The most beautiful beach in all of Asia: Kumejima's Hateno-hama

With its white sand beaches and aqua blue sea, Hateno-hama is Kumejima's most popular attraction. Hate-no-Hama is composed of 3 white sandbars named “Mhe-nu Hama”, “Nakanu Hama” , “Hatinu Hama” and is 7 km long in total.This beautiful beach exists thanks to a quirk of Kumejima's geography. Much of southern and Western Kumejima is surrounded by a coral reef, surrounding the island from several kilometers out in the ocean. Ocean waves get "stuck," bouncing from one side of the reef to the other, causing sand to pile up in the middle of the reef. For this reason, Hate-no-hama may actually be growing!

How to go to Hateno-hama?

Hateno-Hama can only be reached by boat from Kumejima.
Boat tours depart from Tomari Fisherina, near Eef Beach, and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes.

Day trips to Hatenohama from from Okinawa Main island can currently be reserved through Cerulean Tours Okinawa. Reservations are required at least 48 hours in advance.

A number of local companies and Kumejima hotels also offer tours to Hate-no-hama. More information can be found on the Kumejima Town Tourism Association website. (Please be aware that many local tour companies may only accept reservations by phone in Japanese).

Depending on the weather and sea conditions, tours may be changed or cancelled.

What to do in Hateno-hama?

Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, walking or just relaxing on the beach! You can rent snorkelling equipment through the tour company.

What is in Hateno-hama?

In “Nakanu Hama” island which is the most popular destination, there are only limited facilities, a simple shop, a shed, and a non flush toilet in the summer season. There are no showers nor a changing room.

What to bring with?

Sunscreen, Hat and Sunglasses,

Your snacks and Drinks
A lunch box and a drink would be included for the most of one day tours (Please confirm your tour company.). It might be best to bring snacks and drinks with you.

Marine Shoes

A pair of marine shoes or sandals which can hold your ankle are recommended for your safety walking on the coral fragments.

In 2022, A travel writer, Ms. Vicki L. Beyer visited Kumejima and write her report about a history of the Elizabeth and Henry shipwreck in 19th century; KUMEJIMA’S HATE-NO-HAMA: SITE OF A 19TH CENTURY SHIPWRECK