Blue Grotto

The Blue Cave (Ao no Dokutsu) is a cave under Cape Maeda in Kunigami District, Okinawa Prefecture. It’s a sacred spot for divers and the most famous diving location in Okinawa. The cave was formed by sea erosion, and it looks blue because sunlight reflects in the cave—hence the name. Because it only glows blue when multiple natural conditions align, it’s considered a special place. Since many people dive there, the fish have become used to humans, and it can be a pleasant surprise when fish swim close to you. There are also many snorkeling and diving courses for beginners, so families can enjoy it too. You can descend stairs from the cape down to the sea, but if you want to go into the cave and see the Blue Cave itself, diving/snorkeling is the best way. It’s also close to the resort hotels of Onna Village, so it can be fun to go to Cape Maeda and spot your hotel from the other side. Cape Maeda has parking and vending machines. Access is by getting off at Kuraha on a Ryukyu Bus Kotsu / Okinawa Bus route (immediate access).