Emerald beach

Emerald Beach is a swimming beach in Kunigami District, Okinawa, and a popular sightseeing spot with about 1,900 free parking spaces. White sand and remarkably clear water spread out, and the beach is constructed in a distinctive Y shape. Across the emerald-green sea, you can see Ie Island. It is located within Ocean Expo Park, which also includes Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, the Tropical Dream Center, the Oceanic Culture Museum, and the Okinawan Native Village. Facilities like toilets, showers, and coin lockers are available, making it family friendly. The beach is divided into three zones—“Play Beach,” “Relax Beach,” and “View Beach”—each offering a different way to enjoy the area. Because it lies within a lagoon (a rare type of beach), the water quality is rated “AA,” and together with the soft sand, it’s safe even for small children. There is also a sea promenade, so you can enjoy Emerald Beach even in seasons when you don’t swim. Access: about a 15-minute walk from Kinen Koen-mae (Commemorative Park) bus stop.