The Kerama Islands are one of Japan's premier whale watching destinations. Humpback whales visit these waters from January through March to breed and calve. Tours depart from Zamami Island, Tokashiki Island, and Naha (Chatan/Ginowan). Zamami-based tours have the highest encounter rates (90%+ during peak season). Half-day tours cost ¥5,000-6,000 from Zamami, ¥4,000-5,000 from Naha. Peak season is February. Access: high-speed boat from Naha Tomari Port to Zamami in 60 minutes (¥3,950 one-way).
*Photos are for illustrative purposes only
Every winter, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around the Kerama Islands to breed and give birth. From January through March, these magnificent creatures can be observed from tour boats — and sometimes even from shore on Zamami Island. The Kerama whale watching season is one of Okinawa’s most popular winter activities.
When to Go
The whale watching season runs from early January to late March, with February being the absolute peak. During peak weeks, encounter rates from Zamami-based tours exceed 90%. Early January and late March offer lower prices and fewer crowds but slightly lower encounter rates (70-80%).
Where to Watch From
Zamami Island offers the closest access to whale habitats and the highest encounter rates. Half-day tours (2-3 hours) cost ¥5,000-6,000 and depart from Zamami Port. Naha-based tours depart from Chatan or Ginowan ports (¥4,000-5,000) but require longer boat rides to reach the whales. Tokashiki Island also offers tours with good encounter rates. From Zamami’s hilltop observatory, whales can sometimes be spotted with binoculars without a boat tour.
How to Get There
The Queen Zamami high-speed boat departs Naha’s Tomari Port at 9:00 AM, arriving at Zamami in about 60 minutes (¥3,950 one-way). Book your whale watching tour in advance during peak season. A round-trip day trip from Naha is easily feasible — morning boat to Zamami, afternoon whale watching tour, evening boat back. For complete access details, see our Kerama Islands access guide.
The Kerama Islands offer one of Japan’s most accessible whale watching experiences. From January through March, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around the Kerama archipelago to breed and give birth. Tour boats depart from Zamami Port and Tokashiki Port, offering 2–3 hour excursions with encounter rates exceeding 90% during peak season.
Tour prices range from ¥5,000 to ¥8,000 per person, with most operators offering a “no whale, no pay” guarantee. The best viewing months are February and March when whale activity is highest. Visitors can combine whale watching with diving or snorkeling for a full marine experience. Some operators also offer combined packages that include round-trip ferry tickets from Naha and whale watching for a discounted all-inclusive price.
