Ishigaki Island, Blue Cave Snorkeling Guide! Tips for Sea Turtle Encounter Rate UP!
Table of Contents
- 1 What is the Blue Cave, Ishigaki Island? Why is snorkeling so popular?
- 2 Blue Cave Snorkeling Best season and time for snorkeling
- 3 How to Choose a Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour
- 4 Recommended Blue Cave Snorkel Tour!
- 5 High probability of seeing sea turtles How to choose a tour
- 6 Blue Cave Snorkeling What to Bring & What to Wear
- 7 Access & Directions Guide to Blue Cave
- 8 Q&A Frequently asked questions about Blue Cave snorkeling
- 9 summary
What is the Blue Cave in Ishigaki Island?
Why snorkeling is so popular

The Blue Cave in Ishigaki Island is a popular tourist spot as a fantastic spot surrounded by mysterious blue light.
◆ Those who want to visit the Blue Cave as inexpensively as possible.
◆If you are wondering whether to go on your own or on a tour
◆Those who want to experience activities in the Blue Cave
This section introduces the most popular snorkeling in the Blue Cave.
Ishigaki Island Blue Cave
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
What kind of place is the Blue Cave in Ishigaki Island?

The Blue Cave in Ishigaki Island is called "Ao no cave" (blue cave) because the sun's rays reflect off the seabed and the surface of the water in the cave glows blue. The entrance to the cave is wide, and even beginners can enjoy snorkeling with ease.
In the shadow of the rocks.Colorful tropical fishswims, and as you go deeper, a mysterious space awaits you where the sea opens up all at once.
It is a place where you can have an emotional experience as if you were lost in another world under the sea.
Why is snorkeling so popular?

Why is Blue Cave snorkeling so popular?Clear waters and abundant marine lifeTo be able to meet the
In addition, because entry can be made from the beach, there is no need to worry about seasickness,Start in shallow water where you can stand on your feet.It is also safe for beginners and those who are not good at swimming.
The waves are calm and the currents are minimal, making it enjoyable even for small children. Another major attraction is the chance to encounter colorful tropical fish and sea turtles while being surrounded by fantastic blue light.
What kind of fish and sea turtles can be seen in the Blue Cave?

Around the Blue Cave, there are many tropical fish that are unique to Okinawa!Clownfish (Nemo)and ... andsapphire devil (Chrysiptera cyanea, damselfish from the Indo-West Pacific), ,moorish idol (Zanclus cornutus, species of Indo-Pacific perciform fish)and other colorful fish swim gracefully before your eyes.
And the biggest highlight isEncounter with sea turtlesOh my god!!!
The area around the Blue Cave is also a favorite resting spot for sea turtles while snorkeling.Chances of encountering them are high.The sea turtles are a great way to experience the excitement of drifting in the sea together. Please enjoy the sensation of gently observing sea turtles as they slowly swim and drift in the ocean together.
↓Click here for recommended snorkeling tours
Ishigaki Island / 1 Day] Go to the Phantom Island & Blue Cave! Ishigaki Island Perfect Snorkeling Pack Tour 《Free Photo & Pick-up & Drop-off》(No.460)開始時間8:00-16:30所要時間Approx. 8.5 hours29,000 yen →directional marker or indicator15,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour☆Take pictures free of charge & transportation included! (No.405)開始時間8:30-11:45 / 13:30-16:45所要時間Approx. 4 hours24,000 yen →directional marker or indicator12,000suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Blue Cave Snorkeling
Best season & time of year

During summer vacation and major holidays, the area can be crowded with many people. So, let's look at the best timing to enjoy them.
When is the best time to visit the Blue Cave?

Snorkeling in the Blue Cave can be enjoyed all year round, but is especially recommended during the warm season from April to October.
This is the time of year whenHigh water temperature and excellent transparency.It's a great time to visit! Since the number of tourists increases during the summer, it is also a good idea to aim for weekdays in spring and fall, when there are relatively fewer people.
Snorkeling is possible in winter, but the water temperature dropsWearing a wetsuitwill be required.
What is the best time of day for snorkeling?

The view of the Blue Cave is different because of the way the light enters the cave at different times of the day.
Time of day when there are few people and you can enjoy snorkeling in quiet waters.
◆Lunch: 11:00-14:00
This is the best time when the sun's rays shine the strongest and the inside of the cave shines in a beautiful blue color!
◆Evening: after 15:00
The advantage is that there are fewer tourists and you can swim at a more leisurely pace, but the light changes as the sun goes down, so the blue glow is less intense!
How to Choose a Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour

Snorkeling tours vary in price, service, and guide support, and many people are unsure which one to choose.
It is important to compare the features of each with the rates, benefits, and time required.
Rates.9,000-15,000 yenThe market is about the same,photographyand ... andVideo ShootingSome plans include a
For those who want to have a quick and easy time, we recommend the half-day plan (2 hours or more), and for those who want to take their time, we recommend the full-day tour, which can be enjoyed in combination with other activities.
If you want to meet sea turtles, choose a tour that takes you to spots with high sea turtle encounter rates!
Ishigaki Island Blue Cave
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
Recommended Blue Cave Snorkel Tour!

All tours have different characteristics, so choose the one that best suits your purpose!
Ishigaki Island Blue Cave
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Blue Cave & Kabira Bay Tour

This tour includes Blue Cave Snorkeling & Glass Boat Experience & SUP Experience at Kabira Bay and special activities.Enjoy and fully enjoy the two great viewsThis is a popular plan that can be
Take home memories to look back on later with our photography & transportation service.
↓Recommended snorkeling &.
Click here for glass boat experience tour
Ishigaki Island/1 Day] Glass Boat Experience & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour at "Kabira Bay"★Free Photo (No.392)開始時間9:00-15:30所要時間Approximately 6.5 hours13,800 yen →directional marker or indicator9,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】To the 2 most spectacular spots you must visit at least once! Kabira Bay Glass Boat & SUP Experience and Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour (No.397)開始時間8:00-16:00所要時間The "M" in "M" is a combination of "M" and "A":15,500 yen
Blue Cave & Mangrove Tour

With snorkeling in the Blue Cave,Explore subtropical mangrove forests by kayak or SUPThis is a tour where you can enjoy the nature of Ishigaki Island from both the land and the sea. You can fully enjoy the nature of Ishigaki Island from both land and sea.
Equipment rental is free and transportation is provided, so even beginners can participate without worries. Enjoy activities that will heal you with extraordinary scenery.
↓Recommended snorkeling &.
Click here for mangrove tours
Ishigaki Island / 1 Day] Conquer the ocean and river☆Longest in Ishigaki Island! Miyara River Mangrove SUP/Canoe & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour ★ <Free Photo & Pick-up & Drop-off> (No.362)開始時間6:00-11:15 / 9:00-15:45 / 13:30-20:15所要時間Approx. 5 hours29,000 yen →directional marker or indicator13,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Ishigaki Island Complete Plan (Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe + Blue Cave Snorkeling + Mangrove SUP/Canoe) with Free Photo & Pick-up & Drop-off☆ (No.274)開始時間9:00-19:00*Changes depending on the season.所要時間Approx. 10 hours39,600 yen →directional marker or indicator19,800suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Sea Turtle Snorkeling &
Marine Sports Tour

In addition to exploring the Blue Cave and snorkeling with sea turtles, banana boats and wakeboardingMore than 10 types of marine sports can be played as much as you want within the time limit.This tour is a great way to enjoy ocean activities.
Free equipment rental and pick-up and drop-off services are available, making it easy to participate.
↓Recommended snorkeling &.
Click here for marine sports tours
Ishigakijima Island/one day] Blue Cave Exploration + Sea Turtle Beach Snorkeling + Over 10 kinds of marine sports! Recommended for group trip (No.399)開始時間8:20-16:30所要時間Approx. 7 hours18,500 yen →directional marker or indicator17,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Guided Charter Tours

