Hateruma Island
Hateruma: exceptional clarity, diverse marine life, pristine sandscapes.
Boat Access
9m Avg Depth
18m Max Depth
About this dive site
This dive site at Hateruma Island offers exceptional clarity, often exceeding 50 meters, allowing for breathtaking views of the pristine pure white sand and beautiful blue sea. Located south of Iriomote Island, it is accessible by ferry from Ishigaki or Iriomote, with all dives conducted via boat. The northwest shore features extensive sandy points, while the east shore boasts dramatic drop-offs, providing diverse underwater environments for exploration. The island itself is undeveloped, ensuring a serene and natural diving experience.
The marine life at Hateruma Island is remarkably diverse and abundant. Divers can expect to see a high density of small fish around the sandy coral areas, along with unique species such as kelpfish, flying fish, and seahorses. The drop-off points on the east shore are frequented by large migratory fish, including bluefin tuna and yellowfin tuna. The site is also home to various sharks, notably white and red hammerhead sharks, as well as a rich assortment of rays like eagle rays, cod rays, and stingrays.
Visiting Hateruma Island promises an unforgettable experience, primarily due to its world-class visibility and the contrast between the vibrant marine life and the pure white sandy seabed. The diverse topography caters to all diving interests, from macro photography in the sandy coral areas to wide-angle opportunities with pelagic species along the drop-offs. Both freedivers and snorkelers will find the high clarity, shallow average depths, and rich marine ecosystem highly rewarding, making it an excellent destination for underwater enthusiasts of all levels.
DivingFreedivingSnorkeling
Plan Your Visit
coral reefwall divesharkraywide anglebeginner friendlyall levelsmacro photographypelagicdrift dive
Things to Note
Difficulty:
All levels
Shallow average depth, high clarity, and diverse topography from sandy plains to drop-offs accommodate all skill levels.
Hazards:
strong currentsboat traffic
Current Strength:
Variable
This dive site information and pictures are sponsored by SSI Service Center Japan
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