Between January and March, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around the Kerama Islands to breed. The seas around Tokashiki offer some of the best whale watching in Japan — reliable sightings, calm conditions in the lee of the islands, and proximity to the whales that simply isn't possible from the mainland.
Boat trips run from Aharen Port and from Tokashiki Port. Day trips from Naha (operated by several companies out of Tomari Port) also pass through Kerama waters. The season peaks in February. Outside whale season, the same boats run diving and snorkelling excursions to offshore sites.