Kanucha Bay Hotel and Villas

Getting around the property by golf cart was easy and family friendly. There were plenty of dining options on site, plus activities nearby. Our room was spacious with stunning views, and every staff member we met was friendly and helpful. The service was amazing.

The sunrise over the beach from our Abian Beachside Cottage was a beautiful way to start the day. We spent a weekend at Kanucha Resort in northern Okinawa, and there was enough to keep all of us busy. The resort has something for a special occasion or just a little escape, and we're already talking about returning. Our last meal was at the BBQ Terrace Kuuwa Kuuwa, with Japanese Wagyu beef, Australian lamb chops, Yanbaru chicken, and Agu pork (Agu pork). Lana made us feel right at home. Earlier, dinner at Paradis was another highlight. They had steak, shabu-shabu, taco rice, and salads. Cheryl is vegetarian, and the staff kindly prepared pumpkin soup and veggie pizza (vegetable pizza, yasai piza) for her. The Thai massages (Thai massage) were great, especially Kato's. We changed into special pajamas and left feeling refreshed, with hot tea afterwards. Before our final dinner, we tried the go-kart track. The carts were fast, the staff were great, and the safety measures were all there. It felt like a mini NASCAR ride, and we had a lot of fun. We also went parasailing over the ocean, which was unforgettable, and spent time at the LUPiNUS wellness and amusement lounge playing darts, billiards, and golf simulator, with snacks to keep us going. Cheryl and Teagan had fun in the arcade, especially at the claw machines, where Cheryl won Shisa squeaky toys (shisa). We took some good memories home from the photo booth with Teagan. We were welcomed at check-in and started with dinner at Chinese restaurant Ryukyu, where the food was warm and the hospitality even warmer. The resort had lovely views and friendly staff throughout our stay.

The beach play area was a letdown. We arrived an hour before closing, but they still planned to charge the full day rate for a pass that was nearly over. That kept this from being a five-star stay. Kanucha feels like a hidden gem, partly because it's so far from Naha and Chatan. It's a great hotel with loads of activities and so much space. I don't think I'd get tired of staying there.

The North Wing room was spacious, with two beds, a day bed, and a tatami area with futons. The veranda jacuzzi overlooking the ocean was magnificent, and getting around in the provided golf carts was convenient. Our first family visit was a lot of fun, with a welcoming atmosphere and very friendly staff. The food options were so-so, which is why I'd rate it four stars rather than five. There were still plenty of things to enjoy.