📝 1. Overview
Miyako Island is Okinawa’s jewel of serene beauty—famous for its flawless beaches, calm turquoise seas, and laid-back island charm. Linked by graceful bridges to smaller isles, it’s the ultimate destination for beach-hopping, snorkeling, and just breathing in the tropical breeze. Less crowded than Ishigaki, yet equally enchanting—Miyako is where you go to escape.
🌟 2. Highlights
🏖️ Yonaha Maehama Beach – Pure white sand and postcard-perfect views
🌉 Irabu & Ikema Bridges – Epic ocean drives connecting paradise islets
🐠 Snorkeling Heaven – Aragusuku & Sunayama offer coral gardens & fish galore
🌅 Cape Higashi-Hennazaki – Dramatic cliffs and sunrise magic
🛶 Paddleboarding & Sea Kayaking – Calm waters = perfect for beginners
🌸 Island Time – Slow cafés, local markets, and star-filled skies
🗺️ 3. Zones in Miyako Island
| Zone | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Maehama & Kurima Island | Luxury resorts, long beaches, stunning sunsets |
| Irabu & Shimoji Islands | Scenic drives, snorkeling spots, cliff views |
| Higashi-Hennazaki Area | Lighthouse, dramatic coastline, sunrise spots |
| City Center (Hirara) | Local food, markets, shops, scooter rentals |
| North Coast | Quiet beaches, mangroves, local villages |
🎟️ 4. Tickets & Passes – Popular Attractions
| Attraction | Price (Adult) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Miyakojima Marine Park | ¥1,000 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Cape Higashi-Hennazaki | Free | Always open (sunrise spot!) |
| Irabu Ohashi Bridge | Free | 24/7 scenic drive |
| Imgya Marine Garden | Free (rental gear extra) | Daylight hours |
| Underwater Observatory (Shimoji) | ¥1,100 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
🟢 Most beaches are free and open anytime—just pack your gear and go!
💡 5. Tips
☀️ UV is intense—bring a rash guard, hat & plenty of water
🚗 Renting a car or scooter is essential for beach-hopping
📸 Sunrise at Cape Higashi-Hennazaki is unforgettable
🧘 Take it slow—this island thrives on chill vibes
🌊 Respect coral & sea life when snorkeling—reef-safe sunscreen only
🍽️ 6. Must-Try Foods on Miyako Island
🍜 Miyako Soba – Local twist on Okinawa soba with simple toppings
🐟 Tofu Yo & Island Tofu – Rich, fermented, full of umami
🍖 Ishiyaki BBQ – Hot-stone grill with local beef or pork
🍍 Tropical Fruit Parfaits – Mango, pineapple, dragon fruit galore
🍹 Awamori Cocktails – Local liquor with a beachy twist
🏨 7. Hotel Areas (Why Stay Here?)
Maehama / Kurima Area
→ Upscale beach resorts, perfect for luxury stays & sunsets
Irabu Island
→ Trendy villas, peaceful hideouts, stunning views
Hirara City Center
→ Local restaurants, nightlife, convenient base
Hennazaki Coast
→ Quiet sunrise lodges and romantic getaways
✳️ Miyako offers everything from luxury resorts to cozy minshuku, beachside glamping, and family-friendly vacation rentals.
🚗 8. Access
📍 From Airports
🛫 Miyako Airport (MMY) → Hirara City: ~15 min by car
🛫 Shimojishima Airport (SHI) → Irabu Island: 5–10 min to beaches
📍 Getting Around
🚗 Car rental is the #1 best way to explore freely
🛵 Scooters available for solo travelers
🚖 Taxis limited outside city center—plan ahead for night travel
🚌 Very few buses—great if you stay in one area, not for exploring
🌐 9. Contact / Info
🔗 Miyako Island Travel Guide (Official)
📞 Info Line: +81-980-73-2690
📍 Visitor Centers: Miyako Airport, Hirara Port, Irabu Island