How to Get to Emerald Beach, Parking, and When Is the Beach Open? A Summary of Snorkeling & Beach Umbrella Info

Emerald Beach's
How do I get there? Where can I park? When is the beach open?

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium"Emerald Beach," which stretches right next to it, is a popular beach located within the Ocean Expo Park!

In this article, we cover everything from how to get there and parking to the swimming season and whether snorkeling is allowed,Information You Should Know Before VisitingThe following is a summary of the

We'll cover the key points so that even first-time visitors can feel confident about what to expect!

Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Okinawa

Where is Emerald Beach?

Emerald Beach is located in Motobu Town in the northern part of Okinawa Island, andAdjacent to the Okinawa Churaumi AquariumThe company is doing so!

You can get there by car or public transportation, but the travel time varies significantly depending on your mode of transportation.

Here, we’ll introduce three typical access patterns.

Emerald Beach Basic Information

◆Address: 424 Aza Ishikawa, Motobu Town, Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture 905-0206
Access: 1 hour and 50 minutes by car from Naha Airport
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆ Swimming Season: April 1 through October 31 *2026*
◆Admission fee: Free
◆Facilities: Showers, lockers, rental equipment, concession stand, lifeguards, jellyfish-proof nets

Emerald Beach (Ocean Expo Park)   Emerald Beach is a beach located in the lagoon in Ocean Expo Park where Churaumi Aquarium, a popular tourist spot in northern Okinawa, is located.

About the Churaumi Aquarium
▼Click here for more details▼

A super classic spot! Churaumi Aquarium! Thorough guide to the Blue Cave, how to get there from Onna Village area, and activities!Okinawa’s Must-See Attraction! The Ultimate Guide to the Churaumi Aquarium☆ The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is the No. 1 tourist attraction, boasting over 3 million visitors annually! “Churaumi” means “clear sea.” In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Churaumi Aquarium, a highlight of any Okinawa trip […]

Churaumi Aquarium ticket included
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【Departure from Naha/Hitatan / Northern Sightseeing】 Full-Day Sightseeing Bus Tour with Churaumi Aquarium Ticket (Course C)★Churaumi Aquarium→Kouri Island→Gokashi-Goden→Manzamo→Hitatan American Village 《Only benefit for this site: Okinawa sweets included》（No.180）.開始時間8:35 / 9:05 / 9:45
*Varies depending on the boarding location.所要時間Approx. 11 hours7,480 yen

Onna Village, Okinawa] Special Plan★Includes Churaumi Aquarium ticket! Blue Cave" Snorkeling Tour 《with photo gift & feeding experience》 (No.199)開始時間9:00-11:30 / 11:30-14:00 / 14:00-16:30 所要時間Approximately 2.5 hours8,980 yen →directional marker or indicator7,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Churaumi Aquarium Tickets Included in Tour
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Directions from Naha Airport

From Naha Airport, take the Okinawa Expressway,Koda InterchangeThe standard route is to get off there and continue on the regular road.

Since it takes even longer if you don't use the highway,Allow plenty of timeWe recommend setting out!

You can even drop off your vehicle at Honbu Port!
Click here for recommended car rental plans

★ Tours Exclusive [Naha Airport Area · Car Rental] One-Way Rental Plan from Naha to Motobu Port in Northern Okinawa ☆ Kei Car (Seats up to 4) — Great Value with One-Way Fee Included! (No. r-29)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間Negotiable15,500 yen

★ Tours Exclusive [Naha Airport Area · Rental Car] One-Way Rental Plan from Naha to Motobu Port in Northern Okinawa ☆ Compact Car (Seats up to 5) Great value with one-way fee included! (No. r-30)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間Negotiable16,600 yen

★ Tours Exclusive [Naha Airport Area · Rental Car] One-Way Rental Plan from Naha to Motobu Port in the North ☆ SUV (Seats up to 5) — Great Value with One-Way Fee Included! (No. r-31)開始時間: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間Negotiable17,700 yen

Click here to make a reservation for car rental in Okinawa

Directions from the Honbu Town Area

The directions are easy to follow, andHeading to the Okinawa Churaumi AquariumIf you keep moving forward, you’ll probably rarely get lost!

