Okinawa Guide

Okinawa Diving & Snorkeling Tours: Explore Coral Reefs

Discover Okinawa's vibrant underwater world with guided diving and snorkeling expeditions, revealing diverse marine life and stunning coral formations.

42+ tours
From $$30
3-5 hours

Okinawa, a subtropical paradise in Japan's Ryukyu Islands, is globally renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity and crystal-clear waters, making it a premier destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. Unlike the more well-known tropical hubs, Okinawa offers a unique blend of vibrant coral gardens, a staggering variety of fish species, and the opportunity to encounter larger marine life, all within accessible and well-preserved underwater environments. From the colorful reefs teeming with clownfish and butterflyfish to the deeper waters where sea turtles and even manta rays can be spotted, the underwater landscapes here are truly captivating. These expeditions provide a gateway to experiencing this natural wonder firsthand, guided by local experts who understand the nuances of Okinawa's marine ecosystems. TopTours.ai aggregates a wide array of Okinawan diving and snorkeling tours, catering to all experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned diver eager to explore renowned sites like the Kerama Islands or a first-time snorkeler looking to dip your toes into the turquoise waters of a secluded bay, there's an expedition designed for you. Operators offer everything from introductory dives that teach you the basics in shallow, calm waters to multi-day diving packages for certified divers looking to delve into more challenging locations. For snorkelers, the focus is on accessible, visually stunning reef areas often just a short boat ride from the mainland or popular resort islands. Expect to see a dazzling array of hard and soft corals, schools of vibrant reef fish, and perhaps even octopuses and seahorses camouflaged among the rocks.

Featured Okinawan Diving & Snorkeling Expeditions Tours

Discover our top picks for okinawan diving & snorkeling expeditions in Okinawa

[Okinawa Blue Cave] Snorkeling with Private Guide+ Free Photos
From $31.59
Free Cancellation

Enjoy Okinawa’s crystal-clear waters with this popular and easy snorkeling course! Discover the magical Blue Cave, glowing with a stunning blue light created by nature itself. Encounter colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral reef creatures along the way. Whether it's sunny or rainy, the cave offers a different kind of sparkle each time—making you want to come back again and again. The port is just a 1-minute walk from our shop. Hop on our private marine boat and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze as you cruise over the clear waters toward the cave. The excitement builds as you get closer—the famous Blue Cave awaits right before your eyes! ※The boat is not private and is shared with other guests. “No swimming skills? No problem!” With a buoyant wetsuit and life jacket, you'll float effortlessly even without moving your arms or legs. Our experienced guides provide full support using a floatation device, so even young children or those who aren’t confident in the water can feel safe and at ease. Among the many Blue Cave tours, this one stands out for its comfort, quality, and personalized service. Enjoy a private group experience with a knowledgeable guide who is dedicated to making your tour safe, fun, and unforgettable.

4.9(125)
2h 30m
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Naha: Full-Day Snorkeling Experience in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa
From $51.53
Free Cancellation

The Kerama Islands National Park is one of the most transparent in the world. Would you like to experience that "Kerama Blue", which is breathtakingly beautiful? The sea, which changes color each time, will never get tired just by looking at it from the boat. All guides are qualified, and safety is taken into consideration.

4.8(128)
9h
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Okinawa Ishigaki Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour
From $44.44
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

This plan includes snorkeling around the popular "Blue Cave" located in the northern part of Ishigaki Island. As the name suggests, the water inside the cave is clear blue, and if the conditions are met, it shines even bluer reflecting the blue sky and the sun. You can go ashore to explore the inside of the cave and observe the natural products of Ishigaki such as limestone caves. After exploring the cave, it is time for snorkeling. Swim in the trench where many beautiful fishes and corals are waiting for you. You will be amazed at the clarity of the ocean! Embark on an eco-friendly adventure with us, which our eco-tour is designed with sustainability in mind.

