Kabira Bay is on Ishigaki Island, one of Okinawa Prefecture’s outlying islands.
What defines it is the clarity of the water, the beautiful white sand, and the view from the Kabira Park observation deck.
One thing to note: swimming is prohibited at Kabira Bay, so you cannot go in the water.
For those who want to see the coral and tropical fish, glass-bottom boat tours and other activities are available, and they are well worth doing.
It is also well known as a sightseeing spot, and draws a steady stream of visitors.
Ratings for Kabira Bay
*Ratings are the subjective assessment of the Okinawa Bookmark editor, compared with other beaches in Okinawa Prefecture.
Kabira Bay at a Glance
| Swimming season | Swimming prohibited |
| Hours | None in particular |
| Admission | Free |
| Jellyfish net | None |
| Lifeguard | None |
| Showers | Yes |
| Lockers | None |
| Swimming gear rental | None |
| Activities | Yes |
| Shop | Yes |
| Restroom | Yes |
| Official site | None |
Kabira Bay is a no-swimming area, so follow the rules and enjoy it safely.
The Highlights
Sand That Almost Looks Unreal
The sand is beautiful and remarkably fine.
Okinawa has no shortage of beaches, but the quality and whiteness of the sand here rank among the very best.
Exceptionally clear water
The water is wonderfully clear as well.
The water is clear enough to see straight through, and it gives you a real sense of the Okinawan sea.
The View from Kabira Park Observation Deck
The view from the Kabira Park observation deck is superb.
There is also a covered pavilion at the deck, so you can rest a while and take the scenery in slowly.
Plenty of Activities
There is a good range of activities, including glass-bottom boats and SUP.
You can book on site, or reserve in advance.
Restrooms and Showers Available
Restrooms, showers, and vending machines are all in place, and with plenty of trees around you can rest in the shade.
Souvenir Shops on Site
There are also plenty of souvenir shops.
They sell local specialties and souvenirs from Ishigaki Island.
Map
The location of Kabira Bay is shown in the image above.
Access & Parking
| Access | About 35 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport |
| Address | Kabira, Ishigaki City, Okinawa |
| Parking | Available (both paid and free) Paid: 200 yen for the first hour 100 yen for each additional 60 minutes |
| Restroom | Yes |
Kabira Bay has both a paid parking lot and a free one.
Let’s start with the paid parking lot.
See the Google Map below for details.
Next, the free parking lot.
Bear in mind that free spaces are limited and the walk to Kabira Bay is a little longer.
Nearby Information
Activities on Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island has a great deal to do.
Marine activities in particular are plentiful — snorkeling, diving, SUP, kayaking, and more.
If any of that appeals, take a look on Viator or GetYourGuide.
Club Med Ishigaki
Club Med Ishigaki is one of the finest luxury resorts on the island.
It offers spacious rooms with ocean views, an attractive pool, and a stretch of shore that feels almost like a private beach.
Rental Cars on Ishigaki Island
A rental car is by far the best way to get around Ishigaki Island.
Scenic spots such as Kabira Bay and Yonehara Beach are spread across the island, so having a car lets you explore at your own pace. Bus services on Ishigaki Island are infrequent, and a car makes a real difference to how much you can fit in.
Cars fill up quickly in the peak season, so we recommend booking early once your travel dates are set. One important note for overseas visitors: to drive in Japan you must obtain an International Driving Permit (Geneva Convention) in your home country before you depart, and remember that traffic in Japan drives on the left.
Summary
This guide has covered Kabira Bay.
Kabira Bay draws large numbers of visitors year after year.
Clear water, beautiful sand, and the view from the Kabira Park observation deck define it, and there is plenty here for adults and children alike.
When you visit Ishigaki Island, be sure to make time for Kabira Bay.
Thank you for reading to the end.
Comments