What Makes Snorkeling with Sea Turtles at Shigira Beach So Fun? Can You Go on Your Own? A Complete Guide to Tours, Rentals, and Safety Precautions
Shigira Beach
What is the appeal of snorkeling?
Shigira Beach is located in the southern part of Miyako Island,A hole-in-the-wall beach with excellent transparencyIt is. This column will cover snorkeling spots, sea turtle points, differences between tours and private tours, rental information, and even safety measures.
Please refer to this page even if you are visiting for the first time!
Those who are not sure whether to go on a tour or enjoy themselves individually.
Those who want to know in advance the points where sea turtles can be seen.
For those who want to experience snorkeling at Shigira Beach for the first time.
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What kind of beach is Shigira Beach?
Basic Information and Access
Relatively unknown in Miyako Island.Holey AreaShigira Beach is located in the
With its crystal-clear waters and peaceful surroundings, it's the perfect spot for snorkeling!
Miyako Island Recommended
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Location and access to Shigira Beach
Shigira Beach is in the southern part of Miyako Island,Ueno DistrictIt is located in the area of Shigira Resort (Shigira Kogane Onsen Resort). It is located within the area of Shigira Resort (Shigira Kogane Onsen Resort) and can be accessed in about 20 minutes by car after flying from Naha Airport to Miyakojima Airport. You can also rent a car from Miyakojima City.About 15 to 20 minutesand easy accessibility is another attraction. You can use the parking lot of the resort facility for parking.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
Click here to see the article about recommended beaches in Miyako Island.
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Beach Features and Atmosphere
Shigira Beach is located in the Shigira ResortPrivate beachThe white sandy beaches and emerald green sea are spread out and the waves are calm. With white sandy beaches and emerald green waters, the waves are calm and the water is shallow in some areas, making it safe for beginners and families with children to enjoy.
Compared to beaches densely populated by tourists, it has a more relaxed atmosphere and is recommended for those who want to relax and enjoy the ocean!
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Suitable season for snorkeling
The best season to enjoy snorkeling in Miyako Island isAround April to OctoberThe best time to visit is from June to September, especially when the water is warm and clear. The best conditions are especially from June to September, when the sea water temperature is high and the clarity is excellent.
However, be careful of weather changes from July to September, which coincides with typhoon season! In winter (December to February), the water temperature drops and you may need a wetsuit. Spring and fall are relatively free and comfortable seasons to enjoy snorkeling.
Miyako Island Snorkeling
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Snorkeling spots on Shigira Beach
The underwater area of Shigira Beach is rich in coral reefs and tropical fish, and has high potential as a snorkeling spot. The scenery you can enjoy varies depending on which area of the beach you enter.
Recommended points and sea clarity
The clarity of Shigira Beach isthe best in Miyako IslandOn a clear day, the bottom of the sea can be seen with the naked eye at a depth of 5 to 6 meters. A short walk offshore from the center of the beach leads to an area with colorful tropical fish and coral reefs.
The coral density is especially high around the rocky areas, where you can enjoy seeing schools of sparrows and butterfly fish swimming in the water.
Where is the point to see sea turtles?
Shigira Beach isBeaches with many sea turtle sightingsIt is also known as the "sea turtle beach. Sea turtles can be seen in abundance in the area from the rocks on the left side of the beach to the offshore area.
Sea turtles eat coral and seaweed and tend to prefer areas with abundant seaweed. Whether or not you can encounter one depends on luck,Early in the morning or when few people are aroundIt is said that the probability of encountering a fish increases if you enter the water at Remember to have the good manners to observe gently without getting too close!
▼Here is a tour with a high probability of encountering sea turtles.
Popular sea turtle snorkeling tours
Areas for private entry and precautions
Although individual snorkeling is possible at Shigira Beach,Swimming areas are set aside.Therefore, it is important to have fun within the area indicated by ropes and floats. Outside the area, waves can be stronger or the water deeper suddenly, so beginners in particular should observe the set-up area!
In addition, if you use the beach at the Shigira Resort, you may need to pay a beach fee or admission to the resort. It is a good idea to check with the facility in advance.
At Shigira Beach
How can I join a snorkeling tour?
If it's your first time snorkeling at Shigira Beach, we recommend joining a guided tour. You'll receive thorough support to ensure your safety and enjoy a more fulfilling underwater experience!
Miyako Island Snorkeling Tour Ranking
Approximate tour contents and fees
Snorkeling tours around Shigira Beach are available in the following time periods2 to 3 hoursThe majority of the items are from the following list. The estimated fees are4,000-8,000 yen per adultand many plans include equipment rental.
