Snorkeling with Sea Turtles on Miyako Island — Swim with Green Turtles in Okinawa
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can swim; light swimming stamina required for short surface intervals
Overview
Swim with green sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters off Miyako Island. This two-hour, English-friendly snorkeling tour pairs safe instruction with access to thriving coral reefs and reliable turtle sightings.
Snorkeling with Sea Turtles on Miyako Island — Swim with Green Turtles in Okinawa
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The snorkel drops into clear blue like a second breath. You push past a warm surface, salt prickling your lips, and the reef opens below: staghorn and brain coral ridges threaded with schools of silverfish. Then a slow, familiar silhouette — a green sea turtle, paddling with the assured, ancient motion of something that has known this water for centuries. Guides point and steady you, English easy and patient, and for a moment the island fades so it’s just you and the turtle sharing the same current.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before you enter the water and reapply on the boat to protect coral and marine life.
Mask fit matters
Bring or request a well-fitting mask—poor seal is the most common issue; test it onshore before heading out.
Floatation for comfort
If you’re nervous in open water, ask for a life vest—guides provide flotation to help you relax and conserve energy.
Don’t touch the wildlife or reef
Stay a meter away from turtles and avoid kicking the coral; collisions damage both animals and habitat.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles
- Parrotfish
History
Miyako’s reefs and lagoon systems formed from coral growth over uplifted limestone; the islands were part of the Ryukyu Kingdom and retain distinct Okinawan cultural practices.
Conservation
Local operators promote reef-safe practices and limit approach distances to turtles; use reef-safe products and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Miyakojima
Recommended Gear
Mask and snorkel
A comfortable, well-sealed mask and snorkel make breathing and viewing easy in choppy water.
Fins
Short fins improve propulsion and reduce fatigue when paddling between reef patches.
Rash guard or thin wetsuit
Protects from sun and jellyfish; thin wetsuits add warmth in spring and fall water temperatures.
summer specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Prevents coral bleaching and protects your skin during long boat waits and surface swims.
summer specific