Okinawa’s premier diving and snorkeling spot
Onna Village where Cape Maeda is located is a central point in Okinawa tourism just 1 hour away from north-central Okinawa where Churaumi Aquarium is, and 1 hour away from Naha City in the south where Naha Airport and Kokusai Street are located. Cape Maeda which runs from north to south on the western shore of the main island has good access from the prefecture’s main road, National Route 58, as well as from the expressway, so it is an activity spot which is ideal for tourism. Among the sites, there is Ao-no-Dokutsu, or the Blue Grotto, a half-submerged cave which is a mysterious and popular marine spot.
The Blue Grotto tour which even beginners can take part in
The Blue Grotto, which was created from seawater erosion, earned its name from the blue color formed from the reflection of the sun’s rays on the surface of the water inside the cave. Snorkeling and diving are two of the ways to enjoy the cave. No special skills are needed for snorkeling, and even children can enjoy themselves due to the very experienced instructor-guides and the buoyant wetsuits. Diving is also popular with the beginners at the Blue Grotto which isn’t too deep. In addition to the mystical atmosphere, the cave is also appealing for the wide variety of coral and fish which swim all about you since they are accustomed to humans.
The observation point that is also known as a sunset viewing spot
The west coast area which spans from Zanpa Cape in the south to Hedo Cape in the north is officially known as Okinawa Kaigan Quasi-National Park, and Cape Maeda which is located in the park is also well-known as a sunset-viewing spot. In the afternoon from the observation point, you will be able to see Zanpa Cape, Manzamo in the northeast, and the mountains of the Motobu Peninsula off in the distance. From February to the end of March, even humpback whales can be observed offshore.