No worries for beginners! 10 Famous & Hidden Snorkeling Spots in Miyako Island!
Table of Contents
- 1 Let's experience snorkeling in Miyako Island!
- 2 Famous snorkeling spots in Miyako Island Ranking TOP 10
- 3 Miyako Island Anaerobic Snorkeling Spots
- 4 Miyako Island Snorkeling by Individuals Advantages and Disadvantages
- 5 You can meet sea turtles! Miyako Island Snorkeling Tour
- 6 For beginners! What to bring, what to wear, preparation points
- 7 At Miyako Island Snorkeling Spots Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 8 summary
Let's experience snorkeling in Miyako Island!
Miyako Island is a place where you can see colorful coral reefs in the clear Miyako blue sea, and if you are lucky, you can even meet sea turtles.Nature's Aquarium".
There are many snorkeling spots on Miyako Island, ranging from "do-it-yourself" spots to the more traditional spots that can only be reached by boat!
In this article, we will introduce famous & hidden snorkeling spots on Miyako Island, access, and precautions for beginners in an easy-to-understand manner♪
◆To see the ranking of recommended snorkeling spots in Miyako Island
◆Those who are looking for a snorkeling spot where they can see sea turtles.
Those who want to plan and visit Miyako Island snorkeling spots freely.
◆Beginners who are anxious and would like to join a guided snorkeling tour
Click here for Miyako Island Popularity Ranking Tour
Famous snorkeling spots in Miyako Island
Ranking TOP10
Let's take a look at the famous and popular snorkeling spots on Miyako Island in a ranking format!
No.1] Yaebise (Yabiji)
Yabiji, one of the largest tabletop coral reef groups in Japan.
More than 100 reefs are scattered in the northern waters of Ikema Island,National scenic and natural monument in 2013It is a sacred place for coral snorkeling and is designated as one of the best coral snorkeling destinations in Japan.
Access is by boat only, and tours can be taken to a number of different spots depending on the sea conditions, allowing you to fully enjoy the colorful schools of fish and the expansive coral landscape.
↓Click here to read the article.
Access: 40 minutes by boat from Hirara Port, 20 minutes by boat from Ikema Island
◆Parking: O
◆Toilet and shower: O
◆Shop: O
◆Rental items: O
*There are no parking lots, restrooms, stores, etc. at the Yaebise itself. Necessary facilities may be available at the departure port, at each store, or on the tour boats.
↓Click here for snorkeling x Yaebise tour
Click here for Yaebise Tour Popularity Ranking
No.2] Shigira Beach
A popular beach attached to the Sigirra Seven Miles Resort!
When you swim directly from the beach into the calm sea,You can meet green turtles.The chances are also high. â
With full facilities including rentals and showers, it is easy for beginners and those with children to enjoy themselves.
↓Click here to read the article.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
Snorkeling Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking
No.3] Blue Cave
The light shining into the cave makes the seaShining sapphire blue"Blue Cave.
Since it is not accessible by land, it is safe and reliable to go there from the sea by kayak, glass boat, or boat snorkeling tours.
The blue of the sea is especially beautiful in the morning when the weather is clear.
↓Click here to read the article.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, 10 minutes by boat from Sarahama Port
◆Parking: O
◆Toilet and shower: O
◆Shop: O
◆Rental items: O
There are no parking lots, restrooms, or stores in the Blue Cave itself. Necessary facilities may be provided at the departure port, at each store, or on the tour ship.
↓Snorkeling x Blue Cave Tour
Snorkel x Blue Cave Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking
No. 4] Aragusuku Coast
Coral and colorful fish can be observed from the shallows, and it is a classicBeach snorkeling heaven♪
This is an ideal spot for first-time divers, as sea conditions are calm on most days and facilities for seasonal operations, such as rentals, stores, and restrooms, are available!
◆Access: 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
No.5] Yoshino Coast
A large lagoon spreads out,Coral density and abundance of fishis one of the best in Miyako Island!
Since it is easily affected by the tides, it is recommended to check before visiting. Parking, toilets, and showers are available.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
No.6] Imgarma Marine Garden
The natural cove has calm waves,Stable water surfaceThe company is also used for training courses as it has
Beginners can practice calmly in the inner bay where the currents are weak, but outside, the currents are stronger at different times of the day, so care should be taken.
Another highlight is the view from the elevated promenade!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
No.7] Nakanoshima Beach
This area is called a "natural aquarium" because of its coral reefs and abundance of fish!
