Tokashiki Island: Aharen & Tokashiku Beach Day Trip with Snorkeling

Summary

Tokashiki island day trip from naha with beach time snorkeling and simple lunch

You’ll catch a boat from Naha to Tokashiki Island for a full day of swimming or snorkeling at Aharen or Tokashiku Beach—maybe even spot sea turtles if luck’s on your side. Lunch is included at a local spot, plus all transport on the island is sorted for you. It’s relaxed, real, and leaves you with sandy feet and salt in your hair.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if the water in Okinawa is really that blue? I did, until we caught the early ferry from Naha to Tokashiki Island. The ride itself was a bit choppy—my friend thought she’d get seasick, but the salty air helped. When we landed, a local staff member waved us over to this tiny bus that looked straight out of a school trip. He didn’t speak much English but smiled a lot, and somehow it felt like we were in good hands. The air smelled faintly of sunscreen and wet sand even before we reached Aharen Beach.

I picked the snorkeling option, half-expecting not to see much (I mean, how often do you actually spot sea turtles?). Our guide, Yuki, handed out gear and ran through safety stuff in Japanese first, then switched to English for us stragglers. I fumbled with my mask—Yuki laughed and adjusted it for me. The water was cooler than I thought but clear enough to see every ripple of sunlight on the sand below. We floated near Tokashiku Beach for what felt like ages. At one point someone shouted “kame!” and sure enough, there was this turtle just gliding by like it owned the place. No promises you’ll see one, but honestly just drifting out there was enough.

Lunch was at a little dive shop—nothing fancy, just curry rice that tasted way better after swimming all morning. There were locals chatting outside in Okinawan dialect; I caught maybe two words but their laughter carried over the sound of cicadas. We had some free time after that to wander around or just sit on the beach. I tried saying “arigato” with my mouth full (not recommended). The sun came out right as we were drying off—timing that never happens when you plan it.

The ride back was quieter; everyone seemed sun-tired and happy in that wordless way you get after a day outside. I still think about that turtle sometimes—or maybe just how simple everything felt for those few hours on Tokashiki Island.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tokashiki Island beach and snorkeling

• Travel from Naha to Tokashiki Island
• Staff leads to small bus to beach
• Enjoy lunch at dive shop
• Free time at Aharen beach and village
• Optional snorkeling at Tokashiku Beach
• Return to port by bus
• Depart Tokashiki Island by ferry or boat
• Travel back to Naha port

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Naha to Tokashiki Island?

The tour lasts about 7.5 hours by ferry or 9.5 hours by high-speed boat from Naha.

Is snorkeling with sea turtles guaranteed on this tour?

No, sightings of sea turtles are not guaranteed as it depends on sea conditions.

What beaches do you visit during the Tokashiki Island day trip?

You can spend time at Aharen Beach or Tokashiku Beach depending on your chosen option.

Is lunch included in the day trip?

Yes, a simple lunch such as curry rice or Okinawa soba is included (except for infants).

Are transportation and ferry tickets included?

Yes, round-trip ferry or high-speed boat tickets from Naha and shuttle transport on Tokashiki Island are included.

Can children join the snorkeling activity?

Snorkeling is available for ages 6 to 59 years old only.

Does the tour run if it rains?

The tour may still take place in rainy weather conditions.

Is pickup service available from hotels in Naha?

No pickup service in Naha; you meet at the port instead.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip ferry or high-speed boat tickets between Naha and Tokashiki Island, shuttle bus transfers between port and beaches on the island, use of showers and changing rooms, basic lunch (like curry rice or Okinawa soba), plus all snorkeling equipment and an instructor if you choose that option before heading back in the afternoon.