Weather in Zamami Island

Zamami Island, part of the Kerama Islands a short ferry ride from Naha, is ringed by some of the clearest water in Japan, with coral reefs close enough to snorkel from the beach and visibility regularly exceeding 20 metres. Outside the main village, the island is quiet and undeveloped, and from January to April it's also one of the best places in Okinawa to spot humpback whales from shore or on whale-watching boats.

Best areas to stay in Zamami Island

Zamami Village

The island's small main settlement, with the ferry port, guesthouses, restaurants and bicycle rental.

Furuzamami Beach

The island's best-known beach, a short walk from the village, with calm, clear water ideal for snorkelling.

Ama Beach

A quieter beach on the other side of the island, popular for camping and a more secluded feel.

Kaminohama Observatory

A clifftop viewpoint offering sweeping views over the turquoise waters and surrounding Kerama Islands.

Getting to Zamami Island

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Flights

Fly into Naha Airport (OKA) via Tokyo or Osaka, then take a high-speed ferry from Tomari Port to Zamami (around 50 minutes).

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From London

~17-19 hours total from London including the domestic flight and ferry

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Getting around

The island is small enough to explore by rented bicycle or scooter, with some areas reachable on foot.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Zamami Island?

Summer (June-September) is best for swimming and snorkelling with the warmest water, while January to April is whale-watching season for humpbacks passing through.

How do I get to Zamami Island?

High-speed ferries from Naha's Tomari Port reach Zamami in about 50 minutes; a slower car ferry takes around two hours.

What is there to do on Zamami Island?

Snorkelling and diving on nearby reefs, beach time at Furuzamami Beach, whale watching in season, and short hikes to viewpoints over the surrounding islands.

Is Zamami Island good for a day trip from Naha?

It's possible as a day trip given the fast ferry, but an overnight stay allows more time on the water and a quieter evening on the island.

Are there accommodation options on Zamami Island?

Yes, the main village has a range of small guesthouses and minshuku (family-run lodgings), though options are limited compared to Naha and should be booked ahead in peak season.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

The water at Furuzamami Beach was the clearest I've ever swum in, snorkelling straight off the sand among coral and reef fish without needing a boat trip at all.

Freddie L. · August 2024

★★★★★

Took a whale-watching boat out and saw humpbacks breaching multiple times, a brilliant experience and the island itself was wonderfully quiet outside the season.

Hana W. · February 2024

★★★★☆

Rented bikes and explored the whole island in a day, including a hike up to the observatory for the views. Limited dining options but the seafood we had was excellent.

Tom V. · June 2023