Maesato Beach
A picturesque public beach on Ishigaki Island, known for its stunning 'Ishigaki blue' waters, a fun floating water park, and proximity to a luxury res...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies after rainy season
Maesato Beach
Best Time
Clear skies after rainy season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque public beach on Ishigaki Island, known for its stunning 'Ishigaki blue' waters, a fun floating water park, and proximity to a luxury resort.
"The beach is very beautiful white sand and very wide. Its a public place and free entrance fee."
Rent chairs & umbrella
No shade on the beach; rent from hotel staff for comfort. [^Review] :sun_umbrella:
Wear water shoes
Protect your feet from rocks and shells in the water. [^Review] :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Maesato Beach
Experience the mesmerizing 'Ishigaki blue' waters, perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.
Floating Water Park
Maesato Beach
An inflatable playground on the water offers thrilling fun for all ages.
Nighttime Hermit Crab Spotting
Near Maesato Beach
Discover large and small hermit crabs scuttling along the shore after dark. [^Review]
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around Ishigaki
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent chairs & umbrella
No shade on the beach; rent from hotel staff for comfort. [^Review] :sun_umbrella:
Wear water shoes
Protect your feet from rocks and shells in the water. [^Review] :athletic_shoe:
Check swimming hours
Swimming is permitted 9 AM - 6 PM in designated areas only. [^Review] :clock1:
Free public access
The beach is public and free to enter, despite proximity to ANA hotel. [^Review] :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent chairs & umbrella
No shade on the beach; rent from hotel staff for comfort. [^Review] :sun_umbrella:
Wear water shoes
Protect your feet from rocks and shells in the water. [^Review] :athletic_shoe:
Check swimming hours
Swimming is permitted 9 AM - 6 PM in designated areas only. [^Review] :clock1:
Free public access
The beach is public and free to enter, despite proximity to ANA hotel. [^Review] :moneywithwings:
Plastic-free efforts
Witness dedicated individuals cleaning up plastic from the ocean and beach. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maesato Beach is praised for its stunning white sand and the vibrant 'Ishigaki blue' waters, making it a picturesque spot for swimming and relaxation. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly floating water park and the convenience of amenities near the ANA InterContinental Resort. Some note that snorkeling is limited and water shoes are recommended due to occasional rocks.
"Nestled along the stunning coastline, this beach next to ANA Intercontinental Hotel is a vibrant hub of activity and relaxation. The soft white sands stretch along the shore, creating a picturesque setting for beachgoers.
There is a floating water park that promises endless fun. Colorful inflatable structures bob on the water, enticing adventurous spirits to climb, jump, and slide. Nearby, a sign informs visitors about rental options for parasols and chairs, ensuring everyone can find comfort under the sun.
The beach is part of the luxurious ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort, blending relaxation with upscale amenities. Guests can indulge in beachside services, enhancing their experience with refreshments and leisure activities. The atmosphere is lively, with people engaging in beach games, swimming, and soaking up the serene surroundings."
JAMM Channel小足跡大世界
"Beautiful beach with swimming area, floating water playground and lifeguard. We rented chairs and an umbrella from the hotel beach staff and stayed all day. The floating water playground, umbrella and chairs are an additional charge of your not a hotel guest. The beach area has no shade. The swimming area a large and the water is warm. We wear water shoes to avoid rocks and shells in the water."
BLS
"I'd your a hotel guest at the ana hotel. This beach I would say is the best of beaches I've visited. I haven't found many rocks. And there are even people that I've seen who swim around taking rocks and garbage out of the ocean. And beach. And personally I've not seen garbage on the beach. So if your staying at the ana hotel, which is also very good. I would definitely recommend going here. Also just for context I belive it wins over the beaches at the main Okinawa island and beaches at Thailand especially over the surin beach. Also the night sky is beautiful, and there are lots of nice small cute hermit crabs at night or big, huge ones closer to the forest."
Ray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maesato Beach is located on Ishigaki Island, Okinawa. If you're flying into New Ishigaki Airport (ISG), renting a car is highly recommended for easy access. The drive to the beach is about 20 minutes from the airport. Taxis and buses are also options, but may be less convenient.
Yes, it's possible, but a car offers the most flexibility. Taxis and local buses serve the area, though schedules might be limited. Some visitors have managed with public transport and taxis, but it requires more planning.
