Island Hopping in Okinawa: A Serendipitous Journey from Zamami to Aka Island
From Naha to Zamami: The Start of an Unexpected Adventure
My Okinawan adventure began in Naha Harbor, with a ferry ride to the beach paradise of Zamami Island. The Queen Zamami, a fast ferry, offered stunning views of uninhabited islands along the way. A quick and delicious stop at the hotel's Japanese breakfast buffet fueled me up for the day ahead.
Arriving in Zamami, we were greeted by crystal-clear waters and a vibrant reef. Despite an unexpected turn in the weather, we embarked on our snorkeling excursion, marveling at the colorful coral and diverse fish even without the sunshine.
A Lucky Escape to Aka Island
As the storm intensified, we caught an inter-island ferry to Aka Island, a mere 20-minute ride. It felt surreal to escape the thunder and rain just in time. After settling into our accommodations, we explored the island, charmed by the wandering deer and friendly cats.
Aka Island's tranquility captivated me. Less touristy than Zamami, it offered a peaceful escape, especially in the early mornings when the town felt like our own private haven.
Sunrise, Seashells, and Serendipity
Jetlag had me awake before dawn, but it allowed me to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the rooftop terrace of our hotel, complete with three bathtubs perfect for stargazing. Afterward, I strolled along the beach, collecting an array of beautiful seashells.
Our hotel, Blue Suites Hanamuro, offered a unique experience. Its prime location in front of a stunning snorkeling beach, combined with delicious home-cooked meals and a rooftop terrace, made it a true hidden gem. The story of how we ended up there is a testament to the unexpected joys of travel.
Snorkeling, Cycling, and Local Delights
Our first snorkel of the day revealed vibrant yellow and blue corals, along with a thrilling encounter with a sea snake. A delicious breakfast followed, featuring fresh fruit, eggs, and local delicacies.
We rented bikes and embarked on a beach-hopping adventure, exploring the island's hidden coves and scenic landscapes. A refreshing stop at a beachside cafe provided cold noodles, shaved ice, and frozen pineapple – the perfect antidote to the heat and humidity.
Happy Hour, Deer, and Island Cats
Happy hour at Blue Suites provided a relaxing setting to watch the sunset while sipping sparkling wine. As evening approached, the deer became more active, offering enchanting encounters near the hotel.
The Aka Island deer, or Aka Jima Shika, are a unique sight. Unlike the more aggressive deer in Nara, these gentle creatures roam freely, unfazed by human presence.
The Story of a Booking Blunder Turned Blessing
The journey to Aka Island was unplanned. A booking mistake led us to discover this hidden paradise. Initially stressed about being stranded on the wrong island, we quickly found a solution, utilizing the frequent ferries between Zamami and Aka.
This fortunate mistake allowed us to experience the best of both islands. While Zamami offered beautiful beaches and snorkeling, Aka Island's peaceful charm and unique experiences ultimately stole our hearts.
A Farewell to Paradise
After a final snorkel and a last night under the stars, it was time to bid farewell to Aka Island. This serendipitous journey highlighted the beauty of embracing the unexpected while traveling. Aka Island, with its stunning landscapes, friendly wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere, proved to be a true hidden gem in the Kerama Islands.
