Uncovering the best Okinawan Islands to visit is a journey into a world rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage.
With over 160 islands, many have unique attractions, so adventure, relaxation, and discovery options are endless.
Understanding which Okinawan islands to visit can help you make the most of your trip.
🤿 Here are some amazing experiences on different Okinawan Islands. 🏝️
- 1) Okinawa Island
- 2) Miyako Island
- 3) Ishigaki Island
- 4) Iriomote Island
- 5) Kurima Island
- 6) Irabu Island
- 7) Taketomi Island
- 8) Kouri Island
- 9) Aguni Island
- 10) Kume Island
- 11) Zamami Island
- 12) Ikema Island
- 13) Ogami Island
- 14) Shimojishima
- 15) Tarama Island
- 16) Yonaguni Island
- 17) Hateruma Island
- 18) Kerama Islands
- 19) Kohama Island
- 20) Amami Island
Here is a list of our best Okinawan Islands to visit.
1) Okinawa Island
Okinawa Island is the vibrant hub of Okinawa prefecture.
It is the prefectural capital and the largest city on the island.
It boasts a mix of cultural influences from Japan, China, and Korea, reflecting its historical roots as a former trade centre.
One of its most famous attractions is Shurijo Castle.
It played a significant role during the Ryukyu Kingdom period and offers a glimpse into the island’s history.
This site suffered a fire in 2019 but is being restored.
Exploring Kokusai Street is a delight for shoppers and food lovers.
This area features an array of shops and restaurants where you can sample local Okinawan cuisine.
The lively and energetic street provides an authentic taste of local life.
Naha, the capital, also offers an extensive monorail system.
The Okinawa Urban Monorail, called Yui Rail, runs from Naha City to Urasoe City.
It does not cover all of Okinawa Island.
Taxis are available for a quicker route.
2) Miyako Island
Miyako Island, 300 km southwest of Okinawa’s main island, has stunning beaches and clear waters, which attract many visitors.
These beautiful beaches are some of the best in Japan, making them popular spots for sunbathing and swimming.
If you love water activities, Miyako Island is for you.
It offers excellent diving and snorkelling.
The nearby coral reefs are full of marine life, and exploring them reveals stunning underwater beauty.
You can drive across the island in roughly 45 minutes, offering a chance to see its natural landscapes.
Bridges also connect Miyako Island to neighbouring islands like Irabu and Kurima.
These connections allow you to explore more of the Miyako Islands easily.
3) Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is one of the highlights of the Yaeyama Island chain in Okinawa.
It is the most populated island in the chain and features a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.
Subtropical vegetation covers much of the island, making it a great escape into nature.
Ishigaki is a developed city with an airport.
So, it’s accessible to travellers despite its natural surroundings.
Direct flights run from major Japanese cities, allowing for easy travel.
If you enjoy beach activities, you will find plenty to explore, though some popular spots like Kabira Bay restrict swimming and diving.
For a unique experience, consider a glass-bottom boat ride in Kabira Bay to view the marine life.
Additionally, visiting the Ishigaki Limestone Cave can be an exciting adventure.
The cave is an ancient formation, partially open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural history.
4) Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island is a natural treasure in the Yaeyama Islands, part of Okinawa Prefecture.
As the largest island in the group, it offers vast landscapes filled with dense jungles and vibrant ecosystems.
Despite its size, it remains undeveloped, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
Travelling to Iriomote is an adventure in itself.
The island is accessible by high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Island, with journeys taking around 40 minutes.
This makes it relatively easy to explore its many attractions.
You can discover the unique Iriomote wildcat on the island, an endangered and endemic species found only here.
The island’s environment provides an ideal habitat for diverse plant and animal life.
It is part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, Japan’s southernmost national park.
5) Kurima Island
Kurima Island is located in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.
It is part of the Miyakojima City area and is connected to the main island of Miyako-jima via Kurima Ohashi, a long bridge that offers scenic views.
This bridge allows easy access, making it just a 15-minute drive from Miyako Airport.
One hidden gem is a beach many locals do not know about, providing a peaceful retreat.
If you enjoy snorkelling, the clear waters offer decent opportunities to see marine life.
While the island is small, it has enough attractions to make your visit worthwhile.
The Ryūgūjō Observation Deck is famous for its stunning views of the surrounding ocean.
Exploring Kurima on foot or by bike is enjoyable.
The island features exciting rock formations and rural parks that add to its charm.
6) Irabu Island
Irabu Island is part of the Miyako Islands in Okinawa, Japan.
It is accessible by road from Miyako Island via the Irabu Bridge.
The island covers about 30 square kilometres and is the second largest among the Miyako Islands.
Exploring Irabu Island by car is ideal.
Several isolated beaches are perfect for relaxing and taking in the scenery.
Stopping at overlooks provides stunning views of the ocean and nearby Miyako-Jima.
Irabu Island is also known for its excellent snorkelling spots, clear water and abundant marine life.
It’s a great place to enjoy aquatic activities amidst the beauty of Okinawa.
7) Taketomi Island
Taketomi Island is a small gem just off the coast of Ishigaki.
It’s perfect for experiencing traditional Ryukyu culture.
The island is part of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, providing a stunning natural setting.
Getting there is simple.
A ferry ride from Ishigaki only takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Once on the island, you can explore on foot or rent a bicycle.
The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and old-fashioned streets, which give a glimpse into past times.
Stroll down roads lined with red-roofed houses and stone walls.
For a unique experience, you can also ride a water buffalo cart.
Nature lovers will appreciate the island’s coral reefs and white-sand beaches.
8) Kouri Island
Kouri Island is a charming spot located north of Okinawa’s main island.
It’s known for its iconic Kouri Bridge, which offers stunning ocean views as you drive across.
The island’s clear waters and sandy beaches attract many visitors.
The most popular beach is Kouri Beach, which is close to the bridge.
It’s an excellent place for swimming and enjoying marine activities.
If you prefer quieter spots, explore Tokei, Peace, and Tinu beaches, where the atmosphere is more relaxed.
These beaches have few facilities, so bringing what you need is good.
You can reach Kouri Island by car or bike, offering flexibility in travel.
To drive there, take the Okinawa Expressway from Naha, then follow the highways towards the island.
Alternatively, buses like the Yanbaru Express can get you there from the airport.
While on the island, you’ll find boutique cafes and eateries near the beaches, perfect for a relaxing break.
The island’s small size makes it easy to explore quickly, yet its natural beauty and charm make it worth the visit.
9) Aguni Island
Aguni Island is a destination in the Okinawa Islands, approximately 60 kilometres northwest of Naha City.
It can be reached by ferry or aeroplane, making it accessible for those eager to explore its unique charm.
The island is known for its fascinating landscapes.
Amongst its scenic views are beautiful sandy beaches and striking chalk cliffs.
These white tuff cliffs hint at a volcanic past, adding a dramatic touch to the coastline.
Aguni Island’s culture is rich in tradition.
The community celebrates events with folk dances, and songs passed down over the years.
10) Kume Island
Kume Island is one of the beautiful islands in the Okinawa Prefecture.
It sits about 90 kilometres west of Okinawa’s main island and is known for its pristine beaches.
The island has a rich history. It was part of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s trade routes.
You can visit ruins of ancient castles like Gushikawa and Ue, each offering a glimpse into the island’s past.
Exploring Kume Island is easy.
You can reach it by aeroplane or ferry.
Flights from Naha Airport take about 35 minutes, while ferries offer a more leisurely journey of around three and a half hours.
Once there, you’ll find coral sand beaches and unique rock formations.
11) Zamami Island
Zamami Island is part of the Kerama Islands in Okinawa.
It is known for its clear waters and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
You can reach Zamami Island by express ferry from Naha, which takes around 50 minutes.
The island is 6.7 square kilometres and has a small community of around 500 people.
The island’s rugged terrain makes it perfect for hiking.
Renting a car or an electric bike is recommended for exploring.
Popular beaches like Ama and Furuzamami are accessible by local bus.
The natural beauty and relaxed vibe make it a captivating destination.
12) Ikema Island
Ikema Island is located at the northern end of the Miyako Island group.
It’s connected to Miyako Island by the Ikema Bridge, which stretches about 1.5 kilometres.
Driving over the bridge, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the aquamarine waters below.
This island is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
It’s designated as a wildlife refuge and offers plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
Ikema Island also features several secluded beaches, perfect for those seeking an escape.
The shallow waters surrounding the island make it ideal for relaxing swims and enjoying the natural beauty.
Visitors will find a few small roadside shops and an observation platform offering a panoramic ocean view.
It is easy to explore on a day trip, providing a contrast to the busier parts of Okinawa.
13) Ogami Island
Ogami Island is a quiet, secluded spot in the Okinawa region, part of the Miyakojima district.
It is often praised for its atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
You will find beautiful beaches where clear waters provide a stunning view and a refreshing experience when you visit.
Although small, Ogami Island offers unique experiences.
You can explore its charming landscape, where schools of fish swim near the shore.
Crabs and shellfish are common along the paths and beaches, adding to the island’s charm.
This island is accessible by boat from Miyakojima, making it a perfect getaway from busier locales.
However, some areas may be off-limits during local ceremonies, reflecting its cultural importance.
14) Shimojishima
Shimojishima Island is a unique destination in Okinawa, known for its beautiful landscapes and clear waters.