However, in areas close to the open ocean, there is a risk of being swept back by the tide, so self-diving is not recommended.For intermediate and advanced studentsIt is considered to be a
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
◆Toilet and shower: O
◆Shop: O
◆Rental items: Fat
No.8] Yonaha Maehama Beach
."The whitest sandy beach in the EastThe 7-kilometer-long white sand beach is known as the "most beautiful beach in the world". Although there is little coral and the fish are sparse, the shallow waters offer excellent scenery.
On days when sea conditions are good, it is ideal for those who want to relax and enjoy playing in the shallow sea. Facilities such as toilets, showers, and a store are also available.
Access: 15 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
No. 9] Sunayama Beach
arch rockA spectacular beach known for its
When the westerly winds blow, waves rise and the waters offshore become steep and deep, so snorkeling and swimming require special care.
It is safe to enjoy mainly playing and photographing in shallow water♪
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Fat
Toilet and shower: ◯
◆Shop: Fat
◆Rental items: Fat
No. 10] Phantom Island (Uni no Hama)
Off the west coast of the Irabu Bridge,A white sandbar that appears only at low tideThere are
It is difficult to go ashore on your own, and is usually visited by boat or SUP/kayak tours.
If you go at low tide, you can enjoy the 360-degree view of Miyako blue and snorkeling in the shallows.
Access: 5 minutes by boat from Two River Marina
◆Parking: O
◆Toilet and shower: O
◆Shop: O
◆Rental items: O
Miyako Island Anaerobic Snorkeling Spots
Here are some spots where you can get around by yourself with a rental car and enter directly from the beach without taking a local tour.
If you want to avoid crowdsfirst thing in the morningand ... andeveningis the best time to fish. Check the wind direction, swell, and tide level before entering the water, and enjoy yourself to the extent that you can.
↓Click here to rent a car in Miyakojima
Click here to see the ranking of popular car rentals on Miyako Island.
Funakusu Beach
Funakusu Beach is located on the west side of Miyako Island,Quiet and secluded spot that has not become a tourist attractionIt is.
The sea is crystal clear, and colorful tropical fish and coral reefs can be enjoyed in the shallows.
Especially on calm days,Take your time to enjoy the ocean.Ideal location.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Toilets and showers: Available
◆Shops: None
◆Rental items: None
long stretch of beach
Nagama Beach is a beautiful hole-in-the-wall beach with expansive white sands and blue ocean.
The calm sea conditions are ideal for snorkeling, and the relatively small number of people allows you to relax and observe the fish and coral.
Avoid crowds,Perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature.It is.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Toilets and showers: None
◆Shops: None
◆Rental items: None
Iquizoo Beach
Ikidu Beach is,Clear waters and pristine nature remainSnorkeling spots.
With few people, it is as quiet and enjoyable as if it were a private beach.
The area is safe and enjoyable even for snorkeling beginners, with a wide variety of fish and coral in the sea.
Access: 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Toilets and showers: None
◆Shops: None
◆Rental items: None
Private Miyako Island Snorkeling
Advantages/Disadvantages
On Miyako Island, it is possible to rent a car to go to the beach and enjoy snorkeling on your own.
Despite the appeal of the high degree of freedom, accidents and problems often occur while snorkeling on your own.
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of snorkeling on your own.
Advantages of snorkeling privately
The advantage of snorkeling on your own is that you are not restricted by meeting times or itineraries,You can go into the ocean whenever you want.is the charm of individual action.
Also, if you bring your own equipment, there is no tour fee.Short time at the beach can be cost effective.There are also times when
It is suitable for light marine activities such as swimming within foot reach while enjoying the scenery ◎.
Shallow water for casual ocean fun
Enjoy the freedom to enjoy yourself at your own pace.
Disadvantages of snorkeling privately
The disadvantage of snorkeling on your own is that you need knowledge and experience,There is a danger of being swept out to sea.This is to say.
Even if it looks calm,Suddenly the current strengthens, a characteristic of the sea of Miyakojima.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
If you are not feeling well while snorkeling, or if you have a limp or equipment trouble, you are likely to be delayed in responding if you are acting alone.
Not wearing a life jacket, unreasonable offshore,Accidents caused by acting alone and other factors are reported every year.The company has been
Difficult to notice rip currents and sudden changes in sea conditions
... often not seeing sea turtles or sights.
Thus, while snorkeling on your own has the advantage of freedom, it also carries a very high safety risk.
Especially for beginners, those who are not confident swimmers, or those visiting Miyako Island for the first time,Participation in a guided snorkeling tour is highly recommended.'I will do it'
You can see sea turtles!
