Guide
Emerald Beach is a rare type of beach located within a lagoon inside the Ocean Expo Park in Motobu, Okinawa. Its most striking feature is the breathtaking contrast between the high-transparency emerald green sea and the brilliant white coral sand. The area is meticulously managed to balance environmental preservation with visitor safety, offering a calm and stable environment surrounded by the sea.
The quality of the water and the beauty of the landscape have earned this beach recognition from the Ministry of the Environment, including being selected for the "88 Selected Swimming Beaches" and "100 Best Water Quality Beaches." Constant maintenance of the sand and facilities is conducted to ensure that visitors can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and high-quality seaside experience while preserving the natural environment.
Emerald Beach is divided into three distinct areas shaped like a Y-junction: Asobi-no-Hama (Play Beach), Ikoi-no-Hama (Relaxation Beach), and Nagame-no-Hama (Viewpoint Beach). Each area offers a different way to enjoy the shore. For example, you can choose a calm area for playing in the waves or a scenic area for quiet contemplation, making it easy to tailor your stay to your companions. Because it is a lagoon, the water surface remains much calmer and more stable than the open ocean.
The beach is primarily open during the summer and regular seasons from April to October. Since opening hours vary by season, we recommend checking in advance. During the peak summer months from May to August, the beach is accessible until 18:30. Visiting during sunrise or sunset allows you to witness the beautiful color gradients shifting between the sky and the sea.
Visitors can enjoy swimming in the well-maintained waters or simply relaxing by the shore. A beach snack shop is available on-site for purchasing light meals and beverages. However, please note that due to environmental protection efforts, snorkeling is prohibited in certain areas. Always check local signage and rules before participating in water activities.
Emerald Beach is located right next to the famous Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of Okinawa's top attractions. Visiting both allows for a comprehensive day trip exploring the natural beauty and marine life of Okinawa. A well-maintained coastal promenade also runs through the park, perfect for a scenic stroll.
To ensure a comfortable stay, please keep the following in mind: Rental items such as life jackets or floats generally require payment in CASH. To protect the environment, please follow the rules regarding trash disposal. We recommend bringing swimwear, sandals, sun protection gear, and plenty of cash for rentals.