Kabira Bay Ishigaki Okinawa Emerald Water

Kabira Bay Ishigaki Okinawa 川平湾, 石垣

Kabira Bay (kabira wan) on Ishigaki Island in the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa, is Ishigaki's main tourist draw and is an awe-inspiring and beautiful natural site.

Kabira Bay Ishigaki Okinawa Japan

Clear Water

Kabira Bay is famous for its lovely emerald colored water, cultured black pearl industry and incredibly fine white sand. Swimming is prohibited at Kabira Bay though there are glass-bottomed boat tours to view the marine life, coral and pearls. There is a small shrine on the headland and a viewing platform to take in the expansive view. If you do want to swim head to nearby Sukuji Beach.

Boat moored in Kabira Bay, Ishigaki, Okinawa

The clear water

There are a small number of souvenir shops here and a rather kitsch habu snake farm but, on the whole, especially out of season in March and November, Kabira Bay is very quiet, with only the sound of lapping waves on a picture perfect strand of white sand.

Ishigaki Island Attractions

Other attractions on Ishigaki Island include Torinji Temple and Gongendo Shrine, just a short way west of Ishigaki Port, Yonehara Beach, the Yaeyama Museum, Ishigaki Market, Banna Forest Park, Mt Nosoko, Maezato Beach, Mt Omoto, Uganzaki, the Tojin Grave and Yonehara Palm Grove.

The bay is one of the most scenic spots on Ishigaki