Are you wondering where to stay in Okinawa? This guide will help you discover the best areas and hotels tailored to your needs, whether you’re a first-time visitor, a family, or a luxury seeker. From the vibrant streets of Naha to the serene beaches of Ishigaki Island, Okinawa offers diverse experiences and accommodations. Let’s dive into the top places to stay in Okinawa for an unforgettable trip!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Okinawa
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Halekulani Okinawa
- ✨ 5-Star: The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa
- 🏨 4-Star: Okinawa Kariyushi Beach Resort Ocean Spa
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Best Western Onna Beach
- 💸 Cheap: Renbrant Style Naha
- 🏢 Apartment: Chura Gana House Tsubogawa
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island Okinawa
- 🏩 For Couples: Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island Okinawa
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Okinawa: A Quick Guide for Travelers
- 👀 For the First Time: Naha
- 👪 For Families: Chatan
- 🛍️ For Shopping: Naha
- 🎭 For Culture: Yomitan Village
- 💰 For Budget Travelers & Nightlife: Okinawa City
- 🏖️ For Beach Lovers: Onna Village
- 🍃 For Nature Lovers & Adventures: Nago
1. Naha City: Ideal for First-Time Visitors to Okinawa 🗼
🌴 Vibrant Capital: As the lively capital of Okinawa, Naha is the perfect starting point for first-time visitors to experience the island’s unique blend of Japanese and Okinawan cultures. I recommend spending at least a couple of days here to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and explore the must-see attractions.
🏯 Top Attractions:
- Shuri Castle: This UNESCO World Heritage site was the palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom and offers a glimpse into Okinawa’s rich history through its impressive gusuku architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Kokusai Street: This lively street is the heart of Naha, lined with shops, restaurants, and the iconic Kumoji Street intersection known for its street food stalls.
- Okinawa Peace Memorial Park & Museum: A sobering yet essential visit to learn about the Battle of Okinawa during World War II.
🍽️ Culinary Delights:
- Okinawa Soba: Don’t miss trying this unique noodle dish, made with a mix of wheat and mugwort flour.
- Goya Chanpuru: A stir-fry dish featuring the bitter goya (bitter melon) vegetable, a local favorite.
- Awamori: Sip on this traditional Okinawan rice liquor, often served in a ceramic flask.
Naha offers an incredible array of dining options, from casual izakaya pubs to upscale restaurants. Some must-visit spots include: Nuchigafu, a traditional teahouse which serves authentic Ryukyu cuisine made with local, organic ingredients. Ukishima Garden, an oasis of calm with a menu featuring locally-sourced, organic ingredients in traditional Okinawan and Western-style dishes.
🍸 Nightlife: Naha comes alive after dark with a vibrant nightlife scene. Some top spots include: Bar Spade, a funky nightclub with neon decor, free games, and a young, international crowd. Parker’s Mood Jazz Club, an intimate jazz club hosting talented musicians in a low-lit, smoky atmosphere.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit the Tsuboya pottery district to see artisans crafting beautiful Okinawan ceramics and pick up unique souvenirs. For the best views, head up to the observation deck at Naha City Hotel.
Where to Stay in Naha?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- Okinawa Harborview Hotel – This luxurious hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Among the various facilities are a fitness center, a garden, and a bar.
- Hotel Collective – This spacious 5-star hotel provides concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, free WiFi, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy access to a sauna and a hot tub.
- Hyatt Regency Naha – The stylish Hyatt Regency Naha offers spacious rooms, free WiFi throughout the property, and 4 restaurants. It is located just a 3-minute walk from the lively Kokusai Dori (International Street) and features a seasonal outdoor pool, a bar, and a small shop open 24-hours.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Rembrandt Style Naha – This cozy 3-star hotel has a buffet breakfast and free WiFi throughout the property. Featuring a restaurant, it has air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom. Private parking is available on site. The rooms are equipped with an electric tea pot, a flat-screen TV, and a safety deposit box.
- Hotel Rantai Naha – This 3-star hotel offers a buffet breakfast and free WiFi throughout the property. It features a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. Some rooms at the property have a balcony with a garden view.
- Almont Hotel Naha Kenchomae – Located right next to Okinawa’s local department store Ryubo and just a 2-minute walk from Kenchomae Monorail Station, this cozy 3-star hotel features a modern rooms with free WiFi. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a private bathroom and toilet. A flat-screen TV, fridge, and electric kettle are fitted in each room.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Andon Makishikan – Just a 1-minute walk to Naha’s famous Kokusai Street, this budget-friendly hotel has free WiFi throughout the air-conditioned building and offers simple Japanese-style rooms with shared bathrooms. A shared-use microwave and fridge can be found at the common area. Guests sleep in Japanese futon bedding on a traditional tatami (woven-straw) floor. Each room has a TV and a low table with floor cushions.
- Okinawa Harborview Hotel – Offering simple yet cozy rooms, this hotel is perfect for budget travelers. Enjoy the convenience of being close to shopping areas and local restaurants.
- Bibi Naha Kume – Located in a central area, this budget guest house provides basic amenities and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It has accommodations with free WiFi in the center of Naha, a 6-minute walk from Naminoue Beach. All rooms come with air conditioning, a desk, a balcony, a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, microwave, bed linen, and towels.
2. Nago City: Perfect for Beach and Nature Lovers in Northern Okinawa 🏖️
🌴 Northern Charm: Nago City, located in the northern part of Okinawa Island, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural experiences. This area is perfect for those who want to stay in Okinawa and explore its diverse offerings.
🏯 Must-See Attractions:
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: One of the best aquariums in the world, featuring massive tanks with whale sharks and vibrant coral reefs.
- Pineapple Park: A quirky theme park dedicated to pineapples, offering fun rides and delicious pineapple treats.
- Busena Marine Park: Enjoy the underwater observatory and glass-bottom boat tours to see the East China Sea’s marine life without getting wet.
🍽️ Culinary Delights:
- Goya Chanpuru: A must-try local dish featuring bitter melon stir-fried with tofu, pork, and eggs.
- Agu Pork: Sample this Okinawan delicacy at local restaurants, known for its tender and flavorful meat.
- Orion Beer: Visit the Orion Happy Park to tour the brewery and taste Okinawa’s famous beer.
Nago City boasts a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Some must-visit spots include:
- Captain Kangaroo: Famous for its juicy burgers and laid-back atmosphere.
- Pizza in the Sky: Enjoy delicious pizza with stunning views of the coast of Okinawa.
- Yanbaru Soba: A cozy spot to savor traditional soba noodles.
🚍 Getting Around: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore Nago and the surrounding areas. The city is well-connected by roads, making it easy to visit attractions like Kouri Island and Sunset Beach.
💡 Insider Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Nago Pineapple Winery to sample pineapple wine and other tropical fruit wines. Also, don’t miss the annual Nago Cherry Blossom Festival in January, where you can see beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Where to Stay in Nago?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- The Busena Terrace – This luxurious wellness resort offers spacious rooms with stunning ocean views. Enjoy the exclusive spa, infinity pool, and fine dining options that focus on health and wellness.
- The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa – Nestled in the lush hills of Nago, this upscale resort features elegant rooms with stunning ocean views. Indulge in the luxurious spa, golf course, and exquisite dining experiences.
- Kise Beach Palace – Located near the beach, this resort offers spacious rooms with an ocean view and a balcony. Guests can enjoy marine activities such as snorkeling and wakeboarding or relax with a massage treatment at an extra charge. The air-conditioned rooms feature carpeted floors, a flat-screen TV, and a desk.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Best Western Kouki Beach – This beachfront accommodation features comfortable rooms with ocean views, a large outdoor pool, and a fitness center. The on-site restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine.
