When Is the Best Time to Visit Okinawa? Weather and Climate by Month

*The data for each month's average high, average low, and average rainfall was taken from the Japan Meteorological Agency's 2023 records.

January

Average high: 20.3℃/68.54°F
Average low: 14.9℃/58.82°F
Average rainfall: 55 mm

Being on almost the same latitude as Hawaii, it’s no surprise that Okinawa weather remains warm even in the dead of winter. January is also one of the driest months on the island chain, so it’s a good time for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and scuba diving.

However, it can get windy, and sudden temperature drops are not unheard of, so you’ll need more than just a T-shirt to get by. We recommend a jacket, pants, and proper shoes, along with summer gear for when the sun shines. It’s a bit too cold for a long swim, but the sea can still be enjoyed in a wetsuit. January is also the peak time for whale watching!

Because of the warm weather, January is the start of the cherry blossom season in Okinawa, earlier than anywhere else in Japan, which you can celebrate at the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival and other locations. Another highlight is the New Year celebration at Shuri Castle Park, which features recreations of ceremonies dating back to when Okinawa was the Ryukyu Kingdom.

February

Average high: 21.6℃/70.88°F
Average low: 16.8℃/62.24°F
Average rainfall: 77.5 mm

Okinawa continues its “winter” in February, but you can’t exactly call it cold. Morning and night walks may require long-sleeve clothes and a light jacket, particularly if the breeze kicks up. Rain and wind-wise, February has pretty much the same weather as January.

February in Okinawa is another excellent month for cherry blossom viewing. Especially recommended is the Yaese Cherry Blossom Festival in late January to early February, where you’ll admire 500 cherry blossom trees both during the day and illuminated brilliantly at night!

March

Average high: 23.0℃/73.4°F
Average low: 17.6℃/63.68°F
Average rainfall: 81.5 mm

Okinawa weather will continue growing warmer as winter slips into spring from March. Rain can be unpredictable during this time, often hitting in short squalls, so a varied attire is recommended to avoid surprises. Still, March is the start of Okinawa’s swimming season for a number of beaches, so don’t forget your shirt, shorts, and swimming gear. The waters can still be a touch chilly, so a wetsuit may be a better fit for sensitive bodies.

In March, we recommend hitting up the picturesque Chura Sun Beach, a 700-meter-long stretch of pristine yellow sand near Naha Airport where you can enjoy snorkeling, banana boating, and mesmerizing sunsets. Nature lovers visiting Okinawa in March should also check out the Higashi Village Azalea Festival to admire a 50,000-flower spectacle of red, pink, purple, and white.

April

Average high: 25.4℃/77.72°F
Average low: 20.3℃/68.54°F
Average rainfall: 221 mm

April is an excellent month for sightseeing in Okinawaーit’s like early summer in Tokyo! You’ll be missing the rainy and typhoon season, making it a pretty sure bet for avoiding wild weather. Sunny days are common, and it’s definitely T-shirt weather (with maybe a long-sleeve top for chilly mornings.) But be sure to check the forecasts each day in case you’ll need rainwear, as wet days do occur.

Most beaches in Okinawa will be fully opened by April, although long swims might give you a chill. Early April is also the last chance for whale watching in Okinawa until they return in late December. Keep in mind that late April is the beginning of Japan’s Golden Week public holiday period, so expect crowds and prices to increase.

Those wanting to party should join the Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival, held in April on Ginowan Tropical Beach. This mesmerizing display combines fireworks with Okinawan music and food, and is the earliest summertime fireworks show in Japan. April is also when the dazzling deigo (erythrina variegata) begins to bloom, which is the prefectural flower of Okinawa.

May

Average high: 26.8℃/80.24°F
Average low: 22.3℃/72.14°F
Average rainfall: 100.5 mm

The first days of May in Okinawa are crowded because of Golden Week. The end of Golden Week also ushers in the rainy season, although cloudy days without rain and even sunshine is still not uncommon!

It’s difficult to predict just how wet the Okinawa weather in May will be. Some years have had enormous rainfalls of over 600 mm, while 2023 barely exceeded 100 mm, and 2018 had merely 33 mm. So, if you decide to book a trip in May, you’ll just have to take the Okinawa weather as it comes, and prepare itineraries and clothing for both good and bad days. Thankfully, rain in Okinawa doesn’t usually last the whole day, so you can still get outdoors even if the forecast is gloomy.

With daily temperatures often brushing against 30℃/86°F, you’ll definitely feel the heat and humidity. A lot of indoor spaces will be heavily air-conditioned, so if you’re sensitive to cold, make sure to also bring a button-up top or something to drape over your shoulders. Outside, it’s strictly summer wear with light, breathable clothing and raincoats on hand in case of sudden downpours.

Tip: Prepare yourself with our complete guide to Japan’s rainy season.

Be sure to catch the Naha Haarii held in May, where locals race against each other in dragon-shaped boats to give thanks to the sea and pray for bountiful hauls.

