Popular Water Activities in Kerama Islands

The Kerama Islands are a diver's paradise, boasting crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Recommended diving tours typically include day trips departing from Naha, heading to the waters around Zamami Island, Tokashiki Island, or Aka Island. Popular dive sites often feature northern areas like Kuro-jima North and underwater caves, allowing for close encounters with colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish, with a chance to spot sea turtles. Whether you're doing an introductory dive (suitable for beginners) or are a certified diver, professional instructors will guide you, ensuring safety and enjoyment as you explore the secrets of the Kerama waters.

For visitors experiencing water activities in the Kerama Islands for the first time, it's recommended to start with beginner-friendly options. Snorkeling is an excellent choice; you don't need professional skills, just a mask and snorkel to easily admire the underwater world from the surface. Alternatively, a glass-bottom boat tour is a great option for families with young children or those who prefer to stay dry, offering views of marine life through the boat's windows. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking are also popular activities that are easy to learn, allowing you to enjoy leisurely time on the water under the vast blue sky.

Both the Kerama Islands and Miyako Island boast stunning seascapes, but for snorkeling convenience and national park-level biodiversity, the Kerama Islands have an edge. As a national park, the Kerama Islands are renowned for their 'Kerama Blue' exceptionally clear waters, offering high visibility, abundant healthy coral reefs, and diverse tropical fish species, with a high probability of encountering sea turtles while snorkeling. Convenient access from Naha and a variety of day trip options make it ideal for first-time Okinawa snorkelers. Miyako Island, on the other hand, is known for its unique geological formations and underwater caves, which are more suited for advanced diving.

The best months for experiencing water activities in the Kerama Islands are typically between April and October each year. During this period, the weather is warm, with plenty of sunshine, and the seawater temperature is comfortably pleasant, making it ideal for getting in the water. Specifically, the periods from May to early June and from September to October are highly recommended. The weather is stable, and these times avoid Japan's peak travel season (July and August summer holidays), meaning fewer crowds and a more serene experience. While July and August are hot, they are also the busiest for water activities; remember to use sunscreen and be aware of the typhoon season.

For water activities in the Kerama Islands, it is strongly recommended that you book in advance. Especially during peak travel seasons (such as summer holidays and consecutive holidays like Japan's Golden Week), boat tours and popular activity slots are often limited. Booking on-site might result in unavailability. Booking early not only ensures your plans go smoothly but also gives you a wider range of choices. You can book through KKday for support in Chinese and flexible cancellation policies, avoiding language communication issues and making your travel arrangements more secure and convenient.

In addition to world-renowned diving and snorkeling, the Kerama Islands offer many other worthwhile water activities. You can try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), practicing your balance on the calm sea surface and enjoying the pleasure of viewing the 'Kerama Blue' from a water-level perspective. Kayaking is also a popular option; you can paddle to uninhabited islands or explore the coastline. For thrill-seekers, parasailing allows you to overlook the magnificent scenery of the Kerama Islands from high above. Furthermore, sightseeing options like semi-submersible boats or glass-bottom boats allow those who cannot swim or prefer to stay dry to easily enjoy the underwater scenery. During winter (approximately December to March), there are also seasonal whale watching tours.

Kerama Islands National Park has numerous excellent snorkeling spots, with many tours taking visitors to the waters around Zamami Island, Tokashiki Island, or Aka Island. For instance, Furuzamami Beach on Zamami Island is known for its high transparency and is suitable for beginner snorkelers. Aharen Beach on Tokashiki Island is another popular choice, offering abundant coral reefs and tropical fish. The waters around the uninhabited islands near Aka Island are less crowded and have more pristine and rich ecosystems, where you can frequently encounter sea turtles. These locations are all prime spots for admiring the 'Kerama Blue' and its rich marine biodiversity.

When participating in group water activity tours in the Kerama Islands, a range of essential equipment is usually provided to ensure your safety and comfort. This typically includes: a snorkeling mask, snorkel, and fins, along with a life jacket for buoyancy and protection. For diving tours, additional professional diving gear such as a wetsuit, buoyancy control device (BCD), regulator, and weights will be provided. Some tours may also offer towels, simple shower facilities, or underwater camera rentals. It is advisable to carefully check the list of included equipment in your tour details before booking, and prepare personal items like swimwear, a change of clothes, and sun protection.

Observing sea turtles in the Kerama Islands is a popular and unique experience. The most common way is through snorkeling or diving tours, as many dive sites and snorkeling areas are feeding and resting grounds for sea turtles. The waters around Aka Island and Zamami Island are particularly known for a high probability of encountering turtles. Many tour operators offer specific 'swim with turtles' themed tours, guided by experienced local guides who know the best spots. It's recommended to choose operators who are experienced and advocate for marine conservation, allowing for close observation of these beautiful creatures without disturbing them.

Most water activities in the Kerama Islands depart from Naha City. After your activities, returning to Naha City is the best choice for enjoying local cuisine. Naha offers vibrant shopping districts like Kokusai Dori (International Street) and Makishi Public Market, serving a wide variety of Okinawan local dishes. You can savor authentic Okinawan soba, stir-fried bitter melon (goya champuru), and taco rice. Kokusai Dori is lined with numerous restaurants, izakayas, and cafes, providing ample choices. Don't miss out on Okinawa's unique tropical fruits, brown sugar sweets, or a glass of awamori to cap off a day of water activities. If you stay on the islands, local eateries on each island also offer simple meals.