Reader’s Question: In mid-October, I plan to travel to Okinawa with two elementary school boys. We will have a full two days to play, so where do you recommend we go?
Exploring Okinawa with Kids: Adventures Await!
Hey there, fellow
travel lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that traveling with kids can be an adventure in itself, filled with giggles, eye-rolling, and of course, the occasional “Are we there yet?” moment. But guess what? Mid-October in Okinawa with two elementary school boys is going to be nothing short of amazing! Buckle up, because I’m about to share my two-day itinerary that’ll have you and the kiddos exploring the best of this beautiful island!
Day 1: Beach Adventures and Cultural Discoveries
Alright, let’s kick off our Okinawa adventure! First things first, you can’t go to Okinawa without hitting the beach. Seriously, the sun, the sand, and the sea are calling your name!
Start your morning at Naminoue Beach. It’s super convenient, located close to Naha, and perfect for those who want a quick beach escape. My boys absolutely loved the soft sand and shallow waters. We didn’t even need to pack snorkeling gear because the kids were more interested in splashing around and building the biggest sandcastle ever. By the way, if you’re a parent, you might want to pack a beach umbrella or a tent for some shade. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
After a couple of hours of playing in the waves, we were feeling a bit peckish. There are some food stalls nearby where you can grab quick and delicious local bites. Try the Okinawa soba—which is a must! It’s like a delicious hug in a bowl, especially after running around on the beach.
Now that our bellies were full, we decided to explore a bit of Okinawa’s rich culture. Our next stop was the Shurijo Castle. Let me tell you, this place is like stepping back in time. The boys were wide-eyed and curious, which made me so happy! The castle grounds are spacious, perfect for letting them roam a bit while I snapped pics. The vibrant red architecture is stunning, and the history behind it is fascinating.
But here’s the funny part: my boys found a random spot where they could pretend to be samurai. They grabbed some sticks and started sword fighting. I couldn’t help but laugh, but it was adorable to see their imaginations at work. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be a warrior in a castle?
Dinner Time!
After a day filled with sun and culture, we were ready for dinner. I highly recommend trying Goya Champuru, a local stir-fry dish. We found a casual izakaya (Japanese pub) that welcomed families. The vibe was relaxed, and the boys even got to try their hand at a little karaoke! I have to admit, I was utterly shocked by their enthusiasm. Who knew they could belt out Disney songs with such passion?
As the night wound down, I felt a little tired but incredibly happy. Day one? A complete success!
Day 2: Nature and Unique Experiences
Day two in Okinawa means more fun awaits! We decided to go for a bit of nature on this day, because let’s be real—kids and nature are a match made in heaven! So, we packed up and headed to Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium. I’d heard so much about it, and wow, it did not disappoint!
The aquarium is massive and has one of the largest tanks in the world. Watching my boys’ faces light up while they saw massive whale sharks and colorful tropical fish was priceless. We lingered at the viewing area for what felt like forever. I swear, they could’ve watched the fish swim all day long! And yes, we took a million photos. Every time I pulled out the camera, they struck goofy poses, and I couldn’t help but laugh.
After exploring the aquarium, we took a stroll through the Ocean Expo Park. There’s a lot to see here! The boys loved the dolphin show. Honestly, it was mind-blowing to watch those intelligent creatures perform tricks. I was worried they’d want to jump in the water and swim with them! (Note: Kids can be unpredictable!)
Lunch and a Little Bit of Adventure!
For lunch, we opted for a nearby café that had a great view of the ocean. The seafood was fresh, and they even had kid-friendly options like fried rice and pizza. My boys were thrilled, and so was I because it meant a moment of peace for me while they were happily munching away.
Post-lunch, we decided to get a bit adventurous. We drove to Cape Manzamo—a breathtaking cliffside spot. The view is absolutely Instagram-worthy, with the stunning ocean waves crashing against the rocks. I think the boys were more interested in running around and pretending to be explorers than actually taking in the scenery, but that’s okay! I captured a few family snaps—definitely one for the scrapbook!
Next, we headed to Yomitan Village to check out some pottery. There’s a place called Yomitan Pottery Village that offers workshops, and guess what? The kids can make their own pottery! It was such a unique experience, and the staff was incredible with the boys. Their little hands were covered in clay, and they were giggling the whole time. I even joined in, and we made some funky little bowls that I’m sure will be cherished (and probably used for snacks) in our home.
Final Dinner and Reflections
As the day came to an end, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at a local izakaya again. This time, we tried some delicious grilled meats and local Okinawa beer for the adults (not for the kiddos, of course!). The boys were thrilled to get dessert—an Okinawan sweet called binbōgami (a sweet potato dessert). It was a perfect sweet ending to our adventurous day!
Reflecting on our trip, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of nostalgia and joy. Watching my kids laugh, play, and experience new things in Okinawa was genuinely heartwarming. Every moment—from the beach to the aquarium, and even making pottery—felt so special. We created memories that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re thinking about spending a couple of days in Okinawa with your little ones, I wholeheartedly recommend this itinerary! It’s a blend of fun, culture, and adventure that keeps the kids engaged while allowing you to soak in the beauty of the island. Plus, the food is delicious, and the people are warm and welcoming!
Plan ahead, pack some sunscreen, and prepare for an unforgettable trip filled with laughter and adventure. Until next time, happy travels, friends!
