Kerama Islands Snorkeling Day Trip

Overview

The Kerama Islands (慶良間諸島) are a national park archipelago 30 km west of Naha, celebrated for some of the clearest water in the world — visibility regularly exceeds 50 meters. Day-trip boats depart from Naha's Tomari Port and reach the islands in 35–50 minutes.

Highlights

• Kerama Blue: The islands' legendary water clarity, with visibility reaching 50+ meters on calm days.
• Sea Turtles: Green and hawksbill turtles are commonly spotted while snorkeling near the beaches.
• Coral Gardens: Over 250 coral species create vibrant underwater landscapes accessible from shore.

History

The Kerama Islands were designated a National Park in 2014, recognizing their exceptional marine biodiversity. The islands have been inhabited since prehistoric times and served as a staging point during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. Today, ecotourism and conservation are the economic pillars.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Book a day-trip snorkeling tour from Tomari Port (¥6,000–¥10,000 including gear).
• Tip 2: Best visibility from March to November; winter brings whale-watching opportunities instead.
• Duration: Full day (5–6 hours including boat transit).