On the west coast of Taketomi Island, Kondoi Beach is the island's only officially swimmable beach, known for its gently sloping white sand and shallow, emerald-clear water. Coral right off the shore is sparse, so most visitors pair a beach session with a boat tour out to nearby reef points to properly see sea turtles, coral gardens, and reef fish. Depth runs about 0.5-2m at the shore and 3-6m at the boat points, with 10-20m visibility and water around 26-29°C in July - prime snorkeling conditions. As of July 2026, box jellyfish advisories remain in effect through summer, so basic precautions still apply.
Gently sloping, shallow white-sand beach with vivid emerald water - ideal for beginners and families to practice snorkeling
The only beach on Taketomi Island where swimming is officially permitted (other beaches have dangerous currents)
Boat-based snorkel tours to nearby reef points for sea turtles and coral gardens
Right next to Hoshizuna-no-Hama (Star Sand Beach), a popular combined stop
Warm 26-29°C water and 10-20m visibility during the summer season
Good to know
SafetyMost of Taketomi's coastline is off-limits for swimming due to strong currents - Kondoi is the designated safe zone. Stay inside the marked area; drifting past it risks being pulled offshore by rip currents.
SafetyOkinawa issues box jellyfish (habu kurage) advisories roughly June through September; stings can cause severe pain or shock. Snorkel only inside the jellyfish-net enclosure, wear a rash guard to limit skin exposure, and it's worth carrying vinegar just in case.
SafetySea urchins and stonefish-type creatures live among the reef rocks nearby - wear reef/aqua shoes rather than going barefoot to avoid punctures.
SafetyOffshore boat points can be deeper and have stronger currents than the beach itself - go with a licensed guide rather than snorkeling there solo.
RulesThese waters fall within marine park districts of Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, where touching, standing on, or collecting coral is prohibited.
MannersKeep a respectful distance from sea turtles and other marine life; don't touch, chase, or feed them.
SeasonBest season is April-October. At low tide the water recedes a long way out, so it's worth checking tide times before you go.
Practical info
A high-speed ferry from Ishigaki Port takes roughly 10-15 minutes to Taketomi's East Port, from which Kondoi Beach is about a 15-minute bike ride (roughly 40 minutes on foot). Gear rental availability, tour pricing, and boat schedules vary by season and operator, so confirm current details before you go.
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