Where to Stay in Okinawa Honto [Main Island] BEST 3 x Areas


Planning a trip to Okinawa but no idea where to stay on Okinawa Honto (aka the main island of Okinawa)? You’re in the right place!

As the largest island in the Okinawa archipelago, Okinawa Hontō is home to a mix of beautiful beaches and coral reefs, a vibrant city life and a rich okinawan culture.

Whether you’re wanting to relax on one of the perfect white sand beaches or wanting something in the busier Naha, (the largest city in Okinawa) choosing the best area to stay on Okinawa’s main island can make all the difference. 

hyatt regency seragaki island - guide of where to stay in Okinawa honto
Image by Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island

With so many breathtaking beaches, and amazing main attractions, the biggest question for many is usually, “Where do I stay with so many great areas to choose from”

This is why I put this guide together, so you can understand each area, and find the best hotels to stay in Okinawa that will suit your needs and your VIBE!

Introduction to Okinawa Honto

Okinawa is a cluster of tropical islands in the East China Sea in southern Japan and Okinawa Honto is the largest island in the archipelago. Its easy to reach being just 2 hours south of mainland Japan by plane, and has a number of low-cost airlines that offer cheap flights to the region.

Renowned for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and sparkling turquoise waters, this beautiful island is a dream destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The island’s prime location means you’re never far from stunning views.

With its perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and easy access to mainland Japan, Okinawa Honto is the ideal place to experience the tropical side of Japan.

Where to stay in Okinawa – My personal Top 3 Hotels in Okinawa

Let’s get straight into the guide of where to stay starting with my Cheat Sheet below!

Cheat Sheet – What is the best part of Okinawa to stay in?

AreaBest For
Naha City (Top 3)First-time visitors or short stay visitors, city lovers, foodies, travellers without a rental car, a convenient base to visit Okinawa attractions and islands, offers the largest concentration of hotels in Okinawa.
Onna Village (Top 3)Beautiful beaches, couples, families, luxury travelers, snorkelers & divers, and those seeking top diving spots, ideally you will have a rental car.
Chatan Town (Top 3)Great place for young travellers, digital nomads, nightlife fans, shoppers, café hoppers (gives Hawaii vibes and has the American Village) and many other highlights!
MotobuFamilies, beach stays, aquarium visits, easy access to islands like Ie-jima. Ideally you will have a rental car.
Nago Located in the Northern part of Okinawa and a quieter alternative to Onna with beautiful beaches, high-end resorts, and attractions like Busena Marine Park; ideal for couples, families, and travellers wanting a more relaxed northern Okinawa base, having a rental car is recommended.

1. Naha: The Capital of Okinawa

Best For: Naha is the perfect place for travelers seeking a city vibe, shopping, nightlife and easy access to the ferries and day tours to explore the surrounding islands. It’s also great for first-time visitors or short stay visitors, culture lovers, foodies and travelers without a rental car!

Introducing Naha, the biggest city in the Okinawa Prefecture.  It is where you will land from your flight, and is located a short train ride from the Naha airport and is very easy to access.

It is a bustling hub and an excellent base for exploring the nearby island. Island like Kume, Aka, Zamami and Kerama Islands are easily connected by public ferry from Naha.  It is also where many day tours will depart from. 

In Naha, you’ll find a mix of modern conveniences, nightlife, restaurants, entertainment, AND a beautiful local beach...Naminoue Beach. 

All this makes Naha a very popular destination for tourists!

Things to do in Naha Okinawa Honto

Key attractions include:

  • Naminoue Shrine and beach
  • Fukushuen Garden 
  • Naha Kokusai Dori Street 
  • A lively shopping and dining district.

Transportation: Naha’s well-connected public transport makes it easy to explore other parts of the island and Naha is the gateway to catching ferries and day tours to the outer islands.

Also on our SAVED LIST and worthy of a look in Naha City

Best Miyakojima Beaches and snorkeling spots - 3 Day Miyakojima itinerary,

2. Chatan Okinawa: Coastal Vibes and Entertainment

Best For anyone seeking a beachside town with family-friendly activities, Restaurants, shopping and nightlife. It definitely gives Hawaii vibes and has the American Village pictured below.

