Miyako Island Beaches

Miyako Island's Blue Cave, also known as the Sapphire Cave, lies off Irabu Island and can only be reached from the sea. Here is everything you need before you go: access, how to choose a snorkeling or diving tour, the best season and time of day, and safety notes.

Yabiji, spreading across the open sea north of Ikema Island, is one of Japan's largest coral reef systems and a designated National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. During the spring tides it surfaces as the "Phantom Continent." Here is how to get there, how to choose a tour, and when to go.

A guide to snorkeling around Ogami Island near Miyako: calm spots for beginners like Kamikakisu, coral-rich Nnapazu at low tide, the southern reef edge by boat, plus safety tips and tour info.

A guide to Tako Park (Octopus Park) on Kurima Island: a giant red octopus monument, sheer-cliff views over Miyako Blue, a hidden snorkeling beach below, jungle-trail access, and free parking.

A guide to Shiratorizaki (Shiratori Cape) on the west coast of Irabu Island: emerald seas and sheer cliffs, a hidden snorkeling and diving spot, West Coast Park trails, free parking, and access.

A complete guide to Ogami Island, the sacred "island of the gods" just 15 minutes by boat from Miyako Island. Ferry access, a walkable model course, the Tomi-dai lookout, the Notch rocks, snorkeling, and essential visitor etiquette.

A complete guide to the beaches of Irabu and Shimoji Islands, reached by Irabu Ohashi Bridge from Miyako Island — from stunning Toguchi-no-hama and the "natural aquarium" Nakanoshima Coast to snorkeling spots and sights like Toriike Pond and Obiiwa Rock.

A complete guide to the five beaches of Ikema Island, reached by Ikema Ohashi Bridge from Miyako Island — from the stunning Ohama Beach and the snorkeling favorite Funakusu Beach to hidden gems like Ikizu, Kaginmi, and Mijunmahida. All share the wonderful "Ikema Blue."

The Irie Bay Observation Deck sits quietly in Miyako Island's tranquil south, offering "hidden beautiful scenery" — inlet terrain and a sea that changes color with the light. Here's the guide to its recommended highlights.

Toriike Pond on Shimoji Island is a stunning spot that fascinates visitors from land and underwater — two circular ponds connected underground and to the open sea. A national scenic beauty and natural monument, and a dream dive site. Here's the guide.