Kumejima is a welcoming island for first-time families traveling with children. It offers a relaxed environment where families can enjoy their trip at their own pace, making it a safe and enjoyable destination even with a baby. Why not spend some special time surrounded by the gentle breezes and beautiful scenery of this tropical paradise?

Rent a car from the airport and explore at your own pace.

Kumejima Island is compact, with a circumference of only 48km. It boasts numerous scenic spots, including Hatenohama, a sandbar in the sea often described as the most beautiful in the Orient. The Nakadomari area near Kanegusuku Port and the area around Eef Beach on the eastern side of the island are also known for their many attractive gourmet spots. Since it takes less than an hour to drive from one end of the island to the other, you can enjoy sightseeing at a leisurely pace.

We recommend Kumejima's marine leisure activities! Enjoy a short trip to "Hate no Hama" beach.

If you're visiting Kumejima, Hatenohama Beach is a must-see. However, especially if you have a baby, your plans may change depending on their health and the weather on the day, so unless it's peak season, it's best to check the conditions on the day before booking a tour. We especially recommend the "Hatenohama Landing Tour" offered by Kumejima Marine Leisure. The boat departs from Tomari Fisherina, which is very close to Eef Beach, making it easily accessible from your accommodation.
The best feature of this tour is that you can enjoy a cruise and the beauty of Hatena Beach in a short time of about two hours. You'll ride in a glass-bottom boat on the round trip, allowing you to observe the coral reefs and sea turtles up close. And when you arrive at Hatena Beach, a breathtaking view of crystal-clear blue waters and pristine white sand unfolds before your eyes. Although the glass-bottom boat has a roof, there is no shade at Hatena Beach, so be sure to take proper precautions against sunburn.

Restaurants that welcome customers with babies! Thoughtful touches are also appreciated.

Kumejima Island is appealing because of its warm atmosphere, making it a safe and enjoyable place to visit with children. What was particularly impressive was the large number of restaurants that welcomed babies. Every restaurant greeted the baby, provided high chairs and barley tea, and showed thoughtful consideration. At the popular Okinawa soba restaurant "Yan-gwa," we were touched by their kindness in staggering the timing of our meal so that my husband and I could take turns looking after the baby. We were able to slowly enjoy our piping hot soba. (Please let the staff know if you would like your meal served at a different time.)

Our top recommendation is the "Spicy Miso Bean Sprout Soba." The soup, based on Kumejima red chicken and locally produced pork bones, is characterized by its deep flavor, blended with Kumejima miso and Tamanaha miso. The noodles, made with deep-sea water, and the locally grown Soukei bean sprouts are perfectly combined, and the fragrant spiciness of the special chili oil and the richness of the miso are exquisite. The soup, finished with a smooth texture using soy milk, has an addictive deliciousness.

You can encounter the simple and beautiful Okinawa everywhere on the island.

Kumejima is an island where time flows peacefully and calming scenery can be found everywhere. Even just driving or taking a stroll will envelop you in the unspoiled beauty of Okinawa.
Soda-colored waves crash against the tatami-shaped rocks created by ancient nature, and from Hiyajō Banta, you can see the island's rural landscape and the far-off sea where Hatenohama Beach floats. The settlement is surrounded by sugarcane fields, and magnificent Fukugi trees dot the gardens of the houses and along the roads.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and surrender yourself to the leisurely pace of time. Embraced by nature, you'll find a stillness that will make you want to take a deep breath. And the warm interactions with the people you meet along the way will also become cherished memories that will be gently etched in your heart.

Enjoy quality family time in a private, rent-out accommodation.

If you're traveling with children and want to enjoy some relaxing family time, a private villa rental is highly recommended. Kumejima offers a wide variety of options, from affordable, homey accommodations to villas that prioritize architectural beauty and privacy.
We recommend "Shima no Yado Okaeri". This inn, run by a warm couple who also operate a restaurant, offers spacious and comfortable 12-tatami mat Western-style rooms. Its location away from surrounding houses is a great advantage, as you don't have to worry about children's voices. Furthermore, you can add an optional "Breakfast with Harvest Experience Plan," a special experience where you can enjoy nature with all your senses together with your children. Combined with the warm and friendly personalities of the couple, you can enjoy a stay that feels like returning to your family home on Kumejima Island.

▶︎Read the accommodation experience report here

Another recommendation is "SHINMINKA VILLA JANADO." Surrounded by Okinawan Fukugi trees, this private villa accepts only one group per day. The space blends traditional Ryukyuan house design with modern design, creating a comfortable atmosphere filled with the warmth of wood. The spacious bedroom offers the refreshing feel of tatami mats, making it comfortable enough for babies to crawl around safely. With a leisurely check-out at 11:00, it's a wonderful place to spend quality time with your family.

▶︎Read the accommodation experience report here

A powerful ally to make your stay on Kumejima even more dramatic

Kumejima offers a bespoke tour called "Kumejima Whole-Island Birthday Trip." They carefully listen to the traveler's preferences and hobbies and propose an experience program based on that. From selecting locations on the island to combining the best from a wide range of experience plans, they create a special time that culminates in a private live party.
How about celebrating a truly memorable and unique birthday surrounded by the warm hospitality of the islanders, as part of a family trip?

Yuhei Tonosho, a cyclist and photographer who delves deep into Japan

Born in 1993 in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture. Graduated from Doshisha University, Faculty of Letters, Department of Cultural History and Department of English Literature. While working as a salaryman, he is a travel writer who travels all over Japan by bicycle and mountain climbing. He captures and shares the changing seasons of Japan with all his senses.