Looking for where to stay in Okinawa? I’ve got you covered!
I’ve been living in Asia for over 6 years now and have had the chance to visit Okinawa multiple times. Each trip, I discover new areas and test different accommodations.
On my most recent visit, I went with a group of 8 people, including my wife and 2-year-old son. In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Okinawa, the main Island, and share my favorite hotels. Let’s go:
Quick Comparison: Okinawa Areas at a Glance
| Area | Best For | Accommodation | Distance from Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Yomitan | First-timers | Hotel Nikko Alivila | 50-60 min |
| 2. Motobu | Families | Orion Motobu | 90 min |
| 3. Kouri Island | Couples | Coldio Smart Resort | 100 min |
| 4. American Village | Entertainment | Lequ Okinawa Chatan | 35 min |
4 Best Ares + Hotels
1. Yomitan Area [First-Timers]
Yomitan is one of the best places to stay in Okinawa:
It is my #1 recommendation for first-time visitors who are thinking about where to stay in Okinawa. It’s centrally located, so you can easily go to northern and southern attractions without long drives. The beaches here are gorgeous, like Nirai Beach and Senaha Beach, which are among the best on the island.
We stayed in Yomitan for the first 3 days during one of our trips. The drive from the airport is only 50-60 minutes, which is long enough to practice left-side driving but not so long that you’re exhausted when you arrive (especially after a long trip/flight).
Things to do in Yomitan
Yomitan has some of the best attractions like Senaha beach, Nirai Beach, and Cape Zanpa, a beautiful lighthouse. Cape Zanpa is a lovely place to go for a stroll, but there is also a huge and well-maintained playground for kids. My son loved it.
Snorkeling in Yomitan
About a 5-minute drive from Senaha beach, there’s the Blue Cave, an incredible spot for snorkeling. Book a snorkeling trip there with a private guide for the best experience:
Coffee & Restaurants
These are my 3 favorite coffee shops and lunch places in Yomitan:
- Satozakura: Lovely local coffee shop with the nicest owner. Tosties are really good here.
- Nagahama Coffee: Vietnamese lunch place, really good.
- Bakery Otonariya: Real bread!
Why Yomitan for First-Timers:
- It’s not too far from the airport
- It has some of the most incredible beaches (Senaha Beach)
- Not too touristy
- Lots of restaurants and coffee shops
- Centrally located
- Cape Zanpa is a really cool place
Best Hotels in Yomitan
These are my 4 favorite accommodations in Yomitan:
Hotel Nikko Alivila
This is the premium option in Yomitan. The hotel is directly on Nirai Beach; you can literally walk out in your swimsuit and be on the sand in 30 seconds. I stayed here on my second trip to Okinawa, and it’s worth the money. Spanish-style architecture, multiple restaurants, an outdoor pool, a spa, and discounted beach equipment for guests. The breakfast buffet is excellent with Japanese and Western options. Scores 9.0 on Booking.com
This place is especially great for families because:
- The beach has a jellyfish net so you can swim without worrying
- The ‘vip’ area (aren’t we all VIP’s! 😉 ) on the beach is in the shade and on grass, which is really nice
- They have little hammocks for kids in that vip area
Chulax Okinawa – Designer Condominium Hotel
This place surprised me. From the outside, it looks ordinary, but inside it’s beautifully designed with a refreshing modern style. It’s right across from Senaha Beach – literally a 1-minute walk. Great value for money. Score: 9.0 on Booking.com
Blue Steak Wonder
Right across from Chulax, also a 1-minute walk to Senaha Beach. Modern and clean with huge windows offering ocean views. Slightly more expensive than Chulax but with better views. Score: 9.4 on Booking.com
Grand Mercure Cape Zanpa
This hotel is right next to Cape Zanpa, the beautiful lighthouse area. It’s a bit further away from amenities and things to do, but that makes it a quieter escape. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway, but also for (a bit older) kids, it’s great because there is an insanely epic waterslide.
