A true tropical getaway, Kabira Bay on Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, is unparalleled when it comes to stunning beaches and unique aquatic life. Known as Kabira-wan in Japanese, Kabira Bay is listed as one of the 100 most famous landscapes in Japan.
While only marine life – not humans – may swim at the world-famous bay, a ride on a glass-bottomed boat lets visitors enjoy the unique corals and colorful fish that can be found there. A walk along the stretch of beach will provide stunning scenery every step of the way, and for a truly panoramic view of the seascape, head to Kabira Koen, a park that overlooks the bay.
Nine uninhabited islands surround the beach, and can be accessed by one of the tour boats. Featuring flora found only in Okinawa, an afternoon’s island hopping is a great way to appreciate the nature of the island. Be warned, however – tides change quickly and setting a bag down to get that perfect photo may end it in being washed away. Boutiques selling black pearls also provide ample opportunity to find the perfect souvenir.