What is a snorkeling tour in Okinawa?
Snorkeling is a marine activity using a mask, snorkel, and fins.
Compared to scuba diving, it is easier for anyone to enjoy the ocean because there are no large tanks or other equipment to wear.
Relieving ear pressure technique is necessary for deep diving but not for snorkeling because snorkeling is enjoyed by swimming near the sea’s surface.
What types of snorkeling tours can be enjoyed on the main island of Okinawa?
Beach Entry
Beach entry is similar to swimming in the ocean, so it is an easy entry method for first-timers.
It is recommended for small children, those not good at swimming, and the elderly.
Even though it is in shallow water, you can enjoy the tropical fish unique to Okinawa.
Beach entry snorkeling is also a principal activity for families traveling together.
Boat Entry
As the name suggests, boat entry involves going to sea by boat.
The snorkeling is done at a depth of about 5 meters with life jackets on.
You will be amazed at the clarity of the Okinawan ocean as you can see the deepest part of the ocean.
Some people find it easier than beach entry because they wear a life jacket and do not have to exert any effort to float.
Popular snorkeling tour fields on the Okinawa main island
Blue Cave
The Blue Cave is famous in Italy, but there is also one here in Okinawa.
The erosion of the sea creates this Blue Cave.
It is so called because the inside of the cave shines with a deep blue color like a jewel due to the reflection of sunlight coming in from the outside.
Various conditions are necessary to achieve this blue glow, such as the angle of sunlight coming in from the cave entrance, the amount of light, etc.
It is genuinely an art created by nature.
It is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Okinawa Prefecture and is especially popular in the morning because it looks beautiful.
Gorilla Chop
Gorilla Chop is so-called because the rocks look like a gorilla chopping.
The waters where Gorilla Chop is located are so clear that many coral formations can be seen from above the water, making it a popular snorkeling spot.
The reefs are also very close to the beach, so you don’t necessarily have to go offshore to enjoy snorkeling.
However, because the coral is found in relatively shallow water, breaking a piece of coral with your foot is easy.
Be extremely careful to protect the coral.
Kerama
The Kerama Islands, located 40 kilometers west of the main island of Okinawa, is an archipelago of about 20 islands of various sizes. The islands are popular among divers and ocean lovers as a hidden gem. The secret of their popularity is their transparency. It is evident and full of tropical fish and coral reefs. Since most of the waters are shallow, snorkeling with children is also recommended.
You can enjoy snorkeling all year round on the main island of Okinawa.
While swimming in the ocean with only a swimsuit is unavailable from mid-October to April, snorkeling tours with wetsuit rentals allow you to enjoy the Okinawan sea all year round.
Even though Okinawa is warm, you may think it is cold in winter. The water temperature is as high as 21 degrees Celsius in winter. You can go into the ocean without feeling the cold with a wetsuit.
Winter is also famous among repeat visitors because the waters are known for their clarity, and you can see scenery that cannot be seen in the summer.
What to Wear, Bring, and Rental Equipment for Okinawa Main Island Snorkel Tour
What to wear on a snorkel tour of Okinawa Island
| Summer | swimsuit, sandals, rash guard, leggings, etc. |
| Winter | swimsuit (worn inside a wetsuit), sandals, thick clothes that can get wet (clothes that can be worn during the trip) |
What to bring for snorkeling on the main island of Okinawa
| Personal belongings | sunscreen, sunglasses, drink, towel, change of clothes, anti-sickness medicine (only if necessary) |
Rental equipment for snorkeling on the main island of Okinawa
| Rental equipment | snorkel mask, fins, life jacket, wetsuit (winter only) |