4.9(329)
1h 30m
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Okinawa Miyako Sea turtle Snorkeling Free Pick up and Drop off
From $44.44
Free Cancellation

【Very popular with overseas visitors】 Nami MIYAKO offers the best hospitality and service to each and every one of our guests. We will do our best to help make your trip to Miyako Island a special memory. 【Nami MIYAKO is the reason why we recommend our services.】 ☆ Pick-up and drop-off service is available from morning to night in all areas of Miyako Island! ※Local meeting is also possible ☆English speaking service is also available, so overseas visitors can join the tour without any worries! ☆Anyway, safe and secure tour! ☆Free SNS photos and video data! ☆Experienced guides are kind and courteous! ☆Great reputation! After-sales service is also available, including special deals from guides who know Miyako Island inside out!

4.8(85)
2h
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Okinawa: Naha: 1 day Kerama Islands experience diving/snorkeling
From $95.33
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Enjoy a fun, affordable, and comfortable dive. We visit two to three carefully selected spots per day in the Kerama Islands, including Zamami Island, Tokashiki Island, Kuroshima Island, and Maejima Island, and dive while searching for sea turtles at various underwater locations. *Please note that you may not encounter any sea turtles. "I want to fully enjoy the Okinawan ocean with a Kerama Introductory Dive!" "I don't have a license, but I'd like to take a peek underwater..." "Is this your first dive?" "Can't swim?" "Afraid of water?" "Afraid of heights?" There are many reasons for diving. Most of our customers are first-time divers. Don't worry. For those who want to enjoy diving casually, we recommend boat diving. Our instructors will gently, carefully, and leisurely teach you the charms of Okinawa's introductory diving (in the Kerama Islands). That is our mission as instructors. From January 12th to March, whale watching is also included.

4.6(16)
7h
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Okinawa Ishigaki Phantom Island Snorkeling Tour
From $50.89
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

★Phantom Island" that changes its appearance depending on the conditions The island only appears at low tide, and its size changes depending on the tide level. The island is surrounded by an unobstructed 360-degree view of the marine blue ocean. It is the best location! ★Snorkeling in the sea around the island! The sea around the Phantom Island is called "sekisei lagoon" and is the largest coral reef in Japan designated as Iriomote Ishigaki National Park! ★Free photo data! Memories of your trip are meant to be preserved. During the tour, the guide will take your pictures with a dedicated waterproof camera and give you the data for free! You don't have to worry about taking your precious camera to the water! ★Embark on an eco-friendly adventure with us, which our eco-tour is designed with sustainability in mind.

4.8(77)
2h
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Okinawa Iriomote Snorkeling Tour at Coral Island
From $50.89
Free Cancellation

Our guides provide thorough support! Even beginners in snorkeling can join with confidence as our guides offer careful instruction. Day trips from Ishigaki Island are possible! Since this is a half-day plan, you can easily join from Ishigaki Island on the same day. Free photo data! We capture your memories during the tour with a waterproof camera and provide the photo data for free. We are committed to eco-friendly and sustainable tours that are kind to the Earth.

4.9(51)
2h
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Okinawa Ishigaki Phantom Island and Blue Cave Snorkeling
From $96.62
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Blue Cave Snorkeling This is a snorkeling tour around the popular and unexplored “Blue Cave! As the name suggests, the inside of the cave is shining blue. Let's swim with a lot of fishes! Landing & Snorkeling at Phantom Island Phantom Island” is a sandy island in the ocean on the west side of Ishigaki Island. The name comes from the fact that the shape of the island changes depending on the tide level. The surrounding sea is called “Seokusei-shoko”, one of the largest coral reefs in Japan! It is like a natural aquarium. Photo data will be presented to you! During the tour, the guide will take your pictures with a special waterproof camera and give you the data for free. Beginners are welcome! Our guides will support you even if you are a first timer or a little bit afraid of swimming! Our eco-tours are designed with sustainability in mind.

