Kerama Islands Day Trips in Okinawa
Part of the Okinawa travel guide — see every topic in All Okinawa Guides.
The Kerama Islands are a group of small islands 30–40 km west of Naha. Zamami, Aka and Tokashiki are the three main islands for visitors, with white beaches, viewpoints and some of Japan's clearest water.
Ferries
Boats leave from Tomari Port in Naha. The high-speed Queen Zamami reaches Aka and Zamami in about 50–70 minutes; the slower Ferry Zamami takes about 90–120 minutes. For Tokashiki, the Marine Liner takes about 35 minutes and the Ferry Tokashiki about 70 minutes. Fast boats cost about ¥3,000–3,500 one way and slow ferries less. Book ahead in summer.
Zamami
Zamami has Furuzamami Beach, with clear water and coral close to the shore, and Ama Beach, where sea turtles often feed. Several hilltop viewpoints look over the islands, and in winter they are good for spotting whales. Rent a bicycle or scooter in the village.
Aka and Tokashiki
Aka is small and quiet, with Nishihama Beach and a bridge to the island of Geruma; small Kerama deer live here. Tokashiki is the largest island: Aharen Beach is long and white, with snorkel and water-sport rentals, and Tokashiku Beach is known for turtles.
Day trip or overnight
A day trip gives you about 4–6 hours on an island. The last boats back to Naha leave around 16:00–17:00, so check the time when you arrive. Stay one night to enjoy the beach early and late, see the stars and miss the day crowds. Rooms are few, so book early for July and August.
Kerama Islands Day Trips at a glance
| Departs | Tomari Port, Naha |
|---|---|
| Zamami | Fast boat about 50 min; Furuzamami and Ama beaches |
| Tokashiki | Fast boat about 35 min; Aharen Beach |
| Aka | Quiet; Nishihama Beach; Kerama deer |
| Fast boat fare | About ¥3,000–3,500 one way |
| Last boats back | About 16:00–17:00 |