Miyako Island: Beach SUP & Pumpkin Limestone Caving & Canoe

Miyako Island, a tropical gem in Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, beckons adventurers to experience its natural wonders. This 6-hour guided tour offers a thrilling blend of activities, from stand-up paddleboarding along the pristine coastline to exploring the captivating Pumpkin Limestone Cave. With small group sizes and bilingual guidance, participants can enjoy the island’s vibrant marine life and unique landscapes, all while savoring authentic local cuisine. The stage is set for an unforgettable journey into Miyako’s remarkable beauty.

Key Points

• A 6-hour adventure on Miyako Island, including beach stand-up paddleboarding, Pumpkin Limestone Cave exploration, and canoeing, catering to a small group of up to 9 participants.

• Kayaking excursion through crystal-clear waters, allowing for close observation of local marine life and stunning vistas of Miyako Island.

• Exploration of the unique Pumpkin Limestone Cave, accessible only by boat, with opportunities for climbing and jumping, requiring wetsuits for safety.

• Opportunity to sample authentic local Okinawan cuisine, including traditional dishes like Goya Champuru and Soki Soba, as well as local specialties.

• Participant requirements and restrictions, such as minimum age, weight limit, and prohibited items, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

Visitors to Miyako Island can embark on a 6-hour adventure that encompasses beach stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), exploring the Pumpkin Limestone Cave, and canoeing, all within a small group limited to 9 participants.

A live tour guide is available in both Japanese and English. At $98.36 per person, the experience includes all necessary equipment, wetsuit (in winter), liability insurance, hotel pickup and drop-off, and an optional lunch at a local restaurant.

Participants must be at least 7 years old, under 220 lbs, and comfortable with water activities and some climbing and jumping.

Kayaking on the Beautiful Ocean

After exploring the Pumpkin Limestone Cave, you will have the chance to experience the serene beauty of the ocean through a kayaking excursion.

The group will paddle through the crystal-clear waters, admiring the stunning vistas of Miyako Island from a unique perspective.

The kayaking portion of the tour offers:

• A chance to observe local marine life up close
• Opportunities to take in the island’s natural landscapes
• A peaceful and relaxing outdoor experience

This portion of the tour allows visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Miyako Island.

Exploring the Pumpkin Limestone Cave

One of the highlights of the Miyako Island tour is the opportunity to explore the Pumpkin Limestone Cave. Accessible only by boat, the cave features unique limestone formations and the chance to climb and jump into the ocean.

Participants will don wetsuits, especially in the winter months, and head into the cave’s interior. Inside, they’ll discover the cave’s pumpkin-like shape and colorful rock walls.

With a limited group size of 9, the caving activity provides an intimate and adventurous experience. Caution is advised, as the cave isn’t suitable for young children, the elderly, or those with mobility issues.

Sampling the Local Cuisine

Participants get to enjoy authentic local cuisine at a recommended restaurant during the lunch break on this Miyako Island tour. The restaurant serves cash-only meals, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s culinary culture.

The tour includes:

• Sampling traditional Okinawan dishes, like Goya Champuru (stir-fried bitter melon) and Soki Soba (pork rib ramen)
• Trying local specialties, such as Umibudo (sea grapes) and Mozuku (edible seaweed)
• Experiencing the flavors and ingredients unique to the Miyako region

This culinary interlude provides a chance to refuel and recharge before continuing the adventurous outdoor activities on the island.

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Gear and Equipment

Although the activities on Miyako Island are adventurous, the necessary gear and equipment are provided to ensure participant safety and comfort. During the experience, visitors are outfitted with the appropriate attire and accessories, including:

Item	Description	Included
Wetsuit	Worn in winter months for thermal protection	✓
Life Jacket	Mandatory for all water-based activities	✓
Helmet	Worn during caving for head protection	✓
Gloves	Provided to enhance grip and traction	✓

All equipment is well-maintained and inspected for each tour to guarantee a safe and enjoyable excursion on Miyako Island.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

The Miyako Island activity experience has certain participant requirements and restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.

The tour isn’t suitable for:

• Children under 7 years
• People with mobility impairments
• Those afraid of heights
• Individuals over 60 years
• Those over 220 lbs (100 kg)

Plus, guests are prohibited from wearing jeans, carrying weapons, sharp objects, cameras, or alcohol and drugs.

Skirts are also not allowed. Participants must bring swimwear, a towel, and cash for lunch.

Photography is only permitted at the entrance of the limestone cave.

Meeting Point and Tour Schedule

Where does the tour begin? The meeting point details will be provided to participants the day before the tour.

Adventurers must follow the instructions carefully to find the designated starting location. The tour operates rain or shine, and tide conditions may affect the timing.

Participants should arrive on time, as the group will depart promptly. The activity lasts approximately 6 hours, from morning to afternoon.

Flexibility is available for starting times, so participants can check the schedule and availability. The tour is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience on Miyako Island.

Additional Important Information

Certain items and behaviors are strictly prohibited on the tour, including jeans, weapons, sharp objects, cameras, alcohol, drugs, and skirts.

Follow all instructions regarding the meeting point, which are provided the day before the tour. Participants should be prepared for the weather, as the tour operates rain or shine, though tide conditions may affect the timing.

Additionally:

• Only the entrance of the limestone cave can be photographed.
• Guests over 60 years, over 220 lbs (100 kg), with mobility impairments, or afraid of heights aren’t suitable for this activity.
• The tour includes liability insurance, but participants should review coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Activity?

The maximum group size for this activity is limited to 9 participants. The experience overview states that the group size is "Limited to 9 participants."

Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements for Participants?

There are physical fitness requirements for participants – the activity is not suitable for children under 7, people with mobility issues, those afraid of heights, individuals over 60, or those over 220 lbs (100 kg).

Can We Take Photos Inside the Limestone Cave?

Photos can only be taken at the entrance of the limestone cave, as photography is not allowed inside. The tour has restrictions on what participants can bring, including no cameras or other items that could interfere with the caving experience.

Is It Possible to Change the Start Time of the Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to change the start time of the tour. The booking information states that you can "Check availability for starting times," allowing for flexibility in scheduling.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the activity information, participants are not permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes lunch and drinks that can be purchased, but outside food and beverages are not allowed.

The Sum Up

Miyako Island’s breathtaking natural wonders, from the crystal-clear waters to the stunning Pumpkin Limestone Cave, create an unforgettable adventure. Participants can enjoy the island’s vibrant marine life and unique landscapes while enjoying authentic local cuisine. This small-group experience, guided in both English and Japanese, offers an intimate exploration of Miyako Island’s treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: