What is Zamami Island?
Zamami Island is an inhabited island located 40 km west of Naha City and is part of the Kerama Islands. With a population of about 600 and a perimeter of 23 km, it is the second-largest island in the Kerama archipelago. Zamami Island serves as the main island of Zamami Village, which consists of around 10 islands, including three inhabited ones. The village office of Zamami is located here.
The island is home to stunning beaches such as Furuzamami Beach and Ama Beach, making it an ideal destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Even in shallow waters, vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish thrive, providing a breathtaking underwater experience. The beauty of the beaches ranks among the best in Okinawa, with pristine white sands and crystal-clear blue waters that resemble tropical paradises like Hawaii or the Caribbean. The scenery is so stunning that it might make you forget you’re in Japan!
On Zamami Island, locally guided activity tours are available, where participants gather and disperse on-site.
How to Get to Zamami Island
The best way to reach Zamami Island is by high-speed ferry. The high-speed ferry, “Queen Zamami,” departs from Tomari Port in Naha and takes approximately 50 to 70 minutes to reach Zamami Port. Tickets can be purchased on the day at the Tomari Port passenger terminal (“Tomarin”), but during peak seasons like summer vacation, it is recommended to book in advance via the internet or phone. As of 2021, a round-trip ticket for an adult costs 6,080 yen.
Another option is the “Ferry Zamami”, which also departs from Tomari Port. Like the high-speed ferry, ferry tickets can be purchased on the day or booked in advance. While the ferry is more affordable at 4,090 yen round-trip per adult (as of 2021), it takes significantly longer—about 1.5 to 2 hours. Therefore, those with limited time or those who want to maximize their time on Zamami Island should opt for the high-speed ferry.
Additionally, travelers can reach the Kerama Islands, including Zamami Island, by helicopter from Naha Airport.
In cases where rough seas cause ferry cancellations, Zamami Village provides subsidies for chartered helicopter rides, reducing the cost to about one-third of the usual price. If you find yourself stranded on Zamami Island due to bad weather, this may be a viable emergency option.
Tour Activities Available on Zamami Island
Snorkeling
In addition to snorkeling at Zamami Island’s picturesque beaches, visitors can also join boat tours that take them to different snorkeling spots. The exceptionally clear waters are mesmerizing even from the surface, but once you look underwater, you’ll be amazed by the colorful marine life. The shallow areas are filled with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish, resembling an enchanting underwater palace. There are also high-probability spots for encountering sea turtles, so keep an eye out for these lucky creatures!
Introductory Diving
For those who want to get a closer look at clownfish hiding in sea anemones, coral reefs, and other marine life, diving is a must-try experience! Even without a diving license, you can participate in introductory diving, where instructors provide thorough guidance on equalizing pressure and using equipment before you enter the water. The instructor will also guide you by hand, making it a safe experience even for non-swimmers. When you look up at the surface from underwater, you’ll see the sunlight shimmering through the water, creating a magical sight—you might not want to leave!
Remote Island Hopping
Zamami Island tours also include island-hopping boat trips to Aka Island and Geruma Island, where you can enjoy snorkeling and diving. Unlike regular boat tours, these excursions allow you to land on the islands, ensuring a fun and diverse itinerary. You can also enjoy lunch at a recommended local restaurant or visit hidden scenic spots guided by locals. If you’re looking for a special experience, this is the perfect tour for you!
