Okinawa Island

Mihama American Village

An Americanized shopping and dining complex made to resemble an American beach such as Venice Beach, Santa Monica, etc. Popular among U.S. military members due to its close proximity to many U.S. Marine bases. The area has a ferris wheel, a few hotels, many clothing and souvenir stores and restaurants of various cuisine, and Sunset Beach. Plus there is live entertainment almost nightly.

Cape Zanpa

Peninsula on the western side of the island near Yomitan Village. Has a lighthouse and a beautiful beach. Also is where the famous sweet potato flavored cookies are made.

Hamahiga Island

East of Okinawa Island accessible by the Sea Road a sight in itself. Hamahiga Island has many rock formations, many shaped like mushrooms.

Hiji Falls

In the northern part of the island, a 45 minute hike from the visitors center taking you by a river dam, over a suspension bridge, and finally to the falls itself.

Cape Kyan

The southern most point of Okinawa Island.

Seifa-utaki

In Nanjo, rock formations including a natural corridor through a giant boulder leading to a point overlooking Kudaku Island, was once worshipped as the "island of the gods".

Nago Bay

Mid-island on the Western side.

Haneji Inland Seas

Enclosed by Yayagi Island and the western peninsula. Beautiful especially at sunset.

Peace Memorial Park and Himeyuri Monument

Where the Battle of Okinawa ended in World War II. The Peace Memorial Park includes the Peace Memorial Hall and the Cornerstone of Peace.

beaches

Being an island, there are plenty of beaches to choose from. The most highly recommended include:

Cape Hedo

Northern most point of Okinawa Island, beautiful views from high cliffs.

Castle ruins

castle ruins
Katsuren
katsuren
On the eastern side near the Sea Road.
castle ruins
Nakagusuku
On the Eastern side in Nakagusuku Village.
castle ruins
 

With the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom which once ruled Okinawa, there were many castles located throughout the island.

castle ruins
Nakijin
On the western side in Nakijin Village on the large peninsula.

Naha

naha
Shuri Castle Park

Castle of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Also nearby is the Shinkina Gardens.

naha
Kokusaidori Street

Naha's main street filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife.