Villabu Resort: Okinawa’s First All-Villa Resort on Irabu Island (Miyako)

The Appeal and Points to Note of Okinawa's First All-Villa Resort

Driving along the coast after crossing the Irabu Bridge, bright-red tile roofs suddenly came into view. They're Okinawan-style red tiles, but somewhere an air of a southern resort drifts too. The moment I thought "so that's Villabu Resort," my expectations rose.

Villabu Resort is a long-established place born over 20 years ago as Okinawa's first all-villa resort. With only 6 independent villas, each room has a private pool and a gazebo. And above all, a private beach for guests only spreads right in front.

When looking for lodging on Irabu Island, honestly Villabu Resort was only one candidate. New hotels keep popping up too, and I had the worry "isn't a facility from 20 years ago old?" But what I found from actually staying is that newness isn't the only value.

In this blog, I'll write everything about Villabu Resort's true appeal, and honestly the points that bothered me too. The happy time eating breakfast on the private beach, the night lying on the red-tile gazebo watching the stars, and the story of the food portions being smaller than expected. For people wavering over their Irabu Island villa choice, it should surely be a reference.

With only 6 villas you hardly meet other guests, with a private beach right in front you can go out to the sea anytime, and the distinctive atmosphere fusing red tiles and Bali style. This is Villabu Resort's true forte. There's a comfort polished over 20 years here, that new hotels don't have.

Basic Information on Villabu Resort | Okinawa's First All-Villa Resort

Villabu Resort is Okinawa's first all-villa resort hotel, which opened on Irabu Island in the early 2000s. At the time the Irabu Bridge didn't exist yet, an era when you could only cross by boat from Miyako Island. It apparently stood alone on this coastline from back then.

817 Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa 906-0503
TEL: 0980786777
Check-in time: 14:00
Check-out time: 11:00

The location is, crossing the Irabu Bridge and turning left, then proceeding along the coast. About 25 minutes by car from Miyako Airport, or about 7 minutes from Shimojishima Airport. With a rental car, it's easy to access from either airport.

There are 6 villas in all. This really is few. Even fewer than Konpeki's 8 villas, so the sense of privacy is outstanding. Each villa is completely independent, and you'll rarely hear the next room's sounds.

Check-in is 14:00, check-out 11:00. A standard time setting for an Irabu Island villa. When I stayed, I arrived a little before the check-in time, and the moment I parked the rental car, the staff came out and carried my luggage. This fine attentiveness was nice.

Enter the front desk and the sea spreads grandly before you. "This is incredible," a voice slipped out of me. The view seen from the front desk alone makes you feel it was worth coming.

▶Check the details on the official site

The Luxury of Just 6 Villas | A One-of-a-Kind Space Fusing Red Tiles and Bali Style

Villabu Resort's biggest feature is the fusion of Okinawa's traditional red-tile roofs and Bali-style interiors. This combination is exquisite, and you can taste both "Okinawan-ness" and "a southern resort feel."

The first thing that came into view when I was shown to the room was the height of the ceiling. It's apparently modelled on a traditional Balinese house, with quite a sense of openness. The bed is king-size, with no complaint about the sleeping comfort. From the window you can see the Irabu-blue sea, and I thought "I could spend any number of days here."

The living space is spacious, and the sofa comfortable. There's a small table, and the time spent here drinking coffee while gazing at the sea was the best. There's a TV too, but honestly I hardly watched it. The view outside the window is far more inexhaustible to look at.

The bathroom has sufficient size too, with a washing area properly secured. The amenities are L'Occitane, with a good scent and a good feel to use. Taking a slow bath after playing at the sea became my daily routine.

Step out onto the terrace and there's a private pool and a gazebo. The pool is a seawater pool, and with high salinity it's easy to float. At first I thought "huh, seawater?" but this is nice again. It's not heated so it's cold in winter, but pleasant in summer.

The gazebo is a red-tile pavilion, full of Okinawan-ness. There's a day bed here, ideal for napping. The wind blows through, you hear the sound of the waves, and you hear the chirping of small birds too. A luxurious time you could never taste in the city.

At the gazebo you can also receive an aroma oil treatment. Receiving a spa treatment surrounded by the best view is bliss just to imagine. I couldn't receive one due to time, but I definitely want to book it next time.

Honestly, there are parts where the building and facilities feel a little old. There's no shiny newness like the latest hotels. But that's a flavour in its own right. A warm atmosphere like a good old Okinawan house. The feeling of not being too perfectly maintained is, rather, relaxing.

With only 6 villas, you rarely pass other guests within the grounds. Outside breakfast time, it's truly your own space. There's zero stress like "it's a special trip but I can hear the next room's voices." This is the biggest merit of choosing Villabu Resort.

The price is from around ¥40,000 (about US$267) a night. Among Irabu Island villas it feels mid-range. It's a bit cheaper than Konpeki, but still by no means cheap. But considering this sense of privacy, this view and this atmosphere, I think it's a reasonable price.

A Private Beach Right in Front | A Special Sea Just for Guests

Villabu Resort's number-one selling point is the private beach for guests only. Step out of the room terrace, walk a little, and it's already the beach. This "sensation of being able to go out to the sea right away" is supremely luxurious.

Get up in the morning, step out of the terrace in your pyjamas (well, you do put on a swimsuit), and stroll the beach. This became my daily routine. Walking the sand barefoot, the silky sand feels good. There are hermit crabs and crabs, and apparently sea turtles sometimes come too.

However, this private beach isn't suited to swimming. There are quite a lot of waves, and the seabed is rocky in places. So people who want to snorkel or swim seriously are better off going to Nakanoshima Beach about 5 minutes by car, or another beach.

But the value of a private beach is in "being able to have it to yourself," not "swimming." No other hotel's guests. No locals. Truly your own sea. This is a really luxurious thing.

You can eat breakfast on the beach too. Request in advance and they set up a table on the beach. Breakfast while listening to the sound of the waves and seeing the sea spreading before you. This was a truly special experience.

Seeing the sunset on the beach in the evening is the best too. You can have the sky and sea dyed orange all to yourself. If you came as a couple, I think it'd be supremely romantic. I came with a friend, but I was still moved.

At night, stargazing on the beach. With few streetlights, the stars are incredibly beautiful. I saw several shooting stars too. A reviewer wrote "I saw shooting stars three times," but you really do see about that many. Fireflies were flying too, and it was fantastical.

Irabu Island at Night: Silence, Stars and the Plane-Sound Gap (Miyako)

Irabu Island near Miyakojima goes silent at night, with only insects and waves. A guide to the starry sky, stargazing spots, night tours and the Shimojishima Airport gap.

You can BBQ on the terrace too. A BBQ while seeing the sunset is one of Villabu Resort's popular options. You can eat slowly with just the two of you, so there's plenty of privacy. There's a proper amount too, and you get full.

The private beach's only drawback is that seaweed can wash up after a typhoon and the like. Also, it's not a fully maintained beach, so there can be washed-up debris too. But including that, it feels like a "natural beach," and it didn't bother me.

Beach chairs and parasols are free to use too. People who want to sunbathe can lounge here all day. Read, nap, taste the luxury of doing nothing.

You can technically snorkel at the private beach too, but there are more fish at Nakanoshima Beach and the like after all. But you can enjoy collecting shells on the beach. Lots of beautiful shells were scattered about, and I took some home as a souvenir.

Hearing "there's a private beach," some people might think "it's probably a small beach." But actually seeing it, it's quite wide. More than wide enough for 6 villas' worth of guests to use. The sense of having it to yourself is insane.

Why the Food Rating Is Divided | An Honest Review

If I write honestly about Villabu Resort, the food story can't be avoided. Looking at the reviews, the food rating is quite divided. Some say "it was supremely delicious," and others say "for the price it was lacking."

What I ate was the creative Ryukyu course and BBQ. The creative Ryukyu course was truly wonderful in both look and taste. Dishes using Miyako Island and Irabu Island ingredients, where you can enjoy island-only cooking methods too. From the appetiser to dessert, you can tell each dish is carefully made.

Especially delicious was a dish using local fish. Fresh seafood made even more delicious by the chef's skill. Island vegetables are used plentifully too, and it's healthy as well.

But about the amount, to be honest, it's on the small side. It's a satisfying amount for women, but men might think "I'd like to eat a bit more." For young people and big eaters, it's definitely not enough.

This is what leads to the "for the price" rating, I think. In the ¥15,000–19,999 price range per person, with a small amount, some people feel it's poor value. Especially people who've eaten at other luxury resorts end up comparing.

The BBQ had a proper amount and high satisfaction. Miyako beef is included, and it's tender and delicious. You can eat slowly with just the two of you on the terrace, so there's privacy too. But the BBQ also costs extra, so the total food cost gets quite high.

Breakfast is Ryukyu washoku, with plenty of local ingredients. An Okinawan local dish called "fuchanpuru" in particular was delicious, and I had a second helping of rice. Breakfast has a sufficient amount too, and healthy content. This is no complaint.

