Yoshino Beach

Yoshino Beach (吉野海岸, Yoshino Kaigan) is nestled along the eastern coast of Miyako Island and is renowned as one of the island’s most vibrant and accessible snorkeling spots. Just a few meters from shore, the shallow waters open up to a thriving coral reef teeming with marine life. Even those with minimal snorkeling experience can float above a colorful tapestry of coral formations populated by butterflyfish, clownfish, sea anemones, and the occasional sea turtle gliding through the current. The reef’s close proximity makes it easy to explore without the need for boats or long swims, while the bay’s calm conditions offer a gentle introduction to Miyako’s underwater world. Water visibility is exceptional on most days, allowing for uninterrupted views of the reef and its delicate ecosystems.

Beyond the reef, Yoshino Beach provides a quiet, low-key setting surrounded by natural features such as rugged limestone cliffs and dense tropical vegetation. Facilities near the entrance include basic restrooms, outdoor showers, and a small hut that rents snorkeling gear and sells drinks or light refreshments. To help protect the beach’s fragile coastal environment, private vehicle access is restricted, with a seasonal shuttle service connecting visitors from nearby parking areas. The path leading down to the beach is short but steep in places, with occasional viewpoints offering glimpses of the turquoise waters below. The atmosphere remains peaceful, with minimal commercial development, and the landscape evokes the feeling of an unspoiled cove tucked away from the island’s more frequented spots.