June

Average high: 29.7℃/85.46°F
Average low: 25.7℃/78.26°F
Average rainfall: 400.5 mm

June is when Okinawa's rainy season kicks into full gear, and those who missed the rain in May will not be so lucky in June. Rainfall, temperatures, and humidity are all high, so you’ll feel hot and sticky. Although the sun is often blocked by clouds, it does shine on occasion in June, so be sure to have a hat and sunglasses handy.

While days over 30℃/86°F are common in June, the ocean promises a refreshing swim while hosting activities like snorkeling and sea kayaking. The rainy season wraps up by the end of June, making it a better time to book a trip if you’re not keen on the rain. Although, as the humidity lightens, the heat ramps up. June is also before the summer holiday period in Japan, so it’s often less crowded.

Mid-June is the start of Eisa Night in Okinawa City, where you can watch street performances of traditional dances and other folk traditions after the sun goes down on weekends. However, June is typically the beginning of typhoon season in Okinawa, so activities may be unexpectedly canceled.

July

Average high: 32.8℃/91.04°F
Average low: 27.4℃/81.32°F
Average rainfall: 92 mm

By July, the rainy season should mostly be over as Okinawa enters peak summer. There’s typically not much rain, making it a popular month for the ultimate summer holiday. Temperatures regularly top 30℃/86°F, and will only drop to the mid-20s (around 77°F), so you’ll be spending most of your time by the beach or pool. However, a refreshing wind often keeps it from becoming unbearably hot like mainland Japan.

While July is busy, most Japanese people haven't begun their summer holidays early in the month, so crowds can be avoided with smart planning. Typhoons can approach or make landfall in Okinawa, so keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare alternative plans.

Being in the middle of summer, July is filled with all sorts of festivities, making it an excellent time to experience Okinawan culture and relish the joyous local spirit.

August

Average high: 31.4℃/88.52°F
Average low: 26.6℃/79.88°F
Average rainfall: 738.5 mm

The scorching summer heat will continue throughout August, so if a holiday by the beach or pool sounds like a dream, then August is for you. However, it’s also vacation time for Japanese travelers, as the summer “obon” holiday period falls in mid-August. If you’re planning to visit Okinawa in August, it’s best to book accommodation and flights as early as possible, or you risk missing out.

Typhoons are also common in Okinawa in August. Be sure to find a hotel with indoor entertainment in case you have to stay inside, and always keep an eye on the news.

The 10,000 Eisa Group performance is held on the first Sunday in August on Naha’s lively Kokusai Street. There are also many other eisa festivals throughout the month, like the Okinawa Zento Eisa Matsuri, which is Okinawa’s largest, so be sure to watch one when visiting Okinawa in August!

September

Average high: 31.8℃/89.24°F
Average low: 26.4℃/79.52°F
Average rainfall: 204.5 mm

Okinawa weather in September is still very warm, making beaches and resort pools the places to be. Unlike most of mainland Japan, which begins to cool down in September, it’s still 100% summer in Okinawa, and days topping 30℃/86°F are the norm, although it may start to get milder by the end of the month.

Unfortunately, typhoons still pose a threat in September, so always be up-to-date with the news before making plans. Heavy bouts of rain can hit the islands, and you may have to spend a day or two inside. If you decide to brave the rough weather, be sure to wear waterproof gear, as the rain itself is often cooler than in summer.

If you’re in Okinawa in September, we recommend the Ginowan Hagoromo Festival in Ginowan City. Spanning two days, the festival attracts about 150,000 visitors who come to enjoy fireworks, parades in colorful costumes, local food, and much more.

October

Average high: 28.8℃/83.84°F
Average low: 23.7℃/74.66°F
Average rainfall: 81.0 mm

October is when Okinawa weather starts to cool downーalthough temperatures will still get up to 30℃/86°F. Days are often sunny and rainfall low, making October an excellent time to get outdoors and snap photos of Okinawa’s gorgeous beaches. The ocean waters are still warm, so you can swim without feeling cold.

By the end of October, minimum temperatures will start dropping to the low 20s (around 73°F), and long-sleeve shirts and pants may be necessary for colder evenings. Typhoons can also approach Okinawa in October, so don’t let your guard down.

Shoppers should make time for the Okinawa Industrial Festival, where traditional crafts and food are sold in the biggest local products exhibition on the islands. October is also famous for the Naha Great Tug-of-War Festival, one of Okinawa’s biggest events, where around 15,000 participants fight over an enormous 200-meter-long rope. The 3-day event fills Naha with fun side events and a festive atmosphere!

November

Average high: 25.2℃/77.36°F
Average low: 20.1℃/68.18°F
Average rainfall: 56.5 mm

November continues the trend of falling temperatures, bringing down the maximum to the mid to low 20s (around 75°F). It’s a very comfortable range that many prefer to the sweltering heat of Okinawan summer. Along with light summer clothes, packing regular pants and long sleeves with a light jacket is recommended. While rare, there has also been the occasional typhoon in November, so it’s worth keeping an ear out for alerts just in case.

