The ocean has always been an interesting setting for stories. Its deep waters, colourful marine life, quiet beaches and mysterious underwater worlds offer endless possibilities for animation. Anime creators have used these settings to tell stories about friendship, adventure, nature and growing up.
Some shows take viewers beneath the waves, while others focus on people living near the sea. These stories can be peaceful, emotional or full of excitement. They also offer a different experience from anime based on city life, school settings or fantasy battles.
If you enjoy beautiful scenery and stories connected to the sea, these seven anime about the ocean are worth adding to your watchlist.
1. Nagi-Asu: A Lull in the Sea
Nagi-Asu: A Lull in the Sea presents a world where some humans live underwater while others live on land. The story follows a group of young friends from an underwater village who begin attending a school on the surface.
As they meet people from a different way of life, they face friendship problems, changing feelings and differences between the two communities.
The anime stands out for its beautiful underwater villages, colourful sea life and detailed coastal scenery. Its story also explores how people adjust when traditions and relationships begin to change.
2. The Aquatope on White Sand
The Aquatope on White Sand is set in Okinawa and follows two young women whose lives become connected through a small aquarium.
One of them is Kukuru, who works hard to keep the aquarium running. The other is Fuuka, a former idol who arrives in Okinawa while trying to find a new direction in life.
The series gives plenty of attention to marine animals, aquarium work and the challenges of protecting such places. Its bright coastal locations and calm atmosphere make it a pleasant choice for viewers who enjoy nature-focused stories.
3. Amanchu!
Amanchu! is a relaxing anime about friendship and the joy of discovering something new. It follows Hikari, a cheerful girl who loves the ocean and scuba diving, and Futaba, a shy student who is adjusting to life in a new town.
Through their friendship, Futaba slowly becomes interested in diving and begins exploring the underwater world.
The series features quiet seaside locations, clear water and colourful marine life. It also shows how trying a new activity and meeting supportive people can help someone become more confident.
4. Grand Blue
Grand Blue offers a very different view of life near the sea. It is mainly a comedy about college students, friendship and a diving club.
The story follows Iori Kitahara, who moves to a coastal town and starts college. He becomes involved with a group of diving enthusiasts, but their unusual lifestyle often leads to funny situations.
Although comedy is the main attraction, the series also includes scuba diving and beautiful underwater scenes. It is a good choice for viewers who want something light-hearted with a coastal setting.
5. Children of the Sea
Children of the Sea is an animated film known for its detailed ocean visuals and unusual storytelling. It follows a schoolgirl named Ruka, who meets two boys with a mysterious connection to the sea.
As she spends time with them, she becomes involved in strange events linked to marine life and the wider ocean.
The film features impressive underwater scenes, glowing sea creatures and detailed animation. Its story can feel mysterious and open to interpretation, so it may appeal most to viewers who enjoy visually rich films with unusual ideas.
6. Tsuritama
Tsuritama combines fishing, friendship and science fiction in a colourful seaside setting. The story follows Yuki, a shy teenager who moves to the island of Enoshima and meets a strange boy named Haru.
Haru introduces Yuki to fishing, even though he has little experience with the activity. Their new hobby brings them into contact with other island residents and unexpected adventures.
The anime makes good use of its island setting, showing beaches, fishing spots and everyday coastal life. Its cheerful visuals and unusual humour give it a distinct personality.
7. Blue Submarine No. 6
Blue Submarine No. 6 is a science-fiction anime set in a future where rising sea levels have changed much of the planet. A mysterious scientist and his forces threaten humanity, leaving the remaining people to fight for survival.
The story follows a submarine crew involved in the struggle against this growing danger. Much of the action takes place in or around the ocean, with underwater vehicles and unusual marine environments playing important roles.
The series offers a darker and more action-focused experience than the other titles on this list. It is worth exploring for viewers who enjoy older science-fiction anime.
Which Ocean Anime Should You Watch First?
Each of these titles offers a different experience. If you prefer emotional stories and beautiful underwater scenery, Nagi-Asu: A Lull in the Sea is a good starting point. The Aquatope on White Sand is suitable for viewers interested in marine life, while Grand Blue is a fun option for comedy lovers.
For something more unusual, Children of the Sea offers a visually rich film experience. Tsuritama and Amanchu! are also enjoyable choices for anyone who likes peaceful coastal settings.
These anime show that the ocean can be much more than a background. It can shape characters, friendships and entire stories, making every journey feel different.
