Manza Beach Resort

With all the stress of work and being unable to leave the island, Dayne and I decided to take a long weekend to relax at the Ana Intercontinental Manza Beach Resort. Although it turned out to be alot of fun, the trip started out very stressful.

We left home around noon on Saturday and drove for about an hour only to realize we had driven in a large circle for the last 20 minutes of our trip. We then tried to explain to the Japanese speaking gate guards that we had reservations at the hotel and follow the signs pointing in several directions to the parking area. The only parking designated for the actual hotel was done via valet parking. We gave them the car and checked in with someone who spoke very minimal English. Once arriving in our room, we felt very out of place with everything being almost too fancy and no one speaking our language. A series of freak-outs then ensued as we tried to talk ourselves into staying. However, once we went out to the beach and began our activities, all our fears were pushed aside and we had a great weekend.

The resort

Interior of Hotel


The room had traditional tatami mat floors and shoji screen closets as well as a strange window into the bathroom.


The view off the balcony was amazing.


Lounging at the beach

They had a diverse selection of food and restaurants. The main ones were an American Grill, European Buffet, Japanese Sushi Restaurant, Chinese Restaurant, and a traditional Okinawan Buffet. Eating Supper at Karin Chinese Restaurant


Day Two

After a European style breakfast we explored the stores in the resort and along the beach. They also have a local market set up in the lobby every morning.


Since we are not currently dive certified we were unable to take advantage of the awesome diving opportunities. Instead we went on a submarine tour of the reef. It was really cool to see all the different kinds of fish until I started getting sea-sick with the rough waters. Surprisingly the fish come right up to the windows.


After the submarine tour we went up to the top and had a nice cruise.


We also had planned to go parasailing but it was cancelled because of the rough waves.



That night we got a chance to try the Okinawan Buffet. We loved it not just because of the food but while dining we got to experience the traditional Ryukyuan music and dance theater.
The dance performed is called Eisa and is performed at all major ceremonies on island.

The women with the flower hats are supposed to be water lilies, a symbol of peace and tranquility.

Shisa dance: Lion Dog (guardian of the warrior spirit)




The plan was to stay another day and do snorkeling and a sunset cruise but they were cancelled due to weather and we were ready to get home. We had fun while we were there but were very relieved to come back to everything familiar.