What is Kabira Bay?
Kabira Bay, located in the northwestern part of Ishigaki Island, is one of the most famous scenic spots.
The bay is dotted with small islands, and the clear blue sea, white sandy beach, and green trees on the islets make the scenery even more beautiful.
The beautiful scenery won the “Michelin Green Guide Japon” a three-star rating in 2009.
Kabira Bay was among only 17 places in Japan to receive the highest three-star rating that year.
The attraction of Kabira Bay is not only its scenery but also the many coral formations in the sea.
However, swimming is prohibited due to the fast currents, so snorkeling and diving are not permitted.
Those wishing to look under the sea should join a glass boat tour.
Activities in Kabira Bay
SUP
SUP stands for “stand-up paddle surfing.”
The board is floated on the water’s surface and is more extensive and thicker than a surfboard, and a paddle with a blade on one side is used to paddle through the water alternately from side to side.
SUP originated on the beaches of Hawaii in the 1960s and has only recently come into the spotlight.
SUP boards can ride small waves, stretch, do yoga, relax, and enjoy moving through the water.
You can even lie on the board, gaze at the stars, or sit back and relax.
The waters of Kabira Bay are so clear that you can see underwater even from the top of your SUP board.
Although snorkeling and swimming are prohibited in Kabira Bay, SUP is a great way to enjoy the beautiful ocean.
Riding a SUP after a short practice is surprisingly easy, so please try it.
Sea Kayaking
Sea kayaking is another popular activity at Kabira Bay.
One or two people board a small boat and paddle alternately left and right using paddles with blades on both sides.
In the case of a two-person boat, the two people in front and behind cooperate in paddling.
Sea kayaking is even easier than SUP, and small children and older people can enjoy the experience.
Kayaks rarely capsize, so they are recommended in winter or on cooler days when you want to stay dry.
Glass Boat
Glass boat is another popular activity in Kabira Bay.
Kabira Bay is home to hundreds of species of coral and much colorful tropical fish.
The glass boat, with its bottom, allows visitors to enjoy such beautiful underwater scenery as if they were in an aquarium.
Because the boat has a roof, it can be enjoyed in any weather, and it also shields you from the strong sunlight, so you can enjoy cruising.
And, of course, anyone can join, including babies and older people!
The inexpensive fare and the ease of going to the boarding area and boarding at any time of the day are the reasons for the popularity of this tour.
How to enjoy Kabira Bay
Kabira Bay, the usual sightseeing spot of Ishigaki Island, is visited at least once by many people who visit Ishigaki Island on vacation.
If you want to enjoy activities in such as Kabira Bay, it is recommended to join the SUP or sea kayak tour mentioned above.
Try a glass boat ride to see inside the shining blue sea.
And if you want to take your time and enjoy the scenery, visiting “Kabira Park” will give you a wonderful time.
Kabira Park has a promenade along Kabira Bay, where you can enjoy the spectacular view of Kabira Bay through the hibiscus flowers blooming along the path.
In addition, there is an observatory in Kabira Park, from which you can enjoy a beautiful view of Kabira Bay.
Many of the photos of Kabira Bay that are commonly used as scenic shots were taken from this location.
You can take pictures with excellent composition, like professional photos.
