Kabira Bay
A world-famous bay on Ishigaki Island, renowned for its mesmerizing emerald waters and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Kabira Bay
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-famous bay on Ishigaki Island, renowned for its mesmerizing emerald waters and stunning natural beauty.
"Arguably the most scenic spot we saw on the island, with clear blue waters & soft sand."
Bring Cash!
Many local vendors and tour operators prefer cash. Have enough Yen handy for purchases and activities. :moneybag:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours like glass boat rides or snorkeling trips can fill up. Booking ahead ensures your spot. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Waters
Kabira Bay
Witness the iconic, mesmerizing emerald green waters that make Kabira Bay world-famous. A truly breathtaking sight.
Glass Boat Tours
Kabira Bay
Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life without getting wet on a glass-bottom boat tour. Perfect for all ages.
Sunset Views
Kabira Bay viewpoints
Experience the magic of a Kabira Bay sunset, painting the sky with stunning colors over the tranquil waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Cash is King
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash!
Many local vendors and tour operators prefer cash. Have enough Yen handy for purchases and activities. :moneybag:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours like glass boat rides or snorkeling trips can fill up. Booking ahead ensures your spot. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking to reach viewpoints or explore the area. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Views
The scenery is stunning! Don't forget your camera or phone for amazing photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash!
Many local vendors and tour operators prefer cash. Have enough Yen handy for purchases and activities. :moneybag:
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours like glass boat rides or snorkeling trips can fill up. Booking ahead ensures your spot. :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You might do some walking to reach viewpoints or explore the area. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Views
The scenery is stunning! Don't forget your camera or phone for amazing photos. :camerawithflash:
Check Boat Schedules
Glass boat tours operate on specific schedules. Confirm timings to make the most of your visit. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kabira Bay is widely praised for its stunning, crystal-clear emerald waters and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit on Ishigaki Island. Visitors enjoy glass-bottom boat tours and the picturesque viewpoints. However, some reviews mention concerns about pollution from boats and plastic waste, and swimming is prohibited due to strong currents.
"Potentially pretty bay with very strong currents. Way too many polluting boats, too many tourists, and unbelievable amount of plastic waste mainly from Japan, but some from China."
Pied Piper
"A scenic spot about 30 minutes by car from the city area. Despite the bad weather, the sea was clear and clean. There are plenty of parking lots and souvenir facilities nearby, and you can also have lunch around here.
The glass boat was a content that can be enjoyed regardless of the weather."
Beautiful Diver
"You can enjoy the underwater scenery on a cruise ship.
You can make reservations in advance for the ship, and it operates on a short time frame.
The course is within 1 hour, and the cost is also reasonable."
やすみたび
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kabira Bay is located about 30 minutes by car from Ishigaki City. You can rent a car, take a bus, or arrange for a taxi. Many tours also offer pick-up services. +1
Yes, there are parking lots available, often with a small daily fee. This makes it convenient for those arriving by car.
Swimming is generally prohibited at Kabira Bay due to strong currents and boat traffic. However, you can enjoy the views and take glass-bottom boat tours.
Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility in exploring Ishigaki Island, including Kabira Bay. Buses are also an option, but may be less frequent.
Yes, there are direct flights to Ishigaki Island from major cities like Tokyo, making it accessible for travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kabira Bay itself is a scenic spot and does not typically have an entrance fee. However, parking and specific activities like glass boat tours will have associated costs.
Glass boat tours typically range from ¥15,000 for a 3-hour tour to ¥20,000 for a 5-hour tour. Private tours can be around ¥38,000 per day.
It's advisable to book glass boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Attractions like glass boat tours usually operate during daylight hours. It's best to check specific tour operator schedules as they can vary.
Some operators offer package deals that might include snorkeling, kayaking, or drone filming along with the Kabira Bay tour. +1
📸 📸 Photography
There are several designated viewing points along the coast that offer stunning panoramic views of the bay. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly beautiful for photography.
Some tour operators offer drone filming as part of their packages, allowing you to capture unique aerial perspectives of the bay. +1
The 'golden hour' during sunrise and sunset provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographs of Kabira Bay.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of private property and any specific tour guidelines. Drone usage might have regulations.
Expect to capture vibrant turquoise and emerald waters, white sandy beaches, lush green hillsides, and the iconic glass-bottom boats.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are souvenir shops and some food vendors, including ice cream stalls, located near the viewing areas. It's recommended to bring cash for these. +1
Don't miss trying local specialties like Ishigaki beef, Okinawan soba, and fresh seafood. The island also has unique salt products like 'Ishigaki no Shio'.
Many restaurants, especially for evening dining, may require reservations. It's a good idea to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
While options directly at the bay are limited to vendors, you can find more diverse dining experiences in Ishigaki City or other areas of the island.
Some facilities near the viewing points offer lunch options, allowing you to enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Near the viewing areas, you'll find food vendors and ice cream stalls, which are always a hit with kids. Remember to bring cash for these purchases. While swimming is not permitted in the bay itself, the scenic beauty and the boat tours provide plenty of entertainment for the whole family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider booking a tour that includes drone filming for unique aerial shots, or simply find a good vantage point along the coast. The iconic glass-bottom boats also add a picturesque element to your photos. For the most dramatic shots, aim for the golden hours around sunrise and sunset.
🌊 Adventure Seekers
Some operators provide specialized tours that might include opportunities to see sea turtles or visit nearby natural attractions. If you're looking for a unique experience, inquire about tours that combine water activities with drone filming for an unforgettable perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kabira Bay's Waters
+1For the more adventurous, snorkeling and kayaking are also available, allowing for closer encounters with the sea. Some tour operators even offer specialized trips that include snorkeling with sea turtles or exploring nearby waterfalls. If you're interested in capturing the bay from above, drone filming services are offered by some providers, providing breathtaking aerial views.
+1It's important to note that while the bay is beautiful, it's also a working harbor with many boats. This can sometimes lead to concerns about pollution, with reports of plastic waste being present. Responsible tourism and supporting eco-friendly operators can help mitigate these issues.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Booking tours in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular activities like glass-bottom boat rides or private snorkeling excursions. This ensures you secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Comfortable footwear is also a good idea, as you might find yourself walking to various viewpoints or exploring the surrounding areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit