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Natural attraction · Onna, Okinawa
Cape Maeda
A rocky cape on Onna’s coast, a diving and snorkeling point with coral reefs and the Blue Cave, a sea cave where light makes the water bright blue. Entry to the water depends on sea conditions.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Cape Maeda in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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Discover
About Cape Maeda
Cape Maeda sits at the southern tip of Onna Bay, on a promontory of coral rock with low cliffs over the sea. It is one of Okinawa’s best-known dive spots for its clear water, reefs close to shore and the Blue Cave, a sea cave opened at the base of the cliff.
Inside the cave, light entering through the submerged opening reflects off the sandy bottom and makes the water bright blue, especially on sunny mornings. Outside, the reefs host colorful tropical fish like clownfish and butterflyfish, and sometimes sea turtles. Access to the water is via a long concrete stairway that descends from the parking area to the rocks, where you enter the sea.
Most visitors snorkel or scuba dive with local operators who provide equipment, a guide and often the boat, because swimming to the cave requires experience when there is current. When the wind comes from the north or there is swell, the stairway entry is often closed by management, and tours run by boat or are cancelled.
At the top of the cape there is a viewpoint with views of the coast toward Cape Manzamo, parking and shops run by the operators. The area is sought after from early morning, especially in summer.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2 to 3 hours for a snorkeling or diving outing; 20 minutes for the viewpoint.
Best time
From April to October, with the sea warmest from July to September; preferably in the morning when light usually enters the cave best. Entry into the sea depends on wind and waves; typhoons and cold fronts can close access for days.
How to get there
It’s in Onna, about a 50-minute drive from Naha Airport. Coastal highway buses stop at Kuraha, about a 20-minute walk away. Operators usually offer pick-up from hotels along the coast.
Tip
Book with a local operator and confirm the day before whether the sea allows entry. Wear a lycra suit or a shirt for sun protection and do not touch or step on the corals.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cape Maeda
What is the Blue Cave at Cape Maeda?
A sea cave at the base of the cliff where light entering through the water gives the interior a light-blue color. It’s visited by swimming or by boat on snorkel and dive tours.
Do I need a guide for the Blue Cave?
A guide is recommended, because currents and waves change quickly and the cave is some distance from the ladder. Local operators provide equipment and guides.
Does the Blue Cave close?
Entry via the ladder is closed when there is north wind or swelling, and tours may proceed by boat or be cancelled. Confirm conditions on the day.
When to go to Cape Maeda?
From April to October, preferably in the morning. In winter the sea is colder and north winds more frequently close access.
Beyond the guide
