Best Time to Visit Okinawa

From the second half of March to the first half of May, and from October to November are best times to visit Okinawa: 

In terms of weather, Okinawa enjoys a mild and relatively less rainy climate during these periods. More noticeably, typhoons happen very rarely, so you don’t have to worry that your travel plans will be disrupted. 

For people who are obsessed with water activities, you can still have fun during these months, as the water temperature is acceptable. Plus, there are other wonderful events and activities, such as Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival and island hopping. 

Aside from that, these months are the shoulder season in Okinawa, so there are fewer tourists and more budget-friendly travel costs. 
From the second half of March to the first half of May, and from October to November are best times to visit Okinawa: 

See More: Okinawa Weather

Strolling on the Beach

Best Time for Watching Whales 

You are highly recommended to watch whales from the end of December to March. Among these months, March has the highest possibility of watching humpback whales and their babies. After March, with the sea temperature rising, they will migrate to colder waters and not come back until late December. 

Bumpy Boat

Best Time for Water Activities 

Okinawa's official swimming season usually runs from March to October. During this period, public waters are equipped with safety nets and professional lifeguards, allowing visitors to enjoy swimming safely. 

If you prefer underwater activities, we recommend you to visit the islands from June to October, with warm water temperatures. You don’t have to wear extra wet suit to resist against chilly feeling. However, you need to notice that June to September is the typhoon season, and you are advised to check the warning forecast frequently. Besides, it’s best to book a hotel with good indoor facilities in case you happen to be caught in a typhoon, so you won’t get bored indoors.

Banana Boat

Best Time for Sakura Viewing 

Okinawa is the only place in Japan where you can admire the sakura blossom twice a year. The first batch of sakura, also the most well-known and unique group, is in full bloom from around mid-January to early February, which is a lot earlier than Japan mainland. You are advised to visit Nakijin Castle, Yaese Park and Mount Yea to enjoy a stunning blossom view in the winter season. Then, in March, there are a few while sakura bloom in the north of Okinawa's main island. 

Sakura Blossom

Most Crowded Time of Okinawa around the Year

July to August is the peak season for Okinawa travel. Most students in the countries of the Northern Hemisphere are on summer vacation, so family trips and friend trips are really popular, resulting in overcrowding and a surge in travel costs. Plus, Obon Festival also falls in this period, intensifying the domestic trip. Therefore, when travel to Okinawa in July and August, please try to book your flights and hotel as early as possible. 

Busy Beach on Sunny Days

Least Crowded Time for Okinawa around the Year

In December, relatively cool weather and cold water temperature make it difficult for underwater activities, which is quite popular in Okinawa, so the number of tourists declines, meaning that the slack travel season of Okinawa comes and the travel costs drop. During this period, the weather remains stable, with light rainfall and rare typhoons, perfect for sightseeing activities. Therefore, if you don’t mind occasional low temperature and are not into underwater explorations, this is probably a good time for you to have a budget-friendly travel experience.