Kayo

Kayo is a stunning coastal site on the east coast of Okinawa, Japan — takeoff on a headland about 100 m above the shore, with soaring lift that can hold you up for hours. Ospreys share the air; below, you may spot rays, shoals of silverside fish or kayakers. Best to arrange an orientation with the local operator (fluent English) before your first visit — some site-use fees may apply. You can camp on the beach at the LZ for free (public toilet and shower on site). Retrieval by vehicle is quick — 15–20 minutes total turnaround.

Launch & conditions

Takeoff ~100 m above the shore on a point best reached by walking the final 5 minutes — some people do drive right to the takeoff along a very narrow spine (about the width of a vehicle) with slides on both sides. Room for one glider at a time to set up (plenty of room behind).

Getting there & local rules

About 1.5 hours drive north from Naha, on the east coast, roughly mid-island. Village of Kayo has a small general store (bento lunches, drinks). Landings: the usual LZ is the huge beach south of the bluffs, directly in front of the elementary school (the running track identifies the school in aerial photos). Top-landing on takeoff is also a viable option.

Local rules & hazards

Coordinate with the local operator before flying; some site-use fees may apply.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Kayo, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Kayo with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.