Okinawa Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day Exploring the Kerama Islands from Naha
The Kerama Islands are a group of stunning tropical islands located about 30-40 kilometers west of Naha. This one-day itinerary takes you to crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand beaches, and some of the best snorkeling spots in Japan. You'll experience untouched natural beauty, vibrant coral reefs, and the famous Kerama Blue waters.
Getting There: Take a Ferry from Tomari Port
Ferry Terminal: Tomari Port, Naha
Main Destinations: Tokashiki Island or Zamami Island
Ferry Duration: 35 minutes (high-speed ferry) or 70 minutes (regular ferry)
Ferry Cost: ¥3,000-¥3,500 round trip (high-speed), ¥2,500-¥3,000 (regular ferry)
Traveler's Tip: Book ferry tickets in advance during summer season (July-August) as they sell out quickly. High-speed ferries are recommended for day trips to maximize your time on the islands.
Choose Your Island: Tokashiki or Zamami
The two most accessible Kerama Islands for day trips are Tokashiki and Zamami. Both offer stunning beaches and excellent snorkeling, but each has its own character.
Large rugged island featuring white-sand beaches & diving sites, plus hotels & camping areas.
Tranquil island with scenic white-sand beaches & clear aqua water for scuba diving & snorkeling.
Traveler's Tip: For a first-time day trip, Tokashiki is easier with more frequent ferries and facilities. For serious snorkeling and a quieter experience, choose Zamami. This guide will focus on both islands with specific sections for each.
Arrive at Tokashiki Island
Ferry Arrival: Tokashiki Port
Time: Around 10:00-10:30 AM
After arriving at Tokashiki Port, you'll find rental shops, information centers, and bus stops. The island has a local bus service connecting the port to the main beaches, or you can rent a bicycle or scooter for more flexibility.
Getting Around Tokashiki:
Village Bus: Runs between port and beaches (¥300-¥400 per trip)
Rental Bicycle: ¥1,000-¥1,500 per day
Rental Scooter: ¥3,000-¥4,000 per day (requires valid license)
Taxi: Available but limited, best to call in advance
Traveler's Tip: Rent snorkeling gear at the port before heading to beaches. Full sets cost around ¥1,500 per day. The bus schedule is limited, so note the times for your return journey.
Explore Aharen Beach (Tokashiki Island)
Bus Time from Port: 15 minutes
Time Needed: 3-4 hours
Things to Do at Aharen Beach:
Swim in the crystal-clear Kerama Blue waters
Snorkel along the coral reef to see tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes dolphins
Relax on the pristine white sand beach
Rent beach chairs and umbrellas
Try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking
Walk along the beach to quieter sections
Use the shower and changing facilities
Traveler's Tip: The best snorkeling is on the left side of the beach (facing the water) where the reef is closer to shore. Go early morning for the clearest water visibility. Lifeguards are on duty during summer season.
Visit Tokashiku Beach (Tokashiki Island)
Bus Time from Aharen Beach: 20 minutes (or 10 minutes from the port)
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Things to Do at Tokashiku Beach:
Snorkel in the pristine waters with vibrant coral formations
See colorful tropical fish including clownfish, parrotfish, and butterflyfish
Swim in the calm, protected bay
Hike the short trail to the observation point for panoramic views
Explore the less crowded beach atmosphere
Take photos of the stunning landscape
Arrive at Zamami Island
Ferry Arrival: Zamami Port
Time: Around 10:00-10:30 AM
After arriving at Zamami Port, you'll find the village center with rental shops, restaurants, and information. The island is smaller than Tokashiki, making it easier to explore on foot or by bicycle.
Getting Around Zamami:
Village Bus: Runs between port and beaches (¥200-¥300 per trip)
Rental Bicycle: ¥1,000 per day
Rental E-Bike: ¥2,000 per day
Walking: Furuzamami Beach is 20 minutes walk from port
Relax at Furuzamami Beach (Zamami Island)
Walking Time from Port: 20 minutes
Bus Time from Port: 5 minutes
Time Needed: 4-5 hours
Furuzamami Beach is consistently ranked among Japan's most beautiful beaches. The beach stretches about 800 meters with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters in mesmerizing shades of blue. The beach faces east, protected from strong currents, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Things to Do at Furuzamami Beach:
Snorkel with sea turtles in their natural habitat
See vibrant coral reefs with hundreds of tropical fish species
Swim in the calm, clear waters
Rent beach equipment, including chairs, umbrellas, and water sports gear
Take photos of the stunning Kerama Blue waters
Walk along the beach to find quieter spots
Use the excellent beach facilities
Explore Ama Beach (Zamami Island)
Walking Time from Port: 5 minutes
Time Needed: 1-2 hours
Ama Beach is a small, intimate beach located right next to Zamami Port. While smaller than Furuzamami, it offers good snorkeling and is incredibly convenient for quick swims before or after ferry departures. The beach is protected by a natural breakwater, creating calm waters ideal for families.
Things to Do at Ama Beach:
Quick swim in calm, protected waters
Snorkel near the rocks on either side of the beach
Watch local fishing boats coming and going
Relax on the small sandy beach
Enjoy the view of nearby uninhabited islands
Lunch on the Islands
Both Tokashiki and Zamami have limited dining options, mostly concentrated near the ports or at beach facilities. Plan your lunch accordingly and consider bringing snacks.
La Toquee – Izakaya restaurant
Restaurant Marumiya – Japanese regional restaurant
Afternoon Snorkeling and Beach Activities
Spend your afternoon enjoying the water activities the Kerama Islands are famous for. The waters remain clear and calm throughout the day, perfect for extended snorkeling sessions.
Popular Water Activities:
Snorkeling – Self-guided snorkeling from the beach (free with own equipment, ¥1,500 rental)
Sea Kayaking – Guided tours explore coastal areas and hidden beaches (¥5,000-¥7,000)
Stand-Up Paddleboarding – Rent SUP boards and explore at your own pace (¥2,000-¥3,000 per hour)
Diving – Guided diving tours for certified divers (¥12,000-¥15,000 per dive)
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours – See coral and fish without getting wet (¥2,500-¥3,000)
Banana Boat Rides – Fun group activity (¥1,500-¥2,000 per person)
Explore Zamami Village
If you have extra time before your ferry departure, walk through Zamami Village. The small settlement has traditional Okinawan houses, narrow streets, and a peaceful island atmosphere.
Things to Do in Zamami Village:
Walk through the quiet village streets
Visit local shops selling island crafts and souvenirs
See traditional Okinawan architecture
Stop by the visitor center for information about the islands
Browse small galleries with local artwork
Buy snacks and drinks from the village store
Return Ferry to Naha
Departure Time: Usually between 4:00–5:30 PM (check schedule)
Arrival in Naha: Around 5:00–6:30 PM
Make sure to arrive at the port at least 20 minutes before ferry departure. The last ferries typically leave between 4:00-5:30 PM depending on the season and day of the week.