Plans that include guidance to sea turtle points and underwater photography and video recording services are also popular. Many tours offer children's rates, making it easy for families to participate.
Do you recommend tours or private tours?
For those who are not confident swimmers, snorkeling beginners, or those with childrenTour participation strongly recommended!The Instructors will take care of your safety, so you can rest assured that you will be taken care of in case of an emergency.
On the other hand, for those who have snorkeling experience and want to enjoy it at their own pace, private entry is an option. However, even if you enter on your own, be sure toAt least 2 peopleand avoid entering the water alone.
Miyako Island Recommended
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What to look out for when snorkeling privately
When enjoying Shigira Beach on your own, advance preparation and safety awareness are especially important. While the sea of Miyakojima is beautiful, there are areas with strong tidal currents, so be sure to take precautions before entering the water!
Preparation for do-it-yourself snorkeling in Miyako Island
For individual snorkeling,3-piece set of mask, snorkel, and finsBe sure to prepare the following. Rash guards and sunscreen (of a type that takes the marine environment into consideration) are also essential, as the ultraviolet rays of Miyakojima are extremely strong. Also, because the environment can easily deplete your energy, be sure to drink plenty of water and never enter the water on an empty stomach or after drinking alcohol. Wearing a life jacket (floating vest) will ensure buoyancy and make the experience safer.
Safety measures and dangerous points on Shigira Beach
Shigira Beach is a relatively calm beach, but near the rocks and offshoreStronger tidal currents.There are It is important not to force yourself into the water on days when wave conditions are bad or windy.
Also, be careful not to expose bare skin during the period when jellyfish and bonefish are present (mainly from summer to fall). This is to avoid stepping on sea urchins and corals,Wearing marine shoesis also recommended.
Learn from past accidents for safe enjoyment
In the sea around Miyako Island, water accidents have occurred in the past while snorkeling. The main causes are,Acting alone or entering areas where swimming is prohibitedThe following are some of the reasons for this: - Entering the water in poor physical condition, or being lost in an area with strong currents.
No matter how experienced you are, it is important to always act with more than one person and observe basic safety measures such as wearing a life jacket. Sea conditions can change rapidly depending on the weather, so be sure to proactively check the information provided by local staff and facilities.
Shigira Beach Rental Information
You don't have to bring your own snorkeling equipment; you can rent it at the site. Please check in advance what you need so that you can prepare smoothly on the day of your visit.
Types of equipment available for rent and fees
Masks, snorkels, and fins are available at the Shigira Resort Beach House and nearby marine stores.Set rental is commonIt is. Estimated fees are set atAbout 1,000 to 2,500 yenThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
Some stores offer life jackets and wetsuits for rent. Children's sizes are often available, making it safe for families.
Information on rental stores in the area
Around Shigira Beach, equipment can be rented at the Marine Sports Center in the Shigira Resort, as well as at rental stores in the Ueno area and downtown Miyakojima.
At stores near Miyakojima Airport and diving stores in the city,Reservation rental from the day beforeSome of them are also available for It is recommended to compare the rates in advance, as they may be less expensive than renting directly on the beach.
Shigira Beach Snorkeling
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about
Yes, individual snorkeling is possible. However, as the beach is within the Shigira Resort, beach use fees and resort entrance procedures may apply. In addition, as a rule, activities must be conducted within the set swimming area. Beginners and those who are not comfortable with swimming are recommended to join a tour with an instructor.
Shigira Beach is known as a beach with many sightings of sea turtles, and if conditions are right, there is a high probability of encountering one. In particular, there are many sightings in the area offshore from the rocks on the left side of the beach, and it is said that you are more likely to encounter sea turtles if you enter the water early in the morning or when there are few people around. However, this is not a guarantee of encountering sea urchins because they are wild creatures. If you join a guided tour, you will be taken to the sea turtle point, which will greatly increase the chance of encountering sea turtles.
Yes, rental is available. You can rent a mask, snorkel, and fin set for about 1,000 to 2,500 yen at the Marine Sports Center in the Shigira Resort or at nearby marine stores. Some stores also provide life jackets and wetsuits. Some stores in Miyakojima City support rental by reservation the day before the event, so it is best to check in advance.
summary
Shigira Beach offers clear waters, a chance to encounter sea turtles, and a quiet environment,One of the best snorkeling spots on Miyako IslandIt is Beginners can join a tour, while more experienced people can take on the challenge on their own, depending on their style of enjoyment.
You can also visit empty-handed as there are plenty of rentals available. Please make sure to take all safety precautions and enjoy the best underwater experience possible!
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