When most people think of Japan, they picture temples, shrines, kimonos, or the iconic Mount Fuji and bullet trains. But what if we told you Japan has its own tropical paradise? The Miyako Islands, located in Okinawa Prefecture, offer stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and a relaxed island vibe, along with vibrant underwater life that might surprise you. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Miyako Islands – from getting there to the best things to see, do, eat, and where to stay.
Table of contents
- About the Miyako Islands
- How to get to the Miyako Islands
- Getting around on the Miyako Islands
- Things to do on the Miyako Islands
- Best places to eat on the Miyako Islands
- Best time to visit the Miyako Islands
- How long to stay on the Miyako Islands
- Budget for the Miyako Islands
- Where to stay on Miyakojima
About the Miyako Islands
The Miyako Islands are a group of islands in Okinawa Prefecture, positioned between Okinawa Island and the Yaeyama Islands. The largest and most populous of these islands is Miyakojima. Connected to Miyakojima by bridges are three smaller islands: Irabu Island, Kurima Island, and Ikema Island.
Other islands include Shimoji Island, which can be accessed via Irabu Island. Ogami Island is reachable by boat. Tarama Island is accessible by both air and sea from Miyako Airport, and Minna Island is best visited from Tarama Island.
How to get to the Miyako Islands
The only way to get to the Miyako Islands is by plane. Direct flights are available from several major cities: Ishigaki in 30 minutes, Okinawa in about an hour, Osaka in 2.5 hours, Tokyo in 3 hours, and Nagoya in 3 hours.
To find the best deals for flying to Miyako, make sure to check out Skyscanner. It is our go-to for finding affordable flights!
Getting around on the Miyako Islands
The best way to get around the Miyako Islands is by renting a scooter or car. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive and require you to speak at least a bit of Japanese. We rented a scooter for 8 days, which cost us € 155 in total, or about € 19 per day. If you’re interested in renting a scooter, you can find the rental location on Google Maps.
Things to do on the Miyako Islands
Cape Higashi-Hennazaki (Miyakojima)
Let’s begin this guide to the Miyako Islands with what we believe is its most breathtaking spot, and possibly one of the most beautiful in all of Japan: Cape Higashi-Hennazaki. Located on the southeastern tip of Miyakojima, this cape offers the island’s best sunrise view, without a doubt. We can confidently say it was the most mesmerizing, peaceful, and stunning sunrise we’ve ever experienced. Even before the sun peeked over the horizon, the sky was already painted with beautiful colors!
The cape is also home to Hennasaki Lighthouse, a striking white lighthouse that offers a panoramic view of the ocean. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse, just keep in mind it only opens at 9:30 AM. The entrance fee is 300 yen (about € 2), and there are 97 steps to reach the top.
Playa Higashi Heianna (Miyakojima)
When leaving Cape Higashi-Hennazaki, instead of returning via the main road, take the right-hand road that leads down the hill. After passing Bora fishing port you’ll arrive at Playa Higashi Heianna. Since it’s still early in the morning, the beach will likely be quiet (we only saw one other couple each of the three times we visited), making it the perfect spot to see turtles. And yes, we mean it – every visit, we spotted at least five turtles! Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear and GoPro so you can spend the morning with these incredible creatures. While the beach itself isn’t the prettiest due to some garbage (rare in Japan!), it’s an excellent location for snorkeling. However, it’s not the best spot if you’re hoping to sunbathe!
Fun fact
You can spot hermit crabs all over the island’s beaches!
Yonaha Maehama Beach (Miyakojima)
Yonaha Maehama Beach is one of the most popular spots on Miyakojima, so we had to include it in this guide to the Miyako Islands. The beach stands out for its clear blue waters and soft white sand, creating a truly picturesque scene. It’s one of the few beaches on the island where you’ll always find people, thanks to its sunbeds, toilets, and available activities. It’s also one of the best spots for sunbathing, and with its calm waters, it’s perfect for swimming!
We visited a few times, but sunrise was definitely our favorite moment. Watching Kurima Island and Kurima Bridge against a beautifully colored sky felt simply magical. We even spotted plenty of crabs, birds, and fish jumping out of the water. A pretty cool sight!