It is often visited because of its proximity to Irabu Island, giving the impression it is part of a larger island.
As of March 2019, Shimojishima Airport began commercial flights.
This made the island more accessible.
Diving enthusiasts will find Shimojishima a must-visit.
Together with Irabu, it forms a premier diving destination in the Miyako Islands.
The area is famous for underwater caves, inviting you to explore a vibrant marine world beneath the waves.
The clear waters around the island also provide excellent conditions for snorkelling.
Shimojishima is small.
But, it has many activities for those who want to explore its natural beauty.
15) Tarama Island
Tarama Island is a charming destination between Miyako and Ishigaki islands.
It is small, making it perfect for a peaceful visit.
You can explore the island by bicycle, which is highly recommended as it allows you to enjoy the flat landscape comfortably.
Flights to Tarama Island are limited, and while a 25-minute flight from Miyakojima is possible, availability may vary.
There is also a ferry service, but it does not operate daily.
Renting a bike can allow you to stop and enjoy the beaches and natural beauty at your own pace.
16) Yonaguni Island
Yonaguni Island, the westernmost point of Japan, sits proudly in the Okinawa Prefecture.
Its remoteness adds to its charm, making it a unique destination.
Journeying here might be an adventure, but the natural beauty and experiences waiting for you are worth the effort.
Yonaguni offers an extraordinary underwater landscape for diving enthusiasts.
The clear waters are home to a variety of sea creatures.
This island is a diver’s paradise, with sites that cater to different skill levels.
The Yonaguni horse is a small but strong breed found on land. It is historically significant on the island.
If you’re interested, take riding lessons with these gentle creatures.
Its position also makes it the last spot in Japan to witness the sun setting, providing stunning views you will remember.
Getting to Yonaguni might require planning, but its isolation contributes to its allure.
Feeling at the edge of Japan is an exciting adventure for any traveller.
17) Hateruma Island
Hateruma Island is the southernmost inhabited island in Japan.
It’s a small island, roughly 15 kilometres around.
It’s best explored by renting a bicycle, as walking might take too long.
With a population of about 500, it offers a peaceful escape from busier places.
The island is known for its clear night skies.
Due to minimal light pollution, you can see countless stars and sometimes even the Southern Cross constellation.
The best time for stargazing is from late April to mid-June when the nights are cool and clear.
Hateruma is also famous for its unique blue seas, dubbed “Hateruma Blue.”
Enjoying the beautiful beaches and the surrounding ocean is a highlight for many visitors.
There are also local restaurants where you can enjoy traditional dishes and try rare sake like “Awanami.”
To reach Hateruma, you can take an 80-minute ferry ride from Ishigaki Island.
18) Kerama Islands
The Kerama Islands are a small group of beautiful islands about 40 kilometres west of
Okinawa’s main island. Known for their blue waters and white sand beaches, these islands offer some of the best spots for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
The Keramas have four main islands: Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka, and Geruma. Many uninhabited islands surround these.
This area is part of Keramashoto National Park, celebrated for its rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
You can reach the Kerama Islands by ferry from Naha.
High-speed ferries operate daily to Tokashiki, Zamami, and Aka, offering convenient access.
You won’t find regular flights here, as the airport isn’t used for commercial travel.
The islands are trendy for spotting whales from January to March.
19) Kohama Island
Kohama Island is part of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa, surrounded by calm seas.
It’s smaller than some neighbouring islands, but it offers unique experiences.
You can cycle around the island to explore its natural beauty.
Make sure to visit Coral Beach in the north for snorkelling.
The clear waters are safe, and you might spot hermit crabs on the sandy shore.
Head west for Kubazaki Beach, where you can enjoy stunning views of Iriomote Island.
Kohama Island is also known as the setting for the drama “Chura-san”, adding a touch of television fame to its allure.
Trekking on nearby Iriomote Island is another option if you’re looking for adventure.
Despite its remote feel, the island is accessible and welcoming.
20) Amami Island
Amami Island is actually in Kagoshima Prefecture, in the Satsunan Archipelago.
It lies between Kyushu and Okinawa.
The island has subtropical laurel forests and mangrove swamps.
They provide a diverse habitat for native plants and animals.
Its climate is similar to Okinawa, with warm temperatures throughout the year.
Culturally, Amami Island has absorbed influences from the Ryukyu Kingdom.
When visiting, you can explore the local tradition of Oshima Tsumugi, a special type of silk weaving.
Amami Park is another attraction, offering insight into the island’s history and cultural heritage.
For a unique experience, you can witness togyu, a local form of bull sumo, in neighbouring Tokunoshima.
Amami’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a great spot for snorkelling and diving.
