Kerama Islands
Islands Island group near Okinawa famed for coral reefs
An Okinawan archipelago southwest of Naha prized for clear water, coral reefs and sea turtles; day-trippers and divers come for snorkeling, diving and beach time.
The Kerama Islands are an archipelago in the East China Sea that belong to Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. They are noted for clear, blue waters and extensive coral reefs.
Small fishing and Ryukyuan communities have lived on the islands for centuries; administration and modern transport links were incorporated into Okinawa Prefecture in the 20th century. Tourism development expanded in the late 20th and early 21st centuries with growth in recreational diving and conservation efforts for coral.
The archipelago sits off the west coast of Okinawa Island in the East China Sea and is accessed by ferry or boat from Naha, Okinawa’s capital. The islands are low, coral-formed landmasses with beaches and subtropical vegetation.
- Access: Regular ferries and high-speed boats operate from Naha, making day trips possible from Okinawa's main city.
- Best time: Peak underwater visibility and diving conditions are typically in the spring and summer months; seasonal humpback whale sightings occur in winter to early spring.
What to See #
- Tokashiki: One of the largest inhabited islands in the group, serving as a ferry hub and base for diving and beach access.
- Zamami: Known for a coastal village, sandy beaches and popular snorkeling sites close to shore; ferries also call here.
- Aka: Smaller inhabited island with coral-fringed beaches and local guesthouses that serve day-trip visitors and divers.
How to Get to Kerama Islands #
The Kerama Islands (Okinawa Prefecture) are served by ferries from Naha. From Naha city or Naha Airport take a short taxi or local bus to Tomari Port (the city harbour) and board scheduled ferries or high-speed boats to the main islands (Tokashiki and Zamami have regular services); crossing times vary by island and service (fast ferries typically take roughly 30-70 minutes). Ferry terminals are directly adjacent to parking and bus stops, so transfers are short walks.
Tips for Visiting Kerama Islands #
- Take the first ferry from Naha (Tokashiki or Zamami lines) to maximize time on the Kerama islands and book return sailings in advance-last ferries can depart early and services are reduced in bad weather.
- The islands are a marine protected area with outstanding snorkeling and diving-visit spring-early autumn for the clearest water and turtle sightings, and follow reef‑protection rules (no touching corals or feeding wildlife).
- Avoid weekend day‑trip peaks by staying overnight on Tokashiki or Zamami for quieter mornings and better dive/snorkel slots; island businesses often accept cash only, so bring local currency.
- Check typhoon season (summer-autumn) and expect ferry cancellations; confirm schedules the day before departure.
Best Time to Visit Kerama Islands #
For the Kerama Islands, aim for spring (Mar-Jun) or early autumn (Sep-Oct) for the best diving/snorkeling and lower typhoon risk; summer is warm but carries typhoon potential.
