Along the Coast at Cape Maeda

If Cape Maeda (Maeda Misaki) were in an American park, they would slap the name "multi-use area" on it. Whatever appellation you want to affix, though, it's a must-see when you're in Okinawa.

I told my mom this when she was here, and we were greeted with views like this one, which shows fairly well the wild shifts in sea color:

Maeda Misaki Dec 9 044

I meant to take mom snorkeling. I've been diving out here, and it's fantastic. You descend from a cliff face via a steep path, drop down onto a flat surface, put on your gear and step into the shallow water. There's a drop-off, but even when you step into the three-feet deep water, you're lmost immediately surrounded by fish.

Unfortunately for our snorkeling plans, currently there is construction on the ladder that leads to the access point:

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The tides were also surging -- evidently, experienced surfers will ride waves nearby, although that looked like a shot of fun chased with the taste of danger.

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All of this added up to no snorkeling -- or at least, a five minute drive to a nearby spot.

I said this was a multi-use area, though, and I meant it. Besides sightseers, snorkelers, divers and surfers, you get the occasional local taking a break from work in the cane fields nearby:

Maeda Misaki Dec 9 016

Plenty of fishermen come in search of sea bass and batfish. There must be some huge fish down there, because on of the men we saw was strapping himself in with a leather harness.

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The sea isn't the only attraction. The craggy rocks create a landscape for climbing or simple exploration, and even break at certain points into meadow and forest habitat.

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Whether you're resting against the cliffs fishing or looking for a snorkeling spot, it's not a bad way to spend a day. Now, when that construction's finished, we'll be in business.

Comments

[gini]

Well, I'm back is Oregon where it is 30 some degrees outside...not exactly the same winter weather as Okinawa. I'd like to say it's good to be back, and in some ways it is; the hounds are happy to see me, I have my own bed (although the futon was quite comfy, thank you Jeff). But winter should be just as it is in Okinawa...sunny most days, not too hot or humid and it would be very nice if I didn't have to work and could just hang out with my son!

But for now, I'll just have to keep on living through the blog and hope I have the chance to return.

Love you Jeff.

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