Diving and Snorkeling Around Naha | Exploring Okinawa's Underwater World

The seas around Naha maintain warm water temperatures year-round due to the Kuroshio Current, offering a vibrant underwater world filled with coral reefs and tropical fish. In this area surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of Kerama and the forests of Yanbaru, underwater adventures await that rival those on land. Trial diving allows even non-swimmers to enjoy underwater walks with instructor support, while snorkeling is accessible to young children. Combined plans that include both sea activities and Shuri Castle sightseeing are popular.

Beginner-Friendly Trial Diving

Even without a diving license, you can easily enjoy the underwater world through trial diving. Diving shops around Naha offer trial diving at world-class sites like the Kerama Islands and Blue Cave for ¥12,000-¥18,000 per person. The experience takes about 3-4 hours, following this flow: land-based instruction (about 1 hour) → shallow water practice (about 30 minutes) → underwater diving (about 30-40 minutes). The maximum depth is 12m, and instructors stay beside you at all times, making it safe for first-timers. Participants must be 10 years or older and complete health condition forms.

Family Snorkeling Experiences

For those who want to peek into the sea more casually, snorkeling is recommended. Prices are reasonable at ¥3,000-¥5,000 per person, with sessions lasting about 1.5-2 hours. Just swimming over coral reefs, you can encounter colorful fish like clownfish and blue tangs. Mask, snorkel, and fin rentals are included in the price, and wearing a wetsuit (+¥1,000-¥2,000) provides buoyancy, making it safe even for weak swimmers. Family plans are available for ages 6 and up, perfect for summer vacation memories. The season runs from April to November, with July-September being most comfortable when water temperatures exceed 28°C.

Fun Dives for License Holders

For license holders, fun dives at authentic diving sites around Naha are recommended. From sites with high encounter rates for manta rays and sea turtles to points featuring dynamic topography like caves and shipwrecks, there's a diverse range of sites available. Two dives typically cost ¥12,000-¥20,000, with boat dives adding ¥3,000-¥5,000. Full equipment rental costs ¥5,000-¥8,000, while those bringing their own gear can use equipment washing facilities for free.

Diving License Certification Courses

It's possible to obtain a diving license (C-card) during your stay in Naha. The PADI Open Water Diver course takes 3 days for ¥50,000-¥70,000 (including theory, pool training, ocean training, materials, and equipment rental). The warm waters year-round make for comfortable skill acquisition, producing many divers who call Okinawa's seas their home waters. While 2-day intensive courses are available, the 3-day course is recommended for better skill retention. After obtaining your license, you can dive in seas worldwide, greatly expanding your diving horizons. Completing online theory courses beforehand allows you to focus on practical skills on-site.

Safety Guidelines for Marine Activities

Here are important safety considerations for diving and snorkeling participation. Physical condition management is most crucial - avoid participating the day after drinking or when sleep-deprived. Bring swimwear, towel, change of clothes, and sunscreen (reef-safe products recommended). Rash guards are recommended during sunny seasons. You cannot board aircraft for 12-18 hours after diving, so avoid scheduling diving on your final travel day. Reservations can be made through diving shop official websites, with summer vacation slots often filling up a month in advance. From Naha Airport, it takes about 15 minutes to downtown via Yui Rail, and about 2.5 hours by plane from Tokyo to Naha. Choosing plans with transportation to diving sites is convenient.