Things To Do
in Onna
Onna sits along the west coast of central Okinawa, famous for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. It blends resort ease with traditional Ryukyuan culture, framed by cliffs, coral reefs, and scenic cape viewpoints like Cape Manzamo. The village is a gateway to excellent snorkeling, diving, and family-friendly seaside activities, while remaining a short drive from Naha and the airport.
Expect warm, year-round weather with a distinct rainy season and occasional typhoons shaping itineraries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and Art Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Ryukyu Islands. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, indulging in local delicacies such as Okinawa soba. Take a stroll through the surrounding park, breathing in the fresh island air and enjoying the vibrant flora.
Head to the Shurijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its impressive grounds to learn about the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom. Explore the various halls and gardens, taking time to appreciate the intricate architecture and historical significance. Grab lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Okinawan dishes like goya champuru.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Kokusai Street in Naha, bustling with shops and eateries. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try a variety of small plates and local beverages. Finish your day with a leisurely walk, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and perhaps picking up a few souvenirs.
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel, then head to the beautiful beaches of Onna such as Manza Beach. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shore, soaking up the sun and enjoying the stunning turquoise waters. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a beachside lunch at a local café, where fresh seafood is the highlight. Post-lunch, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that inhabit the waters around Onna. The afternoon sun provides perfect conditions for spotting colorful tropical fish and the occasional sea turtle.
As the day winds down, return to the beach for a spectacular sunset view. Gather with friends or family for a beach barbecue, where you can grill local delicacies while enjoying the sound of waves. After dinner, relax around a bonfire, sharing stories and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the beach at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🖼Museum/Attraction entry | $8-20 |
| 🛒Groceries for two | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coral reefs
- Safe, welcoming environment
- Short travel time from Naha
- Rich Okinawan cuisine and culture
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Some areas can be pricey for visitors
- Traffic can be light but parking may be challenging in peak seasons
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Onegaishimasu" - Please / I would like
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ikura desu ka?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Onna
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic elephant-trunk rock formation with sweeping ocean views—especially stunning at sunset.
Long shoreline offering pastel sunsets, sand textures, and silhouettes of palm trees.
A dramatic cliff and pristine turquoise water; overlook points are ideal for wide-angle shots.
Popular snorkeling site with clear water and interesting reef formations; good for underwater photography and reef fish.
Food in Onna
Onna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick noodle soup served in a pork broth with simmered pork belly, garnished with scallions and pickled ginger.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried bitter melon with tofu, eggs, and sometimes pork or Spam, a quintessential Okinawan home dish.
Slow-braised pork belly in soy sauce and awamori, tender and flavorful.
Premium Okinawan pork specialty, often grilled or served in hot pots.
Fresh catch from local waters, often prepared simply to highlight the seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market offering fresh seafood, produce, and Okinawan snacks; great for a quick bite and souvenirs.
Casual stalls where you can sample fried fish, shaved ice, and seasonal snacks with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly in public areas and on public transport; avoid loud phone calls on trains or buses.
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations and temples.
Do not touch corals or wildlife; follow local guidelines for snorkeling and diving.
Safety
Tipping in Onna
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is included in the price; leave a small gesture if appropriate in some upscale settings.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in hotels and mid-to-high-end establishments; some places accept mobile payments (IC cards, Apple Pay) but carry cash for smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, blooming flora, and fewer crowds; great for coastal walks.
Hot and humid with frequent sunny days; peak beach season and occasional typhoons; water activities at max.
Warm days with cooling evenings; sea remains warm; sea turtles in some areas; fewer crowds.
Mild, dry-ish with cooler evenings; swimming may be chilly but air temperatures comfortable for sightseeing.
Onna at Night
Hiking in Onna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short coastal trail offering ocean views, cliffs, and photo opportunities.
Scenic walks along the west coast with viewpoints over turquoise seas.
Bridge-access island with seaside paths and beaches suitable for a gentle hike.
Airports
How to reach Onna by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway to Okinawa; frequent flights to Tokyo, Osaka, and other destinations; easy access to Onna by car or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Domestic and international visitors seeking beaches, diving, and Okinawa culture.
Residents of Onna and nearby areas enjoying coastal life and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class reefs and clear waters around Okinawa; Maeda Point is particularly popular.
Calm lagoons and beaches ideal for beginners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Onna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Okinawan dishes use pork stock or fish; look for goya champuru without pork, and request dashi-free options; ask for vegetable-based options.
Request plant-based dishes or vegetable-focused meals; soy-based sauces may contain fish stock, so ask for dashi-free and confirm ingredients.