Enjoy the coral reefs of Miyako Island! 10 types of coral reefs and recommended snorkeling spots to see corals up close.
Table of Contents
- 1 If you go to Miyako Island! Recommended spots for impressive coral reefs
- 2 Why are the coral reefs of Miyako Island so popular?
- 3 Living in the Coral Reefs of Miyako Island Coral species and creatures
- 4 No worries for beginners! 10 Coral Reef Spots Recommended in Miyako Island
- 5 What you can do to protect coral reefs
- 6 Miyako Island Snorkeling Spots Q&A
- 7 summary
If you are going to Miyako Island!
Recommended spots for impressive coral reefs
Miyako Island is known for its clear waters and colorful coral reefs.
There are numerous snorkeling spots that even first-time visitors can enjoy.
This article introduces a selection of recommended coral reef spots on Miyako Island that are easy for beginners and families to experience.
◆If you want to know the recommended spots for your trip to Miyako Island.
◆Those who want to know where the coral reefs of Miyako Island are beautiful.
◆Those who are looking for a tour to enjoy coral reefs in Miyako Island.
◆If you are interested in snorkeling/diving in Miyako Island
Click here for Miyako Island Popularity Ranking Tour
↓Click here for an illustrated guide to tropical fish you can find on Miyako Island.
Why are the coral reefs of Miyako Island so popular?
The main reason why the sea of Miyako Island is so loved is the world's best transparency and the beauty of its diverse coral reefs. In the clear blue "Miyako blue" sea,coral reefand ... andtable coraland others spread out, and brightly colored tropical fish dance in the air.
Even accessible beaches are popular among both beginners and seasoned surfers, as they allow visitors to observe coral reefs in their natural state.
Inhabiting the coral reefs of Miyako Island
Coral species and creatures
The sea of Miyakojima is home to more than 400 species of corals. Coral reefs are also called "cradles" of living creatures, nurturing a diverse marine ecosystem. Here we introduce some representative coral species and the creatures that congregate there.
| Coral species | feature | The main creatures that congregate |
|---|---|---|
| Green coral (Branch coral) | A branch-like coral, the most common type of coral found on Miyako Island. Widely distributed in shallow waters. | Clownfish, Sparidae, Butterfly Fish, Chaetodon Chaetodon auriga, and Chaetodon auriga |
| table coral | It is characterized by its table-like spreading shape. It grows in clusters in shallow areas where light shines through, creating a beautiful landscape. | goatfish, bigeye damselfish, red goatfish, and sea snake |
| coral reef | Rounded shape, hard, grows in strong waves. A hardy and long-lived coral. | Harisenbon, wrasses, sea otters |
| yellowstone coral (Corallium japonicum) | Characterized by flower-like patterns, polyps spread at night. They are often found in relatively deep water. | pristine coralfish, grouperfish, and hornbeam (Carassius auratus) |
| African forest coral (Corallium japonicum) | Dense thick and short branches provide shelter for fish. | Clownfish, juvenile southern spotted pufferfish, and sparrowhawk |
| common coral (Corallium japonicum) | Coral grows in overlapping plate-like form, like terraced rice paddies. | butterfly butterflyfish, gurukul and snappers |
| reef coral | A kind of soft coral with a lovely flower-like shape. Its swaying appearance is fantastic. | Nudibranchs, Gobies, Frogfish, Shrimps |
Points of Observation
(2) At low tide, the coral is close by and ideal for observation, but be careful not to touch or step on it.
(iii) High transparencyYoshino Coastand ... andShinshiro Coast, ,eight-holed arrow whistleYou can see these coral colonies up close at the
↓ Click here to see the creatures that live only on Miyako Island.
Beginners can also feel at ease!
10 recommended coral reef spots on Miyako Island
Snorkeling and diving are popular on Miyako Island, where you can observe up close the beautiful coral reefs that are home to many sea creatures. The spectacular view of the crystal clear ocean and colorful coral reefs is truly a unique attraction of Miyako Island.
Here are some recommended coral reef spots that even beginners can enjoy.
(1) Aragusuku Coast
It is one of the most popular beaches on Miyako Island, characterized by calm waves and shallow topography.Just a short swim from the shore, you can encounter colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.The park is also suitable for beginners and families.
There is also a snorkeling rental store nearby, making it an ideal spot for your first snorkeling excursion on Miyako Island.
◆Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Toilets and showers: Toilets available
Recommended time of day: High tide is recommended / Low tide is best because the coral is close to the surface of the sea and fins and bodies may collide with the coral.
2) Yoshino Coast
Located on the east coast of Miyako Island, Yoshino Beach is like a natural aquarium with its outstanding transparency and dense coral reefs. A wide variety of tropical fish can be observed from close to the shore,If you are lucky, you can even see sea turtles!The waves are calm and popular with beginners. The waves are calm and popular with beginners.
With a parking lot and rest areas, this is a spot where visitors can spend the entire day relaxing.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Toilets and showers: Toilets available
Recommended time of day: High tide is recommended / Low tide brings coral closer to the sea surface and exposes some parts of the coral.
(iii) Yaebiji
Yaebise, one of the largest coral reef groups in Japan, is a "fantastic paradise" in the sea north of Miyako Island.It can only be visited by boat tours.In the clear water, there areHundreds of species of corals and fishI am doing this.
