Access the best coral reef on Tanegashima! From the parking area, walk north and go to the neighboring beach. From there, swim around the point and you are at the southern end of a large coral reef. The reef gets better as you go north and there are several deserted beaches there. One beach (we call "Tranquility Bay") is very calm as it is protected by large rock formations. The best corals are just north of that area. Coral coverage is 99% and pristine in some areas. Most damage is due to typhoon so the inner reef is quite nice. Almost no agriculture along this stretch of Tanegashima is what allows the reef to flourish. There are other patches of reef around the island but fertilizer runoff wiped out most of the corals. Watch the weather as winds from the east will stir up the sand and cut underwater visibility to zilch. Access is easier at low tide (you can walk more easily to the neighboring beach). Currents are negligible if the waters are calm, but recommended for the well experienced. Nearest town is Injo which is at the northern end of the reef. Access can also start from Injo, but it's more difficult. Bring an underwater camera! Note - there are some tour companies on Tanegashima who have sea kayak tours of the southern pat of the reef. You might want to go as a kayak tour if your time is limited. Also, few places to stay in Nakatane, so you might think to stay in Nishinoomote. And a rental car is a must unless you want to taxi it or walk. The island is totally doable with a backpacker bicycle. The ocean is fairly warm year round but comfortable swimming is best from May to November. Watch out for jellyfish...
Read more
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AI.
