- A Free and Beautiful Beach in Northern Okinawa: Kaganji Beach
- Kaganji Beach in northern Okinawa is a hidden gem with white sand and crystal-clear waters. This free public beach offers resort-level beauty away from the crowds.
Looking for Swimming and Snorkeling on Ikei Island? Odomari Beach Is a Hidden Gem Worth Visiting!
Odomari Beach is a natural beach with high water clarity and stretches of soft white sand. The shallow waters make it easy to encounter tropical fish, making this a spot where both children and adults can enjoy snorkeling and swimming.
In this article, we’ll cover everything about Odomari Beach: its basic information, attractions, facilities, services, and even a comparison with nearby Ikei Beach along with access details. Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, Odomari Beach offers plenty to enjoy. Be sure to check out its highlights before your trip.
Odomari Beach
Odomari Beach is a natural long beach located on Ikei Island, which is accessible via the Kaichu Road from Uruma City in central Okinawa. It’s a popular swimming spot visited by families and couples, featuring exceptionally clear waters and a wide sandy shoreline.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Yonashiro Ikei, Uruma City, Okinawa |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 am - 5:30 pm |
| Admission Fee | Adults: ¥500 Children: ¥300 |
| Facilities | Parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, rental items, light snacks available |
| Official Website | http://www.oodomari.com/ |
Exceptional Clarity! 3 Reasons Odomari Beach Stands Out
Odomari Beach combines breathtaking scenery with excellent conditions for enjoying the sea. Here are three key features that make it special.
One of Central Okinawa’s Most Beautiful Beaches: Transparent Waters and White Sand
The biggest charm of Odomari Beach is undoubtedly the clarity of its waters and the beauty of its white sand. With calm, shallow waters, you’ll instantly notice the deep blue transparency the moment you step onto the beach.
Sunlight penetrates to your feet, reflecting off the white sand and accentuating the shimmering blue layers. Just a few steps into the water reveal rippling sand patterns, with shades of blue shifting as the depth gradually increases. Immersing yourself in the water only enhances the vivid beauty of the beach.
Perfect for Beginners! Snorkeling with Tropical Fish
Just a short swim from the shore brings you face-to-face with colorful tropical fish. Because many fish can be spotted in shallow waters, beginners and families with children can easily enjoy snorkeling here. The high visibility lets you fully appreciate the underwater scenery as you swim.
If you bring along fish feed sold at the shop, you’ll quickly be surrounded by curious tropical fish.
The designated swimming area, protected by a jellyfish prevention net, is fairly spacious and includes spots with 2–3m depth. Swimmers with some experience can explore more marine life safely, combining both safety and excitement—features that make Odomari Beach unique.
Safe and Secure! Fun for Families, Couples, and Friends
The beach is staffed with lifeguards and well-equipped with facilities, ensuring a safe swimming environment.
The shallow waters are ideal for young children, making it a great family destination. Couples and friends can rent parasols to relax or enjoy snorkeling together, with plenty of ways to spend time at Odomari Beach.
Facilities and Services at Odomari Beach: Everything You Need
Odomari Beach offers a full range of facilities to ensure a comfortable beach experience. Parking, toilets, showers, and changing rooms are all available, so you can relax after enjoying the water. Lifeguards are on duty, providing peace of mind for families with small children.
A wide variety of rental items are also available, including parasols, floats, life jackets, and snorkeling sets. Even if you come empty-handed, you’ll find everything you need for fun in the water.
The shop sells light meals and drinks, allowing you to spend the whole day at the beach. These convenient facilities make the beach appealing to families, couples, and groups of friends.
List of Services, Sales, Activities, and Rentals
| Item | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Large Tent | 1 tent with table | ¥5,000 |
| Tent Usage Fee (Bring Your Own) | Per tent | ¥2,500–3,000 |
| BBQ Use | Reservation by phone | Check for details |
| Float Inflation | Varies by size | ¥100– |
| Fish Feed | ¥100 |
| Menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Draft Beer | ¥600 |
| Non - Alcoholic Beer | ¥300 |
| Orion Beer (Can) | ¥400 |
| Hot Coffee | ¥200 |
| Iced Coffee | ¥250 |
Facility Management Fee: Ensuring Comfort and Safety
When using Odomari Beach, a facility management fee—equivalent to an admission fee—is required. The cost is ¥500 for adults and ¥300 for children, which covers the following services:
- Parking
- Showers and changing rooms
- Valuables storage service
This fee supports beach cleaning, marine conservation, and safety monitoring. It ensures a safe, enjoyable environment while also protecting the natural surroundings.
