)]
TEL：098-987-2341
Transportation access: 5-minute walk from the port. We provide free shuttle service to and from the port, airport, and Nishihama Beach.
Click here for the introduction page of Seedrun Zamami Village, a village for those who enjoy their own way.

7. Precautions

Visitors to the Kerama Islands likely have many desires, such as wanting to go to the sea, dive, or swim, but we also hear that there are so many diving shops that it can be difficult to choose.
Your safety is paramount. Please make sure you are in a safe environment before you go and enjoy yourself. This time, we'll introduce some recommended diving shops.

7-1. Seafox

For fun diving, introductory diving, diving licenses, snorkeling, or whale watching in the Kerama Islands of Okinawa, a specialized dive shop is recommended.

【Seafox】
Address: 3-2-13 Tomari, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0012
TEL：098-866-8582
FAX: 098-866-8649
Click here for the Seafox official website.

7-2. Tokashiki Co., Ltd.

Want to try a day trip? Then check out our Tokashiki Island day trip!
I recommend shops that offer swimming and diving services, such as those on Nagannu Island!

[Tokashiki Co., Ltd.]
Address: 3-14-2 Tomari, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture 900-0012
TEL：098-860-5860
Click here for tours offered by Tokashiki Co., Ltd.

7-3. Sea Friend

Sea Friend is based on Tokashiki Island and primarily offers fun diving, as well as support for introductory dives, diving license acquisition courses, snorkeling, and more.
I recommend Tokashiki Island for marine sports.

[Sea Friend]
Address: 155 Aharen, Tokashiki Village, Okinawa Prefecture 901-3502
TEL：098-987-2836
Click here for the Sea Friend official website.

8. What should I bring?

Let's go out and have fun with everything prepared! It's essential!

① Swimsuit! (Those planning to dive can rent a wetsuit from the shop.)
② Bath towel, flip-flops.
③ If you get seasick, be sure to check for motion sickness medication!
④ Especially for women! Be sure to wear sunscreen!! The sun in Okinawa is really strong!

The amount of UV radiation in Okinawa is said to be 1.5 times that of Tokyo. When going to the beach or other areas in a swimsuit, be sure to apply sunscreen and take precautions such as wearing a hat and sunglasses.
Especially when snorkeling, your back is constantly exposed to the sun. Taking precautions such as applying sunscreen and wearing a T-shirt is essential.

Also, be careful of heatstroke and sunstroke, and drink plenty of fluids.
Of course, just because you're in the water doesn't mean you're staying hydrated.
Also, since swimming uses up a lot of energy, it's a good idea to bring something light like rice balls to eat.

9. In case of bad weather or cancellation of ferry service

Speaking of Okinawa... there are typhoons, right? I'm sure many people have experienced this firsthand, but you should absolutely never go to the beach during bad weather.
Even though it may look calm before and after a typhoon, the sea is still very dangerous!

Also, if the ship is cancelled, you can cancel or change your ship reservation!
The decision on whether to operate the ferry will be made at 8:00 AM every morning, so please check the wave conditions as well.

Finally

So, I've shared some tips for enjoying the Kerama Islands. What do you think?
The most important thing is to have fun safely! We hope you'll be fully prepared and enjoy yourself.
Why not visit the Kerama Islands, a little paradise in Okinawa?