Beautiful Beach, so excited!!
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Minna Island Okinawa

4.6
·186 reviews·Motobu, Japan

A croissant-shaped island paradise in Okinawa, offering pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling, and a tranquil escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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Beautiful Beach, so excited!!

Minna Island Okinawa

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A croissant-shaped island paradise in Okinawa, offering pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling, and a tranquil escape.

4.6
(186 reviews)

"If paradise exists it's called Minna-jima! This island looks like a croissant and is very easy accessible from Okinawa."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early

Ferry tickets can sell out, especially during peak season. Purchase in person at Toguchi Port.

🍎 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Limited food options on the island, especially off-season. Bring your own to save money.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Minna Beach

Minna Beach

Minna Island

A stunning white-sand beach with crystal-clear, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Instagram+1
Snorkeling & Diving

Snorkeling & Diving

Around Minna Island

Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life in the transparent waters.

InstagramReddit+1
Croissant Island Shape

Croissant Island Shape

View from ferry/boat

Admire the unique, crescent-like shape of the island, often compared to a croissant.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Ferry Schedules & Booking

Ferry services to Minna Island operate seasonally. Check the latest schedules online and purchase tickets in person at Toguchi Port. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, as ferries can sell out. Reddit

Island Amenities & Supplies

Minna Island offers limited services, especially outside of peak season (Nov-March). Bring your own snacks, drinks, and beach gear like umbrellas and chairs, as rentals can be pricey. Remember to take all your trash with you. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon ferry
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

沖縄・本部町の隠れ家リゾート 「ILUVIO Resort Motobu」 🌿 詳しくはインスタのリールから詳細見て😊 #沖縄ヴィラ#高級ヴィラ#名護 #本部#北部
@aomaezato24
14K likes • 347K views

🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early

Ferry tickets can sell out, especially during peak season. Purchase in person at Toguchi Port. Reddit

🍎 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Limited food options on the island, especially off-season. Bring your own to save money. Reddit

This island looks just like a croissant! 🥐🏝️ Minna Island is located in Okinawa Japan and is just a quick 15 minute ferry ride from the mainland. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to visit minna beach while on vacation in Okinawa Japan. #japanbeach #okinawajapan #okinawaisland #okinawabeaches #japanvacation #japanaesthetic #worldtravelfamily #familytravel Minna Island Beach | Kam...
@saltyvagabonds
9.7K likes • 167.3K views
THIS IS … MINNA BEACH🩵 📍Minna island, Okinawa Japan #沖縄離島 #沖縄離島巡り #沖縄離島の旅 #水納島 #水納島ビーチ #minnaisland #minnajima
ko_shibusawa
116 likes • 5.8K views

🪣 Take Your Trash With You

Help keep this paradise clean by disposing of your waste properly. Reddit

🤿 Rent Snorkel Gear

While available, rental gear can be pricey. Consider bringing your own if possible. Reddit

Shoutout to the staff! Kaito and his friend were amazing🥹🥹🥹 Book Tickets for Minna Island here: 📍Toguchi Port 📍 29-85 Tancha, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0213 #explore #fyp #hiddengemsofokinawa #okinawa #japan #foryou #travel #content
hiddengemsofokinawa
480 likes • 12.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book Ferry Tickets Early

Ferry tickets can sell out, especially during peak season. Purchase in person at Toguchi Port. Reddit

🍎 Pack Snacks & Drinks

Limited food options on the island, especially off-season. Bring your own to save money. Reddit

🪣 Take Your Trash With You

Help keep this paradise clean by disposing of your waste properly. Reddit

🤿 Rent Snorkel Gear

While available, rental gear can be pricey. Consider bringing your own if possible. Reddit

☀️ Bring Your Own Umbrella

Beach umbrella rentals are available but expensive. Pack one for shade. Reddit

📸 Capture the Croissant Shape

The island's unique shape is best seen from the ferry or a boat. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(186 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Minna Island is a highly recommended day trip from Okinawa's main island, praised for its stunningly clear, turquoise waters and beautiful white-sand beaches. Visitors rave about the excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, the unique croissant shape of the island, and its less touristy feel compared to other islands. However, be prepared for limited amenities, especially off-season, and consider bringing your own supplies and gear to avoid overpriced rentals.

