Cape Hedo Air Dome

About this dive site

The dive at Cape Hedo Dome is not about coral reefs, but about dramatic geology and ethereal light. After descending into the deep blue, you will be guided to a wide opening in a rock wall that leads into a vast underwater cavern. The true magic begins as you slowly ascend inside, watching brilliant beams of sunlight pierce the darkness from the entrance below, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of "God's rays." The highlight is surfacing inside a hidden air chamber where you can remove your regulator, breathe the cavern air, and admire the ancient stalactites hanging from the ceiling—a surreal and unforgettable experience.

This is a challenging and advanced dive that demands excellent skills and respect for the environment. A minimum certification of Advanced Open Water is required, and flawless buoyancy control is non-negotiable to navigate the overhead environment without disturbing sediment. The entrance to the dome is located at a depth of around 18-20 meters (60-65 feet), with the overall dive profile potentially reaching 30 meters (100 feet) or more on the outer wall. Access is by boat only, and the site can be subject to strong, unpredictable currents, meaning it can only be dived in calm conditions.

To make the most of this adventure, plan your trip during the summer or early autumn when sea conditions are typically calmest. It is essential to book with an experienced, reputable dive operator based in northern Okinawa who has intimate knowledge of the site's specific conditions and safety procedures. Due to its remote location at Okinawa's northernmost tip, consider staying in the Nago or Kunigami area to shorten your travel time on the day of the dive. Finally, be sure to bring an underwater camera or GoPro to capture the breathtaking light rays, but pay closest attention to your guide's briefing, as it is key to a safe and rewarding exploration.