Yoshino Beach, on the east coast of Miyako Island, is the island's premier snorkelling spot. The fringing reef starts just metres from shore and the water over it is rarely more than two or three metres deep — ideal for snorkelling without a guide or boat. Giant clams, moorish idols, humphead parrotfish, and sea turtles are all regulars. Visibility on a calm day can exceed 30 metres.
The beach itself is narrower and rockier than Yonaha Maehama, and there are no facilities to speak of — a small parking area and nothing else. Bring your own equipment if you can; rentals are available in Hirara town. Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the tour-group rush, and check the wind before you go — the reef is exposed to the east and can be choppy when the trades are strong.