Elena Mallia 
Getting ready to visit Okinawa prefecture, Japan? I’ll be your trip-planning gal! I’ve crafted this comprehensive article after I researched the best areas to stay, compared all the best hotels in each, and found unmissable activities for any traveler! So, let’s dive in to this guide on where to stay in Okinawa, Japan
Nago is the best place to stay in Okinawa for first-timers. It’s located on the main Okinawa Island, has tons of attractions, parks, and fabulous scenery, and it’s home to some delicious restaurants!
I’ve also included 4 more beautiful areas and sorted them nicely by interest, so you can pick the one that works best for you! For each area, I included cherry-picked hotels for all budgets, so planning your trip to Okinawa really can’t get any easier!
Just please remember to book your stay in Okinawa in advance. This stunning island is immensely popular, and the best hotel spots are always the first to go!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Book the best hotels in Nago, Okinawa, to get the adventure started right away:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Nago – where to stay in Okinawa Island for the first time
- 2. Naha – best place to stay in Okinawa on a budget
- 3. Nakijin – best area to stay in Okinawa for history
- 4. Miyako Islands – best island to stay in Okinawa for diving
- 5. Ishigaki – where to stay in Okinawa with kids + active vacation
- FAQs about where to stay in Okinawa, Japan
- Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Okinawa, Japan
This map will help you visualize the 5 best areas to stay in Okinawa that I’ll talk about in the post:
- Nago: for first-timers
- Naha: on a budget
- Nakijin: for history
- MIYAKO ISLANDS: for diving
- ISHIGAKI: with kids
1. Nago – where to stay in Okinawa Island for the first time
Located in the Northern part of Okinawa island, Nago is the best place to stay in Okinawa for the first time. It’s a lively area surrounded by mountains, with plenty of observation decks, vibrant nightlife, delicious restaurants, and beautiful parks.
Home to one of the best beaches on the island and the festival of the Cherry blossom trees (trees bloom very early here, starting mid-January), with the best place for observation being the Nago Central Park (map)!
Other attractions, like the quirky Pineapple Park (map, Okinawa’s first pineapple winery) and Orion Happy Park (map), are also worth a visit. At Pineapple Park, you can eat delicious fruit while learning about the cultivation of pineapples and exploring sculptures and souvenirs! At Orion Happy Park, you can taste local Okinawa beer during a guided tour.
But that’s not all! There are lots of attractions to enjoy here for the whole family! Encounter tropical marine life without getting wet at the Busena Marine Park, or learn about the culture and history of Okinawa at the Nago Museum.
If you’re into snorkeling, just a 40-minute drive away is Cape Maeda (map), one of the most popular snorkeling spots on the island! Also, you can continue further North to the Yanbaru province and explore the beautiful, rural side of Okinawa!
Okinawa archipelago has over 100 islands, each with unique places, activities, and character!
In general, if you’d rather stay on one island, the Okinawa Main Island is the one. It has most of the attractions and beautiful sights. However, I highly recommend island hopping so you can fully explore the diverse wildlife and offerings of other islands.
P.S. It can be challenging to get around Okinawa without a car, while taxis can get too expensive. I recommend renting a car to make the most out of your stay in Okinawa.
The Terrace Club Wellness Resort
This 5-star resort is the best place to splurge on your stay in Nago! It has 2 stunning pools, its own private beach, a stunning interior, and spacious rooms overlooking the sea! Past guests say that the staff is super friendly, and they even have tennis courts on-site!
Other accommodation options in Nago
Beautiful accommodations with lots of space and free parking available
A top-rated budget accommodation featuring spacious apartments
Amazing big beach house with a private garden, perfect for couples and families!
Things to do in Nago
- Join a brewery tour at Orion Happy Park and taste the Okinawa beer!
- Take the kids out to see wildlife at the Neo Park Zoo
- Enjoy the beautiful world of Okinawa’s ocean at the Busena Marine Park
- Explore the history of Okinawa at the Nago Museum
- Learn about the cultivation of pineapples at the Pineapple Park
- Go shopping in Don Quijote (map), Japan’s biggest discount chain
2. Naha – best place to stay in Okinawa on a budget
Naha is the capital, the biggest city, and the most popular stop on the islands. It is not only where the main Okinawa airport is located but also home to a lovely white sand beach where locals and visitors relax or dive.