4.3(19)
4h
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 Snorkeling Activity in Okinawa Miyako Japan
From $41.87
Free Cancellation

Guides who know the sea of Miyakojima well know the places and times when sea turtles are most likely to be encountered, so the encounter rate continues to be 99%! You can often see more than one turtle at a time. We are confident that we are more particular about photos than any other tour! We will take a lot of pictures, so if you have any requests for pictures, please don't hesitate to tell your guide. Of course, all data will be given to you free of charge. Even on rainy days, the ocean is as beautiful as ever! We are often asked this question, but the ocean is beautiful even on rainy days! You can see sea turtles as well as usual Let's go into the sea on a rainy day when you will get wet anyway.

4.8(46)
2h
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Okinawa Blue Cave Adventure
From $25.76
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Blue Cave Snorkeling Adventure in Okinawa This snorkeling tour visits Okinawa’s famous Blue Cave, known for its crystal-clear water and beautiful blue glow. This experience is designed for travelers aged 5 to 50, making it ideal for families with children, beginners, and non-swimmers. WHAT WE CAN PROVIDE FOR YOU • A friendly local instructor provides gentle, one-on-one style support for a safe and relaxed experience. • All snorkeling equipment and child-friendly flotation devices are included. • Enjoy a fun fish-feeding experience during the tour. • GoPro photos and videos are included at no extra cost and sent directly to your smartphone after the tour. This worry-free snorkeling adventure is perfect for travelers looking for unforgettable memories and high-quality photos of Okinawa’s ocean.

1h 45m
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Okinawa Ishigaki Kabira Bay SUP or Canoe and Blue Cave Snorkeling
From $86.96
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

This tour includes SUP/Canoe cruising in Kabira Bay, the representative scenic spot in Ishigaki, and snorkeling in the popular snorkeling spot "Ao no Doukutsu (Blue Cave)"! You can enjoy the new activity "SUP" or standard activity "Canoe" at Kabira Bay and cruising in the beautiful ocean. Snorkeling will take you to "Blue Cave" and its surrounding area to play with fishes. This plan allows you to fully enjoy the beautiful sea of Ishigaki! Embark on an eco-friendly adventure with us, which our eco-tour is designed with sustainability in mind.

4.8(94)
4h
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【Okinawa Blue Cave】Snorkeling in Onna village (free benefits)
From $51.53
Free CancellationNew

Explore the Blue Cave in Okinawa on a snorkeling tour with a boat ride. Swim in the crystal-clear waters, spot tropical fish, and enjoy a photo service to capture your adventure. ・Marvel at the mystical blue light of the Blue Cave as you snorkel ・Enjoy a smooth boat ride to the cave without the need for a long walk ・Spot tropical fish like angelfish and clownfish in the crystal-clear water ・Feel safe with experienced staff providing support and guidance ・Capture memories with a photo service to record your underwater adventure

2h
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Naha: Full-Day Introductory diving & Snorkeling in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa
From $70.85
Free Cancellation

Let our passionate staff guide you through a day of diving and snorkeling in complete safety an hour from Naha city in Okinawa! Swim your way through an aquatic dream in the renowned Kerama Islands' pristine waters. The area was designated as a National Marine Park in 2014 and counts no less than 248 species of corals. Its marine wildlife isn’t any less diverse, and you will get to get close to tiny tropical animals and large fish alike. Let your guide know what you would like to see most and they will make sure to guide you accordingly. Turtles are spotted daily while Humber back whales come to breed in this reserve during the whole winter season. In this incredibly preserved environment, any season has its treasures to discover underwater. So come and marvel at a world-class coral reef and marine life on your first diving experience!

4.5(28)
8h
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Okinawa: Kayak & Snorkel, Private Tour in Yanbaru
From $135.26
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Explore Okinawa with this incredible private ocean tour in Yanbaru, kayak along a lagoon and reef in north Okinawa to an excellent snorkel location. A perfect opportunity to embrace the natural environment while exploring a quieter part of the island. This Private tour will take you on an unforgettable journey along the untouched coastline, where you'll witness stunning views and experience the beauty of nature up close. You'll kayak over the crystal-clear water and past white sandy beaches, stopping to snorkel at locations which suit your group's ability and preferences.

