The Beauty of Okinawa Beaches and Where To Stay

Who says Japan is only famous for shrines, skiing and sushi? Let me show you why Okinawa is a must-visit place for your summer/spring getaway.

The beach view from our hotel room

Coming from Thailand, the paradise for beautiful beaches, I was unexpectedly impressed by the clear blue ocean of Okinawa. I still remember back in 2015 when a friend suggested we go to Okinawa for travel, my response was "Dude, are you kidding me? I come from a country with one of the best beaches in the world. Let's go somewhere else". But guess what, I was wrong...

Choosing the right hotel

When you travel frequently enough, you will realize how essential the location of your stay is. It is even more important for a city like Okinawa especially if you don't drive, because that will determine your daily itinerary throughout your travel.

The beach house for various beach activities

I came here with my high school best friend in April; the temperature was around 17-25 degree celsius and the beach was already open for swimming . The water was still a little chilly on certain days, but we didn't die, so you'll be totally fine!

Snorkelling in the middle of the ocean near Manza Beach

We stayed at ANA Intercontinental Manza Beach Resort, which was in the northern part of Okinawa island, and was relatively far from Naha city (the popular main shopping area). We chose this place because it has its own private beach, two swimming pools, wonderful breakfast, and it was super close to the popular attraction 'Cape Manza'. The beach is also apparently the most beautiful one in Okinawa. Even better, the hotel also offers various kinds of beach activities like parasailing, jet-skiing, snorkelling, scuba diving, paddle boarding, etc.

Stand up paddle boarding near the hotel

Despite being a 5-star hotel, it wasn't too expensive compared to other hotels in Japan, so it was definitely worth it. We were lucky to visit during off-peak season, so we kinda had the beach and pool all to ourselves. Sadly, none of us knows how to drive (LOL), and thus, my best advice to you all would be to get someone who can drive to Okinawa with you!

But even if you don't drive, you can get around most places with local buses or taxi. Local buses aren't too costly, but make sure to check the bus schedule beforehand. Unlike Tokyo, the bus might not come on time and that could be frustrating.

Are you the play&chill type OR the shopping type?

If you love shopping and café hopping, then you should stay in Naha. But if you just want to fully enjoy the beach and sun tanning, then look for a hotel which comes with its own beach.

The hotel beach pool just right by the beach

Other beaches on the island

We were at the Sunset Beach right by the American Village for sunset. The beach was nice and clean, although no one swam there. Guess people simply prefer the happy hours rather than getting soaked up in the water.

Watching the sun go down at Sunset Beach near Naha

Still curious?

If you still have questions about finding a hotel in Okinawa, feel free to shoot me an email or comment below! I'll get back to you as soon as possible.