Perched on the northeastern tip of Kasari in Amami City, about a 5–10 minute drive from Amami Airport, Ayamaru Cape is ranked among the "Ten Scenic Views of Amami" and doubles as a beginner-friendly snorkel spot. A natural tide pool at the base of the cliff (roughly 30–50cm deep at low tide) is calm enough for kids and first-timers, while the gently sloping reef flat just beyond it, about 1–4m deep, brings colorful tropical fish and coral within easy reach. Visibility runs a clear 10–20m in the emerald water, with July temperatures around 26–29°C. As of July 2026 the free tourist park (parking, restrooms, café) is open as usual, but there's no on-site snorkel rental or resident guide, so bring your own gear or book a guided tour elsewhere on the island.
Cliff-top viewpoint and cycad jungle, one of the "Ten Scenic Views of Amami"
Natural tide pool (about 30–50cm deep) exposed at low tide — great for kids and beginners
Gently sloping coral flat just beyond the pool, alive with tropical fish
Only 5–10 minutes by car from Amami Airport
Seasonal open-air seawater pool, typically running July–August
Good to know
SafetyOutside the tide pool the seabed is rocky with coral and sea urchins — wear reef/water shoes and never stand on the coral.
SafetyFrom roughly June to October, Amami and Okinawa waters can have the highly venomous Habu jellyfish (a box jellyfish). Cover up with a rash guard or wetsuit and carry vinegar in case of a sting.
SafetySummer typhoons can whip up strong swells and rip currents around the cape — stay out of the water whenever a storm warning is in effect.
SafetyDon't snorkel alone; use a float/dive flag and stay inside any marked swim area, since small boats do pass offshore.
RulesThe cape sits within Amami Guntō National Park — taking any coral, living or dead, is prohibited and can carry penalties.
MannersKeep fins off the coral and stick to observing and photographing; reef-safe sunscreen is recommended to protect the reef.
SeasonBest season is roughly May–October, with July water around 26–29°C. The tide pool only appears at low tide, so check tide tables, and shade is scarce — bring sun protection.
Practical info
Ayamaru Cape is about a 5–10 minute drive from Amami Airport, most easily reached by rental car; the beach and parking beneath the park are free and open year-round. Opening hours, tide timing, and typhoon-related closures can change, so confirm current conditions with the official Amami tourism site or a local tour operator before you go.
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