Pro tip: Book accommodation including breakfast. Because you need a car to reach most restaurants, hotel breakfast saves a lot of time. The buffets are delicious – Japanese breakfast, Western options, fresh fruit, and good coffee.
2. Motobu [Families]
If you’re traveling with kids, this is the best area. The Motobu area is known for the famous Churaumi Aquarium and Emerald Beach, one of the best family beaches in all of Okinawa.
The drive from the airport is about 90 minutes, which is longer, but once you’re there, you have everything families need within a short drive. We spent Days 4-7 of our trip in this area, and it was perfect for our 2-year-old son.
Why Motobu:
- Churaumi Aquarium – Japan’s best, kids love the whale shark (Although as an adult, I also found it sad to see…)
- Emerald Beach – shallow, calm, lifeguards, and full facilities
- Ocean Expo Park – playground, dolphin shows, free entry
- Easy day trips to Kouri Island
- Hotels with kids’ facilities and playrooms
Best Hotels in Motobu
This is my favorite hotel in Motobu:
Hotel Orion Motobu Resort & Spa
The best family resort in northern Okinawa. Incredibly close to both Emerald Beach and the Aquarium. There’s an onsen on the top floor where you can relax while looking at the ocean. Multiple restaurants, a pool, and excellent kids’ facilities.
Pro tip: Visit the Aquarium in the afternoon after spending the morning at Emerald Beach. The beach is at its best before the midday heat, and the Aquarium provides air conditioning when it gets too hot outside. Even in October it can be very hot mid-day.
3. Kouri Island [Couples]
Kouri Island is like a little fantasy island. It’s connected to the main island by a two-km-long bridge that makes you feel like you’re driving into an anime (Japanese cartoon) paradise. The island is small, quiet, and incredibly romantic.
This is where we stayed for the second half of our latest trip. There are several beaches like Kouri Beach (popular, with facilities), Tokei Hama Beach (remote, wild, perfect for snorkeling), and Heart Rock Beach.
The roads are very quiet with not much traffic, perfectly fine for a stroll. And even in mid-October, a lot of flowers are blooming!
Close to Kouri Beach there is a little town center which has all the beach facilities but also some bars and small local restaurants.
Why Kouri Island for Couples:
- Secluded and romantic atmosphere and beaches
- Heart Rock Beach, which is a famous romantic photo spot
- Excellent snorkeling at Tokei Hama Beach
- Amazing sunsets
- Boutique accommodation options
Best Hotel on Kouri Island
My favorite hotels in Kouri island:
Coldio Smart Resort
This is THE hotel on Kouri Island. A boutique resort with only a handful of rooms, so it doesn’t feel crowded ever. The design is minimal and modern, and the breakfast room has an epic view of the Kouri Bridge.
The Villas are next-level – private pools and the best views. Even if you don’t get a villa, the rooms in the main building are lovely. There’s a heated pool that’s never crowded, and the location is pretty good: a 15-minute downhill walk to Kouri Beach (can be a bit tough when it’s hot), though I would drive 5 minutes to Tokei Hama or Heart Rock Beach.
They also have budget-friendly rooms with playrooms for kids, rubber tiles, and a climbing wall. So it’s not just for couples! But on the island itself, there aren’t that many activities for kids. It’s mostly a very romantic area with beautiful secluded beaches.
Pro Tip: Right next to the hotel is an amazing Japanese restaurant with a super-friendly owner.
For the condos, so not the villas with a pool, they have a separate page on Booking.com. These rooms are great for bigger groups. We stayed here with a group of 8, including three kids.
4. American Village Area [Entertainment]
American Village is exactly what it sounds like – a slice of America in Okinawa. It’s built around the former US military presence and features American-style shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
What I like about American Village is the food variety. Sometimes you just want a burger or some Mexican. There’s also a huge AEON mall nearby for groceries and supplies. If you’re traveling with picky eaters or kids, this is your spot to find something everyone likes.
