10 Best Things to do in Okinawa (Main Island)

White sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, rich cultural heritage, and natural wonders make up the island of Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost island. Known for its Blue Zone region, a place where people live longer and healthier lives, Okinawa Island is part of the Ryukyu Islands, an archipelago stretching between Kyushu (the southernmost of Japan’s main islands) and Taiwan. 

Okinawa is primarily known as a resort destination, but it also holds deep cultural and historical significance. Once the heart of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, the island’s unique traditions, sacred sites, and UNESCO-listed Gusuku castles reflect its rich heritage. It was also the site of the pivotal Battle of Okinawa during World War II, leaving lasting marks, including a 30-year period of U.S. military control that shaped its modern identity. 

Today, Okinawa is a blend of Ryukyuan culture, Japanese influence, and traces of American presence, offering a truly unique experience.

The Okinawa Islands 

Scattered across the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, 160 islands make up the Okinawa Prefecture. These are typically divided according to the following areas:

• Okinawa Island (Okinawa Honto): The main island that serves as the central hub. This is also where you’ll find the capital city of Naha. Okinawa Main Island has a little bit of everything: impressive beaches, a national park, resorts, and heritage sites.
• Kume Islands: Known for beaches, protected wetlands, and ancient ruins, these islands are great for diving and snorkelling.
• Kerama Islands: A group of islands famous for clear, bright blue waters. In the winter, this turns into a popular whale-watching site. The largest of these islands is the Tokashiki Island.
• Miyako Islands: A jump-off point to excellent diving spots and quaint fishing villages.
• Yaeyama Islands: These outlying islands are more remote, but are great for water activities like snorkelling, diving, and surfing. Ishigaki Island is the centre, while Iriomote Island draws visitors for its rare nature. 
• Daito Islands: Located to the east of the Okinawa Main Island, the Daito Islands are remote and less visited, known for their unique geological formations, dramatic cliffs, and rare flora and fauna.

Is Okinawa worth visiting? With so many islands to explore and things to do in Okinawa, our answer is an immediate yes. 

We’ve been curious about Okinawa for years and after finally spending a week exploring the main island, we were hooked! Okinawa is unlike any other place in Japan. It’s unique culture, warm climate and tropical setting make it a destination worth visiting.

How to Get to Okinawa

Okinawa is easily accessible, with direct flights from Tokyo taking approximately three hours. The main transportation hub is Naha Airport, located on Okinawa’s Main Island, which handles both domestic and international flights. 

With frequent flights operated by major airlines and budget carriers, reaching Okinawa and its neighbouring islands is convenient, making it an ideal destination for a multi-island adventure. Ferries also operate between some islands, offering an alternative way to explore the archipelago.

International Flights

Naha Airport has direct flights from major hubs within Asia including China, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. 

Domestic Flights

Both major and budget domestic carriers fly into Naha. Narita International Airport and Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) are the most popular, but other airports within Japan fly to Naha Airport as well.

How to Get Around Okinawa Island

Getting around Okinawa Main Island largely depends on your travel style and the areas you want to explore. While public transportation exists, including buses and monorails in Naha city, it can be limited and time-consuming for reaching attractions outside the urban area. Renting a car is the most convenient and efficient way to explore the island at your own pace. With well-maintained roads and clear signage in English, a car allows you to visit top destinations like Cape Manzamo, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, and the picturesque beaches in the north.

Remember that in Japan, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for foreign visitors.

For those who prefer not to drive, guided tours offer a great alternative.

Guided Tour with Okinawa Adventures

During our visit, we spent 3 days on a private tour with Okinawa Adventures (a part of Japan Adventure Travel) in the northern part of the island and another 5 days exploring on our own. Our tour with Okinawa Adventures focused on exploring Okinawa’s Blue Zone, allowing us to discover the secrets of longevity that have brought so much fame to small communities in the North of the island. 

Thanks to the well-designed itinerary and the knowledge of our local guides, we got a chance to connect with locals in small communities, eat at tiny local restaurants, and really learn from the people of the island. It was an experience we could have never gotten on our own and one we would definitely recommend to others. 

Best Time to Visit Okinawa

Okinawa is a tropical island paradise, which means long, warm summers and mild winters. The best time to go comes to the specific things you want to do in Okinawa.

Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures with ideal weather, low humidity, and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer (May to September) is great for beachgoers, with warm waters and sunny skies ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. However, this is also typhoon season (July to September), so there’s a risk of storms.

