An impressive experience of swimming with sea turtles in Ishigaki Island! Introducing spots, timing, and recommended tours for beginners!

Swim with sea turtles in Ishigaki Island!
Recommended for beginners...and fun!

Ishigaki Island is an attractive area where even beginners can easily swim with sea turtles.

In particular, snorkeling is easy to try even for those who are not confident swimmers, and there are many spots where you can start in shallow water where you can easily reach your feet, so you can enjoy the ocean for the first time without anxiety.

This time, in Ishigaki Island, a paradise for sea turtlesSpots where you can see sea turtles with high probability.and recommended times of year and points to consider when observing!

Types of sea turtles that can be seen on Ishigaki Island

The sea turtles most commonly seen on Ishigaki Island aregreen turtle (Chelonia mydas)".

It is said that the probability of encountering sea turtles has been increasing in recent years, partly due to the decrease in the number of natural enemies of sea turtles in the waters of Okinawa. Other species inhabiting the area include the loggerhead turtle, which eats crustaceans, and the hawksbill hawksbill turtle, which is relatively small with jagged edges on its carapace.

I want to meet sea turtles on Ishigaki Island!
What is the best season and time of year?

Sea turtles areCan be seen on Ishigaki Island throughout the year.but they can be seen particularly active in theSpawning season from May to SeptemberIt is. Sea turtles can sometimes be seen swimming in the shallows to lay eggs.

Although the morning is often the most active time of day, there is a good chance to meet people in the afternoon as well. In the afternoon when there are fewer people,Calmly observe at your own pace.This is also an advantage. It is important to choose a point according to the tide and weather conditions of the day.

Recommended Sea Turtle Spots on Ishigaki Island

Ishigaki Island, with its clear waters and rich coral reefs, is dotted with spots where you have a high chance of meeting sea turtles. We will introduce the characteristics of each location!

Yonehara Beach
Popular spot to meet green turtles in shallow water

Yonehara Beach is a spot where green turtles can often be seen in the area just off the coast.Beginners and those with children due to shallow waterIt is also suitable for Sea grass is abundant, and if you are lucky, you may be able to see sea turtles feeding.

Around Kabira Bay
Impressed by the clear sea and sea turtles

Around Kabira Bay, famous for its spectacular views, there are points where manta rays and sea turtles gather. Because swimming is prohibited in the area for individuals, it is possible to look over the undersea "glass boatThe classic way to enjoy the ride is to look for sea turtles on the

Blue Cave
Fantastic popular spots on Ishigaki Island

The "Blue Cave" shines in a fantastic blue color from the light shining into the cave. The surrounding area is also an excellent snorkeling spot, and snorkeling in search of sea turtles is popular along with cave exploration.

Phantom Island (Hamashima)
Enjoy the set with a spectacular view

Hamashima (a.k.a. "Phantom Island") is an uninhabited white sand island that appears only at low tide. The surrounding waters have beautiful coral reefs and are close to areas inhabited by sea turtles, making this area recommended for those who wish to enjoy both landing and playing in the ocean at the same time.

Osaki Area
A popular staple with a high rate of sea turtle encounters

The Osaki area in the northwestern part of Ishigaki Island is known for its topographically calm waves and extremely high encounter rate with sea turtles. The current is relatively gentle, making it an easy point for beginners to swim.

How to choose an experience style
Snorkeling or diving?

The distance to sea turtles and the style of observation varies greatly depending on whether you are snorkeling or diving.

**Snorkeling** is a style of observation from the surface of the water that allows you to closely watch sea turtles as they come to the surface to catch their breath.Beginners and with childrenRecommended for

**Diving** offers the dynamic experience of diving deep underwater and swimming at eye level with sea turtles. You can also try experience diving, which does not require a license, so choose the one that best suits your physical strength and interests.

I want to know before I go into the ocean.
Sea Turtle Observation Precautions and Manners

To enjoy encounters with sea turtles, it is important to remember to be considerate of the natural environment.

Absolutely no one is allowed to touch the sea turtles!

Avoid touching or persistently chasing sea turtles.Sea turtles are very sensitive creaturesand the act of human contact or blocking the path can be very stressful.

When observing, keep a distance of several meters and watch quietly.

They are creatures of nature, so it's not like they can meet 1001 TP3T

Sea turtles are natural creatures. Even in Ishigaki Island, where many sea turtles live, you may not be able to see them depending on the sea conditions and timing.

Even if you don't see them, please enjoy the beautiful corals and colorful fishes of Ishigaki Island.

Safety measures and weather checks

Ocean activities are greatly influenced by the weather. If there is a strong wind warning or high waves forecast due to a typhoon, you must have the courage to stay out of the sea. If it is your first time swimming in the ocean, having a guide who is familiar with the local sea conditions will help you enjoy the experience more safely.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Ishigaki Island sea turtles

summary

In the rich ocean of Ishigaki Island, even beginners can experience the excitement of swimming with sea turtles. Please enjoy a memorable undersea walk in Ishigaki Island by keeping in mind the time of year when you are most likely to encounter them, the characteristics of the spot, and your manners in the ocean.