Boraga Beach (Miyakojima)
Boraga Beach is another fantastic beach on Miyakojima, perfect for a more laid-back beach day. The location of Boraga Beach is absolutely stunning, as it’s beautifully tucked away in a bay with just one strip of sand there. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling, or if that’s not your thing, you can rent a kayak and explore the ocean that way. There’s also an outdoor pool you can use for 500 yen (just over € 3), and there are amenities like toilets, showers, and changing rooms. They even sell snacks and drinks, so you’re all set for a beach day. The parking lot is a bit small, but Boraga Beach isn’t as crowded as Yonaha Maehama, so finding a spot shouldn’t be too difficult.
Imgya Marine Garden (Miyakojima)
Imgya Marine Garden is a stunning seaside park on Miyakojima that’s perfect for spending a day. One of the highlights is renting a transparent kayak, where you can glide over the stunningly clear water. The area is also a popular spot for snorkeling, with coral reefs and plenty of tropical fish to discover. The walkways are surrounded by beautiful plants, and you can catch a panoramic view of the horizon from the observatory. It’s a very relaxing and hidden spot on the South side of Miyakojima.
Nishihenna Cape (Miyakojima)
Nishihenna Cape is the western cape of Miyakojima, and while it may not be as dramatic as Cape Higashi-Hennazaki, it still offers beautiful views. You can spot the Ikema Bridge in the distance, as well as some wind turbines. The observatory platform is the place to be for great views, but walking to the end of the cape is where you can see the waves crashing against the rocks – pretty cool if you ask us.
We also included Nishihenna Cape in this guide to the Miyako Islands because of HARRY’S Shrimp Truck, located right across from the parking lot at the cape’s entrance. You can’t miss it with its flashy yellow “American school bus” design. The shrimp here is fantastic, especially the butter garlic flavor. We totally get why it’s so popular! We also highly recommend trying the Miyako beef, a rare treat with only 20 portions available each day. It was incredibly tender and delicious. We can’t stress enough that you must order this if it’s still available when you order! HARRY’S Shrimp Truck is open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM, and it’s a good idea to arrive early. We arrived just after 11, and there were already 10+ people in line, and that on a regular Tuesday!
Sunayama Beach (Miyakojima)
Our favorite spot to watch the sunset is Sunayama Beach on Miyakojima. It’s a small beach that gets quite busy at sunset, but that just adds to its cozy atmosphere! We picked up some drinks and snacks from the FamilyMart nearby before heading to the beach, where we enjoyed a stunning sunset amidst beautiful scenery.
This beach is very recognizable, as there’s a unique rock arch on the left side of the beach. It’s very impressive and extremely picturesque, although the arch is fenced off because rocks might fall. That’s a bit of a shame, but if you imagine the fence not being there it’s a pretty cool spot!
Musunun Beach (Kurima Island)
Musunun Beach, located on Kurima Island, is one of the best-kept secrets on the Miyako Islands. While many visitors stop here just to admire the view and snap a few photos, if you go a bit further you’ll discover a secluded stretch of sand all to yourself. We arrived around 11 AM and found the beach completely deserted, a wonderful surprise! Our experience is that a few people might pop by for a quick look, but they’ll leave soon enough. We spent hours basking on the silky white sand and swimming in the crystal-clear blue water. It’s the perfect spot for a private beach day! Just keep in mind that there are no toilets or showers available, but we think that all fits the “secluded beach feel” so well.
Nagamahama Beach (Kurima Island)
Nagamahama Beach is another beautiful beach on Kurima Island, just a 5-minute drive from Musunun Beach. To get there, you’ll need to navigate a densely wooded path, where you might come across some spiders. Been there, done that! But once you reach the beach, the mesmerizing beauty of the place quickly makes you forget about all of that. We didn’t swim or sunbathe but enjoyed a peaceful walk along the shore. It’s a perfect place to take in the vibrant blue water and to observe the playful hermit crabs. Oh how cute those little guys are! Again, there are no toilets or showers available.
Irabu Ohashi Bridge (Irabu Island)
We never thought we’d recommend a bridge as one of the best things to do on the Miyako Islands, but here we are! Irabu Ohashi Bridge, the longest toll-free bridge in Japan, connects Miyakojima to Irabu Island. Stretching 3,54 kilometers, this bridge offers breathtaking views of endless blue shades. We’re not architects in any way, but we do want to mention that this bridge has a beautiful design. It’s very fun to drive over, too! Along the way, you’ll find several spots perfect for taking photos and soaking in the stunning scenery.
Toguchi no Hama Beach (Irabu Island)
Toguchi no Hama Beach, located on Irabu Island, is a peaceful spot with a wide stretch of soft sand and clear water. It’s not a crowded beach, so you can enjoy some quiet time here. Since it’s such a large beach, it’s great for taking long walks with nothing but the ocean in your eyes and ears. Make sure to explore the nearby Magomoto Beach too if you want to ride a waterbike. A small shop sells drinks and snacks in the area, and there are showers and toilets available for 300 yen (just under € 2).
Nakanoshima Beach (Shimoji Island)
Nakanoshima Beach on Shimoji Island is a true underwater paradise. We recommend heading there early in the morning to maximize your chances of spotting turtles, clownfish, and stunning coral. The beach is a favorite among snorkelers and dive tours, which means it can get quite crowded later in the day. Plus, with limited parking spots, arriving early is a smart move. That being said, if you’re after a relaxing day of sunbathing, we wouldn’t recommend Nakanoshima Beach. Reason for this is that there are a lot of rocks on the beach, and there are no toilets or showers available. The setting of the place, however, is very secluded in a bay where the currents aren’t that strong (unless you go deeper in the water).
Toriike Pond (Shimoji Island)
Toriike Pond, also located on Shimoji Island, is a serene spot with two circular ponds, both connecting to the sea via an underwater cave. The ponds are striking in their size and depth: one reaches 45 meters, while the other is 25 meters deep. The area is popular for diving, especially to observe the halocline. This is where fresh and saltwater meet, and yes, we had to look that up! The area is free to visit, with tons of parking available. We highly recommend walking all the way to the end of the small trail, as you’ll reach a very calming spot from where you can catch a glimpse of the sea. Couple that with these beautiful ponds, and you’ve got yourself a great place to completely unwind.
17END (Shimoji Island)
Our last recommendation on Shimoji Island is 17END, a truly unique beach experience. Situated at the tip of Shimoji-jima Airport, this beach is one of the most beautiful on the Miyako Islands. Walk to the very end and you’ll find a small, secluded spot perfect for a refreshing swim. What makes this 17END even more unique, is that it’s a great place to watch planes land and take off! Plus, the water here is among the clearest you’ll find on the islands. For a bit more activity, you can also stroll to the end of the pier for a near 360° view of the ocean.
Funakusu Beach (Ikema Island)
Funakusu Beach on Ikema Island is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape. With its soft white sand and crystal blue water, it was one of our favorite beaches on the Miyako Islands. Although it’s a bit small, its private beach vibe makes it feel like a hidden paradise. To reach the beach, you’ll need to walk a short distance from the parking area, where you’ll find a path starting near some signs. This path leads you through some greenery, and the view that greets you at the end of the path is absolutely magical! Compared to Nagamahama Beach there are no spiders here, or at least not that we know of. 😉 The parking lot has toilets, and there’s also a small restaurant nearby.
Ikizu Beach (Ikema Island)
Ikuzu Beach on Ikema Island, just a 2-minute drive from Funakusu Beach, is a serene escape where you’re likely to have the beach to yourself. The water is as beautifully blue as you’d expect from the Miyako Islands, and the small stretch of sand feels like a private paradise. There’s parking available, and although there’s a sign for a 100 yen fee, we didn’t encounter anyone to collect it during our visit. Toilets are also available nearby.
Heart Rock (Ikema Island)
Last but not least is the famous Heart Rock, also on Ikema Island. To get there, you’ll need to visit Gelato Cafe Ninufa and make a purchase. This is a treat in itself, as the cafe is possibly the most stunning restaurant on the Miyako Islands. With stunning ocean views and a beautiful terrace, it’s a fantastic place to unwind. We enjoyed a delicious margherita pizza (1600 yen, about € 10) and a pistachio gelato (650 yen, just over € 4), both of which were exceptional. The friendly staff even gave us free gelato samples! After your meal you can access the beach to see Heart Rock, though swimming isn’t allowed.