Naha City boasts an ancient castle, a vibrant shopping street, and local artistic and cultural attractions with plenty of things to do for all ages and interests. A drive between Nago and Naha takes around 1 hour.
The nearby majestic UNESCO World Heritage site, Shuri Castle (map), will transport you directly into the past with its vivid red colors.
The original 14th-century castle was destroyed during World War II, but was rebuilt during the 1990s and is just as spectacular as it was!
If you cannot leave a place without taking a souvenir with you, check out the Tsuboya Pottery District (map), where you can see artists while they make pottery or even learn how to make it yourself by taking some classes! This unique neighborhood is home to other interesting attractions like the Tsuboya Odori Pottery Street and the Tsuboya Pottery Museum, too, if you really want to dive deep.
Many other attractions are less than a one-hour drive from Naha. You can stroll in the nice American Village (map), built as a replica of one of San Diego’s shopping streets and enjoy surreal views of Cape Manzano (map). Okinawa World Theme Park is also a must-visit for families and everyone interested in Okinawa culture!
NOTE: The second largest city, Okinawa City, is located 26 km (16 miles) East of Naha, and it’s home to numerous attractions like the Okinawa Zoo & Museum. You can easily make a day trip out of it! Okinawa City is also where many U.S. military bases are located, making this place a popular area to stay for U.S. military personnel and their families.
You would expect the capital of Okinawa to be quite expensive, especially with so many touristy things to do and see. But, Naha is the most affordable area of Okinawa Island, which makes it perfect for those who want to stay on a budget! Are you one of them? Then book your hotel immediately in this amazing cheap city as everyone wants the best deals!
Luxurious 5-star hotel featuring spacious Western-style rooms with comfy beds and all the amenities you need. Enjoy delicious Japanese food from the rooftop restaurant with an amazing view of the sunset or the city. Visitors fall in love with the continental breakfast and perfect central location!
Other accommodation options in Naha
Free parking and access to all the best beaches in the heart of Naha
Amazing breakfast in a Japanese-style hostel with great value for the price
Enjoy your luxury apartment only a 7-minute drive from Naha airport
Things to do in Naha
- Soak up some sun, breathe the sea air, or dive at Naha Beach
- Look for unique souvenirs in Kokusai Dori Shopping Street (map)
- Check out the majestic Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Try making pottery in the Tsuboya Pottery District
- Take a ferry to the beautiful Zamami Island (map)
- Learn about Okinawan pottery at the Tsuboya Pottery Museum
- Go snorkeling in some of the most transparent waters in the world at The Kerama Islands National Park
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3. Nakijin – best area to stay in Okinawa for history
Nakijin is a tranquil village located in the Northwest of Okinawa Island, and the ride from Nago to Nakijin takes less than 20 minutes. This village became famous for its castle ruins (map), which date back to the beginning of the Ryukyu reign (mid-15th century).
Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle ruins attract visitors who wish to see the beautiful castle walls. The walls are 1 mile long and 20 feet tall at the highest point, making it the second-biggest castle on the island behind Shurijo Castle.
This historic building will amaze you with the contrast between the expansive gray stone walls and the vibrant green of the hills! Talking about colors, Nakijin’s signature blue waters are perfect for diving or paddleboarding, and the flavorful orange mangos, sold piled atop sweet shaved ice, are a must here! This village is known for these fruits!
You’ll also find tons of family-friendly attractions around, including the must-visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.
In Nakijin Village, you can stay in traditional Japanese homes, where you’ll feel the warmth and kindness of the local people, or opt for one of the many luxurious hotels. Let’s check them out together!
Incredible resort in Nakijin village, only a short walk from the beach, where you can breathe fresh air and work on your tan! Have the best dinners at the hotel’s restaurant, and relax by the seasonal outdoor swimming pool and a terrace, from where you’ll have unforgettable views of the ocean!
Other accommodation options in Nakijin
Dreamy beachfront resort with an outdoor pool and big rooms with hot tub
Have a cozy stay in comfy rooms with free parking in the heart of Nakijin village
Stylish, contemporary, private house with access to outdoor pool and garden
Things to do in Nakijin
- Visit the ancient ruins of Nakijin Castle
- Go diving or try paddleboarding in Nakijin blue waters
- Try delicious flavorful mangos, piled atop sweet shaved ice
- Walk up the red tomb, a big rock in Akabaka Beach (map), for an awesome view
- Rent a car and check out the beautiful Hiji Falls (map), the tallest waterfall on the Okinawa islands
4. Miyako Islands – best island to stay in Okinawa for diving
Miyako Islands are located 294km (183 miles) South of the main Okinawa island (Naha), and they’re one of the top destinations in Okinawa for exploring the sea underworld! Plus, this is a great island for all types of travelers due to its subtropical climate, making it pleasant for visits any time of the year.
Miyako Island is one of the few places in Okinawa that doesn’t have habu snakes living on it!
You’ll find infinite sugar cane fields and very few mountains in Miyako. Its few towns are very charming, with Hirara being the largest one. Resorts are available all around the island, and there are plenty of dining opportunities, especially in the cities.
The Miyako islands are also known for the Umibudo sea grapes, a local specialty made of green seaweed that looks like grapes, also known as green caviar! Okinawa also has another unique seaweed, mozuku! You can try them at local fisheries all over the island!
Most people flock to Miyako for the beaches, though. The Yonaha Beach (map), Sunayama Beach (map), and Aragusuku Beach (map) are the most popular ones!
You’ll find stunning coral reefs with top-notch diving and snorkeling opportunities. Do note that the highest season for visiting the beaches here is from April to November.
Attractions-wise, you’ll also find the beautiful Cape Higashi-Hennazaki (map) open space with walking paths and a lighthouse and the popular bridges like the Irabu Bridge (map) and Ikema Bridge (map).
Hotel Shigira Mirage Beach Front
A lovely 4-star hotel near the beach with stunning surroundings, spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, and a 24-hour front desk. They serve daily buffet breakfast (complimentary), offer free parking, and beautiful views from the suites with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Other accommodation options in Miyako Islands
This 3-star hotel has apartments with lovely views, free parking, AC in rooms, and very clean premises
An affordable 1-star hostel with complimentary breakfast, free parking, and a lovely garden
A stunning villa with a bright and modern interior and an ocean view from the balcony
Things to do in Miyako Islands
- Explore the coral reefs by going snorkeling and diving
- Visit the popular bridges connecting the islands
- Explore Hirara, the biggest city on the island
- Spend a day at the Yonaha Beach (map) and other secluded beaches
5. Ishigaki – where to stay in Okinawa with kids + active vacation
If you were already imagining yourself lying on the white sand and splashing in the crystal water while reading the introduction, you should opt for the stunning Ishigaki island, located in the South of the Okinawa archipelago. This mesmerizing place hosts some of the most beautiful beaches, such as Yonehara Beach (map), Sukuji Beach (map), and Sunset Beach (map).
Home to beautiful, diverse marine life and the rare blue coral in its national park, Ishigaki became a popular snorkeling and diving spot in Okinawa.
But Ishigaki is not only sun and sand: the mangroves spread around all the island makes it excellent for other adventures such as kayaking. Also, the Squirrel Monkey Forest (map) is perfect for a fun visit with kids.
Ishigaki is one of the most popular Okinawa islands for hiking! You’ll find dozens of mountain trails, with Mount Omoto, Okinawa’s highest mountain, being among the best ones!
And if you are into culinary discoveries, you’re in the right place! The island is famed for the purest beef on earth, which is incredibly tender and pristine, while if you love raw fish as much as I do, you will also find delicious traditional sushi everywhere.
Kabira Tei (map) restaurant is the best place to try Ishigaki beef on the island!
You can also exercise your brain at the Yaeyama Museum (map) to learn something new about the island’s history!
