I didn't expect how varied Okinawa would feel — from the busy streets of Naha and the lively stalls at Makishi Public Market, to the quiet pottery villages of Yomitan.
Dramatic cliffs at Cape Manzamo and turquoise bays near Onna made coastal drives unforgettable, while northern towns like Nakijin offered peaceful beaches and scenic views.
Over 9 days, I travelled across the island by car.
Together with my parents, we stayed everywhere from compact city hotels near the monorail to ocean-view apartments in Onna, a charming Airbnb opposite Pineapple Park in Nago, and a condo further south near the botanical gardens.
Along the way, the experience reminded me of similar discoveries in Japan — like the serene lakefront views near Lake Toya in Hokkaido, or how I once lived in the countryside for 8 months and discovered slow‑paced joy and hidden charm.
Even in Tokyo, places like Toco Heritage Hostel offer a quiet, local feel amid a bustling city, a balance that echoes my favourite stays in Naha.
That trip helped me understand exactly which area suits each type of traveller — and which places are worth basing yourself in depending on how you intend to explore.
Whether you're visiting for beaches, snorkelling, culture, diving, food, or simply a relaxing holiday, this guide breaks down the best places to stay in Okinawa, grouped clearly by area to help you choose.
American Village, Okinawa, Japan
| Theme / Purpose | Areas / Locations | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| City & Convenience | Naha, Chatan | Naha: walk everywhere, monorail access. Chatan: seaside cafés, American Village, partially walkable. |
| Luxury & Beach Resorts | Onna, Miyako | Onna: beachfront luxury, turquoise bays. Miyako: white-sand beaches, calm coves, perfect for couples. |
| Nature & Northern Attractions | Nago, Motobu, Nakijin | Nago: waterfalls, scenic drives. Motobu: Churaumi Aquarium & quiet beaches. Nakijin: peaceful villages, Kouri Bridge. |
| Culture & Craft Villages | Yomitan | Traditional workshops, pottery, glassmaking, cliffside views. |
| Exploring Outer Islands | Ishigaki, Miyako | Ishigaki: Snorkelling, diving, island-hopping. Miyako: Calm, romantic beaches, perfect for couples. |
| Travellers Without a Car | Naha, Chatan | Naha: fully walkable. Chatan: walkable near American Village, buses needed for rest. |
At A Glance
- Best Places To Stay In Okinawa, Japan – By Neighbourhood
- Where To Stay In Okinawa, Japan, For Each Travel Style
- Best For City Convenience – Hotel Living Inn Kenchoumae, Naha
- Best For Café Culture + Oceanfront Walks – Seaside Hotel The Beach, Chatan
- Best For Luxury & Beach Resorts – Renaissance Okinawa Resort, Onna
- Best For Scenic Ocean Views – Oceanview in Kibogaoka, Onna
- Best For Nature & Northern Adventures – Sakura Inn, Nago
- Best For Local Living & Longer Stays – Rob Condo, Naha
- Best For Car-Free Travellers – Naha Tokyu REI Hotel, Naha
- Best For Culture & Craft Villages – Hotel Murasakimura, Yomitan
- Best For Exploring the Outer Islands – Art Hotel Ishigakijima, Ishigaki
- Best For Peaceful Villages & Countryside Coastlines – Resort Hotel Bel Paraiso, Nakijin
- Best For Beaches & Aquariums – Hotel Orion Motobu Resort & Spa, Motobu
- Best For Island Romance – Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda, Miyako
- FAQ On Where To Stay In Okinawa, Japan
Best Places To Stay In Okinawa, Japan – By Neighbourhood
1. Naha, Okinawa
Ideal for: Travellers without a car, shopping, city convenience, short stays, food lovers
Naha's Makaishi Public Market, Okinawa, Japan
Naha is where most people start their Okinawa itinerary — and it's surprisingly convenient.
After landing, I took the monorail straight to Kencho-mae Station and walked to my hotel in the city centre. The area is packed with restaurants, shops, and cultural sights within walking distance.
Why Stay In Naha, Okinawa
- Easiest area to get around without a car
- Excellent access to the monorail and bus routes
- Near Kokusai-dōri, Makishi Market, Shurijo Castle
- Great for food: seafood stalls, taco rice cafés, ice cream shops
- Budget-friendly accommodation options
During my time in Naha, this area became my everyday hub.
I loved being able to walk out of the hotel and reach Kokusai-dōri within minutes — perfect for late-night snacks, quick shopping runs, and people-watching along the busy streets.
On slower days, I'd wander through Shikina-en and Fukushūen Garden, 2 peaceful spots that felt worlds away from the city buzz.
Makishi Public Market was another favourite; picking fresh seafood downstairs and having it cooked upstairs became a little ritual.
And with SAN-A Naha Main Place just a short ride away, grabbing essentials or a quick meal was always easy.
If you enjoy a walkable city with plenty to eat, see, and do, Naha makes an incredibly convenient base.
Where To Stay In Naha, Okinawa
Hotel Living Inn Kenchoumae
A practical, clean city hotel right in central Naha, perfect for walkable sightseeing, late-night food runs, and easy access to Kokusai-dōri.
BOOK NOW
Naha Tokyu REI Hotel
A modern, monorail-friendly hotel near Asahibashi Station, ideal for airport access and getting around Naha without a car.
BOOK NOW
Rob Condo
An apartment-style stay in Naha with a kitchen and extra space, ideal for slow travel and longer stays where you want to live like a local.
BOOK NOW
2. Chatan, Okinawa
Ideal for: Younger travellers, nightlife, surfing, couples, casual beachgoers, shoppers
A cafe in Chatan, Okinawa, Japan
Chatan sits right between Naha and Onna, and it's one of the most colourful, lively resort areas on the island. When I checked into my hotel near Miyagi, it felt completely different from Naha — more relaxed, beachy, and filled with cafés.
Why Stay In Chatan, Okinawa
- Home to American Village (great food, shops, photo spots)
- Easy surf beaches and watersports
- Ideal midpoint for exploring both north and south Okinawa
- Good mix of mid-range and upper-mid resorts
- Many eateries open late
Mornings in Chatan often started at TeamLab Future Park, where the vibrant exhibits made it easy to lose track of time.
Evenings, I'd head to American Village to catch the sunset — the sky turning golden over the waterfront never got old.
Lunch or a quick bite at Taco Rice Café Kijimunaa in Depot Island became a small daily treat, and whenever I had time to relax, the clean surf beaches near Miyagi offered the perfect spot to unwind and listen to the waves.
Chatan really strikes a balance between activity and calm, making it a charming seaside base.
Where To Stay In Chatan, Okinawa
Seaside Hotel The Beach
A cosy seaside hotel in Miyagi, just steps from coastal paths and cafés, perfect for enjoying mellow island mornings and oceanfront walks.
BOOK NOW
Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort
A polished resort near the waterfront in American Village, ideal for enjoying vibrant nightlife, shopping, and sunset views over the sea.
BOOK NOW
Seaside Condominium Rana Chatan
An apartment-style stay suited for families or longer trips, offering comfort, space, and easy access to Chatan's beaches and attractions.
BOOK NOW
3. Yomitan, Okinawa
Ideal for: Families, cultural experiences, slow itineraries, relaxed coastlines
Cape Zanpa Lighthouse, Okinawa, Japan
Yomitan is peaceful, scenic, and known for pottery villages, cape viewpoints, and sandy beaches. Many travellers skip it — but it's one of the best bases for a slower stay.
Why Stay In Yomitan, Okinawa
- Close to Cape Zanpa & Ryukyu Mura
- Home to glassblowing studios and traditional villages
- Quiet resorts without the crowds
- Close to Zakimi Castle ruins
My favourite thing in Yomitan was wandering through the pottery villages and small craft workshops — watching artisans at work and picking up unique souvenirs felt like a little discovery every turn.
Along the coast, quiet paths and tucked-away cafés offered perfect spots to pause and enjoy the sea views.
For a touch of history and scenery, Zakimi Castle gave panoramic views over the countryside that were worth the short walk.
Yomitan is full of charm, culture, and calm — a must for travellers wanting a slower, more immersive Okinawa experience.
Where To Stay In Yomitan, Okinawa
Sobe House in Yomitanson, Yomitan
A cosy, guesthouse-style apartment offering a homey feel, perfect for exploring local pottery villages, coastal paths, and the slower pace of Yomitan.
BOOK NOW
United Resort Yomitan
A large resort with kitchen-equipped rooms and views of the sea and hills, ideal for a cultural stay with comfort and scenic surroundings.
BOOK NOW
4. Onna, Okinawa
Ideal for: Honeymooners, luxury resorts, couples, beach lovers, divers
Ryukyu Glass Village, Okinawa, Japan
If your dream Okinawa getaway involves turquoise beaches, soft sand, and resort facilities, Onna Village is the place to be.
My stay at an ocean-view apartment in Onna was one of the most relaxing parts of the trip — waking up to uninterrupted sea views, driving out to Cape Manzamo and Cape Maeda, and discovering quiet cafés along the coast.
Why Stay In Onna, Okinawa
- Home to Okinawa's best luxury & beachfront resorts
- Beautiful beaches ideal for snorkelling and diving
- Near Blue Cave, Ryukyu Glass, Cape Maeda & Manzamo
- Calm, scenic, perfect for couples
Staying in Onna meant mornings spent quietly facing the ocean, coffee in hand, while the world slowly woke up.
I loved driving along the scenic coastal roads, each turn revealing another stunning cliff or turquoise bay.
Cape Zanpa and its surrounding cliffs were a highlight — dramatic views and peaceful walks made it unforgettable.
For a more hands-on experience, visiting Ryukyu Glass Village to watch artisans at work and pick up souvenirs added a personal, cultural touch to the stay. Onna felt like the perfect mix of relaxation and discovery.
Where To Stay In Onna, Okinawa
Renaissance Okinawa Resort
A full-service beachfront resort offering luxury accommodations, private beach access, and a wide range of activities for a classic Okinawa getaway.
BOOK NOW
Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort
A family-friendly resort with kid-focused facilities, spacious rooms, and easy beach access, perfect for travellers with children.
BOOK NOW
Oceanview in Kibogaoka
A hillside Airbnb featuring sweeping ocean views, privacy, and convenient access to Onna's scenic coastal drives.
BOOK NOW
5. Nago, Okinawa
Pineapple Park, Okinawa, Japan
Ideal for: Road-trippers, families, nature lovers, local life, easy access to the north
Nago is spacious, relaxing, and surrounded by greenery. I stayed at an Airbnb right opposite Pineapple Park, which made it extremely easy to explore the region's attractions.
Why Stay In Nago
- Near the Aquarium, Pineapple Park, Fruits Land
- Affordable accommodation
- Close to waterfalls and hiking spots
- Convenient for travellers continuing further north
Staying in Nago made early mornings a breeze — I drove straight to Churaumi Aquarium before the crowds arrived, enjoying the exhibits at my own pace.
Nearby, Fruits Land and Pineapple Park were just too convenient not to pop into, so I fit in quick visits whenever I had a free hour.
Evenings were best spent strolling through the quieter neighbourhoods, soaking in the local atmosphere and enjoying a slower pace away from the busier tourist spots. Nago really felt like a calm, practical base for exploring northern Okinawa.
Where To Stay In Nago, Okinawa
Nago Parkside Condominium TK Stay
Self-catering family apartments with practical amenities, ideal for exploring northern Okinawa at your own pace.
BOOK NOW
Sakura Inn, Opposite Pineapple Park
A homely Airbnb offering comfort and convenience right across from Pineapple Park, perfect for a relaxed stay.
BOOK NOW
Treeful Treehouse Sustainable Resort
Eco-friendly, solar-powered treehouse accommodations immersed in nature, ideal for travellers seeking a unique, sustainable experience.
BOOK NOW
6. Motobu & Nakijin, Okinawa
Ideal for: Families, beach lovers, snorkellers, visiting aquariums
Motobu and Nakijin make up the lush northwestern corner of the island. This is where you'll find some of Okinawa's best beaches, plus the world-famous Churaumi Aquarium.
Why Stay In Motobu / Nakijin, Okinawa
- Close to Kouri Bridge, one of the most photogenic spots
- Near beautiful emerald beaches
- Perfect for families visiting the aquarium
- Quiet and peaceful, with rural scenery
Exploring Motobu and Nakijin was a highlight of my trip.
I loved stopping at Kouri Ocean Tower for the sweeping ocean views, then strolling across the viewpoints along Kouri Bridge, taking in the turquoise waters below.
Todoroki Waterfall was a refreshing detour, and simply wandering through the slower-paced northern towns let me soak up the calm, local rhythm of Okinawa.
This area felt perfect for a mix of scenic sights and peaceful exploration.
Where To Stay In Motobu / Nakijin, Okinawa
Villa Omoro Nakijin
Ocean-view seaside villas offering privacy and comfort, perfect for a tranquil northern Okinawa getaway with easy access to nearby beaches and attractions.
BOOK NOW
Panorama Ocean View Cottage, Motobu
Island-view holiday homes with garden, balcony, and ocean vistas — ideal for small groups or couples seeking a peaceful, scenic retreat.
BOOK NOW
Nagahama Beach Resort Kanon
Family-friendly resort-style accommodation featuring sea views and a pool, great for families visiting the area who want convenient beach access and relaxation.
BOOK NOW
7. Uruma, Okinawa
Ideal for: Families, café lovers, road-trippers, botanical gardens, east-coast exploration
Uruma has a gentle, local atmosphere with quiet beaches, charming cafés, and easy access to some of Okinawa's most underrated attractions.
I stayed in Amawari Hotel, about a 10-minute drive from the Southeast Botanical Gardens, which made it very convenient to explore the eastern coastline — from the local salt-making factory to the seaside viewpoints around Cape Chinen.
Why Stay In Uruma, Okinawa
- Peaceful East Coast beaches
- Great for café hopping and slow mornings
- Easy access to the botanical gardens
- Convenient midpoint for exploring north and south
Staying near Uruma let me start the day wandering through the Southeast Botanical Gardens at opening hour, enjoying the calm before the crowds arrived.
Driving along the coastal roads around Katsuren Peninsula revealed hidden viewpoints and quiet beaches, while small artisan cafés overlooking the sea became my favourite spots for coffee breaks.
I also made a point to visit the local salt factory, picking up unique snacks and souvenirs along the way. Uruma offered a relaxed, scenic base that balanced nature, culture, and the charm of small-town Okinawa.
Where To Stay In Uruma, Okinawa
Amawari Hotel
Spacious and comfortable condos conveniently located for exploring the eastern coastline, with easy access to beaches, viewpoints, and local attractions.
BOOK NOW
ANA Crowne Plaza Okinawa Uruma Hills
Family-friendly hotel suites offering extra space and amenities for a comfortable stay, perfect for families or longer trips along the East Coast.
BOOK NOW
Uruma Dome
Seaside dome-shaped cottages providing a private, retreat-style experience between condo and hotel, ideal for travellers seeking tranquillity and scenic ocean views.
BOOK NOW
8. Ishigaki, Okinawa
Ideal for: Adventure travellers, snorkelling, couples, divers, outer-island hopping, star-gazing
Ishigaki is a tropical island with crystal-clear water, coral gardens, and star-filled skies.
Whether you base yourself near the port for island-hopping tours or stay by Kabira Bay for quiet ocean views, the island offers a perfect balance of nature and convenience.
Why Stay In Ishigaki, Okinawa
- Excellent snorkelling and diving spots
- Gateway to Taketomi, Iriomote and nearby islands
- Stargazing — some of the best in Japan
- Stunning coral reefs and blue bays
Ishigaki quickly became one of my favourite stops. Mornings often started with early snorkelling trips in crystal-clear waters, while evenings were reserved for watching the sunset from Kabira Bay — the colours over the ocean were unforgettable.
I also went on island-hopping tours to Taketomi, exploring quiet beaches and traditional villages. And of course, trying Ishigaki beef at local restaurants was an absolute must — rich, tender, and perfectly cooked.
Ishigaki felt like a true tropical escape with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavour.
Where To Stay In Ishigaki, Okinawa
Club Med Kabira Ishigaki
All-inclusive resort on the coast near Kabira Bay, offering full-service amenities, beachfront access, and a range of water activities for guests.
BOOK NOW
Ishigaki Seaside Hotel
Conveniently located in Kabira/Ishigaki area, combining easy access to the beach with city amenities, restaurants, and local attractions nearby.
BOOK NOW
Guest House Yadomaru
Small, charming guesthouse just steps from Kabira Bay, perfect for a cosy, local stay with personalised touches and a friendly atmosphere.
BOOK NOW
9. Miyako, Okinawa
Ideal for: Luxury travellers, beach seekers, honeymooners
Miyako is a tranquil paradise with some of Okinawa's most stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The island combines calm lagoons, scenic bays, and luxury resorts, making it ideal for couples, beach lovers, and anyone wanting a slower-paced getaway.
Why Stay In Miyako, Okinawa
- Some of Japan's prettiest white-sand beaches
- Romantic, luxury-focused resorts
- Calm lagoons ideal for swimming
- Crystal-clear water for snorkelling
My favourite part of the island was driving out to Yonaha Maehama at sunrise — the soft morning light over the sand made the beach feel almost otherworldly.
Along the way, we discovered quieter bays around Kurima, perfect for a peaceful swim or simply listening to the waves.
Scattered along the coast were scenic cafés with ocean views, ideal for coffee breaks or a relaxed lunch.
Between these excursions, we enjoyed the resort facilities and slow island days, which made Miyako feel like the ultimate escape — calm, luxurious, and full of endless sea vistas.
Where To Stay In Miyako, Okinawa
Rosewood Miyakojima
Ultra-luxury beachfront villas with stunning ocean views, perfect for a high-end escape, offering world-class amenities and serene privacy.
BOOK NOW
IRAPH SUI
Stylish boutique hotel with a resort feel, conveniently located near Maehama Beach, with modern comforts and easy beach access.
BOOK NOW
Kataaki no Sato
Traditional-style accommodation featuring small buildings inspired by Okinawan architecture, providing an authentic cultural experience and a peaceful stay.
BOOK NOW
Where To Stay In Okinawa, Japan, For Each Travel Style
Kouri Bridge, Okinawa, Japan
Here's a curated list of the best places to stay in Okinawa, featuring the exact hotels, apartments, and Airbnbs I've personally stayed in.
Best For City Convenience – Hotel Living Inn Kenchoumae, Naha
This was my go-to base in Naha: practical, clean, and right in the centre of everything. Being so close to the monorail and Kokusai-dōri made it effortless to explore the city without renting a car.
I loved how easy it was to pop out for food or catch a train within minutes.
BOOK NOW
Best For Café Culture + Oceanfront Walks – Seaside Hotel The Beach, Chatan
Set in Miyagi, this seaside stay gave me mellow island mornings, with coastal paths and cafés only steps away. It's quiet but still close enough to American Village for food and shopping.
Sunsets here were a nightly ritual — calm, colourful, and just a short stroll from the hotel.
BOOK NOW
Best For Luxury & Beach Resorts – Renaissance Okinawa Resort, Onna
A true Onna favourite: private beach, clear waters, and loads of activities. This resort nails the classic beach-holiday feel with spacious grounds and warm hospitality.
My stay felt like a proper resort break — lazy mornings, clean beaches, and zero stress.
