Emerald Beach
A stunning public beach in Okinawa known for its crystal-clear emerald waters and family-friendly shallow swimming areas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Emerald Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning public beach in Okinawa known for its crystal-clear emerald waters and family-friendly shallow swimming areas.
"The water color is as clear as emerald; a jewel on a sunny day."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Exploring Okinawa is best with a car. It makes reaching Emerald Beach and other spots much easier.
👨👩👧 Perfect for Young Kids
The shallow, netted waters are ideal for families with little ones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Emerald Waters
Emerald Beach
The water lives up to its name, boasting a clear, emerald hue perfect for swimming and enjoying the sun.
Jellyfish Nets for Safe Swimming
Emerald Beach
Enjoy peace of mind with designated swimming areas protected by jellyfish nets, ideal for families.
Kid-Friendly Shallow Waters
Emerald Beach
The shallow, calm waters make it a fantastic and safe spot for young children to play and enjoy the beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Emerald Beach
Getting Around Okinawa
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Exploring Okinawa is best with a car. It makes reaching Emerald Beach and other spots much easier.
👨👩👧 Perfect for Young Kids
The shallow, netted waters are ideal for families with little ones.
🚿 Shower Facilities Available
Free cold showers and paid hot water showers with changing rooms are available.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
Okinawa's sun can be intense; bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Exploring Okinawa is best with a car. It makes reaching Emerald Beach and other spots much easier.
👨👩👧 Perfect for Young Kids
The shallow, netted waters are ideal for families with little ones.
🚿 Shower Facilities Available
Free cold showers and paid hot water showers with changing rooms are available.
☀️ Sun Protection is Crucial
Okinawa's sun can be intense; bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat.
📸 Capture the Emerald Hues
The water color is stunning, especially on a sunny day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Emerald Beach is praised for its exceptionally clear, emerald-colored waters and its safety features, making it a top choice for families with young children due to shallow, netted swimming areas. However, some visitors find the extensive lifeguard presence and concrete elements detract from a natural feel, likening it to a controlled environment rather than a wild beach.
"Nice artificial made beach, but it is nothing special. A lot of lifeguards, actually too much… water is shallow with max. 2m at the buoys…. but ok, safety first. Not crowded, empty on Sunday in July. Water is clean."
Tomas Janik
"This is the best beach I have ever been to. Crystal clear water, and swimming area with jellyfish nets. There are free cold showers and paid hot water showers with changing facilities."
Hitesh Giri
"It's nice but honestly very disappointing given the excessive control of so many guards, the amount of concrete spoiling the feeling of being in nature and the constant sounds of communication by the megafons leaving a vibe you're in a train station in Tokyo. It must be nicer if you are with young kids though, like a water park."
Bruno Cesar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emerald Beach is located in Motobu Town, Okinawa. The easiest way to get there is by car, as public transport can be time-consuming. If you're not driving, consider a taxi or pre-booked tour.
Yes, there is typically parking available near Emerald Beach, though it can fill up during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
While possible, it's less convenient. You'd likely need to take a bus to a nearby town and then a taxi or walk. Renting a car is highly advised for flexibility.
Many travelers recommend renting a car to fully experience Okinawa's diverse attractions, including Emerald Beach and other coastal areas.
The drive along Okinawa's coast can be very scenic. Consider routes that offer ocean views as you approach Motobu Town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Emerald Beach is a public beach and generally does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea freely.
As a public beach, Emerald Beach is accessible at all times. However, lifeguard services and facilities are typically available during daylight hours.
No, tickets are not required for Emerald Beach as it's a public access area.
The main restriction is related to safety, with designated swimming areas and jellyfish nets. Always follow lifeguard instructions.
Yes, Emerald Beach is accessible year-round, but swimming conditions and lifeguard availability may vary by season.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Emerald Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The shallow, netted waters are especially great for families with young children.
While the water is clear, Emerald Beach is primarily known for its safe swimming areas for families. For more extensive snorkeling, you might need to explore other nearby spots.
Yes, Emerald Beach has a significant number of lifeguards on duty to ensure visitor safety, especially in the designated swimming zones.
Facilities include free cold showers, paid hot water showers, changing rooms, and restrooms.
It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be some small kiosks or snack bars, dedicated restaurants directly on Emerald Beach are limited. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or explore dining options in nearby Motobu Town.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed. It's a good idea to pack a picnic to enjoy by the sea.
Motobu Town, close to Emerald Beach, offers various local eateries. Look for Okinawan specialties like Goya Champuru or Okinawa Soba.
While not directly on the beach, some coastal areas or nearby resorts might offer spots with sunset views and drinks.
Okinawan cuisine is known for its unique flavors, including pork dishes, seafood, and local vegetables. Try dishes like Rafute (braised pork belly) and Taco Rice.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. However, the clear emerald water is photogenic throughout the day, especially under bright sunlight.
Focus on the vibrant water color, the coastline, and the surrounding natural beauty. The jellyfish nets can also be an interesting visual element.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in public beach areas before flying.
While Emerald Beach itself is the main attraction, the nearby Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and the Bise Fukugi Tree Road offer great photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean. Waterproof cases or cameras are useful if you plan on getting close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While some adults might find the beach's controlled environment less appealing for adventure, for families, it's an ideal spot to enjoy a stress-free day by the sea. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and let the kids have a blast in the gentle waves.
🚗 Independent Travelers & Road Trippers
Having your own vehicle allows you to discover hidden gems and enjoy spontaneous stops. Pack a picnic to make the most of your beach day, and be prepared for potentially busy parking during peak times.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the expanse of the beach and ocean. Consider shooting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. Don't forget to capture the unique jellyfish nets and the overall serene atmosphere of this beautiful Okinawan spot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Emerald Beach: A Family-Friendly Oasis
Beyond the swimming area, the beach offers soft sand for building sandcastles and ample space for relaxation. The clear emerald color of the water is a major draw, making it visually appealing even if you're not swimming. It's a place where children can experience the joy of the ocean in a controlled and safe environment, making it a popular destination for local families and tourists alike.
Navigating Okinawa: Beyond Emerald Beach
Okinawa's charm extends to its historical sites, such as Shurijo Castle, and its vibrant local culture. For those seeking adventure, activities like parasailing are also available. A well-planned itinerary, perhaps utilizing resources like those offered by The Savvy Tourist, can help maximize your time and experience the best of what Okinawa has to offer, from its pristine beaches to its rich heritage.
The 'Emerald' Appeal: Understanding the Name
While the beach is artificial, its design aims to maximize this visual appeal. The shallow depth and calm conditions contribute to the water's transparency, allowing the emerald color to truly shine. It's this unique characteristic that sets Emerald Beach apart and earns its evocative name, promising a visually captivating experience for all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit