Review: Hyatt Regency Seragaki Island

_Location: On Seragaki Island, a tiny isle connected to the mainland of Okinawa by a small bridge. The hotel is an hour’s drive from Naha airport or 75 minutes from ferry terminals, and the gateway for dreamy island-hopping adventures.

_{First impressions:} Don’t arrive on the mainland anticipating a Castaway-type of experience. The main city, Naha, is built up with high-rise buildings galore, but the desert island vibes accelerate the further north you head. The resort is the only property on Seragaki Island and is surrounded by the East China Sea. The lobby is decked in sparkly lights and decorations ahead of Christmas and my shoulders drop thanks to the warm welcome and wonderful service on arrival.

_{The facts:} All 343 rooms have balconies and views of the sea, regardless of whether they are located in The Island building (home to 320 rooms across seven storeys) or in The Beach House, which is particularly well suited to families or those booking long breaks. Those staying in top category rooms get access to The Regency Club, a private lounge serving continental breakfast and evening cocktails. With six restaurants, the choice is extensive.

The majority aim to showcase Okinawan cuisine, but guests can also enjoy Italian, sushi and teppanyaki. All-day dining venue Serale will help those battling jet lag and in need of extra energy boosts. Take a dip in the warm waters that lap Seragaki Beach or enjoy one of the hotel’s three pools. The indoor pool is open year-round, but the outdoor options are seasonal. The resort makes the most of its location by offering activities such as snorkelling with clownfish, sea kayak tours and diving.

_{Ideal for:} The property is the perfect first stop on an island-hopping escapade. During our stay there are plenty of families and several wedding parties.

_Explore: You’ll likely need to hire a car if you’re using the resort as a base and to do so you’ll need to purchase an international driver’s license (I forgot but managed to buy one in minutes online). The best beaches on the mainland include Manza, Nirai and Diamond. Clients should venture to other islands during their stay.

There are 160 in Okinawa and some are easier to access than others. Head to the tiny isle of Zamami in the Kerama Islands (an hour by ferry) for utterly epic beaches; Furuzamami is idyllic. For the clearest waters and best beaches you’ll need to travel a little further. Hop on a plane and head to the Miyako Islands – you won’t regret it.

_Wow: The lagoon pool is the perfect sunbathing spot!

_{Book it:} A night in a King Bed room with balcony and partial ocean view starts from £185.
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