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Busena Marine Park is a family-friendly way to enjoy Okinawa’s coral reefs and tropical fish with no swimming required.
Stay Dry and Explore the Sea
Located on the northern coast of Okinawa’s main island, Busena Marine Park lets visitors view the underwater world in two unique ways: a glass-bottom boat and a 360-degree underwater observatory. It’s one of the few places in Okinawa where you can see coral reefs, fish, and sea creatures up close while staying completely dry.
What to Expect at Busena Marine Park
Ride the Glass-Bottom Boat
We boarded our boat in the late afternoon, just in time for one of the last rides before rising winds paused operations for the day. The captain tossed fish food into the sea, and within seconds, schools of parrotfish, butterflyfish, and sergeant majors swarmed under the glass.
From our seats near the front, we had a clear view of the sandy seabed, living coral, and even a few sea snakes gliding past. Morning tours tend to have calmer seas and better visibility.
Visit the Underwater Observatory
After the boat ride, we followed the 170-meter jetty out to the dome-shaped observatory. Inside, a spiral staircase leads down to 24 viewing windows set below sea level. It felt like stepping into a quiet underwater world, no noise, no waves, just fish floating past natural coral right outside the glass.
Our kids were completely mesmerized as some fish swam right up to the windows, almost close enough to touch.
Tips for Visiting Busena Marine Park
- Check the weather: Boat rides are canceled during rough seas. Visit the park’s official website for updates.
- Strollers: Not allowed inside the observatory, but staff will store them for you near the entrance.
- Plan your time: We spent about two hours exploring both attractions without rushing.
How to Get to Busena Marine Park
Bus
- Look for express bus services such as the Yanbaru Express Bus or take local bus route 120 (Nago Nishi Airport Line). Get off at the Busena Resort-mae (ブセナリゾート前) bus stop.
- Total travel time: About 2-2.5 hours from central Naha.
Car
- Take the Okinawa Expressway north from Naha. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes one-way, depending on traffic. The distance is about 60 km.
Pro Tip: For the most flexibility and to explore other nearby attractions, renting a car is highly recommended in northern Okinawa.
Is Busena Marine Park Worth Visiting?
Busena Marine Park is a fantastic choice if you want to experience Okinawa’s marine life without snorkeling or diving.
We loved how easy and stress-free it was, especially with kids along. It’s also perfect for rainy days or cooler months when the ocean might be too chilly for swimming.
More to Explore Nearby
After taking in the coral views from Busena Marine Park’s underwater observatory, explore more of Okinawa’s natural beauty and local culture.
- Orion Happy Park – Tour the brewery of Okinawa’s iconic Orion Beer brand, sample fresh pours, and learn about the island’s craft beer history.
- Yomitan Pottery Village – Stroll through this quiet hilltop village of working ceramic studios and meet local artisans creating traditional Okinawan pottery.
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium – One of the largest aquariums in Japan, home to massive whale sharks, manta rays, and immersive sea life exhibits.
- Ryukyu Mura – Step back into Okinawa’s past with folk performances, traditional workshops, and a recreated village from the Ryukyu Kingdom.