Miyako Island Snorkeling Tour
Miyako Island is also known for its high rate of sea turtle encounters, especially around Shigira Beach and in the Irabu and Shimoji areas."High probability of meeting"There are a number of tours... ♪
With a guide, you can rest easy even if it is your first time, as he or she will provide you with a safety briefing, equipment preparation, and even photographic services.
Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour
Click here to see the popularity ranking
How to increase the rate of sea turtle encounters
Encounter rates are high from April to October.Water temperature and sunlight are stable.
The best time to fish from the beach is "about 2 hours before and after high tide.
It is easy to observe sea turtles that come to the shallows to feed on seaweed (however, prioritize sea conditions and do not overdo it).
↓Click here to read the article.
Recommended Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tours
Tours departing from Shigira Beach with calm waters.High chance of seeing green turtlesis the appeal of this product!
However, be sure to check the weather and wind direction immediately before the event, as availability depends on the season and sea conditions.
↓Click here for snorkeling x sea turtle tour
For beginners!
What to bring, what to wear, preparation points
The most important point for safe enjoyment is toBe well prepared.".
Make sure you have your gear ready, check the basic use of masks and fins, and don't forget to check the weather and tide levels for the day!
The sea of Miyako Island is home to venomous creatures such as habu jellyfish, so it is safe to wear equipment that minimizes exposure of the skin.
What to bring for snorkeling
It is important to be prepared with these protective equipment and to follow the rules of environmental protection in order to enjoy snorkeling safely.
0 Life jacket (required) / Float for snorkeling
0 Rush guard top and bottom / Marine boots / Gloves (to prevent puncture wounds and abrasions)
0Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, waterproof sunscreen)
0 waterproof bag / drinking water / anti-sickness medicine (when boating)
0 Waterproof case for smartphone (be careful not to fall or lose it)
Appropriate clothing for snorkeling
In spring and fall, and on windy daysWearing a wetsuitis comfortable!
We recommend wearing long-sleeved rash guards and leggings to protect against jellyfish, even during the summer months!
Reducing skin exposure is also effective in preventing problems caused by pests.
A safe place to practice even if it's your first time
For beginners, the calm waves of "Im Gyor Marine Garden" and the shoals are shallow enough to get up close to the fish.Shinshiro Coast", well-equipped ".Yoshino CoastIt is recommended that you start with the "I".
Be sure to observe these three points: do not force yourself to go out to sea, avoid acting alone, and always hold on to your child's float.
Best season and time of year
The attraction of the sea is most heightened whenSummer (June-August)The water is clearer and more abundant. Clarity increases and creatures are abundant!
If you want to enjoy wearing only a bathing suit, May to September is comfortable. If you want to avoid crowds, visit in spring or fall.
In the morning, the winds are likely to decrease, the sea is calm, and sea turtles are best targeted around high tide!
At Miyako Island snorkeling spots
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- There are detached currents and swells,There have been many accidents.after an inflectable word, creates a noun phrase indicating something the speaker does not feel close to
- From summer to autumnMore habu jellyfish.after an inflectable word, creates a noun phrase indicating something the speaker does not feel close to
- High waves and swimming restrictions during typhoon season.
for beginnersShinshiro Coast and Yoshino Coast (shallow, clear waters with abundant coral and fish)
Calm bayImgamgah Marine Garden (Inland bay, low currents, safe and enjoyable)
well-equippedSigira Beach (toilets and showers are available, and sea turtles can often be seen)
The terrain is fun.Nakanoshima Beach (a spot for advanced divers to encounter a variety of fish in the rugged terrain)
Spectacular coral reefsYaebise (one of the largest coral colonies in Japan, reached by boat tour)
The sea is warmest in August, but the risk of typhoons increases. Winter and spring require warmer water temperatures, so warmer clothing is necessary.
They can be seen on the Aragusuku, Yoshino, and Nakanoshima beaches, but the encounter rate is even higher if you join a tour.
Be sure to wear a life jacket, choose shallow water or calm bays (e.g., Imgay Marine Garden), and join a guided tour.
However, please avoid going alone as it is very dangerous.
summary
Snorkeling spots on Miyako Island can be enjoyed by beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, depending on their objectives.
When targeting sea turtles, choosing a day around high tide or in good sea conditions will increase the chance of encountering them!
Such consideration will help preserve the Miyako blue sea for future generations. Please be prepared, put safety first, and enjoy the best "natural aquarium" experience.
⬇︎ Read the article at ⬇︎
