Zamami-jima

An island paradise with wonderful beaches, snorkelling, diving, and sea kayaking, on Zamami-jima, late January through March is prime whale-watching season, and during those months you can join two-hour boat tours for ¥5,000. From land, the north shore gives you the best chance of seeing whale tails and fin-slapping humpback antics—bring your best binoculars. Other whale-watching tours that leave from the main island of Okinawa include Marine House Seasir (from Naha Port) and Okinawa Island Crew (from Motobu Port).