Too few people know that Japan is not only an amazing destination for city breaks, ski mountain resorts, and historic cultural experiences…it’s also home to some incredible beaches. In this post, we’re diving deep into the best beaches in Japan, all based on our boutique travel agency experience.
We’ve shared our top beach day trips from Tokyo before, but now we want to give you a taste of the amazing Japanese beaches, beach resorts, and island destinations that have gone unknown for far too long.
How to Plan a Trip to the Best Beaches in Japan?
Not sure where to start? Here are five Japan travel planning tips that every beach lover should consider:
- Pick the right time: Late spring to early autumn is best for warm weather. Try to avoid the peak typhoon season in August and September.
- Choose your vibe: Want luxury resorts or chill surfer islands?
- Book early: Flights and ferries fill up fast, especially in summer. Lock your tickets ahead to save stress and money.
- Pack smart: Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes.
- Plan your transport: Some islands have limited public transport, so consider renting a car or checking ferry schedules in advance to avoid surprises.
Want some assistance planning your beach vacation in Japan? We’re a boutique travel agency with all the secrets on how to plan your dream holiday in Japan. Reach out to our expert travel planners for a free consultation to get started!
Now, keep reading to learn our opinions on the eleven best beaches in Japan:
Ishigaki Island, Okinawa
Ishigaki Island is a tropical paradise in Okinawa’s Yaeyama archipelago, known for its soft white sandy beaches and stunning turquoise waters. There’s a wide range of accommodations, including Japanese beach resorts like ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort, Fusaki Beach Resort, and Club Med Kabira. At night, you’ll have uninterrupted stargazing, or during the day, you can search for Ishigaki’s unique star-shaped sand…just make sure to keep an eye out for the many cute hermit crabs!
Best For: Snorkelling, diving, beach resorts, island-hopping, and tropical relaxation
Nearby Attractions: Take a glass-bottom boat around Kabira Bay, or hop on a boat for a day trip to Taketomi Island
Nearest Airport: New Ishigaki Airport (ISG)
How to Get There: Fly from Tokyo, Osaka, or Naha directly to Ishigaki. Flights from Tokyo take about 3.5 hours.
Ishigaki’s Best Beach in Japan
Yonehara Beach is one of Ishigaki’s top snorkelling spots, while the beach itself is both beautiful and relatively uncrowded. You can relax on the warm sand or explore the underwater world thanks to the beachside snorkelling gear rentals.
Niijima Island, Izu
Niijima might be only a few hours from Tokyo, but it feels like an entire world away. The volcanic island is a local favourite for surfing, camping, and affordable getaways, with amazing coastlines and clear water. Accommodation options are modest but great for budget-conscious travellers, ranging from guesthouses and surf lodges to seaside campsites.
Best For: Surfing, budget travellers, and outdoor lovers
Nearby Attractions: Try a glass art workshop at the Niijima Glass Art Centre, or soak in Yunohama Roten Onsen overlooking the ocean.
Nearest Airport: Niijima Airport (RJAN), Chofu Airport (RJTF), or Tokyo airports Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT)
How to Get There: Take a high-speed jet ferry (around 2.5 hours) or overnight ferry from Tokyo’s Takeshiba Port. Alternatively, fly from Chofu Airport.
Niijima’s Best Beach in Japan
Habushiura Beach has a stretch of white sand, is backed by rugged cliffs, and is home to native pine forests. Known for its consistent waves, it draws surfers from all over Japan and beyond to stay at the nearby surf lodges and campsites. Even if you’re not surfing, the beach offers a laid-back retreat with plenty of space to relax, picnic, or explore tide pools.
Learn more about Niijima
Amami Oshima, Kagoshima
A hidden gem between Kyushu and Okinawa, Amami Oshima features exquisite jungles, quiet beaches, and rare wildlife. It’s ideal for nature lovers and slow travellers, with eco-lodges and boutique beach resorts. On Amami Oshima, you can kayak through a mangrove in the morning, relax on the beach in the afternoon, and then spend the evening enjoying fresh island cuisine by the sea.
Best For: Slow travel, off-the-beaten-path adventure, kayaking, snorkelling
Nearby Attractions: Kayak through the Kuroshio mangrove forest, or visit the Amami Wildlife Conservation Centre
Nearest Airport: Amami Airport (ASJ)
How to Get There: Fly directly from Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, or Kagoshima. Ferries also run from Kagoshima, which take between 11 and 13 hours.
Amami Oshima’s Best Beach in Japan
Tomori Beach is a serene, shallow bay with calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, especially for families and beginners. The beach is framed by lush green mountains, with colourful coral reefs just offshore.
Itoshima, Fukuoka
A stylish seaside escape just 45 minutes from Fukuoka City, Itoshima is a blend of Japanese surf culture, local art, and quiet beaches. It’s where city dwellers go to unwind, whether that means catching waves, sipping coffee at a seaside cafe, or snapping photos of the iconic couple’s torii gate at Sakurai Futamigaura. The beaches here aren’t tropical, but they’re breezy, beautiful, and full of local charm.
