Aka Island
Island Kerama coral island with beaches and reefs
An island in the Kerama group off Okinawa, known for white-sand beaches, coral reefs and snorkeling with sea turtles; boat access from Okinawa main island.
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Aka Island (Aka-jima) is part of the Kerama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, located off the southwest coast of Okinawa’s main island. The island is small and hosts a village clustered around sheltered bays with sandy beaches and reef-fringed shores.
The surrounding coral reefs and clear waters are the main attraction, drawing snorkelers and scuba divers to see coral formations and reef fish. Local boat operators run short excursions to dive sites and snorkeling areas around the island.
Aka Island is reached by sea from Okinawa’s main island and sits within the Kerama National Park marine area, which is managed for both nature conservation and low-impact tourism. The island’s landscape is low-lying and dominated by coastal features rather than high relief.
The island is part of the Kerama archipelago southwest of Okinawa’s main urban centers and functions as a small, tourism-oriented community with dive shops, guesthouses, and beach facilities.
- Diving and reefs: The island is part of the Kerama island group and is known for clear water, coral reefs, and diving opportunities.
What to See #
- Village and beaches: Sandy beaches and a small central village occupy the island's sheltered bays and provide the main local settlement and visitor access points.
- Coral reefs: Nearshore coral reefs and seagrass beds surround the island and form the primary attractions for snorkeling and scuba diving activities.
How to Get to Aka Island #
Ferries and high-speed boats run from Naha (Tomari Port) to the Kerama Islands; Aka is a short hop from Zamami and Tokashiki islands. Boat schedules vary seasonally.
Tips for Visiting Aka Island #
- Inter-island ferries between the Kerama islands and Okinawa main island often provide the first stop; check schedules carefully as services are infrequent.
- Respect local Ryukyuan customs - small island communities are conservative and value quiet tourism.
- Snorkeling off the coral flats is excellent; local shops rent gear and can point to safe spots.
Best Time to Visit Aka Island #
Small Okinawan island in the Kerama archipelago; ideal for snorkeling and relaxed island visits outside of typhoon season.
Weather & Climate near Aka Island #
Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and mild winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 16°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2170 mm/year), wettest in August.
January
January is mild with highs of 20°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (132 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 20°C and lows of 16°C. Significant rainfall (131 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 21°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (177 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 20°C. Significant rainfall (184 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is warm with highs of 26°C and lows of 22°C. Heavy rain (241 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (243 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 36°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (175 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is hot, feeling like 35°C with oppressive humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (253 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 32°C with oppressive humidity. Heavy rain (217 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 24°C. Significant rainfall (173 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (134 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