5.0(18)
3h 30m
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Okinawa Snorkeling Tour Experience
From $45.09
Free Cancellation

Swim with Sea Turtles – A Truly Unforgettable Experience in Miyako Island TABIWAKU’s Sea Turtle Snorkeling Tour is more than just swimming. It’s a complete experience — guided by local experts, captured by a professional photographer, and filled with moments you’ll never forget. 99% chance of spotting sea turtles in known habitats Professional underwater photography included – all data is free Beginner-friendly: full snorkeling instruction & life jackets provided Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers Explore vibrant coral reefs and colorful tropical fish in crystal-clear waters Worried about swimming? No problem. We begin in shallow areas and guide you gently, making it safe and enjoyable even for children or first-timers. Safety. Beauty. Memories. Let us help you experience the best of Miyako Island’s underwater world — and take those memories home with you.

2h
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Why Choose Okinawan Diving & Snorkeling Expeditions in Okinawa?

Exceptional Biodiversity

Okinawa boasts over 1,000 species of marine life, including vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish populations.

Expert Local Guides

Tours are led by experienced, certified instructors and guides knowledgeable about the best Okinawan dive and snorkel spots.

Access to Famous Sites

Explore renowned locations like the Kerama Islands National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Suitable for All Levels

Options range from beginner-friendly snorkeling trips to advanced diving excursions for certified divers.

Incredible Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning underwater photographs of colorful fish, intricate corals, and perhaps larger marine creatures.

Well-Maintained Equipment

Operators provide quality, well-maintained diving and snorkeling gear for a safe and comfortable experience.

Types of Okinawan Diving & Snorkeling Expeditions in Okinawa

Snorkeling Expeditions

These tours are perfect for those who want to experience Okinawa's underwater beauty without scuba certification. They typically involve boat trips to shallow, vibrant coral reefs accessible from the surface. Many tours focus on areas known for their rich fish populations and colorful coral gardens.

Beginner-friendlyBoat excursionsShallow reef explorationFocus on colorful fish

Discover Scuba Diving

For individuals curious about scuba diving but not yet certified, these introductory programs offer a safe and supervised first dive. Participants receive a brief training session on basic diving skills and then explore a designated dive site with an instructor. It's a fantastic way to get a feel for scuba diving in Okinawa's clear waters.

No certification requiredSupervised by instructorsLearn basic dive skillsShallow dive sites

Certified Diver Excursions

These tours are designed for individuals holding valid diving certifications (e.g., PADI Open Water, CMAS). They often visit more advanced dive sites, including underwater caves, shipwrecks, or deeper coral walls. Excursions are led by experienced divemasters who guide certified divers to Okinawa's best underwater locations.

Requires diving certificationDeeper dive sitesExplore diverse topographyGuided by divemasters

Island Hopping Dive & Snorkel Trips

Combine island exploration with underwater adventures. These expeditions often visit multiple islands or their surrounding waters, offering diverse diving and snorkeling experiences at different locations. Popular routes include trips to the Kerama Islands or Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park.

Multi-island destinationsVariety of dive/snorkel spotsIncludes island timeIdeal for longer stays

What to Expect on Okinawan Diving & Snorkeling Expeditions Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 3 to 5 hours, though some full-day or multi-day diving packages are also available.

Weather

Okinawa has a subtropical climate. Dive and snorkel tours generally operate year-round, but conditions are best from spring to autumn. Typhoons can cause cancellations from summer to fall.

Group Size

Group sizes vary; snorkeling tours might have 10-20 participants, while specialized diving trips may be smaller, with 4-8 divers per guide for more personalized attention.

What's Included

Most tours include boat transportation, snorkeling or diving equipment rental, a guide, and sometimes light refreshments. Certified diving tours often include dive tanks and weights.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are usually at the tour operator's shop, a local marina, or a designated hotel pickup point. Specific details are provided upon booking.

Additional Costs

National park entrance fees (e.g., for Kerama Islands) might be an additional cost. Personal expenses, souvenirs, and gratuities are not typically included.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book in advance, especially during peak season (spring break, Golden Week, summer holidays) to secure your preferred dates and operators.

2

Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early autumn) for potentially fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

3

If you're not a strong swimmer, opt for snorkeling tours that provide flotation devices and ensure you're comfortable in the water.

4

For divers, check the specific certification level required for each tour and confirm the number of dives included.

5

Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect both your skin and Okinawa's delicate coral ecosystems.

6

Pack a waterproof bag for your camera, phone, and other valuables. Some boats offer dry storage, but it's wise to be prepared.

7

Stay hydrated. Even with the ocean breeze, the Okinawan sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water before and after your tour.

8

Listen carefully to your guide's safety briefing. They are there to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Do I need to know how to swim to go snorkeling in Okinawa?

A: While strong swimming skills aren't strictly necessary for snorkeling, basic water comfort is important. Most tours provide life vests for added buoyancy and safety, allowing you to float easily while observing the underwater world.

Q:What's the best time of year for diving and snorkeling in Okinawa?

A: The prime season runs from April to October, offering warm water temperatures and good visibility. However, even winter months can be suitable for diving with a thicker wetsuit, and you might encounter different marine life.

Q:Can I go diving in Okinawa if I'm not certified?

A: Absolutely! Many operators offer 'Discover Scuba Diving' programs. These are introductory experiences for non-certified individuals, providing basic training and a supervised dive with an instructor, allowing you to experience scuba diving in a safe environment.

Q:What kind of marine life can I expect to see?

A: Okinawa's waters are incredibly diverse. You can expect to see countless species of colorful reef fish, sea turtles, manta rays (especially around certain islands), various types of coral, and smaller creatures like nudibranchs and octopuses.

Q:Are there any hidden gems or less crowded snorkeling spots?

A: While popular spots like the Kerama Islands are stunning, many smaller islands and less frequented bays offer fantastic snorkeling with fewer people. Your tour operator will often know the best local spots depending on the day's conditions.

Q:What should I bring with me on a diving or snorkeling tour?

A: It's recommended to bring a swimsuit, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof bag for your belongings. Some tours provide underwater cameras for rent or purchase.

Q:Do tours include transportation to the dive/snorkel site?

A: Most tours include transportation by boat to the underwater locations. Some operators may also offer land transportation from designated meeting points or hotels, so it's best to check the specific inclusions when booking.

Q:What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?

A: Tour operators prioritize safety. If conditions are deemed unsafe due to weather (e.g., strong winds, typhoons, heavy rain), they will typically offer to reschedule your tour for another day or provide a full refund.

Don't Miss the Perfect Okinawa Experience

Book your okinawan diving & snorkeling expeditions today - 42+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Okinawa?

Discover Okinawa's unique Ryukyu Kingdom history and vibrant subtropical culture.

Experience pristine beaches and world-class diving spots around the Kerama Islands.

Savor delicious Okinawan cuisine, known for its health benefits and distinct flavors.

Explore ancient castles and sacred sites that tell the story of its past.

Immerse yourself in the laid-back island lifestyle and friendly local hospitality.

Find a perfect blend of tropical paradise and rich cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Okinawa experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Typhoons are a possibility during the summer and early autumn months. The southern islands enjoy sunshine year-round, with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Best Months

The best months to visit Okinawa are from March to May (spring) and October to November (autumn), offering pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds before or after the peak summer.

Peak Season

Peak season in Okinawa is during the summer months, from June to August, coinciding with school holidays. Expect hot, humid weather, crowded beaches and attractions, and higher accommodation prices.

Off Season

The off-season typically falls during the winter months, from December to February. While cooler, it's still mild compared to mainland Japan, with fewer tourists and more affordable travel options.

Plan Your Okinawa Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Okinawa can be an adventure. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring beyond Naha, offering the most flexibility to visit beaches and remote sites. Public transport includes buses, which are efficient within Naha but less so for inter-city travel. The Yui Rail monorail is convenient for Naha city. Taxis are available but can be costly for longer distances. Consider ride-sharing apps if available. Planning your route in advance is key to successfully getting around Okinawa.

Car Rental Deals in Okinawa

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Okinawa adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Okinawa

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