Good to know
Gelato Cafe Ninufa is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, except Wednesdays.
Best places to eat on the Miyako Islands
- HARRY’S Shrimp Truck: tasty garlic shrimp, bonus points if you get the Miyako beef
- Pizzeria Crown: delicious pizzas
- Maruyoshi Shokudo: local soba noodles restaurant
- Vege Crew: salads and burritos
- Gelato Cafe Ninufa: pizza and gelato, amazing views included
Best time to visit the Miyako Islands
With its sub-tropical climate, Miyako Island enjoys warm and mild weather year-round. The most pleasant time to visit is from April to November, though be aware that May and June are typically the rainy season. However, it rarely rains all day. July is the best month to visit as it has the most sunshine and the least rain. August and September also have great weather, but be cautious of potential typhoons, which can bring strong winds and heavy rains.
How long to stay on the Miyako Islands
The Miyako Islands aren’t very large, so you’ll rarely drive more than 30 minutes to get anywhere. However, since the only way to reach them is by plane, we recommend staying at least 3 to 4 nights to make the trip worthwhile. There’s plenty to do, we promise you won’t get bored. Staying longer is ideal if you want some relaxation time and to soak up the sun. The sun in Miyako will do wonders for your skin, and is ideal to get a bit of a tan! Plus, having extra days gives you a buffer in case of rainy weather, ensuring you still have time to explore. We stayed for 8 nights, which gave us the chance to thoroughly enjoy the island and take a day off when the weather wasn’t ideal. We still feel that we haven’t seen it all!
Budget for the Miyako Islands
We managed to explore the Miyako Islands on a budget, spending € 800 for 9 days (8 nights) for the two of us. This budget covered € 175 for scooter rental and gas, and € 350 for accommodation (€ 43 per night). By eating out less and sticking to free sightseeing, we kept our costs down. Flights are not included, as these highly depend on where you’re coming from. Below, we’ll discuss the budget for accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, and food.
Accommodation
Basic accommodation on the Miyako Islands starts at around € 40 per night. These options are basic, usually small but clean rooms. For more comfort, expect to pay from € 50 per night. A more luxurious stay will cost around € 100 per night.
Transportation
For transportation, the most affordable option is renting a scooter, which costs us € 19 per day. We secured a slightly better rate because we rented for more than a week. Expect to pay a little more if you plan on renting for only a couple of days. If you prefer a car, which might come handy for some of those downpours, prices start from € 30 per day. Taxis are the most expensive option, we paid € 7 for a 7-minute ride from the airport to our accommodation. We only recommend taking a taxi if you absolutely have to, and if you happen to speak a bit of Japanese. Otherwise, prepare yourself for an awkward Google Translate conversation!
Food
Dining on Miyako Island typically costs between € 20 and € 30 per meal, including 2 dishes and 2 non-alcoholic drinks. To save money, consider grabbing snacks or prepared meals from the island’s many FamilyMarts. You can save some money by having one konbini-meal a day! Also, there are no 7-Elevens or Lawsons on the island.
Sightseeing
All the activities we enjoyed were free, so sightseeing didn’t add to our costs. However, if you want to do a dive or snorkel tour, or rent snorkel equipment, those will be additional expenses. Expect to pay around € 6 (1000 yen) per hour for snorkel equipment, diving tours start at € 40 (7000 yen) per person.
Check availability for a snorkel or dive tour on Miyakojima.
Daily budget for the Miyako Islands
If you’re looking to explore the Miyako Islands on a budget, aim for a daily budget of around € 40 per person. Mid-range travelers should plan for approximately € 70 per day. For a more luxurious experience, expect to budget around € 120 per day. These estimates assume that accommodation and transportation costs are shared with someone else.
Where to stay on Miyakojima
More helpful Japan posts
- 14 best things to do in Tokyo, Japan
- The perfect 5-day Tokyo itinerary: what to eat, see, and do
- The ultimate guide to Tokyo DisneySea
- 12 amazing things to do in Kyoto, Japan
- Kyoto 3-day itinerary: how to spend 3 days in Kyoto
- The ultimate guide to Universal Studios Japan
- 6 great things to do in Kanazawa, Japan
We may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. This helps us maintain our site and create more useful content for you. We appreciate your support! ❤️
