Enjoy snorkeling in Iriomote Island!
Table of Contents
When you think of the sea of Iriomote Island, what kind of scene comes to mind? The vast, clear blue sea, colorful coral reefs that are precious in the world, and sparkling fish like jewels. Snorkeling in such Iriomote Island is one of the activities that enable us to see such sights that we usually cannot encounter.
We would like to introduce you to snorkeling in Iriomote Island, where you can swim with sea creatures while feeling the great and beautiful nature that has been spun and weaved since long ago.
Click here to buy ferry tickets to remote islands.
Only Tours can make ferry reservations! Since you pay in advance, you can easily board the ferry by simply showing your smartphone on the day of the cruise. You don't have to worry about getting caught in the queue at the ticket booth on the day of boarding.
Click here to book ferry tickets to Iriomote Island!
Iriomote Island Ferry Tickets
Sea creatures you can meet in Iriomote Island
Iriomote Island, a treasure house of living creatures, has a diverse ecosystem. On land, you can see precious animals such as the Iriomote wildcat and crested serpent eagle, and in the sea, you have a chance to observe colorful fish such as the bear flea and green sea turtles up close.
Clownfish, the idol of the sea!
Clownfish were in the limelight after appearing in the movie "Finding Nemo". They often live in symbiosis with the lanternfish anemone. They are very cautious and hide behind the anemone as soon as a person approaches to see them up close. They are characterized by an orange body with three white lines, although some individuals are black instead of orange.
yellowtail amberjack (species of fish, Seriola lalandi)
Hamakumanomi is the most likely to be seen on Iriomote Island. It is relatively easy to find them because they are often grouped by several individuals. It is characterized by a single white line on its body, and males are all orange and females are dark black.
white tip shark (Carcharhinus brachyurus, only member of Carcharhinus found mostly at temperate latitudes)
As its name suggests, it is characterized by a white line on its back from head to tail. It is highly dependent on anemones and is most likely to be found near anemones.
anemone fish
They have two white lines on their bodies, and some of the larger ones grow to 10-15 cm in length. They sometimes live in a single anemone together with the white clownfish and other anemones.
The key to recognize them is to know how many white lines they have on their body and where they are located. Please try to spot them while swimming in the beautiful sea of Iriomote Island. You will surely become their fan when you see their adorable dull eyes staring at you!
Can we also see dolphins?
Speaking of Finding Nemo, Dory is not to be forgotten. In Iriomote Island, you can also see dolphins. However, they are not as easy to see as clownfish, so you are lucky if you can see them!
5 snorkeling spots
Nakano coastline
You can enter the beach right from the "Nakano" bus stop, and it is a great place for those who want to relax and rest on the beach as well as snorkel. It is a spot where you can see colorful and vivid coral reefs and schools of thousands and tens of thousands of small fish, but it is a bit difficult for beginners alone, so it is recommended that you go with someone who is familiar with snorkeling or a local. If you are not an experienced swimmer, it is strongly recommended that you use a life jacket.
This is also a location used by many tour companies, so if a boat approaches, leave the area and make sure you are safe. Depending on the time and location, stingrays and green turtles can be seen at this spot!
Barras Island
Located between Hatoma Island and Uehara Port, Barasu Island is an island formed by coral, which is rare in the world.Also known as the "Miracle Island," it is made of pure white coral fragments and has attracted many tourists from all over the world and Japan.
The waters around Barras Island are extremely clear and glassy. The many colorful eda corals around this island make it a great place for snorkeling.
Click here for details and plan list of "Miracle Island" Barasu Island Tour
beach of star sand
This place is famous for its small star-shaped sands, and nearby souvenir shops sell star sand in jars.
Snorkeling at Hoshisuna Beach is recommended for families with children and beginners. The water temperature is high and the waves are gentle, so snorkeling can be enjoyed without anxiety.The relatively shallow water makes it an easy place for even small children to swim, but we recommend wearing a life jacket just in case.There is also a spot where you can see bear clams at this location, so visitors to Hoshisuna Beach should definitely look for them!
Click here for more information about snorkeling tours at Hoshisuna Beach.
Minamikaze Mita (Haemida) Beach
It is a quiet beach without many people, located about one hour drive from Uehara Port. It is the longest beach in Iriomote Island and the place where you can feel the relaxing air of THE Iriomote Island. The water temperature is high and the waves are not strong, so it is a place where beginners and experts can enjoy snorkeling leisurely. There are many bear flea spots, so it is fun to look for them while swimming slowly.
life buoy
Located on the west side of Iriomote Island, it is a very attractive place where the only way to reach the village is by boat. With an average population of about 50 people, it is a peaceful place where you feel as if time has stopped.
Behind the village is a very beautiful beach called Ida beach, a snorkeling spot with many corals. Many sea turtles inhabit this place, so you may have a high chance of seeing them.
Recommended snorkeling activities in Iriomote Island
1. "Miracle Island" Barasu Island & Hatoma Island One-day Snorkeling
This tour is the most popular marine activity in Iriomote Island. The sea around the miraculous island "Barasu Island" is rich in colorful corals and tropical fishes. The waters of Hatoma Island are the clearest in Japan, and the island is famous for its beautiful waters. Please enjoy the beauty of the sea, also known as "Hatoma Blue.
2. half-day snorkeling on the "miracle island" Baras
A half-day course recommended for those who want to have a little fun. Snorkeling around the miraculous island "Barasu Island" located about 10 minutes from Uehara Port is recommended for those who are returning to Ishigaki Island or just want to have a little fun.
Half-day snorkeling at the miraculous "Barasu IslandClick here for tour details↓.
SUP or Canoe & "Miracle Island" Barasu Island Snorkeling
Since you have come to Iriomote Island, which is called "Galapagos of the East," you should enjoy snorkeling as well. If you enjoy the best SUP and canoeing in Japan in the morning and snorkeling in the afternoon, you will be definitely satisfied.
Click here for more information about Snorkeling & SUPor Canoe Cruise Tours ↓↓ Click here for more information about Snorkeling & SUPor Canoe Cruise Tours
Click here to buy ferry tickets to remote islands.
Only Tours can make ferry reservations! Since you pay in advance, you can easily board the ferry by simply showing your smartphone on the day of the cruise. You don't have to worry about getting caught in the queue at the ticket booth on the day of boarding.
Click here to book ferry tickets to Iriomote Island!
Iriomote Island Ferry Tickets
summary
Snorkeling is a wonderful way to visit numerous beautiful places in Iriomote Island! Why don't you experience the wonderful sea of Iriomote Island this summer?
For details of snorkeling tours in Iriomote Island and a list of plans, click here↓.
All the fun in Iriomote Island is here↓.
Iriomotejima Tours