The restaurant atmosphere is good. You can dine relaxedly at a window seat with a sea view. The staff are basically polite and kind too. But some reviewers wrote "staff were eating a bento in the restaurant" or "the service was sloppy," so there may sometimes be unevenness in service level.

Honestly, it's best not to over-expect about the food. Expect "incredibly lavish cuisine" and you might be disappointed. But seen as "carefully made dishes using island ingredients," the quality is plenty satisfying.

Also, for dinner there's a choice of the restaurant's course meal, BBQ, or in-room room service, but with few eateries nearby, you basically end up eating at the hotel. Go out 10–15 minutes by car and there are a few restaurants, but leaving the precious private space feels a bit of a waste.

The best thing about the food was breakfast on the private beach. This was a truly special experience. Breakfast while listening to the sound of the waves and seeing the sea before you. More than the taste of the food, the situation is the best. This alone makes Villabu Resort worth choosing.

Who Villabu Resort Suits and Who It Doesn't

I've written about Villabu Resort's appeal so far, but honestly it doesn't suit everyone. However good a hotel is, if it doesn't match your style you can't enjoy it.

First, people Villabu Resort suits. The biggest is "people who value privacy above all." With only 6 villas, you hardly meet other guests. For people who "don't want to be disturbed by anyone" or "want to treasure time just for the two of us," there's no better environment.

It's also ideal for "people who want to spend time slowly in the room." Private pool, gazebo, the beach right in front. With substantial room facilities, you can enjoy it plenty without leaving the room. For people who "want to relax in one place rather than busily moving around sightseeing," it's like heaven.

Recommended for "people who want to feel Okinawan-ness" too. Red-tile roofs, an old-house-style atmosphere, Ryukyu cuisine. There's Okinawa's traditional goodness here, that new hotels don't have. With Bali-style elements added too, it creates a distinctive atmosphere.

"People who want to feel nature." The sound of waves, the chirping of small birds, the starry sky, fireflies. In an environment surrounded by nature, you're healed from the heart. Perfect for people who want to forget the city's hustle and relax.

"People who want to spend an anniversary specially." Breakfast on the private beach, a sunset BBQ, gazebo time under the stars. There are many romantic situations. Ideal for a couple's or married couple's anniversary trip.

Conversely, there are people Villabu Resort doesn't suit. First, "people who demand new, perfect facilities." The building and facilities feel a little old. Expect a shiny latest hotel and you might be disappointed.

"People who expect lavish food" need care too. The cooking is delicious, but the amount is small. For people who "want to eat a lot" or "expect lavish cuisine," it might be lacking.

It doesn't suit "people who want to move around actively." Villabu Resort's real pleasure is spending time slowly in the room. For people who "want to go around sightseeing spots from morning to night," it feels poor value.

"People who demand perfect service" might want to reconsider too. The staff are basically kind, but there are reviews of occasional unevenness in service. Expect the uniform, perfect service of a big chain hotel and there may be parts that bother you.

"People who want to swim seriously in the sea." The private beach isn't suited to swimming. People who want to enjoy snorkelling or diving need to travel by car. It's unsuited to people who "want to swim like crazy at the hotel beach."

It doesn't suit "people who want to keep costs down" either. From around ¥40,000 a night, with food costing extra too. Considering the total, it becomes quite an expense. For people who "just want somewhere to stay," there are cheaper options.

"People who want to book right away." With only 6 villas, popular times fill up fast. Especially Golden Week and summer holidays can be booked up months in advance. A sudden booking like "I want to go next week" is hard.

Choose with an understanding of these suitabilities, and Villabu Resort becomes a place where you can make the best memories. Conversely, if you choose it just because it's "famous" or "popular" when it doesn't match your style, you might feel let down.

Personally, the time I spent at Villabu Resort was truly special. Breakfast on the private beach, the starry sky I saw lying on the gazebo, the quiet night wrapped in the sound of the waves. Not everything was perfect, but it was still a place that made me think "I want to stay again."

There's a reason it's continued for over 20 years after all. A comfort polished over time, that new hotels don't have. That, I think, is Villabu Resort's essence.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Villabu Resort

Q1: Can I swim at the private beach?

A: You can technically swim, but there are quite a lot of waves and parts where the seabed is rocky, so it's not suited to swimming. For snorkelling or swimming properly, going to another beach like Nakanoshima Beach about 5 minutes by car is recommended. The private beach is ideal for strolling, sunbathing and enjoying the view.

Q2: Can I stay with children?

A: Yes, you can stay with children. However, since Villabu Resort has the concept of "an adults' hideaway resort," facilities and services for small children aren't substantial. As the main guests are adults who want to spend time quietly, if you have small children another family-friendly hotel may be more comfortable.