Rent out a guide,Private tours can be arranged.The schedule is flexible and customizable because of the
The destinations and activities can be adjusted according to the wishes and physical fitness of the participants.
The service, which includes photography & transportation, is also an attractive way to preserve the memories of your trip in a tangible form.
↓Click here for recommended charter tours
Ishigaki Island/Half Day] Private Guided Luxury VIP Charter Plan Flexible & Flexible ◎Our pace♪ Group Tour & Company Trip (No.553)開始時間9:30-12:00 / 13:30-16:00所要時間Approx. 2 to 3 hours9,067 yen
Ishigaki Island/1 Day] Private Guided Luxury VIP Charter Plan Flexible, at Your Own Pace, Group Tour, Company Trip (No.554)開始時間9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.所要時間Approx. 7 hours16,667 yen
High probability of seeing sea turtles
How to choose a tour

The excitement of meeting a sea turtle in the ocean will be a memory you will never forget.
What kind of tour should I choose to have a high probability of meeting sea turtles? When it comes time to meet sea turtles, here are some of the manners to follow.
How to increase the rate of sea turtle encounters!
Tips for Success

How to increase your chances of seeing sea turtles,(1) Time zone, ,(2) Spot selection, ,(iii) swim quietlyThere are three key points!
Here is a spot where sea turtles often appear!

Ishigaki Island in particular.High encounter rate with sea turtlesThe,Around Blue Cave, ,Yonehara Beach, ,Kabira Bay, ,Shiraho CoastSuch as.
In particular, the offshore area of the Blue Cave is a spot where sea turtles rest and calmObserve them swimming leisurely in the sea.Often.
The area around Phantom Island, which you may visit by boat, is another point where sea turtles are likely to appear. When choosing a tour, check for plans that visit these spots!
To meet sea turtles
Snorkeling Techniques

Sea turtles areApproach quietly, as they are very wary.is important. If you suddenly reach out your hand or chase after them, they will be startled and run away.
Underwater, sea turtles andSwim slowly at the same eye levelIf you observe them while holding your breath, you will have a chance to swim with them at a closer distance!
Also, if you practice snorkel clearing (a technique to drain water from a snorkel) in advance, you can enjoy observing sea turtles smoothly.
Cautions & Rules for Swimming with Sea Turtles

If you encounter sea turtles, be sure to watch them while you enjoy the excitement! However, it is important to observe the following rules when swimming with sea turtles.
(2)Maintain a certain distance: Best to swim 1-2 meters away from each other.
(iii)Flash photography NG: I'm so sensitive in the eyes, I'm going to startle you.
4)Does not interfere with sea turtle breathingNote: Watch quietly when surfacing.
By protecting the environment where sea turtles can swim safely, you can observe them in a more natural way, so please follow the rules and have fun!
↓Click here for recommended sea turtle snorkeling tours
Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】If you are in doubt, this is the one for you☆Let's look for sea turtles! Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour ★ <Free Photo & Pick-up Service> (No.349)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours29,000 yen →directional marker or indicator13,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Ishigaki Island/Half Day] Reservation OK on the day! You may see sea turtles☆Snorkeling & cave exploration tour in the unexplored "Blue Cave"★Free photo and pick-up service included (No.304)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours13,500 yen →directional marker or indicator6,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Blue Cave Snorkeling
What to Bring & What to Wear

Be sure to check out what to bring and what to wear to enjoy Blue Cave snorkeling!
List of essential personal belongings

Towel (for wiping yourself after the end of the day)
Rashguard: Sunburn & Jellyfish Protection
Marine shoes: required to protect feet on rocky terrain
Waterproof bag: convenient for storing smartphones and valuables
Drinks & Snacks: After snorkeling, you will be surprisingly hungry!
The sun is especially strong on Ishigaki Island, so sunscreen is an environmentally friendly ".Coral-friendly sunscreenThe key is to choose the "right" one!
Points of Dress

