Zamami Island

What to know

Zamami Island (座間味島, Zamami-jima) is the second largest of the Kerama Islands. It is a highly rated beach destination, known for its beautiful white sand and clear waters, which are ideal for swimming, snorkeling and diving. The popular beaches are within walking distance from the village which surrounds the port, while observation decks dot the hilly, forested interior of the island.

Beachgoers do not have to travel far as the two main beaches on Zamami are about 20 minutes on foot from the port. For those who prefer a little more seclusion, not far from Zamami Port are the two small uninhabited islands of Gahi and Agenashiku. The two islands can only be reached by a five minute boat ride (no fixed schedule, 1500 yen for a round trip) and offer excellent sunbathing and snorkeling opportunities and no facilities.

The best time to go swimming in Zamami is between May and October. From December to March, the air temperatures can drop to levels below 20 degrees Celsius which many people will consider too cool for swimming. The beaches offer visitors plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities, with a variety of marine life found as close as 10 meters from shore.

Tour companies offer a multitude of marine activity tours including glass boat rides (about 4,000 yen for one hour), diving (about 15,000 yen for two hours) and stand-up paddling (about 7,500 yen for two hours). Shops near the beaches also rent snorkeling and beach equipment.

From January to March, whale watching boat tours are a popular attraction around Zamami Island. These tours take visitors to see the humpback whales that come from the northern Aleutians and Bering Sea to the warmer Okinawan waters to breed. Reservations can be made through tour companies or your accommodation. Whale watching tours depart from Zamami Port.

While marine activities make up the bulk of attractions at Zamami, hiking is also a pleasant way to get up close with the land-dwelling local flora and fauna. There are also a number of observatories spread across the hilly island which offer views of the island and the surrounding coastline: