
Cape Maeda Blue Cave
Okinawa's stunning Blue Cave at Cape Maeda offers incredible snorkeling and diving with vibrant marine life and breathtaking blue hues.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Cape Maeda Blue Cave
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Okinawa's stunning Blue Cave at Cape Maeda offers incredible snorkeling and diving with vibrant marine life and breathtaking blue hues.
"Cape Maeda is an absolute gem for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts visiting Okinawa."

Bring Cash for Parking
Parking might say card accepted, but it's often cash only. Be prepared! :moneybag:
Snorkel Gear Rental On-Site
You can easily rent snorkel gear right at the cape to explore the Blue Cave. :mask:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mesmerizing Blue Cave
Cape Maeda
Experience the magical glow of sunlight filtering through the water, illuminating the cave in a stunning blue hue. A truly unforgettable sight.

Vibrant Underwater World
Cape Maeda Reef
Snorkel or dive amongst a dazzling array of colorful fish and diverse marine life. Keep an eye out for Nemo and other fascinating creatures!

Scenic Cliffside Views
Cape Maeda Cliffs
Enjoy panoramic ocean vistas and a refreshing sea breeze. Perfect for a relaxing picnic or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Blue Cave Experience
Cash is King for Parking and Rentals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Parking
Parking might say card accepted, but it's often cash only. Be prepared! :moneybag:
Snorkel Gear Rental On-Site
You can easily rent snorkel gear right at the cape to explore the Blue Cave. :mask:
Visit Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds for a more peaceful Blue Cave experience. :clock1:
Look for Nemo!
Many types of anemonefish, including Nemo, can be spotted here. :clown_fish:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Parking
Parking might say card accepted, but it's often cash only. Be prepared! :moneybag:
Snorkel Gear Rental On-Site
You can easily rent snorkel gear right at the cape to explore the Blue Cave. :mask:
Visit Early or Late
Avoid midday crowds for a more peaceful Blue Cave experience. :clock1:
Look for Nemo!
Many types of anemonefish, including Nemo, can be spotted here. :clown_fish:
Try the Blue Cave Ice Cream
A unique local treat to enjoy after your swim. :icecream:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cape Maeda is a highly recommended spot for snorkeling and diving, praised for its clear waters, abundant marine life, and the magical Blue Cave. Visitors enjoy the convenience of on-site rentals and the scenic views. However, it can get very crowded, especially during peak hours, and having cash for parking is essential.
"This cape is gorgeous, it had a good summer breeze and not too windy. You could hire snorkel gear on site and swim to the blue cave yourself- there were many people doing this. You could people watch from the cliff and have a picnic."
HN
"Great snorkeling and diving spot. Clear water and a lot of fish. Plenty of parking and restrooms. Make sure you bring cash because they tell yiu the parking accepts cards but it doesn't."
brandon dengler
"Amazing, must visit !! I’ve been twice so far once at midday, it was very crowded but it makes you feel safer if you are solo lol. I also went at 6pm and it was very quiet only a few people in the water and I got to see an octopus! So many different kinds of fish to see as well and the water is so clear and blue! I could snorkel here everyday 😍😍"
jessie harding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Cape Maeda by car or bus from Naha. Driving offers flexibility, with ample parking available (though bring cash!). Buses are also a viable option, with some travelers noting it's relatively easy to access by public transport.
Yes, there is parking available at Cape Maeda. However, be aware that it may be cash-only, so it's best to have some Japanese Yen on hand.
Yes, you can hire snorkel gear on-site and swim to the Blue Cave yourself from Cape Maeda. It's a popular activity for visitors.
Renting a car is often recommended for exploring Okinawa, offering the most freedom to visit places like Cape Maeda. However, public buses are also an option for budget-conscious travelers.
Many tour operators offer day trips to Okinawa's popular spots, including Cape Maeda and the Blue Cave. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to arrange transportation yourself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific entrance ticket for Cape Maeda itself. However, you will need to pay for parking and potentially for snorkel or dive gear rentals if you don't bring your own.
The Blue Cave is a natural attraction, so its accessibility can be weather-dependent. It's generally open during daylight hours, but it's always a good idea to check local conditions.
Costs can vary depending on whether you rent gear on-site or book a guided tour. Renting gear at Cape Maeda is a common and relatively affordable option.
Yes, many visitors choose to rent snorkel gear at Cape Maeda and swim to the Blue Cave independently. This offers more flexibility in your visit.
Absolutely! Cape Maeda is a renowned diving spot, and guided diving tours to the Blue Cave are widely available for certified divers.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a wide variety of fish, including anemonefish (like Nemo), and potentially octopuses, sea turtles, and sea snakes. The underwater world is quite diverse.
Yes, Cape Maeda is an excellent spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and abundant marine life. It's a highlight for many visitors.
Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is recommended. For snorkeling, a swimsuit and rash guard are ideal. For diving, appropriate dive suits are necessary.
Yes, facilities such as restrooms and showers are available at Cape Maeda, making it convenient for visitors after their water activities.
The water temperature in Okinawa is generally pleasant year-round, though it can be cooler in winter. Many divers find winter to be a good season for diving here.
🍽️ 🍦 Food & Dining
While there might not be extensive dining options directly at Cape Maeda, there are usually small shops selling snacks and drinks. Nearby Onna Village offers more restaurant choices.
Okinawan cuisine features unique dishes like Goya Champuru (bitter melon stir-fry), Okinawa Soba, and Rafute (braised pork belly). Don't forget to try the Blue Cave ice cream!
Yes, Cape Maeda is a great spot for a picnic. You can enjoy the ocean views while having a meal.
Finding strictly vegetarian or vegan options might require seeking out specific restaurants in larger towns. Local Okinawan dishes often include pork or seafood.
The Blue Cave ice cream is a popular local treat, often flavored to resemble the blue hues of the cave, offering a refreshing taste.
📸 📸 Photography
The Blue Cave itself offers stunning blue-toned shots. The surrounding cliffs provide panoramic ocean views, and the underwater world is a photographer's dream.
Yes, the unique lighting inside the Blue Cave creates dramatic and beautiful photographic opportunities. Be mindful of water and slippery surfaces.
For underwater shots, a waterproof camera or a good underwater housing for your existing camera is essential. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the cave's expanse.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be respectful of other visitors and any local guidelines. Underwater photography requires appropriate gear.
Midday often provides the most intense blue light within the cave as the sun is directly overhead. However, early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Blue Cave itself offers a sense of wonder for all ages. While swimming into the cave might be an adventure, the surrounding waters are perfect for younger swimmers. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like early mornings or late afternoons, to ensure a more relaxed experience for your family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can also help save money. While there are facilities like restrooms, bringing your own towel is advisable. Enjoying the natural beauty and the snorkeling without expensive excursions is entirely possible here.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For underwater photography, bring a waterproof camera or housing. The diverse marine life, from Nemo to octopuses, offers endless subjects. Early morning dives can be particularly rewarding for capturing marine creatures in their natural element.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Blue Cave: A Natural Wonder
Many visitors describe the experience as magical and otherworldly. The intensity of the blue light can vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions, with midday often offering the most striking effect. While the cave is a highlight, the surrounding waters of Cape Maeda also teem with marine life, making it a fantastic spot for underwater exploration.
It's important to note that the Blue Cave's accessibility can be affected by sea conditions. On days with rough seas or strong currents, tours may be canceled for safety reasons. Always check the local weather and sea conditions before planning your visit.
Snorkeling and Diving Paradise
For snorkelers, the reef extending towards the Blue Cave offers an accessible and rewarding experience. You can rent gear on-site and explore at your own pace. Certified divers can delve deeper, with numerous dive sites around Cape Maeda, including the Blue Cave itself. Many dive operators offer guided dives, catering to various skill levels and focusing on underwater photography opportunities.
While the marine life is abundant, some reviews mention that the coral might not be as vibrantly colorful as in other tropical destinations. However, the sheer variety of fish and the unique experience of diving or snorkeling near the Blue Cave make it a must-visit for underwater adventurers.
Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
Cash is essential for parking fees and potentially for renting snorkel gear, as card facilities may not always be reliable. The facilities at Cape Maeda are generally well-maintained, offering restrooms and showers for convenience.
Don't forget to try the Blue Cave ice cream, a popular local treat that offers a refreshing break. For those interested in photography, the Blue Cave and its underwater inhabitants provide excellent subjects, but ensure you have appropriate waterproof gear.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit