Snorkel Okinawa's Blue Cave: Private Guide & Free Photos
Float into Okinawa’s Blue Cave on a short shared boat ride and snorkel luminous blue waters with a private guide. The tour includes wetsuits, life jackets, free photos, and easy access—ideal for first-timers and families.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book mid-morning for best light
Sun angle affects the cave’s blue glow—mid-morning typically gives the clearest, most intense color and calmer seas.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and prevent skin irritation by choosing reef-safe sunscreen and applying before arrival—reapply with a towel on hand.
Secure belongings
Lockers and a short walk back to the shop make it easy to stow phones and wallets; use a waterproof case for photos taken in the water.
Listen to your guide
Guides provide floatation support and will position you for photos—follow their instructions for safe entry and exit at the cave mouth.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small rock pools along the shore near the shop that hold juvenile reef fish at low tide
- •A short coastal walk from the pier with unobstructed sunset views and fewer visitors than the main viewpoint
Wildlife
- •Parrotfish
- •Blue damselfish
Conservation Note
Stick to marked entry points, avoid touching coral, and use reef-safe products; operators typically brief guests on low-impact snorkeling to protect the reef.
The coastal caves and coral formations are part of the Ryukyu geology—limestone terraces uplifted over millennia—and local fishing communities have used these shores for generations.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the coral reef during prolonged sun exposure.
Waterproof phone case or dry bagEssential
Keeps valuables dry and lets you store the free photos transferred after the tour.
Quick-dry towel and change of clothesEssential
Useful after the shower facilities at the shop to stay comfortable for onward plans.
Light neoprene booties or water shoes
Provides traction on slippery entry points and protection on rocky shores if you step out.
Common Questions
Do I need to be able to swim?
No—wetsuits and life jackets increase buoyancy and guides provide floatation support, so non-swimmers and children can participate safely.
How long is the boat ride to the cave?
The shared boat ride from the nearby port is about 5 minutes; total tour time including gearing up and return is roughly 150 minutes.
Are photos included?
Yes—guides take photos and videos during the tour and transfer up to 50 images to your phone after the activity.
Is this tour affected by weather?
Tours may be canceled in bad weather for safety; cancel at least 24 hours ahead for a full refund per the operator’s policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Onna, Okinawa Prefecture
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light aerobic fitness—able to float and swim short distances; suitable for beginners and children with guide support
Ready to Explore Onna?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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