Fair warning: American Village is visually… a lot. Some people find it tacky and skip it entirely. Others (like me) find it weirdly fascinating, like walking through a theme park that somehow became a real neighborhood… Love it or hate it, it’s unlike anything else in Okinawa.
I think the American Village it’s worth a visit, or even a few days, but probably not worth staying for your whole trip unless you really want that entertainment district vibe.
Why American Village:
- It’s one of the few areas in Okinawa where you can walk around
- Beautiful sunset seen from the boulevard
- Lots of local and international restaurants and bars
- Entertainment options for evening activities
- Easier than Naha to explore the beaches
- Famous Ferris wheel with ocean views
Best Hotels in American Village
These are the 2 best hotel options in American Village:
Lequ Okinawa Chatan Spa ＆ Resort
Incredible outdoor pool with a view, right at the heart of the American Village. Minimal styled and clean rooms, some have a balcony with a hammock. This place is really worth checking out if you’re looking to stay close to some nightlife and fun activities.
Besides, if you rent a car, you can easily drive from there to the beach. From American village to my favorite beach, Senaha Beach, is a 30-minute drive.
Keep in mind, since this is a Japanese brand, “If you have visible tattoos, you may be restricted from pools and spas where tattoos are visible to other guests”. Sometimes they have sleeves you can get for free to cover your tattoos, but that might not work for everyone.
Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort
The premium option in the area. Important note: International chain hotels like Hilton are more flexible with tattoo policies. If you have tattoos, you can use the pool and spa here, unlike at the Japanese hotels!
Booking Tips & Strategy
Here are some practical tips to make the most of your stay in Okinawa:
Okinawa Accommodation Hacks
1. Book Including Breakfast
Almost every restaurant requires driving. Booking a hotel room including breakfast just saves you a lot of time. Time you can spend on the beach! But I do have to say that it’s fun to explore the local restaurants, but I’d personally save that for the afternoon when it’s too hot on the beach anyway.
2. Check Tattoo Policies
If you have tattoos, you may not be allowed to use pools, hot tubs, or spas at many hotels. This is a cultural thing, not rudeness. This ‘tattoos are not allowed’ thing actually descends from the Yakuza, the Japanese mafia, who were infamous for their crimes and tattoos! International hotels (Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott) are more flexible. Always check before booking. Look on Booking.com at the ‘questions’ section, and you’ll find your answer there.
3. October is one of the best months to go
I went in October, and it was just perfect. Water still warm (27°C), beaches empty, lower prices, beautiful weather. Summer (July-August) is crowded, expensive, humid, and has typhoon risk. There’s also a typhoon risk in October, but the chances are small of it hitting the island.
4. Rent Beach Gear
Many hotels provide beach towels, umbrellas, coolers, and snorkel gear. Ask before buying everything yourself. If staying at an Airbnb, message the host – many have beach equipment stored away you can use!
5. Split Your Stays
For a 7-day trip (which I recommend as the minimum), split your stays between Yomitan and Motobu. Check out my 3-, 5-, and 7-day itinerary for my recommendations.
Where to stay in Okinawa without a car
If you’re not too keen on driving around yourself in Okinawa, I would recommend taking a taxi to the Yomitan area and staying at Nikko Alivila Hotel because:
- Within walking distance, there are several beaches to explore: Nirai, Kanai, and Rendoubaru Shell Mound Beach.
- Cape Zanpa is 3 km walking distance
- There’s a little supermarket in the hotel
So you have everything you need at Nikko Alivila for a few days of pure relaxation.
Where to stay in Okinawa near Naha Airport
If you’re looking for a place to stay super close to the airport but don’t want to stay in one of those dusty-smelling airport hotels (ugh!), there is basically only one option: Senagajima Island Resort & Spa.
Staying in this place extends your ultimate holiday feeling to the very last precious minute before boarding!
Okinawa vs Tokyo, Thailand & Bali
Here’s how Okinawa compares to popular destinations in the region: Tokyo, Thailand, and Bali.
