Sunabe Beach

Sunabe Beach, located in Chatan town on Okinawa's western coast, has evolved from a quiet fishing area into one of the island's most accessible dive sites. The beach gained prominence during the American military presence in Okinawa, as it sits near several U.S. military installations. Over the decades, it transformed into a recreational hub that attracts both locals and international visitors seeking underwater adventures without the need for boat access.

The beach's primary draw is its exceptional shore diving and snorkeling opportunities. Unlike many dive sites that require boat transportation, Sunabe offers direct entry from the seawall into waters reaching depths of 15 to 20 meters just offshore. The underwater landscape features coral formations, caves, and a diverse marine ecosystem including sea turtles, tropical fish, and occasional manta rays. The site is particularly valued for its year-round accessibility and relatively calm conditions, making it suitable for divers of varying experience levels. The adjacent Sunabe Seawall, stretching approximately 600 meters, has become an iconic feature where divers gear up and locals gather to watch sunsets.

Visitors typically spend their time diving, snorkeling, or relaxing along the narrow sandy beach. The area supports numerous dive shops offering equipment rental, guided dives, and certification courses, with prices generally ranging from ¥8,000 to ¥15,000 for guided shore dives. Non-divers can enjoy the coastal atmosphere, explore nearby American Village—a shopping and entertainment complex 1.5 kilometers south—or visit the many international restaurants and cafes that line the coast, reflecting Okinawa's multicultural character.

Visitors can reach the site by rental car in about 40 minutes via Route 58, with paid parking available near the seawall for around ¥500 per day. Public buses on routes 20, 28, and 29 also service the area, stopping at Sunabe bus stop within walking distance of the beach. There is no admission fee to access the beach itself. The best diving conditions occur from April to November, though the site remains operational throughout the year.