When people think of Okinawa, images of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters often come to mind. But Miyako Island takes it a step further—offering breathtaking views that exceed expectations. These natural wonders are so stunning, no filters are needed to make your Instagram posts stand out!
In this article, we’ll introduce the most stylish and photogenic locations in Miyako Island that will elevate your social media game. Let’s explore the island’s natural beauty while visiting must-see scenic spots perfect for your next vacation photo dump!
Okinawa / Miyako Island SNS Spot ①: Yonaha Maehama Beach (Maehama Beach)
Yonaha Maehama Beach (Maehama Beach) is known as "the most beautiful beach in the East." With its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, it's a perfect spot for capturing Instagram-worthy shots. The calm and shallow sea makes it ideal for families with small children. Enjoy a relaxing time while gazing at the stunning views of Kurima Island and the Kurima Bridge across the horizon.
Name: Yonaha Maehama Beach (Maehama Beach)
Address: 1199 Yonaha, Shimoji, Miyakojima City, Okinawa 906-0000, Japan
Okinawa / Miyako Island SNS Spot ②: Ryugujo Observatory
The Ryugujo Observatory, perched on a hill, resembles the legendary "Dragon Palace" of Japanese folklore. This three-story tower offers panoramic views of the vivid turquoise sea of Miyako Island. Climb to the top for breathtaking photos, or snap stylish shots through the small decorative windows. Beyond swimming and beachside fun, enjoy the sweeping beauty of the ocean from above — a must-see for your Okinawa itinerary.
Name: Ryugujo Observatory
Address: Kurima, Shimoji, Miyakojima City, Okinawa 906-0000, Japan
Okinawa/Miyakojima Instagrammable Spot ③: Kurima Bridge
Kurima Bridge connects Miyako Island with Kurima Island, stretching over 1,690 meters! It’s one of the most scenic drives in Miyakojima, highly recommended for travelers who want to enjoy a breathtaking drive over the sea.
Please note: Parking on the road is prohibited. If you’d like to take your time soaking in the spectacular views, walking or cycling across the bridge is the best option!
Name: Kurima Bridge
Address: 906-0000 Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture
Okinawa/Miyakojima Instagrammable Spot ④: Higashi-Hennazaki (Cape Higashi-Hennazaki)
The Higashi-Hennazaki Cape, a nationally designated scenic spot and one of the “Top 100 Urban Parks in Japan,” offers stunning coastal views and unique vegetation. A highlight here is the Tsunami Rock, formed by a massive tsunami during the Edo period.
At the tip of the cape stands the Hennazaki Lighthouse, which visitors can climb to enjoy even more spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding ocean.
Name: Higashi-Hennazaki
Address: 1221-14 Bora, Gusukube, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture 906-0000
Okinawa / Miyakojima Instagram-Worthy Spot ⑤ Sunayama Beach
As its name suggests, Sunayama Beach is famous for its stunning white sand dunes. The fine, silky sand feels amazing under your feet, and the contrast with the deep blue sea creates a picture-perfect scene that’s ideal for Instagram! This beautiful beach is beloved not only by tourists but also by the local community.
Name: Sunayama Beach
Address: 705 Hirara Nikadori, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
Okinawa / Miyakojima Instagram-Worthy Spot ⑥ Imgya Marine Garden
Imgya (also spelled Ingya) means “enclosed spring water,” and true to its name, this beach features natural spring water flowing into a cove. Since it's within a bay, the waters are calm and safe—making it a hidden gem perfect for families with children. You can also enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck!
Name: Imgya Marine Garden
Address: 605-2 Tomori, Gusukube, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture 906-0107, Japan
Okinawa/Miyako Island’s Instagram-Worthy Spot ⑦ Aragusuku Beach
If you're visiting Okinawa, snorkeling is likely high on your list of activities. Among the many options, Aragusuku Beach (Shinjo Kaigan) stands out as one of the most popular and highly recommended spots. Here, you can swim alongside colorful tropical fish in crystal-clear waters. Don’t worry if you don’t have gear—snorkeling equipment is available for rent, making it easy to enjoy the experience on a whim!
Name: Aragusuku Beach
Address: 〒906-0102 Okinawa Prefecture, Miyakojima City, Gusukube, Aragusuku
Okinawa/Miyako Island’s Instagram-Worthy Spot ⑧ Tōri-ike (Tōri Pond)
Designated as a national scenic spot and natural monument, Tōri-ike is a mysterious hidden gem in Miyako Island with several legends tied to it. Known as the “Blue Hole of Japan”, this cobalt-blue double pond is connected underground and is breathtaking in color and depth. The two linked ponds, often called the “Eyes of the Dragon,” are also a famous destination for advanced divers seeking a unique underwater experience.
Name: Tōri-ike (Tōri Pond)
Address: 〒906-0507 Okinawa Prefecture, Miyakojima City, Irabu Sawada
Okinawa/Miyakojima's Instagram-Worthy Spot ⑨: Yabiji Coral Reef
Yabiji, one of Japan’s largest coral reef clusters, offers the clearest waters in all of Okinawa—perfect for both snorkeling and diving! Experience the stunning Okinawan sea as you swim alongside colorful coral reefs and tropical fish in this breathtaking underwater paradise.
Name: Yabiji Coral Reef
Address: 36-2 Maezato, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa 906-0422
Okinawa/Miyakojima's Instagram-Worthy Spot ⑩: Painagama Beach
Just a 5-minute walk from downtown Miyakojima, Painagama Beach is a relaxing seaside escape loved by locals. It’s one of the few sandy beaches in Okinawa that offers partial barrier-free access, making it welcoming for wheelchair users and the elderly.
Name: Painagama Beach
Address: 247-2 Shimozato, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa 906-0000
Okinawa/Miyakojima Instagrammable Spot ⑪ Nakano-shima Beach (Kayaffa)
Nakano-shima Beach, also known as Kayaffa, is often called a “natural aquarium” because of the abundance of marine life you can encounter here. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a hidden gem for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Despite its rich natural surroundings, it's conveniently located near a convenience store, making access easy and comfortable.
Name: Nakano-shima Beach (Kayaffa)
Address: 〒906-0504 Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture
Okinawa/Miyakojima Instagrammable Spot ⑫ Funakusu (Block Beach)
If you want to enjoy vibrant coral reefs, Funakusu—also known as Block Beach—is a must-visit hidden spot. It’s a lesser-known, tranquil beach perfect for those seeking peace and Instagrammable views. Take your time soaking in the stunning gradient of the famous Ikema Blue.
Name: Funakusu (Block Beach)
Address: 〒906-0421 Ikema, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture
Let’s fully enjoy the beauty of Okinawa’s Miyako Island!
With so many wonderful spots to choose from, it’s hard to decide where to go first! Each beach has its own unique charm, so you’ll never get bored. If you’re planning to swim in the ocean, please do so at your own risk and be mindful of safety while sightseeing.
You won’t be able to visit all the featured spots in just one day, so we recommend exploring Miyako Island over several days to enjoy everything it has to offer to the fullest!