Find everything you need in this stunning resort featuring a fitness center, spa, outdoor and indoor swimming pool, and 9 dining options offering some of the best food in Japan! Enjoy the ocean and garden views from your room, breathe fresh air coming from the sea, and engage in fun activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking offered by the tour desk at the nearby beaches.
Other accommodation options in Ishigaki
Sea-front rooms with access to a pool-side terrace where you can breathe fresh air
Nice and cozy place on Ishigaki island, with the city center nearby
Feel at home in this lovely house with access to a garden and the sea
Things to do in Ishigaki
- Go snorkeling at Yonehara Beach and be surrounded by colorful fish
- Take in the views from the Tamatorizaki Observation Platform (map)
- Play and have fun with monkeys at the Squirrel Monkey Park Forest
- Gaze at the best sunsets at Sunset Beach
- Try the purest beef on earth in one of the local restaurants
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$300 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$60 |
| 📍 Best area: | Nago |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Ishigaki |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | The Terrace Club |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Super Hotel Okinawa Nago |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Hote Io Lite |
FAQs about where to stay in Okinawa, Japan
🏙️ What is the best part of Okinawa to stay?
The best place to stay in Okinawa for first-timers is either Nago City on the main island, or the capital city, Naha, on the same island. These places are most popular among tourists and have plenty of beautiful sights and attractions.
👪 Where to stay in Okinawa with family?
The best place to stay in Okinawa for families is Ishigaki, perfect for a relaxing beach life or fun water sports! ANA InterContinental Resort here is the ideal resort for families looking to splurge on their stay, while Ishigakijima Hotel is a great budget option.
💰 Where to stay in Okinawa on a budget?
The best places to stay in Okinawa on a budget are Hotel Naha Kumoji or the hostel The Kitchen Hostel, both located in Naha, the capital city of the Okinawa islands.
📸 What are the best things to do in Okinawa?
The best things to do during your trip to the Okinawa islands are to try the traditional dishes in one of the delicious Okinawan restaurants, visit the capital city Naha, take a brewery tour at Orion Park, and check out the tall Hiji waterfall.
❓ How many days in Okinawa is enough?
Plan at least 5 days, especially if you want to explore more than one island in Okinawa and experience the island’s natural beauty.
✖️ How do you get around Okinawa without a car?
The Yui Rail, or Okinawa’s Urban Monorail, as well as plenty of vehicle and bike rentals, are available on the main island. You can use public transport, vehicle and bike rentals, and ferries to get around other islands.
🗓️ What is the best month to visit Okinawa?
March, April, and May are the best months to visit Okinawa. It’s springtime, the weather is warm and pleasant, and most resort beaches open up at this time.
🏊♀️ Can you swim in Okinawa?
Yes, you can swim in Okinawa, but only in designated places since the island is known for its rip tides. Most of the swimming beaches are around the Central and Southern parts of Okinawa’s islands.
Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Okinawa, Japan
Here we come to the end of this dreamy and tropical vacation through the best areas and hotels in Okinawa, Japan! As you can see, there is such a large selection of incredible accommodations, offering views of the beach, fresh sea air, and access to countless activities and attractions for visitors.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel with a relaxing spa, an upscale resort, or “on a budget” options like me, Okinawa won’t let you down!
If you’re still undecided about where to stay in Okinawa, let me help you and give you my absolute top choices:
- Royal Gran Okinawa – Luxurious 5 stars hotel with spacious Western-style rooms and incredible city views
- Hotel Naha Kumoji – Free parking and access to all the best beaches in the heart of Naha
I hope you enjoyed reading my guide as much as I enjoyed doing the research to help you find the best options!
If you are already imagining yourself diving in the idyllic waters of Okinawa, I strongly suggest you book at least 6 months before your trip. Visitors love this tropical jewel, and the best spots get booked fast!
Have you been to Okinawa and have any suggestions or comments for this blog? Leave a comment below, I’m looking forward to answering you!
Enjoy traveling Okinawa,
Elena
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I am trying to learn how and where to visit Okinawa. I am also interested in the diet/cuisine of Okinawans.