Nishibama Beach

Nishibama Beach is located on Aka Island, part of the Kerama Islands archipelago approximately 35 kilometers west of Okinawa's main island. The beach gained protected status when the surrounding waters became part of Kerama Shotō National Park in 2014, recognizing the exceptional marine biodiversity and coral reef systems that have developed in this region over thousands of years.

The beach is renowned for its pristine white sand composed of coral fragments and its crystal-clear turquoise waters with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. The surrounding coral reefs support over 250 species of coral and serve as critical habitat for sea turtles, tropical fish, and seasonal marine life. Between January and March, humpback whales migrate to these waters for breeding, making this period particularly significant for marine observation.

Visitors come primarily for snorkeling and swimming in the protected bay, where shallow reef areas allow close encounters with diverse marine species including sea turtles that regularly visit the beach. The calm waters and gentle slope make it suitable for both experienced snorkelers and beginners. The beach also offers exceptional underwater visibility for photography and is considered one of the premier snorkeling locations in the Kerama Islands. Swimming is possible year-round, though summer months from June to September provide the warmest water temperatures.

Reaching Nishibama Beach requires taking a ferry from Tomari Port in Naha to Aka Island, with the journey taking approximately 50 to 90 minutes depending on the vessel type. Ferries operate daily with round-trip tickets costing around ¥3,000 to ¥4,000. From Aka Island's port, the beach is accessible by rental bicycle, scooter, or a brief taxi ride covering roughly 2 kilometers. There is no admission fee to access the beach. Basic facilities including restrooms and outdoor showers are available, though dining options are limited, so visitors typically bring their own refreshments or purchase supplies from the small shops near the port.