Are you looking for where to stay in Okinawa? You’ve come to the right place, here we’ll show you the best Okinawa hotels. If you’re thinking of visiting Japan and want to step off the typical Tokyo-Kyoto route, Okinawa is that destination that will surprise you. We began our Japan trip in 2025 with a journey to the country’s south, and it was one of the best decisions we made. Since we were coming from Taiwan, we took advantage of direct flights to Okinawa – super convenient and fast.
In this post, we’ll tell you where we stayed, give you accommodation tips for all budgets (from budget to luxury), and share some tricks to make the most of your stay. If you want to know more about this amazing island check out where Okinawa is located.
Table of Contents
You might be interested in these posts
Why Okinawa?
Okinawa has nothing to do with “traditional” Japan. Here you’ll breathe a tropical atmosphere, beaches that look like they’re from a postcard, and a culture with unique influences. From luxury resorts to small family hotels, there are options for all tastes. And trust me, you’ll want to choose carefully where you stay to make the most of everything.
If you’re still unsure, check out the Okinawa Official Tourism Guide or the super comprehensive article from Japan Guide – they’ll give you a general idea of what to expect.
Best Okinawa hotels
Okinawa’s main island has several areas with very different vibes, and this completely changes the experience for visitors. Naha is the gateway – practical, full of life, with shopping streets, markets and great transport links. Nago is more peaceful and surrounded by nature, perfect for beach days and relaxation. Onna is the classic from tourist postcards: amazing resorts, turquoise-blue sea and that serious vacation scenery. We chose to stay in more than one area, and we didn’t regret it – it allowed us to see different sides of the island and adapt the pace of our trip.
Naha – The starting point
Why stay in Naha?
Naha is the capital of Okinawa and, for many, the first contact with this subtropical archipelago. Here you’ll find a good mix of local culture, lively markets, great restaurants and easy access to the airport and transport to other parts of the island. It’s an excellent base for exploring the island, especially if it’s your first time in these parts.
Best hotels in Naha
- Budget: Guest House Grand Naha – Shared rooms, youthful atmosphere, perfect for backpackers.
- Mid-range: Little Island Hotel – We stayed two nights at this hotel. They’re modern apartments, well-equipped, ideal for those who like having a mini kitchen and some space. It’s about a 10-minute walk from downtown, which is great for resting away from the hustle but still close to everything. The staff is super friendly and they have laundry facilities available – perfect for those island-hopping.
- Luxury: Hyatt Regency Naha – Spacious rooms, outdoor pool and top-notch service.
Nago – Beach and nature paradise
Why stay in Nago?
Northern Okinawa is known for its green landscapes, wilder beaches and a more relaxed pace. Nago is an excellent base for those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature. It’s also a great place to stay in Okinawa for families, couples or travelers who want to relax away from the crowds.
Best hotels in Nago
Backpackers Guesthouse Border
Kanehide Kise Beach Palace
The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa
- Budget: Backpackers Guesthouse Border – Simple, clean and with super helpful staff.
- Mid-range: Kanehide Kise Beach Palace – We stayed three nights at this hotel. The hotel is located right on the beach, with a huge sandy area and crystal clear waters. Breakfast is buffet-style with great variety, and you always have chairs and umbrellas available. The hotel also organizes snorkeling tours and kayak rentals, which makes the experience even more special.
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa – A true luxury retreat with spa, golf course and breathtaking views.
Onna – Resorts and turquoise sea
Why stay in Onna?
If you really want to relax, Onna is the area of large resorts and the bluest waters we’ve ever seen. It’s the perfect place to stay in Okinawa to disconnect from the world and simply enjoy the best that Okinawa has to offer.
Best hotels in Onna
- Budget: Pension Moon Villa – Simple but clean rooms with good beach access.
- Mid-range: Rizzan Sea-Park Hotel Tancha Bay – Huge resort with multiple pools, restaurants and direct beach access.
- Luxury: Halekulani Okinawa – One of the most beautiful hotels on the island, perfect for a special occasion.
Other Islands to Consider
If you have time, it’s really worth exploring some nearby islands that could be the perfect place to stay in Okinawa:
- Kerama Islands (Tokashiki, Zamami, Aka): Paradise beaches, perfect for diving and snorkeling. Simple but charming accommodations.
- Kumejima: Escape the crowds and relax in peaceful guesthouses or resorts.
- Miyakojima: Luxury resorts and beachfront hotels. Ideal for beach vacations and diving.
- Ishigaki: Good hotel infrastructure, perfect for exploring the Yaeyama Islands. Book in advance, especially during peak season. This is where we went after Okinawa.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Okinawa
- Withdrawing money: Use 7-Eleven ATMs for international withdrawals with Mastercard – no ATM fees (we tested it ourselves!).
- Car rental: Book through Klook or Discovercars. It’s essential to explore the island at your own pace.
- Okinawa Aquarium: Buy your tickets online to skip the lines – it’s really worth visiting.
- Ferries to the islands: Book in advance! We actually saw fully booked days.
- Internet: Use an eSIM from Holafly for unlimited mobile data.
- Travel insurance: We recommend Heymondo – easy to use and covers everything you need.
- Food: Don’t miss the Okinawa soba and the sea salt ice cream from Blue Seal – absolute musts!
How to Choose the Ideal Hotel in Okinawa?
- Families: Look for hotels with pools and family rooms like Rizzan Sea-Park or Hotel Yugaf Inn.
- Couples: Luxury resorts in Onna or Miyako are perfect for romantic moments.
- Solo travelers or backpackers: Guesthouses and hostels in Naha or Nago are budget-friendly and have great vibes.
- Design lovers: Halekulani Okinawa or boutique hotels in Naha are safe bets.
Okinawa really is that destination that brings together the best of Japan with a tropical island vibe. Whatever your budget, there’s always a place to stay that fits you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Where to Stay in Okinawa
What is the best area to stay in Okinawa?
It depends on what you’re looking for! Naha is great if you want to explore the city and have easy access to transportation. Onna is ideal if you’re after resorts and stunning beaches. Nago offers a good mix of nature and peace.
Do you need to rent a car in Okinawa?
Yes, especially if you want to explore the main island properly. Public transport is limited outside Naha, and having a car gives you the freedom to visit beaches and more remote attractions.
Where are the best resorts in Okinawa?
The best resorts are in Onna and on the more remote islands like Miyakojima and Ishigaki. Halekulani Okinawa, for example, is one of the top picks for couples.
Are there budget-friendly places to stay in Okinawa?
Yes! In Naha and Nago you’ll find lots of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels that are clean, comfortable, and well located. Perfect for backpackers or anyone traveling on a budget.
How many days should you spend in Okinawa?
We recommend at least 5 to 7 days. That way, you can explore the main island at a relaxed pace and still hop over to one or two nearby islands like the Kerama or Miyako islands.
