Snorkeling the Blue Cave (Cape Maeda) — Okinawa's Best Snorkel with Fish Feeding & Photos
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours (45–60 minutes in water)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to swim short distances and float with a snorkel. Not suitable for those with serious cardiovascular, respiratory, or spinal conditions.
Overview
Slip into a cathedral of blue at Cape Maeda: a short, high-impact snorkel where sunlight turns seawater electric and friendly reef fish press close during guided feeding. This two-hour experience includes equipment and photos, with guides in English, Chinese and Japanese.
Snorkeling the Blue Cave (Cape Maeda) — Okinawa's Best Snorkel with Fish Feeding & Photos
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The engine of the dive boat hums, then dies; a pocket of blue opens ahead where sunlight squeezes through a narrow cave mouth and turns the seawater electric. Guides in bright rashguards pat fins and point as you slip into the water — the surface glows like glass and shoals of curious fish drift toward the feeding. For 45–60 minutes the Blue Cave near Cape Maeda does what the photos promise: it stops you.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early at Island Club
Meet 15 minutes before departure in the Island Club parking lot — staff will leave on time and late arrivals can be charged a full cancellation fee.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before arrival to protect coral and avoid oily residues on your mask lens.
Practice in shallow water first
Guides will run a 10–15 minute mask-and-breathing drill; if you’re nervous speak up — assistance is provided.
Expect spot changes
Cave access depends on sea state; the operator will shift to a nearby beach if conditions are unsafe, so have flexible plans.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtle (occasionally)
- Parrotfish and sergeant-major reef fish
History
Local fishing and cave use predate tourism; Cape Maeda’s limestone shelf and shoals have long supported coastal livelihoods and small-scale fishing practices.
Conservation
Reef health is fragile — follow guides’ rules, avoid touching coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and don't feed animals beyond guided, controlled feedings to prevent behavioral changes.
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Adventure Hotspots in Onna (Onna Village)
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Mask, snorkel, fins (rental included)
Proper-fitting kit improves comfort and photos; most operators include rental gear.
Wetsuit or rash guard
A shorty or full suit keeps you warm in cooler months and protects against scrapes.
winter specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Prevents coral damage and reduces skin sunburn in Okinawa’s strong sun.
summer specific
Water shoes
Helpful for walking on rocky entry points and protecting feet on slippery surfaces.
summer specific