Ishigaki & Yaeyama, Japan
    伊良部

    W-Achi

    Best months: Apr–Jun

    Protected Area

    伊良部

    Why dive here

    With 428+ marine species recorded in the area - including bull sharks, manta rays, mobula rays (devil rays), seahorses and sea turtles - W-Achi offers some of Ishigaki & Yaeyama's richest diving. Water ranges 23-30°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeApr–Jun
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBull Sharks, Manta Rays, Mobula Rays (Devil Rays), Seahorses and Sea Turtles · 428+ species recorded
    Water23-30°C · warmest July, August, September
    StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

    W-Achi, off Ishigaki, is one of those sites that just feels… different. It's not about big pelagics or dramatic drop-offs, though we've seen our share of reef sharks cruising by. What we really love here is the sheer density and variety of corals. You're descending into this vibrant, intricate cityscape of hard corals: massive tables of plate coral, delicate birdsnest structures, and thick stands of cauliflower coral pushing up against each other. It’s an almost overwhelming display of colour and texture. Keep an eye out for the smaller inhabitants too; the nudibranchs here are fantastic, often nestled amongst the sponges and branching corals. We’ve spotted countless cowries, little jewels tucked into crevices. This site is especially rewarding for photographers who appreciate macro life and the complex beauty of a healthy coral reef. We'd suggest going on a sunny day if you can; the light really brings out the fluorescence in some of the green and yellow corals, making the whole place glow. It’s a gentle dive, generally without strong currents, making it perfect for lingering and exploring every nook.

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for W-Achi

    W-Achi Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for W-Achi, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (24.6, 124.35) (10km away)

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    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    29°C

    84°F · Range: 27–30.4°C

    Air Temperature

    26°C

    79°F

    Wind Speed

    7.74 m/s

    15.0 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1013.6 hPa

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data

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