Beaches are still nice in November, and although the water and outside temperature may be too chilly for a long leisurely swim, snorkeling, diving, and other marine activities can be enjoyed with a wetsuit. It’s also a good time to venture out to some of Okinawa’s historical attractions, like Shuri Castle and the Katsuren Castle Ruins.

You may want to leave the jacket behind if you’re heading to the Okinawa International Carnival, where motorcycle parades, lively music, dancing, and throngs of partying people should keep things hot enough for any travelers wanting to experience the thrilling cosmopolitan vibe of Okinawa.

December

Average high: 22.2℃/71.96°F
Average low: 17.2℃/62.96°F
Average rainfall: 183 mm

Okinawa weather in December will again grow cooler, with temperatures often dropping down to the mid-teens (around 60°F). While not ideal for swimming, beaches can still be enjoyed, as can activities like scuba diving. December is also an excellent time to head inland to uncover Okinawa’s vast forests and mangroves, such as the Yambaru National Park or the Hija River. The lower temperatures also tempts one into Okinawa’s natural hot springs!

While still warm, strong ocean winds that often blow onto Okinawa can make it seem colder. Light clothing should suffice most of the time, but for early-morning or evening walks, you may want to stick on long pants and a sweater.

You won’t see any snow in December on Okinawa, but you can still get into the winter spirit by attending the Itoman Peaceful Illumination light-up event at the Kanko Noen (Tourist Farm) in Itoman.

Okinawa Weather FAQ

What Is the Best Month to Visit Okinawa?

Due to its warm climate, Okinawa can be enjoyed all throughout the year. The main thing to consider when planning a trip to Okinawa is whether you want to swim, in which case spring, summer, and autumn are the best times to visit Okinawa (from around April to October).

However, this period also includes Japan’s rainy season (early May to late June), and typhoons can approach anytime between May to November. This is unfortunately a risk you’ll have to take when visiting Okinawa in and around summer.

For a stronger chance at experiencing Okinawa without wild weather, then aim for one of the winter months (December to February). This is the tourist off-season and prices are cheaper, and many marine activities can still be enjoyed with a wetsuit.

Alternatively, catch the start of the beach season in March and April, which is still before the rainy and typhoon season. Of course, as with any tropical destination, the climate is fickle, so you’re never guaranteed a holiday without rain or strong winds.

Also to contend with in Okinawa are other tourists. Prices increase during peak Japanese holiday periods, and hotels, flights, and tours book out fast. Many Japanese travelers flock to Okinawa around Golden Week (late April to early May) and for the summer holiday season (July and August), so if you can’t find an alternative time, we suggest making reservations as soon as possible.

However, June is a fairly quiet time for tourism in Okinawa. While part of the rainy season, the wet weather tends to wrap up by the end of the month if not earlier, and once the sun comes out, it’ll be like the middle of summer. Outside of the Silver Week public holiday period in mid-September, autumn is likewise at the tail end of the busy season. Aside from the typhoon risk, autumn stays warm in Okinawa, promising summer vibes even when it’s already cold in mainland Japan.

How Hot Does Okinawa Weather Get?

July, August, and September are the hottest months in Okinawa, with average high temperatures of 32.8℃/91.04°F (July), 31.4℃/88.52°F (August), and 31.8℃/89.24°F (September) in 2023. While the temperature doesn’t cool down much overnight, Okinawa doesn’t tend to get unbearable days of over 35℃/95°F like mainland Japan.

How Cold Does Okinawa Weather Get?

Winter coats are not in demand on sub-tropical Okinawa, where the average low temperature in 2023 was 14.9°C/58.82°F for January, at the peak of winter. However, cool breezes may force you to put on a light jacket and long pants in and around the winter months.

When Is Typhoon Season in Okinawa?

Peak typhoon season in Okinawa usually starts in July and continues throughout August and September. During these three months, around 4-5 typhoons will head towards Okinawa, which will cause 1-3 days of powerful winds, heavy rain, and strong waves. Needless to say, it’s best to stay indoors during a typhoon.

It's also not uncommon for typhoons to approach Okinawa in June and October, and sometimes even May and November. The only way to guarantee a typhoon-free trip is by visiting Okinawa in winter (Dec-Feb) or early spring (March-April), although you’d be very unlucky to encounter one in May or November.

When Is Okinawa’s Rainy Season?

On average, the rainy season in Okinawa starts around May 10 and finishes June 21. This is almost an entire month earlier than Tokyo and other places on mainland Japan. However, even if you avoid the rainy season in Okinawa, you may still encounter rainfall. For example, August was actually the wettest month of the year in 2023.

Tip: Check out our guides to weather in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Hokkaido.

Get to Know Okinawa Weather Before Your Trip!

Okinawa is warm all year round, though depending on the time of year, high humidity, rain, or strong winds may put a damper on your holiday. When planning a trip to Okinawa, be sure to consult our guide and read the most up-to-date weather reports, and you should have the adventure of a lifetime!