BOOK NOW
Best For Scenic Ocean Views – Oceanview in Kibogaoka, Onna
This Airbnb's hillside location offered sweeping blue-water views and peaceful mornings. It's perfect if you want privacy, space, and easy access to Onna's coastal drives.
I still remember waking up to that huge ocean panorama — the kind of view that makes you stop and stare for a minute.
BOOK NOW
Best For Nature & Northern Adventures – Sakura Inn, Nago
Right across from Pineapple Park, this simple and homely stay made exploring northern Okinawa incredibly convenient. Great for travellers who want an affordable, practical base.
Being able to park easily and head straight to waterfalls, beaches, and the aquarium was a huge plus.
BOOK NOW
Best For Local Living & Longer Stays – Rob Condo, Naha
This apartment-style stay was perfect for slow travel in the city. With a kitchen and extra space, it felt like living in Naha rather than just visiting.
I enjoyed preparing my own meals after wandering the nearby streets and markets, making it a truly local experience.
BOOK NOW
Best For Car-Free Travellers – Naha Tokyu REI Hotel, Naha
Just steps from Asahibashi Station, this sleek hotel makes navigating the city effortless. You can reach major sights by foot or monorail, making it ideal for travellers who prefer not to drive.
BOOK NOW
Best For Culture & Craft Villages – Hotel Murasakimura, Yomitan
Located beside a cultural village filled with pottery, glass workshops, and traditional crafts, this unique resort gives you a taste of local heritage. It's relaxed, immersive, and great for families and culture-focused travellers.
BOOK NOW
Best For Exploring the Outer Islands – Art Hotel Ishigakijima, Ishigaki
A comfortable and convenient base near Ishigaki City, perfect for snorkelling trips, diving, and day ferries to Taketomi, Iriomote, and beyond. Expect easy access, great value, and plenty of food options nearby.
BOOK NOW
Best For Peaceful Villages & Countryside Coastlines – Resort Hotel Bel Paraiso, Nakijin
Tucked along a long quiet stretch of beach, this laid-back hotel captures the rural charm of northern Okinawa. It's close to Kouri Bridge, scenic drives, and local eateries — ideal for anyone wanting a slow-paced escape.
BOOK NOW
Best For Beaches & Aquariums – Hotel Orion Motobu Resort & Spa, Motobu
With Emerald Beach right at its doorstep and the Churaumi Aquarium a short stroll away, this resort is perfect for families and beach lovers. Expect ocean views, calm surroundings, and easy access to the area's top attractions.
BOOK NOW
Best For Island Romance – Shigira Bayside Suite Allamanda, Miyako
Set within Miyako's most exclusive resort zone, this suite-style hotel offers lagoon views, private pools, and white-sand beaches nearby. It's dreamy, peaceful, and tailor-made for couples chasing a tropical island retreat.
BOOK NOW
FAQ On Where To Stay In Okinawa, Japan
What Is The Best Area To Stay In Okinawa?
For most first-timers, Naha is the best place to stay due to its convenience, food scene, and easy transport links.
For beaches and resorts, Onna is unbeatable.
What Is The Most Beautiful Part Of Okinawa?
Onna's coastline, Cape Manzamo, Kouri Bridge, Miyako Island, and Kabira Bay in Ishigaki are among the most stunning.
Where To Stay In Okinawa Without A Car?
Naha is the easiest — the monorail connects the airport, city centre, and major attractions. Chatan is manageable, though buses may be needed.
Is It Worth Staying In Naha, Okinawa?
Yes — especially for first-time visitors, food lovers, and those travelling without a car. It's a great base before road-tripping north.
Okinawa isn't a one-size-fits-all island.
Each region has its own personality — from the city bustle of Naha to the beach-club atmosphere of Chatan, the luxurious coast of Onna, the rural charm of Nago, and the northern beauty of Motobu and Nakijin.
With this guide, you can easily pick the part of Okinawa that matches your travel style and plan your route around the island — just like how I did, from monorail rides to city markets, scenic coastal drives, and peaceful nights overlooking the ocean.
