Okinawa boasts numerous charming outlying islands perfect for day trips. You can enjoy the beautiful sea and beaches, snorkel and other marine activities to admire coral reefs and tropical fish, or explore the unique culture and history of each island. Why not take a relaxing boat trip and refresh yourself on one of Okinawa's remote islands?

<Table of Contents>
1. Zamami Island
2. Tokashiki Island
3. Akajima Island
4. Nagannu Island
5. Kudaka Island
6. Tsuken Island
7. Minnajima Island
8. Iejima Island

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1. Zamami Island

Located about 50 minutes by high-speed boat or 90 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port on Okinawa Island, it is one of the Kerama Islands.
In particular, Furuzamami Beach and Ama Beach are known for their crystal-clear waters, allowing you to observe colorful coral reefs and tropical fish up close while snorkeling or diving.

Additionally, whale watching is popular from winter to spring, offering the chance to admire whales swimming gracefully.
With observation decks scattered throughout the island, such as "Takatsukiyama First Observation Deck" and "Kamihama Observation Deck," one of the island's attractions is the opportunity to fully experience the magnificent and beautiful nature of Kerama National Park.

2. Tokashiki Island

It is one of the Kerama Islands, located about 50 minutes by high-speed boat or 90 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port on Okinawa Main Island.
The area retains a great deal of unspoiled nature, and due to its mountainous terrain, beaches are limited.

Aharen Beach, with its white sandy shores and emerald green sea, is a popular choice, while Tokashiku Beach is recommended for those who want to enjoy a more private experience.
In addition, there is a secluded beach called "Nakagami Beach" in the southern part of the island. Observation decks are set up in various places on the island, and the "Kerama Strait Observation Deck," which offers a panoramic view of the Kerama Islands, is a particularly popular spot for its spectacular scenery.

3. Akajima Island

This island in the Kerama Islands is located about 50 minutes by high-speed boat or 90 minutes by ferry from Tomari Port on Okinawa Main Island.
The island is surrounded by beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, and at Nishibama Beach, you can admire colorful coral reefs and tropical fish through snorkeling and diving.

Additionally, the "National Park Visitor Center Sangoyuntaku-kan" features exhibits about coral reefs that convey the island's way of life, making it one of the highlights of the park.
If you're lucky, you might even spot a Kerama deer, a protected species, near the visitor center.

4. Nagannu Island

An uninhabited island that can be reached in about 20 minutes from Naha on Okinawa Island.
The island is made of coral sand, composed of fragments of coral and shells, and you'll be amazed by the scenery created by the pristine white sand beaches and the crystal-clear emerald green sea.
Enjoy marine activities that allow you to admire the beautiful coral reefs and colorful tropical fish. If you're lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle while snorkeling! It's an attractive spot where you can fully enjoy a resort atmosphere on a day trip and experience something truly unique to Okinawa.
There are no regular ferry services, but there are many day trip beach tours departing from Naha.

5. Kudaka Island

Kudaka Island, also known as the Island of the Gods, is located about 15 minutes by speedboat or 25 minutes by ferry from Azama Port in southern Okinawa Island.
This is considered the land where Amamikiyo, the goddess of the creation of the Ryukyu Kingdom, descended. Ryukyuan myths and rituals still thrive here, and the islanders carefully preserve and pass down this history and these rituals.
There are restricted areas such as sacred groves and places of worship, so please be sure to follow the island's rules when visiting.
White sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters can be found everywhere on the island.
Furthermore, the island is dotted with mystical spots such as "Udumya" and "Fukamadun," which have been used as sacred sites for year-round rituals since ancient times. In addition to the natural beauty, the island offers the charm of experiencing Okinawa's traditional culture and history.

6. Tsuken Island

Located about 30 minutes by high-speed boat or 60 minutes by ferry from Heyashiki Port on Okinawa Main Island, this island is affectionately known as "Carrot Island."
The island is a major producer of carrots, and you can buy fresh carrots and other local specialties at the island's direct sales outlets.
Beautiful beaches stretch out on all four sides of the island, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the calm sea.
In addition to its iconic "Carrot Observatory," the island also boasts historical sites such as the "Hotoga" spring, "Naka-no-Utaki" shrine, and the "Former Lighthouse Ruins," creating a unique atmosphere where nature and culture blend seamlessly.

7. Minnajima Island

It is a small island located in the northern part of Okinawa Island, accessible by ferry in about 15 minutes from Toguchi Port.
On the southern side of this island lies a beautiful crescent-shaped beach, affectionately known as "Croissant Island."
In the crystal-clear, emerald-green sea, you can enjoy snorkeling and diving while encountering colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
It's appealing because you can enjoy a resort atmosphere on a day trip, relax on a quiet sandy beach, or enjoy marine activities, allowing you to forget about everyday life and unwind.

8. Iejima Island

This island is located in the northwestern part of Okinawa Island and can be accessed by ferry from Motobu Port in about 30 minutes.
From the top of "Tacchu" (Castle Mountain), the island's symbol, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view.
The northern part of the island boasts stunning cliffs and dramatic scenery, while the southern part features beaches with white sand and beautiful ocean views, creating a striking contrast.
Furthermore, the Iejima Lily Festival, held every year during Golden Week, is a highlight of this island, with its colorful lilies attracting many tourists. It's a remote island with plenty to see, and a great place to visit if you're just a short trip from Churaumi Aquarium or Kouri Island.