Okinawa Resorts: Onna West Coast vs Naha
Okinawa's premier beach resort area is the Onna Coast on the East China Sea side of the main island, while Naha is the city base for trips without a car. Chatan, on the central-western coast, sits in between with shopping around Mihama.
Areas at a glance
Onna (west coast)
The Onna Coast runs nearly 30 km from Yomitan to Nago along the East China Sea and is Okinawa's premier resort destination, with seaside resort hotels and the clifftop views of Cape Manzamo.
Chatan (Mihama)
Central Okinawa; Mihama and Sunabe are popular for shopping and recreation.
Naha
The prefectural capital, with Kokusai Street, a 1.6 km stretch of shops, restaurants and bars. The Yui Rail monorail runs from Naha Airport through the city.
Getting there
Naha Airport Station on the Yui Rail monorail is reached from the domestic terminal's 2F. The monorail runs from Naha Airport to Urasoe, so west-coast resorts are reached by rental car, bus or hotel transfer: about one hour by car or 75 minutes by bus from the airport to Onna.
Good for
- Families
- Drive-and-beach trips
- Short-haul resort holidays
- City stays in Naha without a car
Watch out for
- There is no rail to Onna; plan a rental car or bus.
- The rainy season is typically mid-May to late June, and typhoons are possible from June to September.
Booking tips
- If you will not drive, stay in Naha near a Yui Rail station.
- Split nights between Naha and a west-coast resort to reduce daily driving.
FAQ
Can I reach Onna resorts without a car?
Yes, by bus (about 75 minutes from the airport) or hotel transfer, but there is no rail line; the monorail runs only from Naha Airport to Urasoe.
Naha or Onna?
Naha for city access without a car, Onna for beach resorts.