Where to Stay in Okinawa

Japan's tropical paradise. Crystal-clear waters, unique Ryukyu culture, and a completely different vibe from mainland Japan.

Quick Picks

First time Okinawa: Naha + Onna

Culture then beach

Beach resort: Onna

Best resort strip

Budget traveler: Naha

Cheapest, most convenient

Pristine beaches: Kerama Islands

Clearest water in Japan

Sunset photos: Chatan

American Village sunset

Okinawa Areas

Main island is 100km long. No trains outside Naha - rent a car for beach areas.

Naha

Urban, cultural hub, accessible

Best for: First-timers, culture seekers, nightlife lovers

Pros: Airport access, Kokusai Street nightlife, Shuri Castle nearby, Best restaurants

Cons: No beach, Urban feel, Traffic congestion, Not resort atmosphere

Access: Naha Airport + Yui Rail monorail

Nearby: Kokusai Street, Shuri Castle, Makishi Market, Tsuboya pottery

Price Range

Budget:¥5,000-10,000

Mid-range:¥10,000-22,000

Luxury:¥28,000+

Onna / West Coast

Resort coast, beach paradise

Best for: Beach lovers, resort seekers, families, snorkelers

Pros: Best beaches, Major resorts, Water activities, Near Aquarium

Cons: Need car, Expensive, Far from Naha, Resort prices for food

Access: No train - car/bus required

Nearby: Manza Beach, Blue Cave snorkeling, Churaumi Aquarium, Cape Manzamo

Price Range

Budget:¥8,000-15,000

Mid-range:¥18,000-40,000

Luxury:¥50,000-150,000+

Chatan / American Village

American influence, sunset views, entertainment

Best for: Young travelers, sunset seekers, shopping lovers

Pros: Famous sunset beach, Unique atmosphere, Shopping and dining, Good mid-point location

Cons: Very Americanized, Less traditional, Need car for most activities

Access: No train - car/bus from Naha (40 min)

Nearby: American Village, Sunset Beach, Araha Beach, Depot Island

Price Range

Budget:¥6,000-12,000

Mid-range:¥12,000-28,000

Luxury:¥35,000+

Nago / North

Quiet, natural, off the beaten path

Best for: Nature lovers, divers, those avoiding crowds

Pros: Near Aquarium, Less touristy, Nature access, Quieter beaches

Cons: Far from Naha (2hr), Limited dining, Car essential, Remote

Access: No train - car required

Nearby: Churaumi Aquarium, Kouri Island, Yanbaru forest, Orion beer factory

Price Range

Budget:¥5,000-10,000

Mid-range:¥10,000-25,000

Luxury:¥30,000+

Kerama Islands

Island paradise, crystal water, remote

Best for: Serious beach lovers, divers, island escapes

Pros: Best water clarity in Japan, Sea turtles, Pristine beaches, Quiet escape

Cons: Ferry required, Very limited amenities, Weather dependent, Far from everything

Access: Ferry from Naha (35min-1hr)

Nearby: Zamami beaches, Tokashiki beaches, snorkeling, diving spots

Price Range

Budget:¥8,000-15,000

Mid-range:¥15,000-30,000

Luxury:¥40,000+

Okinawa Tips

You need a car

Unlike mainland Japan, Okinawa has no trains outside Naha. Rent a car or accept expensive taxis.

It's subtropical, not tropical

Warm year-round but rainy season is May-June. Typhoons July-September. Best: March-April, October-November.

Okinawa ≠ Japan

Distinct Ryukyu culture, different food, different language roots. Respect the unique identity.

Combine areas strategically

2-3 nights Naha for culture, 2-3 nights Onna for beach is a good split. Don't try to do everything.

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