Sand Cross
Discover the breathtaking dive site known as Sand Cross or Yonbori, located in Uza, Yomitan, Nakagami, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. This serene dive spot showcases an intricate network of coral formations and mesmerizing coral sand pathways that connect these formations. Offering a diverse topography with arches, tunnels, and crevices, this underwater paradise teems with vibrant marine life.
While the site has unfortunately experienced a decline in the population of Yaemenid fishes over the past few years, the corals in the shallower areas are showing remarkable signs of recovery. Prepare to be amazed as you witness these corals returning to their former vibrant state.
Sand Cross or Yonbori is home to an abundant variety of both soft and hard corals, including the beautiful Yasemidorii community. Keep an eye out for magnificent turtles such as loggerheads, green turtles, and hawksbill turtles, as they inhabit the area. Additionally, within the vast Napoleon fish territory, encountering these majestic creatures is a possibility, albeit rare. Prepare to be surrounded by a plethora of fish species, including snappers, wrasses, and occasional sightings of rare nudibranchs.
With excellent visibility of up to 20 meters and a maximum depth of 22 meters, this dive site is perfect for advanced and expert divers seeking an awe-inspiring underwater adventure. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Sand Cross or Yonbori and witness the natural beauty that Japan has to offer.
Diving Conditions Score for Sand Cross
Excellent diving conditions!
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Sand Cross
Depth
22m
Visibility
20m
Experience Level
Weather Conditions for Sand Cross
Wave Height
0.44m
Wind Speed
4 m/s
Water Temp
26.8°C
Visibility
36.04km
Cloud Cover
4%
Wave Period
5.5s
Air Temperature
24.4°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Dive Score Chart for Sand Cross
Best time to dive: 17:00 with score 9.70177370030581/10. Water conditions: Waves 0.44m, Wind 3.2 m/s.Best night dive time: 18:00 with score 9.125766666666665/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Optimal diving conditions at Sand Cross are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Score: 9.7/10
Waves: 0.44m (5.45s), Wind: 3.2 m/s
Score: 9.1/10
Waves: 0.44m, Wind: 4 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for Sand CrossAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Sand Cross
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for Sand Cross
Winter
Winter offers the best overall diving conditions with calmer seas and better visibility, despite cooler temperatures.
Best Months for Sand Cross
Ideal Conditions for Sand Cross
Water Temp
26.5°C / 79.7°F
June
Visibility
11.6m / 38.1ft
January
Wave Height
1.5m / 4.9ft
January
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Sand Cross
Sand Cross shows typical northern hemisphere patterns with July being the warmest month (28.3°C) and January the coldest (13.7°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in January with average wave heights of 1.5m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in January with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). December is usually the driest month with 0.2mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during January to March, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 21, 2026