We round out our issue of 'Top 3s' with a final look at the top 3 outdoor activities to do in Oki. Despite it being a cooler time of year, and water sports mostly being off the menu, there's still plenty to do outside.
1. Zip Lining
Forest Adventure Park in Onna, is the original and still in our opinion the best, offering a total of 8 zip lines across the Okinawa forest. The park combines breathtaking views with an exhilarating mix of activities. After a safety briefing in Japanese or English and equipping a harness, participants tackle a progressively challenging course. The experience begins with a tightrope-style bridge and a small zip line, building up to longer and more adventurous lines and rope courses.
The park is moderately challenging, making it ideal for teens and adults, though not suitable for younger children or individuals with certain physical limitations. Tickets are priced at ¥4,000 per person, with group discounts available. Wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring sunscreen for a full day of fun.
2. Go Fishing
Somehow living on an island you'd think fishing would be at the top of water sport ideas, but it's usually diving first followed by more adventurous sports, but Okinawa is home to some amazing varieties of fish with some excellent companies who can take you out for a half or full day to try your hand at fishing the Okinawa waters.
There's many options on the island but two we would recommend are Umiashibi which is the only place in Okinawa where you can enjoy kayaking and boat fishing at the same time. Located in Kadena town, it offer mangrove kayaking, sunset kayaking along with a fishing package. https://en.activityjapan.com/publish/feature/2413. If you're down in Naha then Cerulean Blue is a well respected company and has half day tropical fishing tours from Naha Port. https://www.cerulean-blue.co.jp/en/fishing/521
3. Whale Watching
Whale watching in Okinawa is a must-do activity from January to March, offering the chance to see majestic humpback whales in the waters around the Kerama Islands and northern Okinawa. These 15-meter-long giants migrate south from northern waters to give birth and nurture their calves. There's many providers on the island who offer a chance to go out on their boats and maybe catch a glimpse, but we'd recommend Reef Encounters in Sunabe, who have decades of experience in diving and whale watching with native English staff. Watch their website or Facebook page for whale watching dates as they book up quick!
https://www.reefencounters.org/