Fall (September to October) provides quieter beaches and warm waters as the crowds thin out, although there’s still a chance of typhoons in early September. Winter (November to February) is mild, with temperatures ranging from 15–20°C (59–68°F), making it a great escape from colder climates, although the water is too cool for swimming. Winter is also whale-watching season (January to March) and offers peaceful attractions.

Best Things to Do in Okinawa

1. Explore the Capital City of Naha

Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture, is a vibrant city blending modernity with rich cultural heritage. It is home to Shuri Castle, a bustling Kokusai Street shopping street, as well as shops, markets and more. 

Shuri Castle (Ryukyu Kingdom) 

The Shuri Castle was once the political and cultural center of the former Ryukyu Kingdom, which reigned for 450 years. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a landmark symbolizing the history and culture of Okinawa. The castle was still under restoration during our visit but is set to reopen to the public in 2026. 

Tsuboya Pottery District

Tsuboya is Okinawa’s most famous pottery type, known for its distinct ceramic decorations and local enamel. This pottery district is lined with shops that sell all sorts of ceramics, from traditional to modern wares. 

Sefa-Utaki

In the 16th century, Sefa-Utaki was one of the main locations for practicing religious ceremonies and rituals. Today, it’s one of Okinawa’s World Heritage Sites that can be explored through walking trails that take you through the forest and several rock formations.

Naminoue Shrine

Naminoue Shrine is a revered Shinto shrine in Naha, perched on a sea cliff. The shrine is visible from any boat that passes through the trading base of Naha Port, and it holds immense spiritual significance to the people of Okinawa. Sailors prayed here for safe voyages, fishermen for bountiful catches, and farmers for good harvest.

Kokusai-dori

Naha’s bustling main shopping street offers everything from shopping, dining, and local goods to exciting street performances. It’s the perfect place to explore local cuisine, try traditional crafts, and experience the energetic atmosphere of the city. Shops are open as late as 11pm, but nightlife continues until the early hours. Weekends are the busiest, and the street is closed off to traffic on Sundays.

Makishi Public Market

Makishi Public Market, often called “Naha’s Kitchen,” is a bustling hub for fresh seafood, local produce, and Okinawan delicacies. There’s no better place to sample local goods! Enjoy a selection of the island’s freshest produce, seafood, meat, and pickled items, as well as stalls offering small bites like deep-fried tempura and steamed cakes.

Umikaji Terrace Senagajima

Umikaji Terrace Senagajima is located on Senagajima Island, just a short drive from Naha, Okinawa. Located about a 15-minute journey from Naha Airport, this trendy oceanfront complex with whitewashed Mediterranean-style architecture overlooks the turquoise waters of the East China Sea. It’s a popular spot for enjoying local Okinawan cuisine, browsing unique boutiques, and watching stunning sunsets in a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere. 

Where to Stay in Naha: During our time in Naha, we stayed at the OMO5 Okinawa Naha, a city hotel brand by Hoshino Resorts, right in the Naha City Centre District. Its vibrant design and community-focused atmosphere make it ideal for travellers looking to explore the city while staying connected to local culture. The hotel features cozy rooms suitable for couples or friends traveling together, a lively café, and curated neighbourhood experiences, such as guided tours and recommendations for hidden gems. 

2. Experience Okinawa’s Many Beaches

Okinawa is home to some of Japan’s most beautiful beaches, offering crystal-clear waters, white sandy shores, and vibrant coral reefs. Although we didn’t focus our visit on the beaches, these are the top picks worth visiting. 

Nabee Beach

Nabee Beach is a free public beach in Onna Village with pure white sand and shallow waters. The calm waves make it a top choice for families with kids. Activities here include banana boat rides, glass-bottom boat, kayak, snorkeling, and even BBQ. 

Zanpa Beach

This nice white sand beach near Cape Zanpa is known for its fine white sand. The beach stretches about 200m along the island’s western coast, with rows of beach umbrellas. It’s also a famous spot for sunset watching and gets quite busy in the late afternoon.

Mibaru Beach

This shallow beach is simpler and more remote than the previous ones, making it a great choice for those who want a more peaceful and relaxing beach stay. It does have some beautiful coral reefs that are great for swimming, snorkelling, and glass-bottom boat rides.

