Kerama Islands, Okinawa dive sites

Kerama Blue is the term locals and divers use to describe the extraordinarily clear, vivid blue water found around the Kerama Islands. The visibility in these waters can reach up to 50 metres, far exceeding most tropical dive destinations. Aka Island sits at the heart of this phenomenon, where clean ocean currents sweep through the island chain and the healthy reef system keeps the water pristine. The clarity is so legendary that the term has become a marketing icon for Okinawa diving.

Aka Island is reached by ferry from Naha's Tomari Port. The high-speed Queen Zamami ferry takes about 50 minutes, while the regular Zamami ferry takes around 90 minutes with a stop at Aka. Ferries run daily but can sell out during peak summer months, so advance booking is recommended. Many dive operators on Aka can arrange accommodation packages including ferry transfers.

Yes, Nishibama Beach is one of the best snorkelling spots in the Kerama Islands. The shallow reef starts just metres from the white sand beach, with coral and tropical fish visible from the surface in knee-deep water. Sea turtles frequently visit the shallows, making it possible to swim alongside them while snorkelling. For divers, the reef extends to 25 metres with richer coral formations and larger marine life at depth.

Tokashiki is the largest of the Kerama Islands and offers the most diverse range of dive sites, from shallow coral gardens to deeper walls with soft coral formations. While Aka and Zamami islands are also excellent, Tokashiki tends to have more sites with dense table coral formations and is slightly less crowded. The visibility and water quality are comparable across the Kerama chain, with the famous Kerama Blue clarity present at all islands.

Tokashiki is reached by ferry from Naha's Tomari Port. The high-speed Marine Liner takes about 35 minutes, while the regular Tokashiki ferry takes approximately 70 minutes. Ferries run two to three times daily, but seats on the high-speed service can sell out during summer and holidays, so advance reservation is strongly recommended. Several dive shops on Tokashiki offer accommodation packages including ferry transfer assistance.