"Perfect day trip from Okinawa main island. We took the 11am boat & returned on the 16:30pm boat (check boat schedule online & buy tickets only in person), it was a relaxing day with also some fun activities - recommend the snorkelling sooo many beautiful fish! There are stands selling equipment/umbrellas/beds etc. but very overpriced, bring your own if poss! Originally I wanted to go to zamami island but the boat fully booked, this was a perfect alternative & felt less touristic. Would recommend anyone looking for island day trip & crystal clear waters!🐠🩵🌊💎"

Paige Bayley

"beautiful beach with coral washed up all around. The gorgeous green-blue colors of the water that makes me L♡VE my birthplace forever! This was my 1st time on the small, croissant-shape island. It was a quick 30-minute or so ride on the ferry from the main Okinawa island. Be aware that the island DOES "shut down" from Nov 1st- March (can't remember the day), meaning you cannot buy food there. I did see a drink machine, so drinks are possible. Remember to take your trash WITH you!"

LEV ERITT

"I made the dive near the island and it is a paradise even under the water, with several corals and fish one more beautiful than the other, for those who are visiting this wonderful country, I recommend having an experience also under water

Photos by Aloha Divers Okinawa. I recommend this company for those who want diving service, service in English, Portuguese and Japanese"

Emy Massuda Moromizato

What People Like

Crystal clear waters
Beautiful white sand
Excellent snorkeling

What People Dislike

Limited amenities
Overpriced rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Minna Island is by ferry from Toguchi Port in Motobu. The ferry ride is approximately 15-30 minutes. TikTokInstagramReddit It's essential to check the ferry schedule in advance as it can vary seasonally and tickets are typically purchased in person at the port. Reddit

Toguchi Port is located at 29-85 Tancha, Motobu, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0213. Instagram It's a key departure point for ferries to Minna Island and other nearby islands. Instagram

Yes, there is usually free parking available at Toguchi Port for those driving to the ferry terminal. Instagram

Yes, you can take a taxi to Toguchi Port. If you are in the Motobu area and need a ride back late at night, local taxi companies can be a good option, though it's wise to confirm availability. Reddit

Ferry fares are approximately ¥1730 for adults and ¥880 for children aged 6-11. Instagram Prices can vary, so it's best to confirm at the port. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ferry tickets for Minna Island are typically purchased in person at Toguchi Port. It's advisable to buy them on the day of travel or in advance if possible, as they can sell out. Reddit

There is no specific entrance fee to access Minna Island itself. The primary cost is the ferry ticket to get there. Instagram

Minna Island generally 'shuts down' from November 1st to March, meaning services and amenities are significantly reduced or unavailable. Reddit

Currently, it appears that ferry tickets are primarily purchased in person at Toguchi Port. Online booking options may be limited or unavailable. Reddit

Ferry operating hours vary depending on the season and day. It's crucial to check the latest ferry schedule online or at the port before your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

Minna Island is famous for its beautiful beach, snorkeling, and diving opportunities. You can also enjoy swimming and relaxing by the sea. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Minna Island is renowned for its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling with abundant fish. InstagramReddit

You can rent snorkeling equipment, umbrellas, and beach beds on Minna Island, but these rentals can be quite overpriced. It's recommended to bring your own if possible. Reddit

Food and dining options are limited on Minna Island, especially outside the peak season. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks. Reddit+1

The water at Minna Island is known for its stunning clarity and beautiful green-blue colors, making it incredibly inviting for swimming and water activities. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire island offers picturesque views, especially the beach with its white sand and clear waters. Instagram The unique croissant shape is also a great subject, best captured from the ferry. TikTokInstagram

