Miyako Island: Sea Turtle Snorkeling & Free Pickup Tour

Swim with sea turtles in Miyako’s clear blue sea, free pickup included

You’ll ride out across Miyako Island with free pickup, meet your local guide right on the beach, then slip into crystal-clear water to swim alongside sea turtles and colorful clownfish. All your gear is included, and so are photos you’ll actually want to keep. There’s something about seeing those turtles up close that really sticks with you long after you’re back on land.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sea turtle snorkeling with pick-up service

• Pick-up from accommodation
• Travel to snorkeling location
• Snorkel with sea turtles and clownfish
• Receive free photo and video data
• Drop-off at accommodation

The experience

I barely had time to feel nervous before we were already zipping along Miyako Island’s little roads in an air-conditioned van. The driver, Shinji-san, waved as we hopped in, and I remember the faint smell of sunscreen mixing with that salty ocean air through the open window. We passed a bunch of sugarcane fields and a kid riding his bike way too fast. It all felt a bit surreal, like we’d just landed and suddenly here we were, heading out to snorkel with sea turtles.

Our guide Nami met us at the beach, grinning and handing out snorkels. She spoke English way better than my Japanese (I tried “arigato” anyway, she laughed). The sand was soft but stuck everywhere. I kept brushing it off my toes while she explained how to spot the turtles without scaring them. The water was clearer than any pool I’ve seen, like actual glass, and when I put my face in, there was this hush except for my own breathing. Suddenly a turtle drifted past below me, slow and unbothered. I tried not to squeal through the snorkel.

We floated above coral gardens full of clownfish (Nami called them “Nemo”, makes sense), and she snapped photos on her waterproof camera. At one point I lost sight of everyone because I got distracted by these tiny electric-blue fish darting around my fingers. The sun kept shifting on the water so everything sparkled weirdly bright. I still think about that view sometimes when I close my eyes at night. Afterward, Nami sent us all the photos for free, which is good because honestly half my memories are just blurry excitement.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup and drop-off anywhere on Miyako Island (and nearby islands if needed), all snorkeling gear provided by your guide right at the beach, plus digital photos and videos sent afterward so you don’t have to worry about bringing a camera or missing those underwater moments.

Before you book

Lasts 2h, runs every day, 4 start times, from JP¥ 6,900 per person, with a live guide in English and Japanese and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:30, 10:30, 13:30 and 15:30

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (13 to 65 years) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

GroupUp to 50 · max 8 per booking

Live guideEnglish and Japanese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended with heart problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Nami MIYAKO

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Japanese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can beginners join the Miyako sea turtle snorkeling tour?

Yes, the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and includes guidance from experienced staff.

Is hotel pickup included for this snorkeling tour?

Yes, free pickup and drop-off are available from all areas of Miyako Island (subject to reservation).

Are snorkeling equipment and wetsuits provided?

Yes, use of all necessary snorkeling equipment is included in the tour price.

Will I get photos or videos from the snorkeling trip?

Yes, free SNS-ready photo and video data are provided after your tour.

What age range can participate in this activity?

The tour is open to travelers from 3 to 65 years old.

Is English spoken by guides on this tour?

Yes, English-speaking service is available for overseas visitors.

Can pregnant travelers join this snorkeling experience?

No, pregnant individuals cannot participate for safety reasons.

How long does it take to reach the snorkeling spot from central Miyako?

The drive is short: pickup covers all areas of Miyako Island for convenience.