ITINERARY
Discover the Wonders of Kerama Blue in Okinawa
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Explore the transparent waters around Zamamijima Island in this unforgettable two-day experience. Snorkel, kayak, and standup paddleboard around the white sand beaches and bask in the bliss of this dream destination.
Itinerary Highlights
- Enjoy views of vibrant coral reefs and underwater scenery while kayaking and snorkeling.
- Standup paddleboarding over crystal clear waters.
- Trace the origins of "Kerama Blue," the beautiful color created over time as coral reefs were broken down by waves into fine white sand.
Discover the origins of Kerama Blue on a half-day kayaking and snorkeling tour
Take the high-speed ferry (roughly a 50-minute ride) or regular ferry (approximately 120 minutes) from Naha Tomari Port to Zamamijima Island in the morning. The island is the second-largest of the Kerama Islands.
Begin by visiting the Ao no Yukuru Kan Visitor Center, where you will learn about the island's natural environment and local rules. After a relaxed lunch, walk to the Kerama Kayak Center. You'll spend the next hours kayaking and snorkeling along the coral reefs and soaking up the beautifully bright shade of color known as "Kerama Blue." The views of the water and its marine life will fill you with awe. Better yet, the expert staff of the center can provide guidance to first-time kayakers and those who aren't confident in their swimming so everyone can enjoy the experience.
Showers and lockers are available at the Kerama Kayak Center, as well as a shop selling various souvenirs and kayak-related goods. Once your guided experience concludes, return to the beach of white sand and travel onward to your hotel.
In the evening, you can choose to travel to Inazaki Observatory at the northern end of Zamamijima Island. From here you can get gorgeous views of the surrounding Agunijima Island, Tonakijima Island, and Kumejima Island on clear days. This is also a popular whale-watching spot between December and April, when humpback whales can often be spotted in the vicinity.
Encounter colorful coral, fish, and sea turtles on a SUP and snorkeling tour
Depending on your hotel location, walk or arrange to be picked up for your half-day guided experience of standup paddleboarding. You'll get to see amazing Kerama Blue scenery from the water's surface. SUP is a great activity even for beginners, and you may encounter colorful coral, fish, and sea turtles as well.
After lunch and a shower, travel to Akajima Island aboard the Mitsushima Inter-Island Ferry. Then learn more about coral reefs at the Sango Yuntakukan Visitor Center. There are lots more activities available for those wanting to explore Keramashoto National Park for another day or two.
Besides the area around the port, there are other beaches where you can relax or enjoy some water sports, such as Furuzamami Beach on the east side and Ama Beach to the west. Beyond the coastline, there are also various hiking trails that crisscross the island's hilly terrain and offer beautiful views.
No matter how you choose to spend your time, one visit to Zamamijima Island won't be enough. You'll find yourself yearning to come back before you've even left the island.