Ishigaki Beach Recommendations
⚠️ Coral Health Notice - Rule n°1: DO NOT TOUCH!
Due to ocean warming, researchers from Ryukyu University estimate that up to 90% of the lagoon’s coral has died. The remaining coral is extremely fragile — please snorkel gently and avoid touching or stepping on any coral 🐠 On the outer reef, live coral coverage still exists but varies between 30–60%, depending on season and weather conditions. Let’s help protect what remains 🌊💚
Itona Beach (in front of the Hotel)
🐠 Snorkeling is generally safe in this area, as currents are usually low. However, please note that there is no lifeguard on duty, and swimming is at your own risk.
Unfortunately, most of the coral inside the lagoon has died around Ishigaki, with a few exceptions such as the Yonehara area (see recommendation below). Within the purple circle shown above, there is still a small coral patch where you may even spot lionfish. It can be a bit difficult to find, so don’t get discouraged.
🐢 Itona Beach is known as a breeding area for green turtles. Please be mindful not to disturb their nesting sites. Turtles usually live out on the reef and come closer to shore to feed on seagrass, typically in the morning (around 8:00 to 10:00) and in the evening (around 17:00 to 19:00), although they can sometimes be seen throughout the day.
🌱 Note: A seagrass conservation area is located at the end of the upper blue line. It is marked by a fence and strictly protected. Entry is not allowed. Touching the fence, tying kayaks to it, or entering the area is strictly prohibited, except for authorized personnel.
Yonehara Beach & Blue Cave 🐠
For Snorkeling & Blue Cave visit
Yonehara beach is one of the very few places in Ishigaki where you can see large, healthy coral and plenty of fish directly from the beach.
We recommend parking at the Yonehara Beach parking area, then walking to the north side (right side) of the beach. When the sandy area ends, enter the water and follow the coastline to the Blue Cave, it should take between 5 and 10 mins, and depending on the tide, you might be able to walk to the cave. This is easily the best beach-snorkeling spot on the island.
Please take water shoes, fins, and a life jacket for safety. If you don’t feel comfortable going alone, Orion Eco Tour offers a guided snorkeling tour in this area.
⚠️ There are rip currents in this area.
Currents can be especially strong right after high tide.
Ishigaki Tide Schedule: https://www.tideschart.com/Japan/Okinawa/Ishigaki--shi/Ishigaki-Ishigaki-Shima/
Sukuji Beach (Kabira area)
For relaxing & swiming with kids
Gentle waves, soft sand, and very few rocks make it easy and comfortable for everyone.
The bay is scenic and sheltered, ideal for a quiet swim or a simple beach picnic.
There is limited coral, so it’s not the best snorkeling spot, but it is one of the most swimmable beaches on the island. A very good choice for guests looking for calm, easy access, and convenience
Sunset Beach (Ibaruma area)
For family baech day, rentals & facilities
A semi-private beach with good facilities, including showers, umbrellas, and rental gear, making it very easy to spend a full day there. There is a small entry fee, but the beach is well-maintained and comfortable. Coral and fish can be seen close to shore, offering light snorkeling without needing to go far. 📅 Open from April to October
Akaichi Beach (north)
For adventurous snorkelers, solitude
A very quiet beach with beautiful blue coral just off shore, offering great snorkeling in a peaceful setting.
Access is through a cattle gate, which needs to be opened and closed properly.
There are no facilities at all, so guests should bring everything they need.
🧭 Best suited for confident swimmers, especially at high tide