Okinawa · With kids

Whale sharks and manta rays in the Kuroshio tank at Motobu, two hours north of Naha. Entry drops after four in the afternoon. Any age.

A groomed, roped, lifeguarded swimming beach in the same park as the aquarium, with shallow water and shade. Swimming season runs roughly April to October.

A walk-through aviary near Nago where flamingos and pelicans wander the path, plus a small train round the grounds. Good for ages three to nine.

Snorkel operators run guided trips into a lit sea cave from Onna. Wetsuits and buoyancy vests provided; most take children from about age six.

Hire cars legally require child seats — book them with the car. Typhoon season peaks August to September, when ferries and flights simply stop.