Odo Beach (John Man Beach)
大度浜海岸（ジョン万ビーチ）26°05′ N 127°43′ ETidepool
Odo Beach, which locals also call John Man Beach, is a natural reef coast in southeastern Itoman known for low-tide rock pools and diving, and it has no facilities, nets or lifeguards.
Itoman's tourism office describes Odo as a natural coast where the reef drains at low tide into pools full of life, and as one of Okinawa's well-known dive spots. The other name comes from John Manjiro, a Tosa fisherman shipwrecked as a boy and carried to America by a whaler, who came ashore here in 1851 on his way home to Japan during the years of national seclusion. Sea turtles nest on the sand from early summer.
This is a place for people who know the sea or who come with a guide. Itoman lists no facilities, and the city's own page carries a warning about dangerous spots on its natural coasts. Pair it with Peace Memorial Park just to the east.
Before you swim
- Habu-kurage box jellyfish appear from May to October; Okinawa nets many swimming beaches from June to October against them, and vinegar poured on a sting before removing tentacles is the standard first aid.
- This is an unmanaged natural coast with no nets or lifeguards; Itoman warns that its natural spots have dangerous places and asks that children never go alone.
- Reef walking is a low-tide activity; watch the tide coming back in over the flats.
- Sea turtles come ashore to nest from early summer; keep away from nesting areas.
December to March
This shore faces south, so the winter north wind comes off the land behind it. Go with a guide or a dive shop and plan around the tide.
Snorkelling
Entry Across the reef flat from the beach
Itoman describes reef pools for watching sea life at low tide.
Diving
Itoman calls the coast one of the prefecture's well-known dive spots.
Dive with a local shop.
Our ratings
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
- Sunset
- Quiet
- Families
- Scenery
Worth knowing
- Check the tide table and go out on a falling tide.
- Wear reef shoes; the rock is sharp.
FAQ
Quick answers about Odo Beach (John Man Beach)よくある質問
Can you swim at Odo Beach?
Odo Beach is a natural coast with no swimming area, nets or lifeguards. Itoman promotes it for low-tide reef walks and diving.
Why is Odo Beach called John Man Beach?
Odo Beach takes the name John Man Beach from John Manjiro, who came ashore here in 1851 on his way back to Japan from America.
Is Odo Beach (John Man Beach) worth visiting in winter?
This shore faces south, so the winter north wind comes off the land behind it. Go with a guide or a dive shop and plan around the tide.
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