Exploring Southern Okinawa by Rental Car: Stunning Photo Spots at Chinen Misaki Park

Chinen Misaki Park

If you want to take in panoramic views of the endless Pacific Ocean, Chinen Misaki Park is a must-visit. Walking along the paths while feeling the refreshing sea breeze and gazing at the blue waters is truly healing. Nearby, you’ll also find the Nirai Kanai Bridge, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sefa Utaki, and other famous attractions, making it the perfect course to explore together.

Chinen Misaki Park

Getting to Chinen Misaki Park

Chinen Misaki Park is a seaside park located in Kudeken, Chinen, Nanjo City, at the southeastern tip of Okinawa. Sitting on a peninsula that juts out into the ocean, it offers sweeping views and a breathtaking coastline.

    • About 50 minutes by car from Naha Airport
    • Free parking at the park entrance (about 100 spaces)
    • Open year-round, hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

The Charm of Chinen Misaki Park

Compared to popular tourist spots like Cape Manzamo, Busena Marine Park, or Ocean Expo Park, Chinen Misaki Park has a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. It’s not crowded, making it especially ideal for those who want to enjoy Okinawa’s emerald-green sea in tranquility. If you’re looking for a place to relax and find peace while gazing out at the ocean, this park is highly recommended.

Chinen Misaki Park

A Scenic Park Full of Highlights

Located on a cape (misaki, 岬), Chinen Misaki Park offers a dramatic view of the Pacific from atop its cliffs. It’s not just a viewpoint but also a famous spot to watch both sunrise and sunset. The ever-changing scenery, from the deep blue ocean to the fiery-red sky, captivates all who visit.

Chinen Misaki Park

A New Year’s Sunrise Spot

Every New Year’s Day, many people gather at Chinen Misaki Park to witness the majestic sunrise rising over Kudaka Island, also known as the “Island of the Gods.” In this region, the Nirai Kanai Bridge and Azama Sun Sun Beach are also known sunrise spots, making it a popular area for New Year’s trips. Each location offers a slightly different view, and many visitors enjoy comparing them.

Healing Moments at Chinen Misaki Park

The moment you step out of your car, the vast Pacific fills your entire view. Just staring at the endless horizon can lift the weight off your heart. Inside the park, you’ll find a red-tiled pavilion and well-maintained walking paths. A simple stroll here, with the fresh ocean breeze, is healing in itself.

Nearby attractions like Nirai Kanai Bridge and Sefa Utaki are also easily accessible by rental car, making it a convenient and rewarding trip.

Best Photo Spots for Your “Insta-Worthy” Shot

Chinen Misaki Park is full of photo spots where anyone can capture an unforgettable shot. The traditional red-tiled pavilion and heart-shaped decorations make perfect backdrops for atmospheric photos.

    • First Photo Spot: Capture the pavilion, the bridge, and the ocean all in one frame. The pavilion, located next to the parking lot, is built in traditional Okinawan style. In front of it, a bridge stretches out toward the cape, with the vast Pacific as the backdrop. For the best shot, place the pavilion on the left side of your photo, with the bridge and sea filling the frame for that exotic Okinawan vibe.
    • Second Photo Spot: The ocean-view pavilion on the cliff in front of the park. Standing near the monument, you’ll see coral reefs and cobalt-blue waters spread out beneath your feet—perfect for a cinematic panorama shot. On sunny days, the ocean sparkles so vividly you won’t need any filters or edits.

Chinen Misaki Park

Activities at Chinen Misaki Park

Chinen Misaki Park isn’t just about scenic views—it’s also a hub for marine activities. At the park’s Marine Leisure Center, you can try banana boating, jet skiing, snorkeling, or even beginner scuba diving. It’s a fun and easy way to enjoy Okinawa’s waters.

Boat tours to the uninhabited islands of Komaka-jima and Ukabi-jima are also available. Cruising over the crystal-clear waters to explore these untouched islands feels like stepping into a world where time has stopped.

For Something Extra Special: Motor Paragliding

If you’re looking for a more thrilling adventure, try motor paragliding! With a professional pilot, you’ll soar for about 10 minutes above Okinawa’s southern coastline. From 200 meters up, the panoramic views are beyond words—emerald waters, coral reefs, and even the distant Kerama Islands on clear days.

Chinen Misaki Park

Food Trucks and Barbecue Fun

Inside the park, you’ll also find food trucks selling light snacks and drinks. If you have more time, try a barbecue on the lawn while overlooking the ocean. Order a BBQ set, and you can grill and enjoy your meal right in front of the stunning scenery—an experience that makes your trip even more memorable.

Chinen Misaki Park

Chinen Misaki Park: A Highlight of Southern Okinawa Road Trips

If you’re traveling by rental car in southern Okinawa, Chinen Misaki Park is a must-visit scenic spot. Here you can enjoy sweeping 360° views of the Pacific from three directions, making it one of the best places for breathtaking photos.

The spacious walking paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, snapping pictures, or enjoying a picnic with family or a loved one. With the variety of activities available, it’s also a fun destination for active travelers.

Located in Nanjo City, one of southern Okinawa’s main hubs, the park is easy to combine with nearby attractions, making your rental car trip even more efficient. Chinen Misaki Park is a destination that’s beautiful on its own, but when combined with nearby highlights, it becomes one of the most satisfying stops of any Okinawa trip.

 

Okinawa Whale Watching Tour | Best Season: January to April