I’m an Okinawa-based blogger who loves both city life and remote islands and resorts! I run a travel and lifestyle blog, capturing photos and videos from my adventures both in Japan and abroad. Have you ever been to Japan?
A 3-Day, 2-Night Stay on Iriomote Island, Okinawa
Last time, it kept raining even after we arrived on the island, so we relaxed at our lodging, listening to the sound of the rain. Luckily, the rain stopped in the evening, and we took a walk to the beach from our accommodation.
This time, I’ll share the wonderfulness of Hoshizuna no Hama, one of Iriomote Island’s most iconic beaches.
・The view from Nilaina Resort after the rain looks just like Hawaii
I’m grateful that the rain has stopped and the weather is clearing up. The view from the terrace of my inn is beautiful. Maybe because of the rain, the air feels so fresh and clear.
According to the inn owner, Iriomote Island resembles Kauai in Hawaii, with its mountains, sea, rivers, and abundant nature. It’s also known for frequent rainbows.
I’ve never been to Kauai, but I feel like it also resembles Guam a bit. Here’s a comparison with some actual photos. What do you think?
Iriomote Island has a much smaller population than Guam, and there’s no airport, so it’s even quieter.
・Snorkeling at Hoshisuna Beach/World Heritage site
Just a five-minute walk from the inn is Hoshisuna Beach on Iriomote Island, where you can stroll over in your swimsuit and other beach gear.
・Bus stop
As you go down the slope, there is a bus stop along the way. Buses to Shirahama, which will take you to Funauki Village, and to Toyohara, which will take you to Ohara Port and Yubu Island, operate approximately every two hours.
For those staying on the island without renting a car, consider using the bus as a transportation option. Keep this in mind for your travel plans!
・”Hoshisuna Beach” before dusk
There are signs along the way, so you should have no trouble finding your destination.
It’s a very spacious beach, and probably because it had just rained, there wasn’t a single person around. It felt like a private beach, with only the sound of birds and the gentle waves. It was incredibly peaceful, though I’m sure there are usually more people here.
The sky reflected on the water, and it was absolutely beautiful.
“Hoshisuna Beach” is famous for its star-shaped sand, which is where the beach gets its name. If you visit, be sure to look for the star sand!
On the way down the slope to the beach, there’s a restroom and a water station where you can wash off the sand.
The tropical flowers glistening from the rain add a nice touch too.
・Snorkeling at a beach where tropical fish gather
At Beach, you can go snorkeling, so on the second day of my stay, I returned to the beach with the snorkel gear I had packed in my suitcase.
Since the beach has shallow waters, you can enjoy watching tropical fish even without fins. However, there are deeper areas, so be careful while you’re having fun. I also brought a waterproof camera and got totally absorbed in photographing the fish.
Although it adds a bit to the luggage, I brought a life jacket from home. I recommend the inflatable type that can be compacted by deflating it, making it easier to pack for travel.
You can also rent snorkel gear or join an activity to enjoy snorkeling, so plan your day wisely and have fun!
The water is so clear that you can see fish with the naked eye without diving. I got so absorbed in the sea that I could have spent hours enjoying it—it felt that good.
Before I knew it, it was sunset time on the second day of snorkeling.
Iriomote Island. I’m so glad I came. I’m sure you’ll come to love this island too.