The white sand islands that appear with the ebb and flow of the tide are also fantastic. The view, especially on a clear day, is a spectacular sight that should be seen at least once in a lifetime.
Access: 40 minutes by boat from Hirara Port, 20 minutes by boat from Ikema Island
◆Parking: Parking is available at the departure port.
Restrooms and showers: Facilities are available on the boat at the time of tour participation.
Recommended time of day: Morning (the sun's rays penetrate deep into the water)
↓Yaebiase held
Click here for recommended snorkeling tours
↓Click here for directions to Yaebise
4) Yonaha Maehama Beach
This beautiful white sand beach is representative of Miyako Island, with a total length of approximately 7 km of pure white sand.Clear coral reefs extend offshore.Even beginners can enjoy a safe snorkeling experience by joining a tour.
The waves are calm, making it popular among families, and the photogenic and spectacular scenery is also appealing. The area offers a tropical sense of openness that can be enjoyed to the fullest.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Restrooms and showers: Restrooms available, showers available for a fee
◆Recommended time of day: Morning is recommended (calm waves and high transparency)
Held at Yonaha Maehama Beach!
Click here for snorkeling tours
5) Shigira Beach
Sigira Beach is located within the hotel area,Popular spot known for swimming with sea turtlesIt is a Beach entry allows easy observation of coral reefs and tropical fish, even for beginners. The shallows are covered with a variety of coral and the visibility is excellent.
The beach is well-equipped and ideal for couples and family vacations.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Restrooms and showers: Restrooms available, showers available for a fee
◆Recommended time: Around high tide and in the morning (calm waves and high transparency)/Around high tide is good for those who want to see sea turtles
6) Pina Nagama Beach
This beach is the closest to downtown Miyakojima and has excellent accessibility. The shallow waters and gentle waves make it a good place for first-time snorkeling.Small coral reefs and colorful fish dot the sea.The area is a great place to enjoy nature in a casual way.
Beautiful sunset view in the eveningIt is also a great place to stop by between sightseeing tours.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Restrooms and showers: Restrooms available, showers available for a fee
◆Recommended time: Morning is recommended (calm waves and high transparency)/Sunset sunset is also good
(7) Nagama beach
Nagama Beach, with its quiet and serene atmosphere, attracts relatively few tourists, making it a relaxing place to spend time. High transparency,On a clear day, the outline of the coral reef is clearly visible.about. The coastline is also exceptionally beautiful and ideal for photography.
This is a hidden gem recommended for those who seek an environment that is pristine and natural.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: No
Toilet and shower: No
Recommended time of day: High tide / Low tide for those who want to see sea turtles.
8) Sunayama Beach
The contrast between the cave-like arch rock and white sand is a popular spot.A short swim from the beach, colorful coral reefs and tropical fish can be observed.Can be done.
On days when the waves are calm, it is ideal for snorkeling. The easy accessibility and popularity as a tourist attraction also make it a good choice for travelers looking for a photo opportunity.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Restrooms and showers: Restrooms available, showers available for a fee
◆Recommended time: Morning (calm waves and high transparency)
(9) Watariguchi Beach, Irabu Island
Wataguchi Beach, located just across the Irabu Bridge, is impressive with its vast white sand and emerald green waters. Coral reefs and schools of fish spread out offshore,Tours are available for safe underwater exploration.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
It is well equipped and popular with families and couples. This is a great spot to visit in conjunction with sightseeing on Irabu Island.
◆Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Available
Restrooms and showers: Restrooms available, showers available for a fee
◆Recommended time: Morning (calm waves and high transparency)
↓Irabu etc. held
Click here for recommended snorkeling tours
10) Nakanoshima Beach (Kayaffa), Shimojishima Island
The "Nakanoshima Channel" is also popular among divers,Attracted by the complex topography and clear watersThe area is a great place to swim. Beginners can swim with confidence, as coral reefs and tropical fish can be seen up close from the shallows.
The attraction is that you can see a variety of creatures such as clownfish and fish hiding behind rocks. This is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy the ocean in a quiet environment with few people.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: No
◆Toilets and showers: None (public toilets at "Street Pond," a 3-minute drive away, are available)
◆Recommended time of day: Low tide and in the morning (calm waves and high transparency)
Held on Shimoji Island!
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↓Enjoy snorkeling in Miyako Island
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What you can do to protect coral reefs
The coral reefs of Miyako Island are not only a treasure for tourism, but also part of a delicate ecosystem. While snorkelingDo not step on coralinterpoint (interword separation)I don't touch it.It is important to observe basic manners such as
Also,It is recommended to use environmentally friendly "non-chemical" sunscreensThe Cleanups and conservation tours are also offered in the area, and participation in these activities will raise awareness of the need to protect nature.
Miyako Island Snorkeling Spots
Q&A
On Miyako Island, a wide variety of corals can be seen, including blue corals, green corals, and marble corals. They are rich in color and shape, and can be observed by snorkeling.
A wide variety of organisms such as tropical fish, sea turtles, sea cucumbers, starfish, shrimp, and crabs inhabit coral reefs, forming a rich marine ecosystem.
summary
The coral reefs of Miyako Island are like jewels in the sea. The scenery of colorful corals and fishes will leave a deep impression on visitors. The environment is safe and comfortable for even beginners, making it the perfect place to spend a special time with family, friends, or loved ones.
The moving experience of becoming one with nature will surely be a memory that will last a lifetime.
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