White Beach is situated on the main island in the Okinawa archipelago, the southernmost prefecture of Japan. The island is at the same latitude as Hawaii, and the climate is warm, even in winter. Because it is situated close to the Asian mainland, Okinawa has pronounced seasons, although the weather remains mild all year round.
The sea is too cold for bathing in winter, and this region can get typhoons from July to mid-November, although the season peaks in September.
This is the only recreational establishment of its kind inside the naval base. Above the beach, Snuggler's Cove Bluff includes eight cabins for rent. Only 50 m from the sea are 32 rental trailers that provide water and dual-burner gas stoves as well as bathrooms. Trailers and cottages include air conditioning, TVs and DVD players. Reservations can be made via email or over the phone (numbers are internal to the base). In addition, camping spots include tents for rent.
The main activity in White Beach/Snuggler's Cove is bathing in the sea. Other activities include minigolf and working out in the fitness center. A small marina offers sailboats and windsurfing gear, and tourists go jet-skiing and wakeboarding. Beach sandals or shoes are recommended, as the beach is strewn with coral and sea glass. Each Veterans Day, the U.S. Navy organizes a music festival.
The location is family-friendly, with shallow water and no riptide. At low tide, marine life is evident, such as various kinds of crabs. A playground is located next to the beach, and families can use a free pool near the cabins. However, the beach is reached via steep stairs from the cabins, which is a fairly long climb, especially for young children.
Several dining choices are located near the facility, including a restaurant, with limited hours, in the Ocean Cliff Club. Places also serve pizza, submarines sandwiches and hamburgers. A small convenience store with daily necessities is open most hours. For barbecuing, several fire pits are available.
The White Beach/Snuggler's Cove recreational area is situated inside White Beach naval base on the tip of the Katsuren peninsula on the eastern side of the Okinawa island. This is on the other side of the island from the Kadena air force base and Naha city, about 30 minutes drive, in what used to be Okinawa countryside.
