Kerama Islands: Okinawa's Marine Park

A short ferry ride west of Naha reaches clear water, coral reefs and quiet beaches, with whale watching in winter.

Published October 18, 2026 at 10:07 PM JST | By Tokyo Paul

Quick answer: The Kerama Islands are a group of small islands about 40 kilometers west of Naha, protected as Kerama Shoto National Park. Known for exceptionally clear water called Kerama Blue, they offer snorkeling, diving and beaches. Zamami, Tokashiki and Aka are the main visitor islands. Take a fast ferry from Naha's Tomari Port, and consider an overnight stay.

Where the islands are and why they stand out

The Kerama Islands lie in the East China Sea to the west of Okinawa's main island, and the sea between them is deep and very clear. The waters are known for a vivid shade called Kerama Blue, which has attracted divers for decades. The islands are small, hilly and covered with subtropical vegetation, with coves and white-sand beaches around their edges. Together they form a compact area for exploring by boat or on foot. Scattered rocks and tiny islets between the main islands add to the sense of a miniature archipelago.

The area was designated a national park in 2014, which recognizes the value of the surrounding coral reefs and marine life. Coral grows here in a wide variety, and schools of colorful fish are common in the shallows. Because the islands are close to the main island of Okinawa, they combine ease of access with a feeling of being somewhere remote, and they suit visitors who want sea and sand without long travel. Rules for visitors usually cover anchoring, fishing and the collection of coral, so check with your operator.

Zamami, Tokashiki and Aka

Three islands receive most visitors. Zamami has a small port village, a good selection of guesthouses and tour operators, and beaches such as Furuzamami, a long stretch of sand with excellent snorkeling just offshore. Its village is walkable, and the island has viewpoints reached by short drives or bike rides. Zamami is the most convenient base for first-time visitors, since the port, shops and tour offices are all within a short walk of each other.

Tokashiki is the largest and closest to Naha, with a beach called Aharen that is popular with day-trippers. Aka is smaller and quieter, with beaches of fine white sand and a village that keeps a calm rhythm; neighboring Geruma is known for its small population of Kerama deer. Each island has its own mood, and some visitors stay on one and hop to another by local ferry. Check boat timetables carefully, since some links run only a few times a day.

Snorkeling and diving

Kerama is one of Japan's best-known areas for diving, and snorkeling is easy from shore at several beaches. Visibility is often high, so even beginners can see coral and fish without going far. Sea turtles are regularly seen around the islands, though sightings cannot be guaranteed, and they should never be touched or chased. Rental gear is available from most shops, so there is no need to carry masks and fins from home.

Dive shops offer trips for varied experience levels, including introductory dives and boat trips to offshore reefs. Many operators are based on Zamami and Tokashiki, and some pick up customers in Naha. Book in advance during peak season, and choose operators who follow safe practices and protect the reef. Always use reef-safe sunscreen if possible, and obey instructions about currents and boat traffic. Check weather and wave forecasts before planning activities.

Winter whales

From roughly January to March, humpback whales visit the waters around Kerama to breed and raise calves. Whale-watching boats leave from Zamami and sometimes from Naha, taking passengers to areas where the whales gather. Seeing a tail slap or a breach is a thrill, though sightings depend on weather and luck. A short briefing before departure usually covers seasickness tips, so ask the crew if you are prone to motion sickness.

Operators follow guidelines to keep a respectful distance from the whales, and tours may be canceled when seas are rough. Dress warmly, because wind on the boat can be cold even when the air is mild. A cap, gloves and a windbreaker help. Some visitors also try listening to whale song through underwater microphones at observation points. Seasonal timing varies, so check with operators and local tourism information.

Getting there from Naha

The islands are reached by ferry from Tomari Port in Naha. Fast ferries take roughly 40 to 50 minutes to Zamami and a little less to Tokashiki, while slower ferries take longer but cost less. Schedules vary by season, and boats can be canceled in rough seas, so reserve tickets and have a backup plan. Bring a motion sickness remedy if you are sensitive, because the crossing can be bumpy when winds pick up.

Many visitors go as a day trip, but the timetable leaves limited time on the island. An overnight stay lets you enjoy early or late light, quiet evenings and unrushed activities. Local ferries connect Zamami, Aka and Geruma, and rental scooters, bikes and small cars are available on the larger islands. Arrive at the port early, as lines form at peak times and tickets are checked.

Seasons and conditions

The swimming and snorkeling season generally runs from late spring through early autumn, with warm water and strong sun. Midsummer is hot and sometimes stormy, and typhoons can occur from summer into autumn, disrupting ferries. Spring and autumn are comfortable and less crowded, though sea temperatures drop in late autumn. Water temperature in summer is warm enough that many visitors snorkel for an hour or more without a wetsuit.

Winter brings cooler days, strong winds and whale watching, so it is a good time for a quieter visit. Wetsuits extend the snorkeling season for those who feel the cold. Whatever the season, pack sun protection, a hat, a rash guard, quick-drying clothes and a light jacket for boat rides. Check forecasts, and confirm ferry operations on the day, as conditions can change quickly.

Food, stays and pairing with Naha

Island guesthouses and small inns serve seafood, island vegetables and Okinawa-style dishes. Simple cafés offer noodles, curries and smoothies near the beaches. Groceries and restaurants can be limited, especially in off seasons, so check opening hours and bring snacks for days of outdoor activity. Alcohol and groceries are sold in small shops near the ports, though selection is limited compared with Naha. Evenings are quiet, with starry skies on clear nights, so a walk along the shore after dinner is a pleasant way to end the day.

Pair the islands with time in Naha, where Kokusai-dori, Shuri Castle's grounds and Makishi Public Market offer culture and food. A common plan is two nights on Zamami followed by a night in Naha before flying home. Book accommodation early for holidays, since island lodging is limited. Take cash, as some small businesses accept only cash. Allow a buffer day at the end of your trip in case rough seas delay the ferry back to the main island.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to reach the Kerama Islands from Naha?

Fast ferries take roughly 40 to 50 minutes to Zamami and slightly less to Tokashiki. Slow ferries take longer. Schedules change by season and weather, so check operator websites and book tickets early for busy periods.

When can I see whales at Kerama?

Humpback whale season runs roughly from January to March. Whale-watching tours leave from Zamami and sometimes Naha. Sightings are likely but not guaranteed, and tours may cancel in rough seas, so keep a flexible schedule.

Is a day trip from Naha worthwhile?

Yes, especially to Tokashiki or Zamami for a beach and snorkel day. The ferry schedule limits time, so an overnight stay offers a more relaxed visit. Check the last return ferry and weather before going.

Keep Exploring

More guides from Tokyo Paul: Okinawa Prefecture Travel Guide, Ishigaki: Okinawa's Gateway to the Yaeyama Islands and Miyako Island: Okinawa's Blue Water Beaches.