Parking is available at the ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort. While it appears private, it's accessible for public beach visitors. [^Review]
Maesato Beach is on Ishigaki Island, which is a separate island from Naha (Okinawa Main Island). You would need to take a flight or ferry to Ishigaki for a day trip, making it a significant travel commitment.
Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to explore Ishigaki Island, allowing you to easily visit Maesato Beach and other attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Maesato Beach is a public beach with free entrance. However, rentals for chairs, umbrellas, and the floating water park incur additional charges. [^Review]
Swimming is generally allowed between 9 AM and 6 PM in designated areas. It's always a good idea to check local advisories for any changes. [^Review]
Yes, you can rent parasols and chairs from the hotel beach staff. The floating water park also has rental options. [^Review]
The floating water park is typically a seasonal attraction, most active during warmer months. It's best to confirm availability closer to your visit.
Yes, lifeguards are present, especially in the designated swimming areas, ensuring a safer experience for visitors. [^Review]
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Maesato Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The floating water park offers active fun, and the calm waters are great for relaxing.
Snorkeling is limited directly off the main beach unless you go beyond the breakwaters. For better snorkeling, consider visiting other nearby beaches like Yonaha or Kabira Bay. [^Review]
The beach features beautiful, clean, crystal white sand. Some areas might have a mix of sand and small rocks, so water shoes are recommended. [^Review]
While not a prime snorkeling spot, you might see small fish near the breakwaters. At night, the beach is known for its hermit crab population. [^Review]
The water at Maesato Beach is generally warm, making it comfortable for swimming throughout the day. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Ishigaki blue' water itself is a stunning subject. Capture the floating water park, the resort backdrop, and the expansive shoreline. Sunsets here are also beautiful.
While not explicitly mentioned, drone photography could offer spectacular aerial views of the beach and surrounding coastline. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
Morning light offers soft, clear shots, while late afternoon provides beautiful golden hour light for sunsets. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
Look for the colorful inflatable structures of the water park and the contrast between the white sand and turquoise sea. The hermit crabs at night can also make for interesting macro shots.
Yes, the resort is a prominent feature and can be incorporated into your beach photos, offering a luxurious backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring water shoes to protect little feet from any rocks or shells. While snorkeling isn't the main draw here, the sheer joy of playing on the beach and in the water park makes it a memorable experience for kids. The proximity to the ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort also means convenient access to amenities.
couples
The beach provides a serene backdrop for relaxation, whether you're lounging under an umbrella or taking a dip in the warm, clear waters. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more intimate experience, away from peak crowds. The beautiful night sky is also a draw, and a nighttime walk to spot hermit crabs can be a unique and charming activity. [^Review]
Budget Travelers
To make the most of a budget trip, consider visiting during the off-peak season for potentially lower accommodation prices on Ishigaki Island. While a rental car is recommended for exploring the island, strategically planning your itinerary can help minimize transportation costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Ishigaki Blue
The mesmerizing blue is a result of the pristine coral reefs and the unique mineral composition of the seabed. While direct snorkeling might be limited at Maesato Beach itself, the surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, contributing to the overall health and beauty of the ecosystem. The visual impact of this vibrant blue is consistently highlighted in social media content, showcasing its photogenic qualities.
To truly appreciate the 'Ishigaki blue,' consider visiting on a clear day, preferably after the rainy season has passed, to witness the colors at their most vivid. The contrast between the white sand, lush greenery, and the impossibly blue sea creates a postcard-perfect scene that many travelers seek.
Activities and Amenities at Maesato Beach
While the beach itself is free to access, the amenities like the water park and rentals are paid services. The designated swimming area is large and the water is warm, making it suitable for a refreshing dip. For those seeking a more active experience, parasailing is also available, offering a bird's-eye view of the stunning coastline.
Beyond the water activities, the beach is a great place for leisurely walks along the shore, taking in the scenic views. At night, the area becomes a fascinating spot for hermit crab spotting, with both small and large crabs often seen near the vegetation line. [^Review]
Environmental Consciousness at Maesato Beach
This dedication to cleanliness is often reflected in visitor reviews, with some noting the absence of garbage on the beach, attributing it to these ongoing cleanup initiatives. [^Review] The presence of clean white sand and clear waters is a testament to these efforts, encouraging a sense of responsibility among beachgoers. [^Review]
Travelers are encouraged to be mindful of their impact and to participate in keeping the beach clean. This includes properly disposing of any waste and, if possible, contributing to local cleanup efforts. The commitment to a plastic-free environment is a growing trend in many tourist destinations, and Ishigaki is no exception.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit