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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hatenohama is a sandbar (sand island) floating off the eastern coast of Kumejima Town, Okinawa Prefecture, and is an uninhabited island characterized by its fine white sand and crystal clear emerald green sea. The sandbar was formed by the accumulation of coral fragments and calcareous sand caused by waves and wind, and one of its charms is that its shape and size change depending on the tides, seasons, and weather. There are no permanent buildings or facilities on the island itself, and the natural landscape remains untouched, making it a popular spot where you can experience a "tropical paradise."
Highlights
- Highly transparent waters: Enjoy snorkeling to see colorful tropical fish, coral, and beautiful sand ripples on the seabed.
- Sandy Beach Walk: Just walking around the expansive white sandy beach gives you a sense of the extraordinary. Many people take photos at the water's edge.
- Photogenic scenery: The gradation of blue sky, white sand, and shallow waters makes this a popular photo spot. It is also used for island photos and wedding photography.
- Observing marine life: Depending on the season, you may be able to see sea turtles, small sharks, and schools of colorful fish. A guided tour will show you the highlights.
- Glass-bottom boats and diving: There are also tours where you can observe the underwater world from a guided glass-bottom boat, or enjoy scuba diving in the nearby waters.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Hatenohama Beach cannot be reached directly by public transportation. The basic route is by boat from the main island of Kumejima (not a regular boat, but a day trip or charter boat).
- From Tokyo, Osaka, etc.: First, go to Naha Airport. There is a flight from Naha to Kumejima (bound for Kumejima Airport), which takes about 30 to 40 minutes (varies depending on the flight).
- After arriving at Kumejima: Travel from Kumejima Airport to Kumejima Port or your tour meeting point by taxi or rental car (travel time ranges from a few minutes to 20 minutes, depending on the meeting point).
- To Hatenohama: Take part in a local Hatenohama tour (tourist boat or charter boat) that departs from Kumejima. The boat trip time varies depending on the sea conditions and departure point, but it generally takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
- Please note: The trip to Hatenohama is greatly affected by weather and sea conditions, and may be canceled or the itinerary changed in some cases. Please contact the tour company in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip to Hatenohama only: Half a day - about 3-4 hours (including boat travel time and free time). If you want to enjoy snorkeling, walking, and taking photos at your own pace, about 3 hours is the recommended time.
- If you are also planning to visit Kumejima: A one-day plan (all day) that includes Hatenohama Beach and sightseeing on the island. If you are staying overnight on Kumejima, we recommend taking your time sightseeing on the outlying islands the next day.
Nearby spots (recommended tourist spots on Kumejima)
- Tatamiishi: A famous natural formation of hexagonal stone pillars. A popular photo spot.
- Hiyajo Banta: A cliff observation deck offering a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean.
- Eef Beach: One of Kumejima's most famous beaches, where you can enjoy swimming and marine activities.
- Kumejima Museum and Folklore Museum: A convenient facility for learning about the island's history and culture (please check opening times in advance).
- Local Restaurants and Markets: Try the seafood and local cuisine unique to Kumejima (such as Kumejima soba noodles and sea grapes).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Lack of facilities: Hatenohama Beach does not have toilets, shops, or sunshades. Please be sure to bring drinking water, snacks, sunshades (hat, long sleeves, rash guard), towels, first aid supplies, etc.
- Nature conservation and etiquette: Please be mindful of your actions and avoid harming the environment, such as not taking coral or shells home with you, avoiding stepping on coral in the ocean, and taking any trash with you.
- Tides and sea conditions: The size of the sandbar changes with the tide, and at high tide, parts of it may be submerged. On days with poor sea conditions, it may be impossible to cross. Please follow the tour company's instructions.
- Health and Safety: Strong sunlight and glare can easily cause sunburn, so be sure to drink plenty of water and take precautions against sunburn. If you are prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand. Be careful of ocean currents (rip currents) and waves in shallow waters.
- Seasonal precautions: Summer is the swimming season and the area is crowded, and there are more cancellations and safety measures during typhoon season (mainly from late summer to autumn). Care should be taken when choosing an area during sea turtle nesting season.
- Drone photography, etc.: As this is an uninhabited island, there may be restrictions on regulations and etiquette. Please check the rules of the tour company or local government before taking photos.
Hatenohama is a special place where untouched nature remains. When visiting, please be mindful of safety and environmental protection, and take your time to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the clear waters and white sandy beach.