Manza Beach

Manza Beach, located in the ANA Intercontinental Manza Beach Resort on the main island, is a 300m-long beach with soft sand. It’s well-maintained and is accessible to guests and daytime visitors. The resort offers activities like parasailing, SUP surfing, seawalker, and a sunset cruise.

3. Check Out the View at Cape Manzamo

Cape Manzamo is a stunning coastal cliff known for its iconic elephant trunk-shaped rock formation. Cape Manzamo (or Cape Manza) holds historical significance in Okinawa, with its name deriving from the Okinawan word “manzamo,” which means “a place where 10,000 people could sit.” According to local legend, the cape was named by a Ryukyu king who visited the site and believed that 10,000 people could gather there to enjoy the magnificent views. 

Stay Nearby: During our visit, we stayed close to Cape Manzano and Manza Beach at the BEB5 Okinawa Seragaki by Hoshino Resorts. The hotel has a youthful vibe and is designed for long-term stays with its spacious apartment-style rooms fully equipped with a bedroom, living room, and dining areas. The units even have a washing machine inside! The hotel also has a 24-hour café, a great lounge space, a rooftop pool, a barrel sauna, and a cold plunge pool. 

Food trucks are set up outside the hotel several times a week, meaning that tasty food is never hard to find. And given that one of the most beautiful beaches in Okinawa is located a short walk away – the location is perfect for those wanting to spend a few days on the beach. 

If you want to explore a bit further, the hotel offers free e-bike rentals, allowing you to explore the coastline and nearby attractions at your own pace. 

4. Splurge on a Luxury Stay at HOSHINOYA Okinawa

No one does luxury quite like HOSHINOYA Okinawa, and staying here was definitely one of the highlights of our visit to Okinawa. The resort, located on the western coast of Okinawa Island, offers a blend of spacious modern accommodations and traditional Okinawan architecture and cultural experiences. 

The spacious rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views of the ocean. Each room includes a king-sized bed (or two), a large bathroom with a soaking tub, a separate shower, organic toiletries, a dining area, a small kitchen, and an outdoor terrace or balcony. The rooms are equipped with high-end amenities such as an espresso machine, refrigerator, and a selection of beautiful green teas and coffees.

The beautiful gardens were our favourite place to stroll through in the early morning and later afternoon hours. The infinity pool offered the perfect spot to watch sunset and their cultural activities, such as Buku Buku Cha afternoon tea, Ryukyu Karate, and Sanshin Music Lessons, offered plenty of opportunities to learn more about local culture. 

Dining at the resort was another highlight with Belleza Restaurant featuring high-end Sicilian-inspired kaiseki meals and Japanese and Western meals available for in room dining. 

Nearby, you can also check out Ryuku Mura—a cultural theme park designed as a Rykukyu Kingdom townscape. You can try a handful of traditional activities, like pottery, sanshin guitar lessons, weaving, and statue painting. Another option is Okinawa World, a theme park with a massive natural cave, a craft village, and a snake museum with species endemic to the Ryukyu islands.

READ NEXT: Staying at Hoshinoya Okinawa Resort

5. Visit the Nakijin Castle Ruins

Built in the late 1200s, this was once the second-largest castle after Shujiro. Today, the well-preserved ruins are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also surrounded by lush forests, where the cherry blossom festival is held in late January to early February. 

6. Learn Okinawa’s WWII History at Peace Memorial Park

The memorial park is on Mabuni Hill, where the Battle of Okinawa ended, and pays tribute to the 200,000 lives lost during the war. Learn about the events that led up to the battle, the battle itself, and the aftermath that deeply impacted Okinawa.

7. Try Traditional Okinawan Food

Okinawan cuisine is quite distinct from mainland Japan. Traditional food is based around the island’s staples, like sweet potatoes, soy, kelp, pork, pickled fish, and tropical fruit. There a few really unique restaurants on the island where you can experience Okinawan cuisine first hand, including:

Emi no Mise

Our favourite meal was from a restaurant called Emi no Mise in Ogimi Village, also known as the Village of Longevity. They are famous for their traditional, homemade dishes that promote long life. We had their “longevity lunch” featuring seasonal vegetables and other health-promoting foods, embodying the Okinawan philosophy of “nuchigusui”—the healing power of food. The restaurant grows most of its own vegetables, ensuring the highest quality and nutritional value, and the meals are prepared with great care to highlight both taste and health benefits.