It's just the right distance to stop by after sightseeing in the area.

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Model course around Okinawa without fail even for beginners.What Is a “Round-the-Island Tour of Okinawa,” Even for Beginners? A “round-the-island tour of Okinawa” is a style of travel where you drive all the way around the main island of Okinawa, enjoying the scenery, local cuisine, and the drive itself. That said, you might have questions like, “How many kilometers is the round-the-island tour of Okinawa?” “How long does it take?” “How many nights do I need?” […]

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How to Get There Without a Car

If you don't have a car, you can take the bus that runs from Naha Airport or the Naha Bus Terminalhighway busThere is a way to use it.

Since there are times when the number of trains is limited,Timetable in AdvanceIt's a good idea to double-check that just to be sure!

You Can Enjoy a Trip to Okinawa Even Without a Car!
▼Click here for recommended model courses▼

You Don't Need a Car to Explore Naha! Half-Day Itinerary and Recommended Tours with Transportation IncludedYou Can Fully Enjoy Sightseeing in Naha Even Without a Car! A Complete Guide to Half-Day Itineraries & Shuttle Tours To put it simply, you can fully enjoy sightseeing in Naha in just half a day, even without a car. By combining the Yui Rail, local buses, and shuttle tours, you can visit major spots even without a rental car […]

Click here for recommended sightseeing bus tours

Sightseeing Bus Tour (D Course)★Tropical Dream Center→Kouri Island→Gokashi-Goten→Manzakage→American Village 《Only benefit for this site: Okinawa sweets included》（No.181）.開始時間8:35 / 9:05 / 9:45
*Varies depending on the boarding location.所要時間Approx. 11 hours6,980 yen

【Departure from Naha/Hitatan / Northern Sightseeing】 Full-Day Sightseeing Bus Tour with Churaumi Aquarium Ticket (Course C)★Churaumi Aquarium→Kouri Island→Gokashi-Goden→Manzamo→Hitatan American Village 《Only benefit for this site: Okinawa sweets included》（No.180）.開始時間8:35 / 9:05 / 9:45
*Varies depending on the boarding location.所要時間Approx. 11 hours7,480 yen

About Sightseeing Bus Tours in Okinawa
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Parking Information for Emerald Beach

When visiting Emerald Beach, you should generally use the parking lot inside the Ocean Expo Park.

In the park, there isSeveral free parking lotsThere are several options, and the distance to the beach varies for each one.

Here you'll find information on parking locations and rates,Time of day when congestion is most likely to occur.to introduce you to the following!

You can take it from Naha Airport!
▼Click here for popular car rental plans▼

Toyota Yaris《Maximum 5 Passengers》Car Navigation System/ETC Standard Equipment【Including Exemption Compensation Fee】(No.r18)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable5,000 yen

Car Rental S】Compact class car《Maximum 5 passengers》【Including deductible compensation】(No.r19)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable4,000 yen

Nago North Area Car Rental]Mini Car A Plan《Maximum 4 Passengers》ETC Standard Equipment〈Airport drop-off available、Indemnity fee included」(No.r24)開始時間Negotiable所要時間Negotiable4,500 yen

Parking Locations and Fees

Inside Ocean Expo Park, there isA total of 9 locationsのFree Parking...and can accommodate a total of approximately 1,880 vehicles.

The closest place to Emerald Beach is "P9 Emerald Gate Multi-Story Parking Garage"There is space for about 153 vehicles."

If you're planning to visit the beach, firstP9We recommend aiming for that!

Time of day when congestion is most likely to occur.

During busy periods such as summer vacation and Golden Week,Starting in the morningThe parking lot tends to get crowded.

Since the parking lot can sometimes fill up, especially on weekends and around lunchtime,Early arrivalis recommended!

converselyAs evening approaches,There tends to be some availability.

Enjoy it in just half a day!
▼Click here for recommended tours near our headquarters▼

Motobu-cho, Northern Okinawa Main Island] [No License Required] Completely Private! Beach Experience Diving Photo Shooting Present (No.49)開始時間1:30-3:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 2 hours13,000 yen

Motobu/Sesoko Island] Colors of Sesoko blue! Beach Paint Photo☆Let's dye your white shirt and have fun 《No cancellation fee until the day before》in Sesoko Beach (No.769)開始時間: 10:00–11:30 / 1:00–2:30 p.m. / 3:00–4:30 p.m.所要時間Approx. 90 min.40,000 yen →directional marker or indicator38,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

▼We also recommend the night tour!▼

Okinawa, Okinawa: Secret stargazing at Sesoko Island, accessible by car from the headquarters☆Stargazing Photo and Space Walk Night Tour《Insta-Review Photo Shooting Included》in Sesoko Beach (No.95)開始時間: 8:00 p.m. / 9:00 p.m. / 10:00 p.m. / 11:00 p.m. / 12:00 a.m. / 1:00 a.m. / 2:00 a.m. / 3:00 a.m.所要時間Approx. 1 hour12,000 yen →directional marker or indicator9,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Emerald Beach's
Swimming Season and Beach Opening Information

Emerald Beach has a designated swimming season, and you cannot swim there outside of that period.

Before you head out,Whether it's a time when swimming is allowedBe sure to check this.

Here, we'll explain in detail the swimming season and when the beaches open!

About the Start of the Swimming Season in Okinawa
▼Click here for more details▼

When does the ocean open in Okinawa? A Thorough Guide to the Period, Popular Beaches, and Things to DoWhen does the Okinawan beach open? Okinawa is known for having the earliest beach openings in Japan, and many beaches open from early spring to early summer! The timing depends on the beach and the area, and in some cases, it is even earlier than on the main island in remote islands. Here is a list of beaches throughout Okinawa [...].

When does the swimming season run?

The schedule may vary slightly from year to year, so before you visit,Official SiteThat's the best way to stay up to date!

Beach Season

The beach season opens every yearEarly AprilIt often takes place on this day, which marks the start of the full-fledged beach season.

However, the schedule is subject to change depending on weather and sea conditions, soLatest AnnouncementsBe sure to check it out!

Best Season to Travel to Okinawa
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When is the best season to travel to Okinawa? A Complete Guide to Choosing by Purpose, Cheapness, and TyphoonLocal Staff Provide a Comprehensive Guide to the Best Seasons for Traveling to Okinawa, Organized by Month and Purpose It’s difficult to pinpoint the “best season” for traveling to Okinawa in a single phrase, as the optimal time varies depending on your specific goals and priorities! In this article, we’ll break it down by purpose […]

Precautions During the Period When You Cannot Swim

From November through March of the following year, swimming is not permitted, andYou cannot go into the ocean.

Also, even during the swimming season,Typhoon ApproachingUse of the facility will be temporarily restricted if lightning, the presence of dangerous animals, or other such incidents are confirmed.

When you visit, please check the availability for that dayOfficial SiteIt's a good idea to check this before heading out.

Typhoon Information for Okinawa
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When are typhoons most likely to hit Okinawa? A guide to when typhoons are most likely to occur and how to prepare for them, including checking the forecast before traveling.What You Should Know Before Traveling to Okinawa for Peace of Mind! The Annual Typhoon Season & Precautions Since Okinawa is located in a region frequently affected by typhoons, taking precautions is essential when planning a trip during typhoon season! By arming yourself with the right knowledge in advance, you’ll be prepared in case of severe weather […]

For an Okinawa trip you can enjoy even when it rains
▼Click here for more details▼

Enjoy Okinawa Even on Rainy Days! 20 Sightseeing Spots & 7 Activities You Can Enjoy Even in Bad WeatherYou Can Still Have Fun in Okinawa Even on Rainy Days! While Okinawa is best known for its beautiful emerald seas and natural scenery, it also offers plenty of spots where you can have fun even on rainy days. Even if you can’t enjoy swimming in the ocean or basking under blue skies, there are plenty of indoor facilities and hands-on activities that let you experience the unique charm of Okinawa […]

At Emerald Beach
Can I go snorkeling?

Many people search for “Emerald Beach Snorkeling,” but there are actually a few things to watch out for.

Reasons or alternativesHow to enjoyLet's take a closer look at this.

You're sure to be moved! Okinawa's
▼Click here for snorkeling spots▼

Introducing 6 snorkeling spots on the main island of Okinawa that will surely impress you.Handpicked by Local Staff! For Those Who Want to Avoid Disappointments☆ 6 Top Snorkeling Spots on Okinawa’s Main Island If you want to experience the beautiful underwater world, snorkeling in Okinawa’s crystal-clear waters is highly recommended! Here are 6 recommended snorkeling spots on Okinawa’s main island, organized by area […]

Snorkeling is prohibited!

At Emerald Beach, the use of snorkels is officially prohibited for safety reasons.This is prohibited.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

It appears this rule has been established to prevent accidents, as the swimming area tends to be crowded with many visitors.

Even if you bring your own snorkeling gear, on the beach...UnavailableLet's keep these points in mind.

Things to Do Besides Snorkeling

White sandy beachAnd the view overlooking Iejima isIt also looks great in photosAnd just looking at it is soothing!

Relaxing under a parasolBeach Timeis also recommended.

If you want to enjoy snorkeling
▼Join a Tour!▼

Snorkeling & Big Marble & Giant Thriller Experience with equipment rental and free GoPro data (No.609)開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00所要時間Approx. 1 hour12,500 yen

Snorkeling & Jet Ski & Big Marble or Giant Thriller Experience (with equipment rental and free GoPro data) (No.624)開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00所要時間Approx. 80 min.13,000 yen

Snorkeling & Jet Skiing Experience with Banana Boat to the Point 《Including Equipment Rental / Free GoPro Data》（No.637）.開始時間9:00 / 10:00 / 11:00 / 12:00 / 13:00 / 14:00 / 15:00所要時間Approx. 80 min.10,500 yen

Umbrella Rental Information

At Emerald Beach, we’ve made sure you can enjoy a comfortable time even if you come empty-handed,Rental Itemsare available.

In Okinawa, where the sun is intense, having a parasol makes a big difference.ComfortableYou can definitely do it!

Here, we'll provide information on rental locations and estimated prices.

Rental Locations and Rates

On the beachRental CounterIn addition to beach umbrellas, you can rent items such as swim rings, inflatable boats, and life jackets.

Since rates vary by item, the most up-to-date prices areOfficial SiteWe recommend checking it there.

During peak seasons, items may be unavailable for checkout, soEarly hoursUsed forLet's do it!

Around Emerald Beach
Activities I'd like to enjoy

While you can't enjoy marine activities like snorkeling at Emerald Beach itself, there are opportunities in the surrounding area toPlenty of choicesThe following is located in the

Just a short drive from Motobu Town, there are numerous spots where you can enjoy authentic beach activities.

Here, we’ll introduce three popular activities!

Things to Enjoy in Northern Okinawa!
Click here for recommended activities

snorkeling

Around Motobu TownSesoko Island, Minna Island, and Ie IslandThere are many marine shops in the area that offer snorkeling tours.

The experience of encountering colorful tropical fish in the crystal-clear ocean will make for a memorable part of your trip to Okinawa!

for beginnersThere are plenty of plans that include equipment rentals, so it's easy to join even if you come empty-handed!

Recommendation
▼Click here for snorkeling tours▼

★Okinawa Tours Limited [Iejima, Okinawa/Half Day] Snorkeling with Free Photo & Video Privilege♪Memorable Moment of Excitement《5-Year-Year-OK/Choice of Morning or Afternoon》（No.657）.開始時間9:30-12:00 / 13:00-15:30所要時間Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes8,200 yen

[Held on Sesoko Island / Approx. 2 hours] Save with advance booking! ☆ Parasailing around Sesoko Island, home to sea turtles! & Snorkeling via banana boat 《Ages 4 and up · Free GoPro footage》 (No. 648)開始時間:所要時間:

Whale Watching & Boat Snorkeling Special Package Plan!開始時間9:30-16:00所要時間Approx. 6.5 hours12,000 yen

On a snorkeling tour in Okinawa
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On a snorkeling tour of Minna Island
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diving

The waters around Motobu Town are crystal clear, andTop-Notch Diving SpotsIt is also gaining popularity as a

Many shops offer introductory diving sessions that are open to people without a diving license, so even first-timers can feel at ease.

There are some spots where you're very likely to encounter sea turtles—it'll be an unforgettable experience.

Recommendation
▼Click here for our introductory diving tours▼

★ Tours Exclusive [Okinawa/Motobu/Half-Day] Private Charter for One Group Only ☆ Enjoy a Discover Scuba Diving Experience at Gorilla Chop 《Get a Free Short Video Shot Underwater》 (No. 807)開始時間: 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. / 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
(If meeting at the location)所要時間Approx. 4 hours18,500 yen

Okinawa, Okinawa: One group is completely reserved! Experience diving at Gorilla Chop near Churaumi Aquarium (with free underwater photo and feeding experience) (No.109)開始時間9:00-11:00 / 11:00-13:00 / 13:00-15:00所要時間Approx. 2 hours10,450 yen

Recommendation
▼Click here for recreational diving tours▼

USS Emmons Wreck & Kouri Island Fun Diving Tour ☆ Enjoy a mysterious adventure through history and spectacular scenery 《Free photo shooting and transportation》（No.126）.開始時間8:00-12:00所要時間Approx. 4-5 hours26,000 yen

On a diving tour in Okinawa
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marine sports

In the area around Honbu Town, you can enjoy SUP, kayaking, banana boat rides, and moreWide variety of marine sportsThere are plenty of shops where you can try these out.

Since this area often has calm seas,Even for beginners and familiesThe best part is that it's easy to give it a try!

Some shops offer great value packages that bundle multiple activities, so it's fun to compare them and choose the one that's right for you!

Recommendation
▼Click here for our water sports experience packages▼

Sesoko Island & Mizuna Island / 1 Day] AR240 Boat & Jet Ski! Sesoko Island & Mizuna Island Plan☆All you can enjoy marine sports 《Photo & Movie Present / Up to 9 people》（No.42)開始時間9:00-15:00, negotiable所要時間Approx. 6 hours180,000 yen →directional marker or indicator150,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Sesoko Island, Mizuna Island, Half Day】Half Day Full Charter! Boat & Jet Ski! Sesoko Island & Mizuna Island Plan☆All you can enjoy marine sports 《Photo & Movie Present / Up to 7 people》（No.56)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 3 hours130,000 yen →directional marker or indicator110,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

Sesoko Island, Mizuna Island / 1 day] Full day charter! Boat & Jet Ski! Sesoko Island & Mizuna Island Plan ☆Unlimited Marine Sports 《Photo & Movie Present / Up to 7 people》（No.55)開始時間9:00-15:00, negotiable所要時間Approx. 6 hours160,000 yen →directional marker or indicator130,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.

For Okinawa's water sports experience packages
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About Emerald Beach
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

summary

Emerald Beach is located right next to the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium.Popular BeachesPlus, parking is free.

If you'd like to enjoy more marine activities, check out the surrounding areas'Take Advantage of ToursWe recommend doing this!

Why not take this opportunity to fully enjoy the beautiful scenery that only Emerald Beach has to offer?

▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.

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Enjoy Okinawa Even on Rainy Days! 20 Sightseeing Spots & 7 Activities You Can Enjoy Even in Bad WeatherYou Can Still Have Fun in Okinawa Even on Rainy Days! While Okinawa is best known for its beautiful emerald seas and natural scenery, it also offers plenty of spots where you can have fun even on rainy days. Even if you can’t enjoy swimming in the ocean or basking under blue skies, there are plenty of indoor facilities and hands-on activities that let you experience the unique charm of Okinawa […]

Here is the beautiful coral sea in Okinawa! Sightseeing spots and the best season to be impressedFor Those Looking for the Beautiful Coral Reefs of Okinawa: When people hear “the seas of Okinawa,” isn’t it the crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful coral that come to mind? Many people who search for information about Okinawa’s coral reefs are likely wondering if they’ll actually see such beautiful coral when they visit as tourists […]