The basic attire for snorkeling is swimsuit + rash guard + marine shoes.
From April to October, the water temperature is high enough that you can go without a wetsuit, but during the winter season (November to March), it is not necessary to wear a wetsuit.Wetsuits for cold weatherIt is recommended to wear a
Depending on the tourFree RentalsIn some cases, it may be possible to do so, so check in advance!
Recommended items to bring for beginners and with children

For snorkeling beginners and those with children, buoyant goods are recommended! An underwater camera is also recommended to record the excitement of snorkeling as it happens!
Snorkel mask: Full-face type, easy to breathe, suitable for beginners
Life jackets and snorkel masks are available for free rental when you join the tour.
Ishigaki Island Blue Cave
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours
Access & Directions Guide to Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is approximately 30-40 minutes from the airport and is accessible by car and on foot.
Access: 30 minutes by car from Ishigakijima Island Terminal
How to get to the Blue Cave from Ishigaki Island
Self-support vs. tour comparison

There are two ways to visit the Blue Cave: rent a car and go by yourself or join a tour.
Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions about Blue Cave Snorkeling

We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions for those who are new to snorkeling or are considering how to have fun in the Blue Cave. Please refer to them.
Q: Can beginners enjoy it?
Can I swim if I can't?

A: Even beginners can enjoy snorkeling in the Blue Cave. The tour includesAccompanied by instructorand how to use a snorkel and how to swim.Careful lecturesIt is safe for them to do so.
Many of the tours require the use of life jackets, so even if you are not a confident swimmer, you will be able to maintain buoyancy and enjoy peeking at the fish in the ocean while floating on the surface of the water!
Q: What should I be aware of when taking a tour?

A: When participating in a tour, it is recommended to check the following points.
'good work' (equiv. of silver star awarded to children at school) physical condition controlwell! (Lack of sleep and hangovers are not an option)
◎Check what to bring in advance (especially sun protection & hydration are essential)
◎Check tour cancellation policy (e.g., in case of inclement weather)
In addition, the area around the Blue Cave is an environmentally protected area.Will not harm coral"Do not touch marine lifeEnjoy yourself while observing good manners, etc!
Q: If you don't see a sea turtle
Revenge Method

A: "I went all the way out there but didn't see any sea turtles..." In such a case, you can take revenge in the following ways!
◎ Sea turtlesParticipate in a tour with a high encounter ratebe just about to
◎Check the timing of the tide and try again.
◎Aim for a different spot
It's hard to be 100% sure because it's nature, but if you want to see sea turtles, you need to "Sea Turtle Snorkeling TourIt is also recommended to participate in the
↓Click here for recommended sea turtle snorkeling tours
Ishigaki Island / 1 Day】If you are in doubt, this is the one for you☆Let's look for sea turtles! Kabira Bay SUP/Canoe & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour ★ <Free Photo & Pick-up Service> (No.349)開始時間9:00-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours29,000 yen →directional marker or indicator13,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Ishigaki Island/Half Day] Reservation OK on the day! You may see sea turtles☆Snorkeling & cave exploration tour in the unexplored "Blue Cave"★Free photo and pick-up service included (No.304)開始時間9:00-12:00 / 13:30-16:30所要時間Approx. 3 hours13,500 yen →directional marker or indicator6,900suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
Ishigaki Island / 1 Day] Landing on Phantom Island + Tropical Snorkeling + Blue Cave Exploration, Sea Turtle Beach Snorkeling 《Including equipment rental & lunch》There are goods to show off and children can also enjoy! (No.401)開始時間8:20-16:00所要時間Approx. 7 hours13,800 yen →directional marker or indicator12,500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
summary

The Blue Cave in Ishigaki Island is a spot that is sure to impress, surrounded by mysterious blue light and abundant sea creatures that seem to be from another world!
The environment is safe and enjoyable even for beginners, and if you are lucky, you may even have the precious experience of swimming with sea turtles!
The Blue Cave snorkeling will surely be a memory of a lifetime! We hope you enjoy your best ocean adventure!










