Okinawa Prefecture is a chain of subtropical islands stretching from near Kyushu almost to Taiwan. Each island group has its own character: city life and history on the Main Island, crystal-clear water in the Kerama Islands, long white beaches on Miyako, and jungle, reefs, and traditional villages in the Yaeyama Islands.
Use this guide to Okinawa destinations to decide where to go, then dive into each region for things to do, where to stay, and sample plans.
Okinawa Main Island
Most visitors start on the Main Island, home to Naha Airport, the capital, and the widest choice of sights and hotels.
Okinawa Main Island
An overview of the island and how to split your time between the city, the resort coast, the forested north, and the historic south.
Naha
Okinawa’s lively capital: Kokusai Street, markets, Shuri Castle, and easy monorail travel. The natural base for a first trip.
Central Okinawa
Chatan’s American Village, the Onna resort coast, Cape Manzamo, UNESCO castle ruins, and the island-hopping sea road.
Northern Okinawa (Yanbaru)
The Churaumi Aquarium, Kouri Island, Nakijin Castle, and the protected Yanbaru forest, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage area.
Southern Okinawa
Sefa-utaki, Kudaka Island, sea-view cafés, caves, and the memorials of the Battle of Okinawa.
The Outer Islands
Kerama Islands
Zamami, Aka, and Tokashiki, a short ferry ride from Naha, with famously clear “Kerama blue” water and sea turtles.
Miyako Islands
Yonaha Maehama and other dazzling beaches, plus long bridges linking Miyako to Irabu, Ikema, and Kurima.
Yaeyama Islands
Okinawa’s southernmost island group, with Ishigaki as the hub for ferries to Iriomote, Taketomi, and beyond.
Ishigaki
Kabira Bay, manta rays, Ishigaki beef, and the ferry terminal for island hopping in Yaeyama.
Iriomote
A jungle island of mangroves, rivers, and waterfalls, home to the rare Iriomote wildcat.
Taketomi
A tiny island of red-tiled houses, coral-stone walls, sandy lanes, and the shallow turquoise water of Kondoi Beach.
How to Choose
| If you want… | Go to |
|---|---|
| An easy first trip without a car | Naha, plus a day trip to the Kerama Islands |
| Resort beaches and family fun | The Onna coast in central Okinawa, or Motobu in the north |
| History and culture | Naha (Shuri), southern Okinawa, and the central castle ruins |
| Nature and forests | Yanbaru in the north, or Iriomote |
| The clearest water | The Kerama Islands or Miyako |
| Island hopping | Ishigaki and the Yaeyama Islands |
Quick Tips
- Don’t try to see everything. On a first trip, one or two island groups is plenty.
- Fly between island groups. There are no regular passenger ferries from the Main Island to Miyako or Ishigaki.
- Rent a car for most of the Main Island, Miyako, and Ishigaki. Naha, the Kerama Islands, and Taketomi are easy without one.
- Allow for weather. Ferries and flights can be cancelled in strong winds and typhoons, especially to small islands.
Planning the details? See getting around Okinawa, where to stay, and our sample itineraries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Okinawa island is best for a first visit?
The Main Island, starting in Naha. It has the most to see and do and the best transport links. Add the Kerama Islands for a taste of the outer islands.
Can I visit several island groups in one trip?
Yes, with a week or more. Fly from Naha to Miyako or Ishigaki, and take ferries to the smaller islands from there.
Which islands are best for beaches?
The Kerama Islands, Miyako, and the Yaeyama Islands all have outstanding beaches. See our beach guide for favorites.