CONTRIBUTED BY ANTHONY CAMINA
Most experienced shoppers on the island are well aware of the mega outlet mall Ashibanaa. For those who may be looking for something other than the shop-until-you-drop experience in this area can find it in Toyosaki Comprehensive Park just west of the outlet mall. If you have ever taken the bridge over the ocean heading towards Ashibana mall, then you have likely seen part of the park.
To pass this area off as simply another pretty beach with pavilions would be selling you short. There are many features of Toyosaki Park that are similar to parks popular with Westerners on the island. Beautiful beaches with translucent turquoise waters, manmade swimming safe zones, park offices which rent equipment, maintained bathrooms, basketball courts, etc…
What makes this park really unique is that it is directly below the landing path of Naha Airport. It is really exhilarating to view the massive airplanes glide in for their approach before landing. The park has a three story viewing area which is especially convenient when photographing the incoming flights or surrounding landscape. There is also plenty of free parking in which stretches the length of the grounds. Exploring this expansive park may build up an appetite and prominently located near the entrance of the park is the practical and always delicious KAI Café. For those who may have blown their yen at Ashibana (as this author has done) KAI is well worth visiting and takes major credit cards.
Hours: There were no posted hours for the park.
Directions: Head south through NAHA on highway 58 towards the airport. The 58 will turn into the 331; just keep driving straight towards the airport. After passing the airport, be mindful of the white traffic signs above the road which direct you toward Ashibana Outlet Mall. The signs will have you turn right on the 331 at the Senaga Island intersection. If you are on a huge bridge over the water you are on the right track. If you hit Manga and Makeman you didn’t turn at the right spot. Within a few minutes you will be in Toyosaki and will see the outlet mall on the left. Exit just like you are going to Ashibana mall but when approaching the stoplight get in the right lane instead of the left. Turn right and drive toward the ocean for about a kilometer. You will drive straight into Toyosaki Comprehensive Park’s parking lot.
Google Coordinates: 26° 9’19.41″N 127°38’56.50″E