Next, on my the list of where to stay in Okinawa is Chatan. Located in the central part of Okinawa Main Island, Chatan is known for its beautiful sunset views, lively atmosphere, and family-friendly activities. It is also where you will find the American Village, a large shopping and entertainment complex. This is a focal point in Chatan and definately gives off Hawai vibes.

Also look at these GREAT OPTIONS!

Easy 10 Day Japan Itinerary For FIRST TIMERS

3. Onna: Spectacular Beaches and Relaxation

Best For anyone seeking LUXURY resorts, nature lovers, travelers seeking relaxation and the BEST beaches on Okinawa Honto.

Onna Beach Okinawa Honto

Last on the list of where we recommend you stay in Okinawa is the Onna beach region.

Onna Beach is located along the western coast and is famous for its pristine white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and upscale luxury resorts. The area is also renowned for its beautiful coral, making it a top choice for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. It’s perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst natural beauty.

NOTE: A lot of resorts are isolated and lack a lot of choice when it comes to local restaurants, so having a hire car is something you might want to consider if staying at Onna.

Best Hotels for LUXURIOUS stays in Onna Beach:

Budget (but still bougie) option on Onna Beach:

Hotel Miyuki Beach has direct access to one of Okinawa’s most pristine beaches! It is a budget friendly beachfront resort, that offers a beautiful stretch of beach, onsens with natural hot springs water, views of the ocean and swimming pool. The ocean view rooms are a mix of Western and Japanese styles and have tatami flooring and extra futons for up to groups of 5.

Continue planning your trip to Okinawa? Transform that dream into plans!

Okinawa Honto Itinerary

To help with planning your trip, we have put together a detailed itinerary , and pinned google map with all the best places to visit:

7 Day Okinawa itinerary & Google Map

Dive into the wonder that is Okinawa, where there’s so much to discover. Start with day tours to the Outer Reef and nearby Kerama Islands, or explore the subterranean marvel of Okinawa World, home to the Gyokusendo Cave and immersive cultural showcases. Step back in time at the regal Shuri Castle, a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through Naha’s bustling Kokusai Street for local shopping, food, and nightlife, and visit the serene Naminoue Shrine and its adjacent beach. Be amazed by the marine magic at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the world’s most impressive with a manatee pool and whale sharks, or dive into adventure at the Blue Cave and Cape Maeda.

Whether you’re shopping, snorkeling, sightseeing, or simply soaking in island culture, Okinawa offers the perfect experience for just about any traveller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to rent a car in Okinawa Honto?

While public transportation is available in Naha, once you are out of the city the only public transport is a local bus. That is why renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience. It is especially important if you plan to explore areas outside of Naha.  

I always use Rentalcars.com to find ourselves a rental cars.  It compares all available companies and cars, so you always get the best deal

The driving on the left side of the road is a requirement in Japan, and the steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle.

🔥PRO Tip: You must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive in Japan to rent a car.

Q: When should I book my Okinawa Accommodation?

As early as possible. Japan is one of the most visited countires in the world right now, and the best places tend to book or have limited rooms available quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Aim to book 3–6 or even 9 months in advance if you’re visiting during peak times. Or, a month or two ahead if it is low season. To be completely honest, I book as soon as I start planning.

Q: Where is the best place to book my Accommodation?

My two favourite sites are Booking.com or Trip.com. They both list almost all accommodations options in Okinawa Honto, including hotels, resorts, guesthouses and Airbnb’s.  

They also are the two sites that have great loyalty benefits. For example, I often get an upgrade or free breakfast on Booking.com, and on Trip.com I collect cashback dollars to use on future bookings, I get 25% off and just got 2 free airport lounge passes.

Q. What else should I know before booking accommodation ?

  • Check for Parking Availability / free parking – If you’re renting a car (which is highly recommended in Okinawa), be sure your hotel offers free or on-site parking.
  • Not All Hotels Include Daily Cleaning – Especially in budget, airbnb or condo-style accommodations.
  • Beds May Be Smaller – A “double” bed in Japan is often closer to a Western full-sized bed. Twin rooms can be more spacious for two people
  • Family-Friendly Options Are Plentiful – Many properties cater to families with family rooms, kids’ play areas and child amenities.
  • Acomodation may be isolated – Outside of Naha and Chatan, beachside resorts often mean fewer restaurants and shops nearby, this is why having a car is so important.
  • Airbnb style accommodation is popular in Okinawa, offering a unique and authentic local experience. These days Airbnb bookings can also be booked through Booking.com making it easy to compare both styles of accommodation at once.
  • Prices can vary grately and suit all budgets, from backpackers / guesthouses from $30 to city hotels and beach resorts $1000 per night.
  • The best times to visit is late March to early May and October to November.

Q: When is the best time to visit Okinawa?

The ideal times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is the most pleasant. Summer (June to August) is also popular but can be hot and humid and be suspectable to typhoons. And winter can be cold.

Q: What Outdoor Activities are there in Okinawa Honto

If you love the outdoors, Okinawa Honto is your playground.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Busena Marine Park, where you can snorkel or scuba among vibrant reefs teeming with marine life. The northern part of the island is a haven for hikers, with lush subtropical forests and scenic trails perfect for exploring Okinawa’s diverse nature. Early morning yoga on a quiet beach is a magical way to start your day, surrounded by the gentle sounds of the sea. For those seeking a bit more excitement, Okinawa Honto offers a variety of marine activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to unforgettable whale watching tours. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic humpback whales that frequent these waters.

Whether you’re after adventure or tranquility, the island’s beaches and natural wonders have something for everyone.

Exploring Nearby Islands & Attractions

One of the best things about staying on Okinawa Honto is how easy it is to explore the surrounding islands.

The Kerama Islands and Kume Islands are just a short ferry trip away, each offering their own slice of paradise with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.

You can read more about connecting to the surrounding islands in my Okinawa 7 Day itinerary

Whether you’re looking to relax on a quiet beach, discover incredible marine life, or embark on new adventures, Okinawa Honto’s proximity to these smaller islands makes it the perfect launching point for unforgettable island-hopping trips.

Travel Tips for Okinawa Honto

To make the most of your trip to Okinawa Honto, a little planning goes a long way. Be mindful of the typhoon season, which typically runs from May to October, which is also the best weather to travel, ironically.

While the island’s modern design and infrastructure mean you’ll be well taken care of, it’s always wise to purchase travel insurance for peace of mind.

Renting a car is highly recommended, as it gives you the freedom to explore the island’s hidden gems at your own pace.

Lastly, don’t miss the chance to sample local produce, especially Okinawa’s famous sea grapes and other unique delicacie like taco ongiri and rice.

Exploring Nearby Islands & Attractions

One of the best things about staying on Okinawa Honto is how easy it is to explore the surrounding islands.

The Kerama Islands and Kume Islands are just a short ferry trip away, each offering their own slice of paradise with pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Whether you’re looking to relax on a quiet beach, discover incredible marine life, or embark on new adventures, Okinawa Honto’s proximity to these smaller islands makes it the perfect launching point for unforgettable island-hopping trips.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, deciding where you will stay in Okinawa isn’t just about picking a hotel, it’s about choosing the kind of trip you want to have. Do you want to be right in the action, walking distance from shops and street food? Or are you dreaming of long, lazy beach days and ocean views from your balcony?

No matter where your head lands, you’re in for something special.

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About me

Hey, nice to meet you, I’m Shannon Thomson and I am a Diploma Qualified Photographer and Social Media / Marketing graduate with a passion and love for Travel.

I have been lucky enough to be working in the field of Travel, and as a successful Social Media Manager, Content Creator and Blogger for the past 6 years. Throughout this time, I have been lucky enough to travel to some of the most sought out destinations around the world.

Within this Blog you will find all my best travel tips, guides and itineraries.

MY Top 5 favorite countries: Japan, China, Egypt, Tanzania, Philippines!