Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Okinawa?
Should you spend 1 or 2 weeks in Okinawa?
Many visitors spend three to seven days in Okinawa during their visit. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because there's so much to see and do. This archipelago offers a number of attractions to explore, including scuba diving and snorkeling, the beaches, the hiking, and the beautiful scenery.
Okinawa is a tropical region in Japan that has long attracted vacationers and adventure-seekers. The region is filled with white sand beaches, impressive scuba diving and snorkeling, and a truly unique cuisine. There are also resorts where you can relax in luxury and hiking trails where you can find an adventure.
Do you have one or two weeks to visit Okinawa? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is one week enough time in Okinawa?
With one week, you'll have more than enough time to take in all that Okinawa has to offer, giving you the flexibility to unwind around the island or use your hotel as a base for further exploration. You can relax while enjoying scuba diving and snorkeling, the beaches, and the hiking at your own pace. We have some suggestions of things to do below, too.
How to spend a week in Okinawa
Scuba diving and snorkeling around Okinawa is world-class, and is one of the main reasons why so many visitors come here. Spend a day exploring the beauty of the surrounding underwater world. The waters around Okinawa are filled with a rich biodiversity of corals and tropical fish. You'll also find sea turtles and other larger marine animals. There are also mangrove forests that form the breeding ground for many types of marine life. The snorkeling and diving in the area is world class, and attracts both beginners and experienced divers.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Naha: Full-Day Snorkeling Experience in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa ($66)
- Naha: Full-Day Introductory diving & Snorkeling in the Kerama Islands, Okinawa ($86)
- Kerama Islands 1 day snorkeling tour from Okinawa Naha ($73)
Okinawa is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The islands are filled with beautiful natural environments that range from white sand beaches to mangrove forests. The water is turquoise and the setting is idyllic for vacationers.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Okinawa Local Experience and Sunset Cycling Tour ($86)
Public transit in Okinawa is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the archipelago quite easily. Public transit through the area is decent in urban areas but gets more limited outside of the cities. On the main island there are buses, shuttles, and a monorail, but off the main island you'll want your own vehicle.
The beautiful beaches await you in Okinawa, so spend the day (or several, if you can) relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. The region is filled with white sand beaches and turquoise water. Some of the beaches are accessible and lively while others are more remote and peaceful. Furuzamami Beach is both easy to access but also has a relaxed atmosphere. Nishihama Beach is more remote but well worth the effort and Aharen Beach is a popular day trip by ferry.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Mangrove kayaking to enjoy nature in Okinawa ($37)
- Mangrove Kayak ＆ Sea Fishing Experience in Okinawa ($59)
- Private Transfer from Naha City Hotels to Nakagusuku Cruise Port ($59)
You'll absolutely want to spend some time enjoying the food scene in this archipelago, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine for a meal or two. Food in the region is truly unique, and sometimes a bit bizarre. There's a surprising amount of international influence on the cuisine because the islands are close to China and Taiwan, and there's a large American presence due to the US military. Despite this, the cuisine has its roots in the area's long history. Local dishes include rafute (pork belly in a stew), goya chanpuru (stir fry with melon, pork, and tofu), and umibudo (sea grapes).
Known for it's hiking, Okinawa sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. The island's tropical setting provides hikers with lush jungles and unique geology to explore. One of the most popular areas for hiking is Yambaru National Park. In this park you can walk through the mangroves and spot local wildlife. The region also has many off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities for those looking for an adventure.
This archipelago is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. The diverse population has impacted the nightlife scene, and you'll see international influences at the bars and clubs in the area. Many locals begin their night out at a izakaya, which is part bar, part restaurant. The cities are also known for their jazz clubs and karaoke scene.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Naha Local Pub Crawl ($110)
Don't miss the Kerama Islands during your trip to Okinawa, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Okinawa a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. Although most visitors come for the natural beauty and beach setting, there are some nice historic sights and museums in the region. Favorites include Shurijo Castle, Futenma Shrine, and Churaumi Aquarium.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Okinawa.
Shopping in Okinawa is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. There are a number of shopping streets in the urban areas. You'll also find large outlet malls near the US military base. A favorite shopping street in Naha is Kokusai-dori Shopping Street, which has local shops and souvenir vendors.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
After you've explored most of Okinawa, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Okinawa.
Is 2 weeks enough time in Okinawa?
Two weeks is more than enough for an in-depth trip to Okinawa, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. Go scuba diving or snorkeling, relax at the beach, take a hike, and admire the wonderful scenery on your own schedule. Then, take some boat trips or day tours around the surrounding area.
Okinawa, Japan
How to spend 2 weeks in Okinawa
With 2 weeks in Okinawa, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the archipelago has to offer.
With so much time here, you should absolutely take another day trip to one of the many nearby destinations around Okinawa. Plenty of amazing options are available.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Another day scuba diving or snorkeling is entirely warranted here due to the amazing under-sea life, clear waters, and amazing atmosphere. Visiting different areas of the surrounding waters can provide for unique dive experiences not found elsewhere.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Okinawa.
Another fun day at the beach awaits, so spend more time relaxing and swimming. After all, a beach vacation usually calls for plenty of time to have fun on the sand and in the waves.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
With plenty of hiking trails and viewpoints around Okinawa, you'll need another day to experience the gorgeous hiking trails that you haven't seen yet. Either head out in a different direction, or pick up where you left off before.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Okinawa.
With so much time here, you should absolutely take another day trip to one of the many nearby destinations around Okinawa. Plenty of amazing options are available.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Another day scuba diving or snorkeling is entirely warranted here due to the amazing under-sea life, clear waters, and amazing atmosphere. Visiting different areas of the surrounding waters can provide for unique dive experiences not found elsewhere.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Okinawa.
Another fun day at the beach awaits, so spend more time relaxing and swimming. After all, a beach vacation usually calls for plenty of time to have fun on the sand and in the waves.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
More Info
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