Odomari Beach vs. Ikei Beach: Which One Should You Choose?
Ikei Island features two main beaches: Odomari Beach and Ikei Beach. Both are suitable for families and travelers, but each has distinct characteristics. Choosing one depends on your purpose.
| Item | Odomari Beach | Ikei Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Hours | 9:00 am - 5:30 pm | 10:00 am - 5:00 pm |
| Swimming Area | Approx. 600m sandy shore, wide swimming zone | Bay - shaped beach, smaller swimming zone |
| Features | Perfect depth for snorkeling | Wide variety of marine sports like flyboarding and glass boats |
| Atmosphere | Relaxed, calm, ideal for unwinding | Lively and bustling, with many visitors |
| Facilities & Scale | Small - scale | Medium - scale |
| Facility Fee | Adults: ¥500 Children: ¥300 | Adults: ¥400 Children: ¥300 |
| Changing Rooms | Clean but older building | Spacious and modern |
| Showers | Hot water included in fee | Cold water only, coin showers ¥200/5 min |
| Valuables Storage | Available at management building | Coin lockers in changing rooms |
| Food & Drinks | Snacks and drinks sold at management building | Parlor and dining hall with authentic Okinawan cuisine popular with locals |
| BBQ | Available | Available (beach parties also possible) |
| Recommended For | Families, couples, travelers seeking a quiet time | Families, couples, travelers wanting active fun |
Both beaches are safe for families to enjoy swimming. That said, the choice depends on your interests:
- For snorkeling and tropical fish encounters: Odomari Beach
- For marine sports, beach parties, and lively vibes: Ikei Beach
Ikei Beach is located right after crossing the Ikei Bridge, while Odomari Beach is just a 3-minute drive further. Since the distance is minimal, the main difference lies in their facilities and atmosphere.
Driving Across the Kaichu Road: How to Access Odomari Beach
The most common way to reach Odomari Beach is by rental car. From Naha City or Naha Airport, it takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. The route includes the Kaichu Road, a scenic drive that stretches across the sea.
While buses to Ikei Island do exist, their limited service makes them impractical for day trips. For sightseeing, planning on traveling by car is the safest option.
Before You Go: Tips and Safety Notes for Odomari Beach
Although Odomari Beach has lifeguards and a jellyfish prevention net ensuring safety, there are still natural aspects to be aware of. Keep these points in mind before visiting:
-
Sun Protection Is Essential
- Okinawa’s UV rays are stronger than on mainland Japan, causing burns in a short time. Be sure to bring sunscreen, rash guards, or long-sleeved shirts.
-
Beware of Marine Life
- Sea snakes and sea anemones can appear at Odomari Beach. Sea snakes are venomous, and sea anemones can sting, so do not touch them if spotted.
-
Handling Belongings and Valuables
- While the fee includes shower and valuables storage services, there are no lockers. Large belongings must be self-managed.
-
Pets Allowed
- Pets can join you on the beach or in the water if kept on a leash. Registration and adherence to rules are required.
-
Prohibited Activities
- Fireworks, bonfires, and swimming outside designated areas are not allowed.
Because Odomari Beach preserves its natural beauty, following these rules ensures a safe and pleasant visit.
A Scenic Hidden Gem in Central Okinawa: Perfect for Families and Relaxed Beach Days
Odomari Beach on Ikei Island is a natural beach featuring crystal-clear waters and a wide sandy shore. Even in shallow areas, tropical fish can be spotted, creating a safe environment for beginners and families.
The facility management fee includes parking and showers, making the beach convenient even for those visiting empty-handed. With its calm, laid-back atmosphere, Odomari Beach is especially recommended for those seeking a relaxing beach escape on Ikei Island.
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Okinawa, Odomari Beach is well worth the visit.