Okinawa vs Tokyo
If you’re planning a trip to Japan and wondering whether to add Okinawa to your itinerary, it depends on what you want to do:
- Tokyo is all about culture, food, temples, and city life.
- Okinawa is beaches and relaxation. They’re completely different experiences.
| Okinawa | Tokyo | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Beaches, relaxation | Culture, cities, food, anime |
| Pace | Slow, laid-back | Fast, lots to see |
| Beaches | Stunning | Basically none as far as I know |
| Temples/culture | Limited | Epic |
| Cost | Similar | Similar |
| Best combined? | Yes, add 4-5 days after the mainland! (Or any trip in Asia 😉 ) |
Okinawa vs Thailand
This is the real question for beach lovers:
- Thailand is much cheaper, has better nightlife, and overall has more things to do.
- Okinawa is cleaner, safer, and more peaceful. In Thailand, you get cheap massages, beach bars, and Full Moon Parties.
In Okinawa, you get super-clear water, zero hassle, and beaches you might have completely to yourself! Want adventure and value? Go to Thailand. Want to truly relax without anyone trying to sell you something? Okinawa.
| Okinawa | Thailand | |
|---|---|---|
| Safety | Excellent | Good (but be aware) |
| Beach cleanliness | Pristine | Varies |
| Crowds | Often empty | Can be packed (depending on the area/island) |
| Nightlife | Very limited | Excellent |
| Budget | Western Prices | Very Affordable |
| Hassle | Zero | Some haggling, dangerous traffic |
| Activities | Beach-focused | Tons, but depends on the island/area |
Okinawa vs Bali
Many parts of Bali are like paradise; there are rice terraces, yoga retreats, beach clubs, and cafes. Okinawa is basically the quiet alternative nobody talks about. Bali has more variety and a bigger “scene,” but it’s also crowded, traffic is horrible (scooter exhaust fumes), and many beaches honestly aren’t that great (lots of hard coral and rocks).
I’ve actually been to Nusa Penida in Bali, and I didn’t have a good experience. I saw so many scooter accidents (got involved in one myself), dangerous roads, I got food poisoning, and a few other things. So I definitely prefer Okinawa. There are more quiet areas in Bali, of course, but you’ll have to travel a bit further.
Okinawa’s beaches are cleaner and emptier, but there’s less to do. Want content-worthy spots and nightlife? Bali. Want an original location and not follow the crowd, and actual peace and better swimming? Okinawa. (I’d prefer Okinawa…)
| Okinawa | Bali | |
|---|---|---|
| Beaches | Cleaner, calmer | Crowded, mixed |
| Instagram spots | Underrated | Overexposed |
| Traffic | Easy | Nightmare |
| Nightlife/cafes | Limited | Endless |
| Vibe | Peaceful, local | Touristy, busy (Also depends on Area) |
| Budget | Mid-range | Budget to mid |
| Best for | Relaxation | Adventure/Entertainment |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car to explore Okinawa?
Yes! The best beaches and attractions are spread across the island with almost no public transport. Rent a car, it’s easy, affordable, and essential. We paid $52/day for a 7-seater van, which split four ways was only $13/person/day.
Is Okinawa expensive?
It depends on your choices. Japanese hotels are generally more affordable than international brands, but they have tattoo policies that might be an issue for some. Guesthouses are also a more affordable option.
How many days should I spend in Okinawa?
Minimum 5 days, ideally 7. You need time to adjust to driving on the left, explore different areas, and actually relax on the beaches. A 3-day trip is too rushed, and you’ll miss too much.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this guide has helped you decide where to stay in Okinawa. Okinawa has become one of my favorite destinations in Asia. The beaches are genuinely beautiful; I’d put them above many beaches in Thailand! (Although I love Thai food) The water is clear, the islands feel remote and undiscovered, and the Japanese culture adds something special to the whole experience.
Split your accommodation between the central/south and north to see more without exhausting yourself driving. Check out the 3, 5 and 7-day Okinawa itinerary I made based on several trips.
Have questions about where to stay in Okinawa? Feel free to reach out!
