Blue Cave & Around
Prime diving, even for novices
Okinawa is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, and one of the best spots to explore the underwater world is the famous Blue Cave. Located near the village of Onna, just an hour’s drive north of Naha, the Blue Cave offers an unforgettable experience for novice divers. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, it’s the perfect place to discover the magic of diving.
The azure magic of Blue Cave
As soon as you enter the Blue Cave, you’ll be captivated by its mesmerizing beauty. The interior of the cave is filled with a shimmering blue glow, created by sunlight reflecting off the white sea floor. The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom, where colorful corals and a variety of fish make their home.
Diving in the Blue Cave is a truly magical experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll be in awe of the underwater world that awaits you. The cave is teeming with marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional manta ray. It’s like stepping into a different world, where you can explore the wonders of the ocean up close and personal.
A 30-meter dive into the Manza Dream Hole
For more experienced divers, the nearby Manza Dream Hole offers a thrilling adventure. Dive from a boat and descend about 10 meters to the cave entrance. As you go deeper, you’ll encounter a variety of marine species, including sweeperfish, garden eels, and fan coral. The underwater landscape is truly breathtaking, and diving in the Manza Dream Hole is an experience you won’t soon forget.
If you’re not quite ready for the depths of the Manza Dream Hole, there’s also the option to explore the Mini Dream Hole. This shallower dive site is equally beautiful, with stunning coral formations and an abundance of marine life. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to experience the thrill of diving without going too deep.
The glass-bottomed boat of Busena Marine Park
If you prefer to observe the underwater world without getting wet, Busena Marine Park is the place to be. Located about a 30-minute drive north of Onna, this park offers a unique opportunity to see the marine life up close and personal. The park features an underwater observatory, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the coral and its inhabitants.
From the observatory, you can spot a variety of fish, including clownfish, Hawaiian ornate butterfly fish, and the Moorish idol. It’s like having your own personal aquarium, with the added bonus of being able to see the fish in their natural habitat. For an even closer look, you can take a glass-bottomed boat tour and marvel at the translucent waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Novice divers welcome
You might think that diving is only for experienced adventurers, but in Okinawa, even novices can take part in this thrilling activity. There are tours and dive schools available that cater to beginners, and even non-swimmers can join in on the fun. With the guidance of experienced instructors, you’ll learn the basics of diving and get to explore the underwater world in a safe and controlled environment.
The Blue Cave is an ideal location for novice divers. The calm and clear waters make it easy to navigate, and the abundance of marine life ensures that you’ll have a memorable experience. Whether you choose to dive or snorkel, you’ll be amazed by the vibrant colors and diverse species that call the Blue Cave home.
How to get there
Getting to Onna, where the Blue Cave is located, is relatively easy. The best way to reach Onna is by car, as it allows for more flexibility and convenience. From Naha, the capital city of Okinawa, it’s about an hour’s drive north on Highway 58. Once you reach Onna, you can follow the signs for Maeda Misaki, which will lead you to the Blue Cave.
If you prefer to take public transportation, there is a bus that goes to the Onna area. From the Naha Bus Terminal, you can take bus 28 to the Yomitan Bus Terminal, which takes about 75 minutes. From there, you can transfer to bus 48, heading for Agariyama Iriguchi, which takes about 11 minutes. Get off at Onna, and the Blue Cave is just a short walk or taxi ride away.
It’s important to note that the Blue Cave can get quite busy, especially during the summer months. To ensure that you get a spot, it’s recommended to book ahead and be prepared to queue. The popularity of the Blue Cave is a testament to its beauty and allure, so don’t miss out on this incredible diving experience.
More than just diving
While the Blue Cave is the main attraction in Onna, there is more to see and do in the area. Next to the Busena Marine Park is the Bankoku Shinryo-kan, an impressive convention center that hosted world leaders at the G8 Summit in 2000. The center offers panoramic sea views and boasts a conference hall that can accommodate up to 500 people. It also features a lounge, cafe terrace, business room, VIP room, and other facilities.
If you’re looking to explore the natural beauty of Okinawa, there are plenty of options in and around Onna. The area is known for its stunning beaches, such as Manza Beach and Moon Beach, where you can relax and soak up the sun. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the Cape Manza, a scenic coastal path that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and cliffs.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Nakagusuku Castle is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 14th century and offers a fascinating glimpse into Okinawa’s rich history. The castle ruins are set against a backdrop of lush greenery, making it a picturesque spot for photography.
In conclusion, Okinawa’s Blue Cave is a prime diving destination, even for novices. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, the Blue Cave offers a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world and witness the beauty of marine life up close. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine species, the Blue Cave is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Okinawa. So grab your diving gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the depths of the Blue Cave.
Address And Maps Location:
Maeda, Onna, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken
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