Beyond Churaumi! 5 Best Marine Activities Around Motobu

Motobu Town in northern Okinawa isn’t just about the Churaumi Aquarium!

From crystal-clear remote islands to family-friendly programs, here are 5 amazing spots all within 15 minutes by car from our villa.

Minna Island

Crystal clear waters of Minna Island Photo: Unsplash / Details at Minna Island Marine Service

Shaped like a croissant when viewed from above, this remote island boasts some of the clearest waters in Okinawa.

The contrast of white sand and emerald sea is breathtaking. Swim just a bit from the beach and you’ll encounter corals and tropical fish.

📍 Access 15-min ferry from Toguchi Port (10 min by car from villa)
🗓️ Season April - October
🔗 Official Site Minna Island Marine Service

Sunset at Sesoko Beach Photo: Unsplash

Cross the Sesoko Bridge to reach this island accessible by car. Just about 10 minutes from our villa.

Famous for its stunning sunsets, it also offers plenty of marine sports like parasailing and banana boats.

📍 Access About 10 min by car from villa
🏄 Activities Parasailing, sea kayaking, banana boat
🔗 Reference Motobu Tourism Association

Coral reef at Gorilla Chop Photo: Unsplash

A spot marked by a rock formation that looks like a gorilla doing a karate chop.

Easy beach entry for snorkeling. Known for beautiful soft corals and abundant fish.

📍 Access About 15 min by car from villa
💰 Cost Free (public facilities available)

Dolphins at Motobu Genki Village Photo: Unsplash / Details at Motobu Genki Village

Only 5 minutes by car from our villa. The most popular spot for families with young children.

Offers various programs where you can swim with and touch dolphins. Over 60 experience programs available year-round.

📍 Access About 5 min by car from villa
⭐ Recommended Dolphin Encounter, Coral View Cruising
🔗 Official Site Motobu Genki Village

Whale watching in Okinawa Photo: Unsplash

From late December to March, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Okinawa.

Watching boats depart from Toguchi Port. The dynamic whale performances are truly spectacular.

📍 Departure Toguchi Port (10 min from villa)
🗓️ Season Late December - late March
⏱️ Duration About 3 hours

All these spots are within a 5 to 15-minute drive from our villa.

After a full day of activities, we recommend relaxing on the villa’s wood deck while watching the sunset.