Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) | Snorkeling, Parking & Nearby Guide

Miyako Island Beaches

“Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa),” reached by crossing Irabu Ohashi Bridge from Miyako Island, is an insider’s hidden beach.

There are almost no swimming facilities like restrooms or showers, but swim just a few meters from the beach and you’ll meet coral reefs and clownfish — truly a “natural aquarium.” Its inlet-like terrain keeps the waves calm, so it suits a wide range, from snorkeling beginners to those wanting serious diving.

In this article, we’ll clearly cover the highlights of Nakanoshima Coast, access and parking, and what to bring before you visit.

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Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) Ratings

  • Water clarity・・・・・5.0
  • Beach beauty・・・・5.0
  • Rest areas・・・・・2.0
  • Swimming facilities・・2.0
  • Openness・・・・・・5.0
  • Natural feel・・・・・5.0

*Ratings are the subjective assessment of the Okinawa Bookmark editor, compared with other beaches in Okinawa Prefecture.

Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) Basic Information

Swimming seasonNone in particular
HoursNone
FeeNone
Jellyfish netNone
LifeguardNone
ShowersNone
LockersNone
RentalsNone
ActivitiesYes
ShopYes
RestroomNone
Official site

Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) is a hidden beach with almost no swimming facilities.

It’s recommended for those who want to relax at the beach and those who want to enjoy activities like diving and snorkeling.

The Highlights of Nakanoshima Coast

A rich underwater world called a “natural aquarium”

Even without a boat, swim just a few meters from the beach and you’ll meet colorful coral reefs and many tropical fish.

The clownfish famous from the movies can be found in the shallow area on the right side of the inlet. It’s a true natural aquarium, combining ease and abundance.

Calm waves and inlet terrain that’s safe for beginners

Because the spot is bay-like, the sea conditions rarely get rough — a major feature.

Set in intricate terrain, it’s less affected by waves, so everyone from snorkeling beginners to intermediates can enjoy it. It’s also handy as a fallback when the waves are high at other beaches.

Popular as a snorkeling and diving spot, too

Compared with other Miyako Island spots, it’s deeper, with dynamic seabed terrain that makes snorkeling fun.

The inner sea is about 2–4 m deep, and about 15 m offshore it reaches roughly 10 m. Thanks to that interesting terrain, it’s also known as a diving spot.

Access greatly improved by Irabu Ohashi Bridge

It used to require a boat from Miyako Island, but the completion of Irabu Ohashi Bridge improved access, making it easy to reach by rental car.

You can get there in about 20 minutes from central Hirara by crossing Irabu Ohashi Bridge. Nearby are the natural monument “Toriike Pond” and the stunning “17END.”

No facilities, so preparation is essential

There’s no public rest area, and no showers or restrooms. There are many rugged spots with rocks and coral, so water shoes and marine gloves to protect your feet and hands are essential.

There’s little shade, so take proper sun protection, and bring drinking water to be safe.

Arrive early for parking

There’s no dedicated parking; you park in the roadside space in front of the beach.

The parking space often fills up from early morning, so we recommend arriving as early as possible.

Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) Short Video

Please take a look at this short video of Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa).

Access & Parking

AccessAbout 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport
AddressNakachi, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
ParkingYes (roadside-style parking)
RestroomNone

Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) has no dedicated parking lot, but many cars parked roadside-style.

Please check the Google Map below for parking spaces.

Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) Nearby Information

Activities on Miyako Island

On Miyako Island, marine sports such as snorkeling, diving, and SUP in the crystal-clear sea are hugely popular.

On some tours you might even be lucky enough to see sea turtles, so be sure to enjoy them!

Santorini Hotel & Villas Miyakojima

A 29-room resort hotel that opened on Irabu Island in March 2024, with a sweeping panorama of Irabu Ohashi Bridge connecting Miyako and Irabu Islands.

Inspired by Santorini, Greece, the contrast of white walls and blue domes evokes the vivid beauty of the Mediterranean.

At the infinity pool where the Miyako Blue sea seems to merge with the horizon, and the Italian–Mediterranean restaurant “The Olivea” by Chef Akira Watanabe, you can enjoy a luxurious, memorable stay.

Summary

Nakanoshima Coast (Kayaffa) is one of Miyako Island’s finest snorkeling spots, where you can easily enjoy clear water and a rich underwater world. On the other hand, with no showers or restrooms and many rocky areas, preparation like water shoes, sun protection, and drinking water is essential. Parking is limited, too, so try to arrive as early as possible.

Prepare well and savor a supreme moment wrapped in Miyako Blue. Nearby are “Toriike Pond,” “17END,” and “Santorini Hotel & Villas Miyakojima” for a resort stay, so touring them together will make your Miyako Island trip all the more memorable.

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