Top 5 Shore Dive Spots in Okinawa for Every Level

Okinawa, Japan

Okinawa is a diver’s paradise. With warm, clear waters, colorful reefs, and shore entry points that make diving accessible, it’s one of the best places in the world for both new and experienced divers. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve logged hundreds of dives, Okinawa has a site for you.

Here are the top 5 shore dive spots in Okinawa you won’t want to miss:

1. Maeda Point & The Blue Cave (Onna Village)

Arguably the most famous dive site in Okinawa, Maeda Point offers dramatic cliffs, coral gardens, and frequent turtle sightings. Right next door is the iconic Blue Cave, where sunlight filters in and turns the water a glowing sapphire blue. Together, they make for one of Okinawa’s most memorable diving experiences.

• Best for: Beginners (calm days) to advanced divers

• Highlights: Sea turtles, swim-through, reef fish, glowing Blue Cave light, great for underwater photography

2. Sunabe Seawall (Chatan)

The Sunabe Seawall is a local favorite. Entry is easy, and the site offers shallow coral gardens perfect for macro photography and long, relaxed dives. It’s one of the best spots for night diving too, with critters like octopus, nudibranchs, and crabs emerging after dark.

• Best for: All levels, including beginners and snorkelers

• Highlights: Macro marine life, night dives, long shallow reef dives

  
  

3. Gorilla Chop (Motobu)

Named after the gorilla-shaped rock formation on shore, Gorilla Chop is one of Okinawa’s most beginner-friendly dive sites. With calm waters and an easy entry, it’s perfect for training dives, snorkeling, and underwater photography. The site features sandy bottoms, coral heads, and plenty of reef fish.

• Best for: Beginners and snorkelers, training dives

• Highlights: Easy shore entry, colorful reef fish, great visibility, iconic rock landmark

4. Maeda Flats (Onna Village)

Just around the corner from Maeda Point, the flats are shallow, calm, and full of life — perfect for training dives, snorkelers, or relaxed underwater photography sessions. You’ll often find garden eels, small schools of fish, and patch reefs scattered across the sandy bottom.

• Best for: Beginners and training dives

• Highlights: Easy entry, garden eels, shallow coral patches, beautiful rock formations

5. Jam

For divers who want adventure, Jam offers beautiful shallow reefs and underwater landscapes. Located near Chatan, this location certainly doesn't disappoint.

• Best for: Beginners and training dives

• Highlights: Easy entry, garden eels, shallow coral patches, beautiful rock formations

  
  

Diving in Okinawa: Something for Everyone

From the glowing Blue Cave to the beginner-friendly Gorilla Chop, Okinawa’s shore dives offer variety, accessibility, and unforgettable underwater scenery. Whether you’re new to diving or an experienced explorer, the island’s coastline has a dive site waiting for you.

✨ Want to explore Okinawa’s best dive sites with photos included?

Book a Scuba Tour and take your underwater memories home forever.

From Your Salty Storyteller,

Nautical Nomad Katie

⚠️ Disclaimer

Scuba diving or any water related-activities always involve risks, and conditions can change quickly in Okinawa depending on tides, currents, and weather. The information provided here is for general guidance and inspiration only and should not replace professional dive training, supervision, or up-to-date local advice. Always dive within your certification level, follow safe diving practices, and consult local dive shops or instructors before entering the water. Nautical Nomads is not liable for any accidents, injuries, or decisions made based on the information in this blog. See my Book Now for safe, eco-friendly scuba tours in Okinawa, Japan.