The Perfect Nature Getaway in Okinawa: Yaeyama Islands and Ishigaki Island Ferry Guide

Looking for the ultimate nature and island getaway in Okinawa? Look no further than the Yaeyama Islands! Embrace the tropical climate and relaxed rural lifestyle while escaping the city's hustle and bustle.

With six remote islands to explore, Ishigaki Island serves as the Yaeyama Islands’ main hub, offering easy access via its major airport and ferry terminal. You can hop on a ferry or high-speed boat and uncover the unique atmosphere and charm of each island. 

If you’re ready to plan your trip, we've got you covered with all the secrets to a stress-free journey. From the Ishigaki ferry to advance booking, we've got the vital information you need. Get ready for an adventure like no other!

Ishigaki is a vibrant island city in Okinawa where you can hop on a ferry and reach the remote islands in just 30 minutes. Don't want to stay overnight on an island? No problem! Ishigaki Island offers plenty of hotels near the ferry terminal.

Here are some friendly tips for a seamless experience! Book in advance online, even from your smartphone, to secure your spot and preferred departure time. Avoid the hassle of last-minute booking on the day as popular routes fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons. Don't worry, it's easy! Simply enter your desired island, number of passengers, and travel date for a smooth roundtrip ferry from Ishigaki Island.

For outbound trips, make reservations at least two days in advance. Remember, cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand! Craft your perfect itinerary by choosing between day trips or extended stays. The ideal choice depends on the island you're visiting (we'll cover this in detail later). 

For perfect Okinawa weather — a blend of sunny skies and vibrant atmosphere — mark your calendar for March, April, June, July, August, October, and November. From June to August, the temperature soars, treating you to ample sunshine and clear blue skies. Keep in mind, though, that these months are peak seasons, which means higher prices and limited availability for accommodations. Want to beat the crowds? March, April, October, and November are perfect! You'll still enjoy plenty of sunshine but with less humidity and delightful temperatures. 

Here are the remote islands to visit in Yaeyama:

Embark on a magical island adventure, just 10-15 minutes from Ishigaki Island by high-speed boat! Perfect for day trippers and first timers, with multiple ferry rides available in a day. Experience the charm of old Okinawa with its preserved scenery, red-tiled roofs, and white sand roads. Explore the island effortlessly on a bicycle (rentals available), as its compact size of 9 km is easily conquered in a day!

Just a 25-30 minute high-speed boat ride from Ishigaki Island, Kohami is perfect for a day trip. Marvel at the panoramic views from Ufudaki's observatory, showcasing the stunning cobalt blue sea and nearby Hateruma Island (if the weather permits). With its wide expanse and rugged roads, you can rent a motorbike or car for easy exploration. Seeking a leisurely stay in an Okinawan hotel? Resorts like Haimurubushi and Hoshino Resorts RISONARE await you. Embrace the island's beautiful day and night for an unforgettable adventure!

Welcome to "Heart Island," a heart-shaped island with a charm! Thriving with livestock and abundant wildlife, Kuroshima is a haven for nature and animal lovers. Dive into the clear waters of the Sekisei Lagoon, Japan's largest coral reef group, and encounter a vibrant underwater world. With options for day trips or overnight stays, cozy guesthouses await you on this enchanting island.

As the second largest island in Okinawa, Iriomote’s vast forests make it truly unique. Just a 45-minute journey from Ishigaki Island, you'll arrive at either Ohara Port or Uehara Port, depending on your desired destination on the island. With its diverse terrain, Iriomote is a haven for rare animals like the "Iriomote wildcat" and the petite "crested eagle," the smallest eagle in Japan.

It's the perfect retreat to savor Okinawa's subtropical nature and take a break from the sea for a while. Since there are plenty of mangroves and waterfalls, many tourists love to go kayaking and trekking on tours. With so much to see and do, we recommend extending your stay beyond a day to fully immerse yourself in the island's charm.

As the least developed gem of the Yaeyama Islands, Hatoma offers an untouched paradise waiting to be explored. Discover hidden beaches and meander along unpaved roads, easily explored on a rented bike. In just an hour, you can traverse the entire island, taking in the breathtaking "Hatoma Blue" sea — an absolute must see! Keep in mind, this rustic retreat offers only a few shops and restaurants, so remember to bring your own drinks or water tumblers for your island adventure.

Welcome to Hateruma, Japan's southernmost inhabited island! Marvel at the southernmost monument of Japan, and soak up the beauty of Nishi Beach. You can stay overnight and witness the starry night sky that showcases the Southern Cross from December to June.

Although Hateruma lacks hotels, its charming inns and guesthouses provide comfy accommodations. Catch one of the three daily trips from Ishigaki, but be mindful of potential cancellations due to rough waves. Don't forget motion sickness medicine and get ready for a tropical island adventure like no other!

Now that you know the charms of Okinawa’s remote islands and how to get by on the Ishigaki ferry, get ready to visit these natural wonders! Embark on a tropical adventure and create lasting memories on this enchanting island getaway!