- Kanucha Resort – Located in a scenic area, this resort features spacious rooms, multiple pools, and a golf course. Enjoy various dining options and easy access to nearby attractions.
- Okinawa Sun Coast Hotel – Situated near the beach, this it features modern rooms with ocean views, a rooftop pool, and a fitness center. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Super Hotel Okinawa Nago – This budget-friendly guest house features clean and comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi. Located near public transportation, it’s easy to explore the city and nearby attractions.
- Hotel Route-Inn Nago – Offering simple yet cozy rooms, this budget accommodation is perfect for budget travelers. Enjoy the convenience of being close to shopping areas and local restaurants.
- Okinawa Hostel Yanbaru Fukuro – Located in a central area, this budget guest house offers a garden, it has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a shared bathroom. The accommodation features a shared kitchen and a shared lounge for guests.
3. Central Okinawa: Family-Friendly and Luxury Options in Okinawa City, Onna Village, & Chatan 👪💎
🏯 Okinawa City: It is a cultural hub with a rich history and a strong American influence due to the nearby U.S. military bases. Don’t miss the Okinawa Zoo & Museum and the vibrant nightlife in the Goya district. The Nakagusuku Castle ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a glimpse into Okinawa’s past.
🌊 Onna Village: Onna Village is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and is one of the best areas to stay in Okinawa for beach enthusiasts. Cape Manzamo offers breathtaking views of the East China Sea, while the Blue Cave at Cape Maeda is a top diving and snorkeling destination. Ryukyu Mura provides a cultural experience with traditional performances and crafts.
🍽️ Chatan: Chatan is a vibrant town known for its American influence and lively entertainment options. The American Village is a bustling complex with shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views. Sunset Beach is perfect for watching the sunset, and the town offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants.
🏯 Must-See Attractions:
- Okinawa World: A cultural theme park where you can explore the Gyokusendo Cave, traditional Ryukyu village, and Habu snake museum.
- Cape Maeda: A popular diving spot in Okinawa, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
- American Village: A bustling entertainment complex in Chatan with shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic city views.
🍽️ Culinary Delights:
- Okinawa Soba: A must-try noodle dish available at many local eateries.
- Goya Chanpuru: A traditional stir-fry dish featuring bitter melon, tofu, and pork.
- Orion Beer: Visit the Orion Beer Hall in Chatan to sample Okinawa’s famous brew.
Central Okinawa boasts a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Some must-visit spots include:
- Transit Café: A beachfront café in Chatan offering delicious brunch options and stunning views of the East China Sea.
- Hamaya Soba: A local favorite in Onna Village, known for its authentic soba.
- Four Seasons: A fine dining restaurant in Okinawa City, perfect for a special night out.
🚍 Getting Around: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore Central Okinawa and its attractions. The area is well-connected by roads, making it easy to visit nearby spots like Nirai Beach and Yonehara Beach.
💡 Insider Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Ryukyu Mura in Onna Village to see traditional Okinawan performances and crafts. Also, don’t miss the sunset at Sunset Beach in Chatan, one of the best beaches for a picturesque end to your day.
Where to Stay in Central Okinawa?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- Halekulani Okinawa – This luxurious beachfront resort offers spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea. Enjoy world-class amenities like an infinity pool, spa, and multiple fine dining options.
- Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island Okinawa – Located on a private island, this resort offers spacious rooms with ocean views, multiple pools, and a serene spa. Enjoy a variety of dining options and water activities.
- MB Gallery Chatan by the Terrace Hotels – Located in Chatan, 0.7 mi from Araha Beach, this 5-star accommodation offers a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Featuring a bar, air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The accommodations offer a 24-hour front desk and room service for guests. Each room comes with a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Okinawa Kariyushi Beach Resort Ocean Spa – This family-friendly resort offers spacious rooms with city or ocean views, a large indoor pool, and a fitness center. The on-site restaurant serves delicious local and international cuisine.