Morning light offers beautiful clarity, while late afternoons provide a golden hour glow. The vibrant colors of the sea are stunning throughout the day. Instagram

Absolutely! Minna Island is a prime location for underwater photography and videography due to its clear waters and rich marine life. Instagram+1

The best way to capture the island's distinctive croissant shape is from the approaching or departing ferry. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and ocean views. For underwater shots, a GoPro or waterproof camera is ideal. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Minna Island is a fantastic day trip for families looking for a safe and beautiful beach experience. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for young children to splash and play in. Instagram While there are no extensive playgrounds, the natural beauty of the beach and the opportunity to see fish while wading or snorkeling are huge draws for kids. Instagram Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as amenities are limited. Bringing sand toys and a small inflatable can also enhance the fun for little ones. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Minna Island can be enjoyed on a budget by being strategic. The main costs are the ferry tickets, which are reasonably priced. Instagram To save money, pack your own food and drinks, and bring your own beach gear like towels, umbrellas, and snorkeling equipment. Reddit+1 This avoids the higher costs associated with on-island rentals. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🐠 Adventure Seekers

For those craving underwater exploration, Minna Island is a must-visit. The snorkeling and diving opportunities are exceptional, with clear waters revealing a rich marine world. InstagramReddit+1 Consider booking a guided dive tour with a reputable company like Aloha Divers Okinawa for an enhanced experience. InstagramReddit Even if you're not a certified diver, the snorkeling is world-class and accessible to most. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Getting to Minna Island: The Ferry Experience

Reaching Minna Island is an adventure in itself, primarily via a short ferry ride from Toguchi Port in Motobu. The journey typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, offering scenic views of the Okinawan coastline. TikTokInstagramReddit It's crucial to check the ferry schedule beforehand, as it operates seasonally and can change. Tickets are usually purchased in person at the port, and it's wise to buy them early, especially during peak travel times, as ferries can fill up. Reddit The cost is reasonable, with adult fares around ¥1730 and children's fares around ¥880. Instagram

Many visitors note the unique experience of seeing the island's distinctive 'croissant' shape emerge as you approach. TikTokInstagram This visual is a highlight for many and a great photo opportunity from the ferry itself. TikTokInstagram The ferry ride is generally smooth, providing a pleasant transition from the mainland to the tranquil island atmosphere. Reddit

Underwater Paradise: Snorkeling and Diving

Minna Island is a celebrated destination for underwater enthusiasts, boasting exceptionally clear waters that reveal a vibrant coral reef ecosystem. InstagramReddit+1 The visibility is often outstanding, allowing snorkelers and divers to witness a dazzling array of colorful fish and marine life. InstagramReddit Popular spots for snorkeling are easily accessible from the beach, making it a convenient activity for all skill levels. Instagram

For those interested in diving, companies like Aloha Divers Okinawa offer guided tours and services in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, and Japanese. InstagramReddit+1 The underwater landscape is described as a paradise, with corals and fish that are truly a sight to behold. Reddit While equipment rentals are available on the island, they can be quite expensive, so bringing your own snorkeling gear is a practical tip to save money. Reddit The marine life is a significant draw, with many visitors expressing awe at the biodiversity. Instagram+1

Island Life: Amenities and What to Bring

While Minna Island offers a beautiful escape, it's important to be prepared for its limited amenities. Reddit The island experiences a significant slowdown from November to March, with many services unavailable during this off-season period. Reddit This means that food and drink options are scarce, and it's highly recommended to bring your own snacks, water, and any other essentials you might need for the day. Reddit+1

Beach equipment like umbrellas and chairs can be rented, but reviews suggest these are often overpriced. Reddit Packing your own beach umbrella can provide much-needed shade without the extra cost. Reddit A key piece of advice from visitors is to practice 'leave no trace' principles; remember to take all your trash with you when you depart to help preserve the island's pristine condition. Reddit

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