Okinawa Weather in July

Season: Summer

Overview:
1. Okinawa’s weather in July is the hottest all year round, but sea breeze may make it a bit more comfortable.
2. Generally, the rain is neither large nor frequent, so it won’t make outdoor activities impossible.
3. There is a certain probability of typhoons in July, so keep on eye on the weather forecast.
4. July is the peak travel season, so you may feel crowded and find hotels expensive to book.

A Sunny Day in Okinawa

Hottest Time

July is the hottest month in Okinawa throughout the year, with average temperature ranging from 27-32°C (81-90°F). During the daytime, the highest temperature stays stable at about 32°C (90°F) most of the time, but may reach about 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) sometimes. Occasionally, the perceived temperature is even higher, feeling like 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit). In the early morning and late evening, the temperature drops to around 28°C (82°F). With such a hot climate, visitors are advised to be mindful of heatstroke and stay hydrated.

Rainy days usually help to cool things down, with temperatures hovering between 26-29°C (79-84°F).

Lovely Hotel in Okinawa

Rainfall and Typhoon

Okinawa in July witnesses moderate rainfall, with average precipitation of 141 mm over 9 rainy days. Most showers come in short bursts, often lasting only a few minutes before the skies clear again. Plus, overcast days with breezes can even make you feel refreshed, making it a good time for outdoor activities such as mangrove kayaking.

However, July belongs to the typhoon season. Based on data from the past five years, Okinawa suffers from one typhoon in July on average. Though strong typhoons rarely make landfall on the islands, they can still bring three to four days of continuous rain. The typhoon has a limited impact on sightseeing at cultural or historical sites, like Shuri Castle. But island-hopping or boat trips are highly likely to be cancelled because of heavy rain and strong winds. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check typhoon forecasts in advance and adjust your travel plans accordingly to avoid potential disruption and risk.

Relatively Comfortable Humidity Level

Okinawa’s air in July is not as humid as you might expect. The average humidity level stays around 78%. Thanks to the islands’ constant sea breezes, hot air doesn’t easily accumulate, making the climate more bearable. Taking advantage of shaded areas is a smart way to cool down and avoid uncomfortable and muggy feelings during your visit.

Warm Sea Water

July is one of the best months for water activities, with the sea temperature averaging 29°C (82°F). This warm water is perfect for diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, and other fun explorations. However, always stay away from the beach during typhoon days for safety.

Exciting Water Activity

Sunshine Hours & Daytime Hours

Sunshine Hours: about 8 hours
Sunrise: 5:40-5:54
Sunset: 19:16-19:25
Daytime Hours: 13 hours 22 minutes - 13 hours 45 minutes

July offers some of the longest sunshine hours of the year, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. The UV Index can soar up to 11, so sun protection is essential.

The extended daylight of around 13.5 hours gives travelers more available time to enjoy their trips. Sunset lovers should note that the sunset time is relatively late, so you may need to wait a little longer on the beach to catch the best view.

Is July a Good Time to Visit Okinawa?

Yes, July is an OK time to visit Okinawa.

Firstly, though the temperature is high, Okinawa’s climate will not be uncomfortable thanks to the sea breeze. While there is a chance of typhoons, checking forecasts in advance and planning accordingly will help you still have fun. Except for the typhoon periods, rainfall is limited and sunny days are plentiful, ideal for all kinds of travel activities.

July also comes alive with various summer festivals, where you can watch spectacular fireworks, taste local food and enjoy live music performances. One highlight is the Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival, offering one of the largest fireworks displays in Okinawa.

On the downside, July falls in the peak travel season. With Japanese schools on summer vacation, crowds increase and prices for flights and hotels rise. To have more options for hotels, it’s highly recommended to book them in advance. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in early July, before the peak of the summer vacation rush.

Coastal View in Okinawa

What to Wear in Okinawa in July?

Upper Clothing: A T-shirt in breathable and quick-dry fabrics is your best option, especially when it’s a sunny day. Besides, a light sun-protective jacket is necessary to protect your skin from sunburn.

Bottom Clothing: It’s advisable to wear shorts or skirts in this hot climate. If girls intend to snap impressive photos by the beach, it’s highly recommended to wear a bright dress.

Footwear: Comfortable sneakers and sandals are both suitable for your visit.

Accessories:
It’s essential to pack the sun-protective items like parasols, sunhats, sunglasses, and reapply sunscreen frequently to avoid sunburn. Parasols can also help you against the rain.
It’s a smart move to carry mosquito repellent, as mosquitoes are prone to breeding in such a climate with relatively high temperature and humidity.

Travel Highlights

1. The Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival

Stunning Firework Show

The Ocean Expo Park Summer Festival, one of Okinawa’s largest summer events, will take place at Emerald Beach in July 2026. The highlight is a stunning firework display, when about 10,000 fireworks lighting up the night sky. In addition, the park facilities will be open for free throughout the day, and a lively food festival will offer a variety of Okinawan food to taste.

2. Nago Summer Festival

As one of the iconic summer celebrations in northern Okinawa, the Nago Summer Festival runs on a weekend in July, filled with local performances, food stalls, and brilliant fireworks shows. What you should not miss is the freshly brewed beer delivered straight from the Orion Beer Factory, perfect to pair with a summer night.

3. Regular Firework Shows at American Village

In July, American Village hosts free fireworks shows every Saturday night at about 20:00. Though the show is relatively short, it creates a vibrant summer atmosphere. It’s best to arrive about 18:00 to catch a breathtaking sunset first, and then stay to enjoy the fireworks.

Travel Tips:

1. Large-scale fireworks festivals in Okinawa usually require advance ticket purchase, but the American Village shows are completely free.
2. For big fireworks events, be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.