Yambaru En

Yambaru En is a charming tea house run by a grandmother who prepares tea with Okinawan cinnamon, or karaki, which grows wild in the northern part of the island. Aside from tea, the restaurant also serves unique dishes featuring local Yambaru ingredients. We had one of their set meals that included dishes like bitter melon salad, Okinawa okonomiyaki, and tofu made from seaweed. The relaxed atmosphere and slower pace of life encourage visitors to take their time and enjoy both the food and the company, reflecting the owner’s Ikigai of cooking with nature and fostering relaxation. 

Okinawa Soba

Soba in Okinawa is unlike the dish you might have tried on mainland Japan. Okinawa Soba is a traditional noodle dish with thick wheat noodles served in a rich, clear broth. The dish is typically garnished with tender slices of slow-cooked pork belly, green onions, and sometimes pickled ginger, offering a savoury and satisfying meal. 

You can try Okinawa Soba at any of the hundreds of soba restaurants on the island, but for the most authentic flavours head off the beaten path – the smaller the restaurant, the better. 

8. Visit Yanbaru, Okinawa’s Blue Zone

The Yanbaru Region in Northern Okinawa is one of five Blue Zones in the world, a place where residents live longer and healthier lives. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its rich biodiversity that coexists with the people’s way of life. 

Visit the region and spot endemic wildlife such as the Yanbaru birds— Okinawa Rail, Okinawa Woodpecker, and Okinawa Robin. You can also go for a kayak ride along the lush mangrove forests or hike around Cape Hedo to see the unique rock formations and exotic flora and fauna.

Where to Stay: During our trip to Yanbaru, we stayed in Ada Garden Hotel, located inside Yanbaru National Park and close to Cape Hedo, the northernmost point in Okinawa. With just 20 rooms, the hotel provides a peaceful, intimate setting from which to explore the park. The rooms are basic but comfortable, and the onsite restaurant serves a tasty Japanese breakfast to get you set for your day of exploring. 

9. Head North to Cape Hedo

It’s a long way to the northernmost point of Okinawa, but the dramatic ocean and cliffside views make the trip well worth it. Once there, you can explore Hedo Village, take a walk in the Yanbaru forest or admire the sacred hill where it is said that Okinawa was founded. It’s important to note that it is essential to visit this area with a local guide to respect its cultural and environmental significance. 

10. Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving 

While many want to see the impressive marine life at Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, as sustainable travellers, we don’t love promoting seeing wildlife or marine life in captivity, so instead, we encourage you to get out into nature and the ocean and see some wildlife first hand during your Okinawa trip. 

Okinawa is one of the world’s most coral-rich regions, and island hopping, snorkelling, and diving adventures here are easy to arrange. You can spot sea turtles, manta rays, and a variety of tropical fish within Okinawa’s clear blue waters. 

Some of the best spots for snorkeling and diving on Okinawa’s main island include Cape Maeda, known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, and the Blue Cave, where you can swim with tropical fish among vibrant coral reefs. Other popular spots for snorkeling are Hatenohama, Miyako Island, Kabira Bay on Ishigaki Island, and the Kerama Islands.

For an unforgettable diving experience, head to the Kerama Islands, a short boat ride from Okinawa’s main island, where you’ll find pristine coral gardens, sea turtles, and an array of colourful fish. The Yaeyama Islands, especially around Iriomote Island, are also renowned for their crystal-clear waters and diverse marine ecosystems, offering incredible opportunities to see untouched coral reefs and unique wildlife. 

Our Tips for Visiting Okinawa

Okinawa is a big island, so make sure you have enough time!

There are so many things to do in Okinawa. We recommend spending at least a week here to explore the island at a comfortable pace.

Explore with a trusted guide

An island filled with so much cultural history and significance is best explored with a local guide well-versed in local customs and traditions. Our time in Okinawa with Okinawa Adventures was very valuable in helping us understand more about the history and culture of this unique island. 

Sample local food

There’s a good chance it’s not going to look like your usual choices, but there’s no better time to be adventurous! The food in Okinawa Island is fresh and even linked to long life–so why not?

Lean into history to understand why Okinawa is as it is 

The beaches are great, but there’s much more to the island than the resorts and vacation life. Understanding Okinawa’s complex history makes the experience all the more meaningful.

Have you been to Okinawa? What are some of your favourite things to do in Okinawa that we should add to this list? 

Disclaimer: Our visit to Okinawa was made possible courtesy of Okinawa Adventures and the Okinawa Convention & Visitors Bureau. As always, all opinions expressed in this article are ours.