Q3: Miyako Airport or Shimojishima Airport, which is more convenient?

A: In terms of distance alone, Shimojishima Airport is closer (about 7 minutes by car). From Miyako Airport it's about 25 minutes. However, Miyako Airport has more flights, so considering the whole itinerary, using Miyako Airport is often smoother. Either way, a rental car is essential.

Q4: Do I have to eat at the hotel?

A: At the hotel restaurant you can enjoy an Italian course, a creative Ryukyu course, or BBQ. With few eateries nearby, you basically end up eating at the hotel. Go out 10–15 minutes by car and there are a few restaurants, but since it's a precious private space, eating at the hotel is recommended.

Q5: Is the pool heated?

A: No, the pool is a seawater pool and not heated. You can swim comfortably in summer, but it's cold in winter. Being a seawater pool it's easy to float, and you can enjoy a distinctive sensation. If you want a heated pool, it's best to consider another villa (like Konpeki).

Q6: Is Wi-Fi available?

A: Yes, Wi-Fi is fully equipped. The speed is stable too, at a level usable without problem for video watching and remote work. But some rooms may have spots with a weak signal, so if it bothers you, consult the front desk.

Q7: Are there many chances to meet other guests?

A: You hardly meet them. With only 6 villas and each villa independent, you pass other guests only around breakfast time. This sense of privacy is one of Villabu Resort's greatest appeals.

Q8: Are there convenience stores or supermarkets nearby?

A: There are no convenience stores or supermarkets within walking distance around Villabu Resort. There's a supermarket about 10 minutes by car. Finishing your shopping before check-in for what you need is recommended.

Q9: Is access to sightseeing spots good?

A: Irabu Island is a small island, so using Villabu Resort as a base lets you access any sightseeing spot within 20 minutes. Toguchi-no-Hama is about 5 minutes by car, 17END about 15 minutes, and Nakanoshima Beach about 10 minutes. With a rental car, you won't be stuck for sightseeing.

Q10: Is there a spa?

A: Yes, there are spa services like aroma oil treatments. You can also receive the treatment at the gazebo, relaxing surrounded by the best view. Advance booking is required, so if you wish, book early.

Q11: Can I leave my luggage before check-in or after check-out?

A: Yes, you can leave luggage both before check-in and after check-out. If you arrive early or want to sightsee after check-out, it's convenient to leave it at the front desk.

Q12: Can you do an anniversary surprise?

A: If you request in advance, they may accommodate an anniversary celebration. They can prepare special situations like breakfast on the private beach or a sunset BBQ, so consult when booking.

Why It's Been Loved for Over 20 Years

Villabu Resort, standing on Irabu Island's coastline. Born over 20 years ago as Okinawa's first all-villa resort, it's still loved by many people today.

Honestly, it's not a perfect hotel. The building and facilities are a little old, and the food amount is small. There are reviews of occasional unevenness in service. For people seeking a new, shiny hotel, it might be lacking.

But Villabu Resort's value isn't in "newness." A comfort polished over 20 years, the distinctive atmosphere fusing Okinawan tradition and Bali style, and above all the overwhelming sense of privacy only 6 villas have. This is the essence.

The luxury of eating breakfast at the guests-only private beach. The happiness of looking up at the stars from the red-tile gazebo. The quiet morning wrapped in the sound of waves and the chirping of small birds. The special time enjoying a BBQ for just the two of you on the terrace.

These experiences can't be tasted at a new hotel. A special air born precisely from having faced this place and this view over many years. That's what Villabu Resort has.

It's no wonder there are many repeat guests. Reviews have many people writing "I stayed 3 years ago too" or "a favourite since it opened." Stay once and there's something here that makes you think "I want to come back again."

New hotels are attractive too. The latest facilities, perfect service, lavish cuisine. But what Villabu Resort offers is a different value from that. A deep comfort like wine matured over time.

People looking for a villa on Irabu Island, people seeking a real sense of privacy, people who want to feel Okinawan-ness. Villabu Resort will surely meet your expectations. It may not be perfect, but it still has an appeal that makes you think "I want to come again."

I myself, if I get a chance to go to Irabu Island next, am thinking of staying again. Breakfast on the private beach, that silence, that view. I want to taste them once more. And this time I want to experience the aroma spa at the gazebo too.

Villabu Resort, which has protected this coastline since over 20 years ago, from an era when even the Irabu Bridge didn't exist. I think it'll keep offering visitors a special time, unchanged, from here on too. Under the red-tile roof, gazing at the Irabu-blue sea, blissful time awaits.