- Sunset Hill – Renovated in September 2018, this cosy 3-star accommodation features spacious accommodations with sea views and free WiFi in central Onna area. Naha Airport is a 60-minute drive, and Nabee Beach is a 15-minute drive away. The air-conditioned rooms feature a small kitchenette with a fridge and stove.
- Hotel Lion Queen – With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel in Okinawa City offers a 24-hour front desk and room service.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Miyuki Suites Koza by Coldio Premium – This cosy condo features air-conditioned accommodations in Okinawa City. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, an elevator, and full-day security, along with free Wifi. All units are fitted with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen, and towels. There’s also a microwave, fridge, and a kettle.
- Crystal Inn Onna – This 2-star guest house offers full-day security and luggage storage space. Free Wifi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. The air-conditioned units have a fully equipped kitchenette with dining area, a microwave, kettle, and a fridge. At the guest house, the units include a desk and a flat-screen TV. Guests can also relax in the garden or on the sun terrace.
- The Moana by DSH Resorts – Located in Chatan, within a 18-minute walk of Sunabe Beach, this budget guest house has accommodations with a terrace and free WiFi throughout the property as well as free private parking for guests who drive. It offers a 24-hour front desk. Complete with a private bathroom equipped with a bidet and slippers, all rooms have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and some rooms also feature a balcony.
4. Yomitan Village: Experience Rich Culture and Traditions in Southern Okinawa 🎎
🏖️ Yomitan Village: Located on the main island of Okinawa, Yomitan Village is a popular tourist destination exhibiting all that Okinawa is famous for: from blue skies, clear water, and white sands to iconic food and rich Ryukyu culture. Relax at a beach resort, explore marine habitats, visit a World Heritage site, or try traditional crafts—Yomitan Village has it all.
🏯 Must-See Attractions:
- Zakimi Castle Ruins: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Okinawa’s past.
- Cape Zanpa: Famous for its stunning sunsets and the iconic white lighthouse.
- Yachimun no Sato: A pottery village where you can watch artisans at work and purchase unique ceramics.
🍽️ Culinary Delights:
- Majun Rikka: Enjoy traditional Okinawan meals with live music performances.
- Toya Port: Fresh seafood market and restaurant with beautiful port views.
- Okinawa Pork Village: Savor local pork dishes and enjoy a BBQ by the beach.
🚍 Getting Around: Renting a car is the best way to explore Yomitan Village and its surroundings. The village is well-connected by roads, making it easy to visit nearby attractions like Nirai Beach and Sobe Beach.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit the Yomitan Pottery Village to try your hand at traditional pottery making. For a unique experience, attend the annual Yomitan Festival in October, featuring local crafts, food, and performances. Don’t miss the sunset at Cape Zanpa for a truly magical end to your day.
Where to Stay in Yomitan Village?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Nikko Alivila – This luxurious beachfront resort offers spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea. Indulge in the infinity pool, spa, and fine dining options.
- Grand Mercure Okinawa Cape Zanpa Resort – Nestled along a pristine beach, this upscale resort offers a serene escape with lush gardens, multiple pools, and a tranquil overwater spa village. Rooms are modern and stylish.
- The Uza Terrace Beach Club Villas – Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, this luxurious resort features a garden, a spa center, and a fitness center. The accommodation includes a dining area, seating area with a flat-screen TV, and a kitchenette.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Royal Hotel Okinawa Zanpamisaki – Just a 10-minute drive from Nirai Beach, this 3-star accommodation features comfortable rooms with free wired internet, a terrace, and a Western buffet restaurant. In summer, it offers a rooftop café terrace, and it has laundry facilities and drinks vending machines.
- Smile One Guest House Okinawa – This apartment offers free private parking, private check-in and check-out, and free WiFi. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 4 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom with a shower and slippers.
- Kailana Villa – Situated near the beach, this 3-star property offers access to a terrace, free private parking, and free WiFi. The air-conditioned apartment consists of 3 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom with a bidet and a hair dryer.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Mei One House – This budget-friendly apartment features accommodations in Yomitan with a terrace. Featuring a balcony, this apartment also features a flat-screen TV, a well-equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom with a bidet and a hair dryer.
- Hotel Sunset Zanpa – Located within an 11-minute walk of Uza Beach and 0.9 miles of Zanpa Beach, this budget accommodation provides rooms in Yomitan. There’s a sun terrace, and guests can use free WiFi and free private parking.
- Condo Hotel ND – Located in Yomitan, this cozy condo has accommodations with free WiFi and free private parking. Every room has a balcony, and some rooms feature a terrace.
5. Ishigaki Island: Your Laid-Back Paradise Escape in Remote Okinawa Islands 🏝️
🌴 Tropical Paradise: Ishigaki Island, part of the Yaeyama Islands, is a tropical paradise perfect for a laid-back getaway. This island offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, making it one of the best places to stay in Okinawa.
🏯 Must-See Attractions:
- Kabira Bay: Known for its emerald waters and black pearl cultivation, this bay is one of the top attractions in Ishigaki. While swimming is not allowed, the glass-bottom boat tours offer a glimpse of the underwater world.
- Tamatorizaki Observatory: Offers panoramic views of Ibaruma Bay and the Hirakubo Peninsula, making it a perfect spot for photography.
- Ishigaki Stalactite Cave: Explore the dramatic stalactite formations and ancient fossils in this 200,000-year-old cave.
🍽️ Culinary Delights:
- Ishigaki Beef: A must-try, this high-quality wagyu beef is known for its marbling and flavor. Yamamoto Yakiniku is a popular spot to enjoy this delicacy.
- Yaeyama Soba: A traditional noodle dish unique to the Yaeyama Islands, best enjoyed at local eateries like Kunatsuyu.
- Fresh Seafood: Head to Funakura no Sato for a taste of Okinawan cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes.
🚍 Getting Around: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore this Island. The island is well-connected by roads, making it easy to visit various attractions. Public buses are available but less frequent, so a car rental offers more flexibility.
💡 Insider Tip: For a unique experience, visit the Ishigaki Yaima Village to see traditional Yaeyama houses and enjoy local arts and crafts. Don’t miss the sunset at Cape Hirakubozaki for a truly magical end to your day.
Where to Stay in Ishigaki Island?
⭐ Best Luxury Hotels
- ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort – This luxurious beachfront resort offers spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea. Indulge in the infinity pool, spa, and fine dining options.
- Fusaki Resort Village – Nestled along a pristine beach, this upscale resort offers a serene escape with lush gardens, multiple pools, and a tranquil overwater spa village. Rooms are modern and stylish.
- Ishigaki Resort Grandvrio – Surrounded by beautiful landscapes, this luxurious resort features stunning ocean views and direct beach access. Enjoy world-class amenities like the coral nursery and V Botanical Spa.
🏨 Best Mid-Range Hotels
- Art Hotel Ishigakijima – This family-friendly beachfront resort offers spacious rooms, multiple pools, a kids’ club, and plenty of activities. The lively poolside bar and restaurants are a plus.
- Ishigaki Seaside Hotel – Located near the beach, this resort features comfortable rooms, multiple pools, and a relaxing spa. Enjoy various dining options and easy access to nearby attractions.
FAQs About Trip To Okinawa
What Is the Best Place to Stay in Okinawa?
Naha is ideal for first-time visitors due to its central location and access to attractions. For beach lovers, Onna Village offers stunning coastal views and luxury resorts.
Is Okinawa Suitable for a Beach Resort Vacation?
Absolutely, Okinawa is home to numerous resorts with private beaches. Resorts like Halekulani Okinawa provide a perfect setting for a relaxing beach vacation.
What Are the Best Areas to Stay in Okinawa for Families?
Onna Village and Chatan are great for families due to their family-friendly attractions and accommodations. Both areas offer a variety of activities suitable for all ages.