Best For: Day trips, surf and cafe culture, local art, and sunsets
Nearby Attractions: On way from Fukuoka, stop off at the Itoshima Farmer’s Market or detour to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the Kyushu National Museum
Nearest Airport: Fukuoka Airport (FUK)
How to Get There: Driving is easiest, or take a train from Fukuoka to Chikuzen-Maebaru Station, then a bus or rental car to the coast.
Itoshima’s Best Beach in Japan
Futamigaura Beach is famous for Meoto Iwa, or “wedded rocks”, two large rocks connected by shimenawa (a sacred rope) that symbolises marriage and harmony. The beach itself has soft sand and moderate waves, suitable for swimming and beginner surfing, and is particularly spectacular at sunset, making it a favourite for photographers and couples.
Zamami Island, Okinawa
Part of the Kerama Islands, Zamami boasts some of the clearest water in Japan. It might not have large resorts, but visitors can enjoy cosy beachfront guesthouses and local inns that offer a more intimate beach getaway. You’ll also find plenty of things to do beyond just lazing by the beach, such as scuba diving, SUP (stand-up paddle boarding), or cycling around the island.
Best For: Snorkelling, laid-back island time, wildlife, and beach walks
Nearby Attractions: Before boarding the ferry in Naha, take a walk down the lively Kokusai-Dori shopping street or peruse the pottery studios on Tsuboya Street.
Nearest Airport: Naha Airport (OKA)
How to Get There: Take a 50-90 minute ferry from Naha’s Tomari Port to Zamami Island. Ferries run daily and can be booked in advance.
Zamami’s Best Beach in Japan
Furuzamami Beach is often regarded as one of the clearest and most beautiful beaches in Japan. The water is famously transparent, offering unparalleled visibility for swimming and snorkelling—just make sure to stay within the designated swimming zones to not disrupt the marine wildlife. To reach the beach, you’ll need to take a 5-minute bus, walk 20 minutes uphill, or rent an electric bike from one of the many island vendors.
Minami-Izu, Izu
Minami-Izu, located at the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, is known for its natural beauty, quiet beaches, and relaxed coastal charm. Unlike the more developed resort towns in Izu, this area feels low-key and local. It’s a great choice for travellers who want to explore quieter parts of Shizuoka Prefecture without venturing too far from Tokyo, with a coastline dotted with hidden coves, sea caves, and stunning hiking trails.
Best For: Low-key beach days, short coastal hikes, and overnight stays in local ryokans or guesthouses
Nearby Attractions: Visit Shimoda’s Perry Road and historic harbour, take a sightseeing cruise along the coastline, or explore Ryugu Sea Cave near Cape Tsumekizaki.
Nearest Airport: Shizuoka Airport (FSZ), or via Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) in Tokyo
How to Get There: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami, transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line to Izukyu-Shimoda, then take a local bus or drive south to Minami-Izu.
Minami-Izu’s Best Beach in Japan
Yumigahama Beach is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches in the Izu Peninsula. The name Yumi literally translates to bow, referring to the beautiful curved shape of the long beach coastline. During summer, lifeguards and beach houses are set up, and there’s even a seasonal floating water park, Yumigahama Splash Water Park, which adds a fun activity for families and groups.
Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa
The remote Noto Peninsula offers dramatic coastal scenery, quiet sandy beaches, and traditional culture. You’ll find wide sandy shores like Chirihama Beach, where you can actually drive your car along the sand, and hidden coves perfect for a summer dip. Along the way, you’ll pass terraced rice fields, local markets, and oceanfront ryokans. The area is still recovering from the 2024 earthquake, but the locals are warm, hospitable, and wanting to sharing their beautiful home with visitors.
Best For: Road trips, quiet coastal views, and nature lovers
Nearby Attractions: Stop by Sojiji Soin Temple for some history, and the Notojima Aquarium where kids love to learn about Japan’s oceans
Nearest Airport: Komatsu Airport (KMQ)
How to Get There: Fly into Komatsu, then drive or take buses into the Noto Peninsula. Renting a car is recommended.
Noto Peninsula’s Best Beach in Japan
Suzu Beach (Suzunari Coast) is an incredibly special beach with untouched golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It is rarely crowded, and the quiet atmosphere invites long walks, beachcombing, and birdwatching.
Shirahama, Wakayama
Shirahama is a classic Japanese beach town with pristine sand, onsen, and family-friendly attractions. The area has a fun, slightly retro resort vibe, complete with fireworks in summer, beachside cafés, and even a small theme park nearby. Shirahama is also home to many natural hot springs that have been famous since ancient times.
Best For: Families, hot springs, easy resort access from Osaka
Nearby Attractions: Make the trip to Mount Kōya, a sacred Buddhist site in the mountains, where you can stay overnight in a temple lodging
Nearest Airport: Nanki-Shirahama Airport (SHM)
How to Get There: Fly from Tokyo to Nanki-Shirahama (about 1 hour), or take a 3-hour train from Osaka via JR Kuroshio Limited Express.
Shirahama’s Best Beach in Japan
Shirarahama Beach is renowned for its brilliant white sand and gentle, family-friendly waves. Stretching for about 640 meters along the coast, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. It is also easily reachable from Osaka, with nearby onsen resorts providing guests with the chance to bathe whilst overlooking the ocean.
Miyako Island, Okinawa
Home to some of Japan’s most photogenic beaches, Miyako is ideal for couples, divers, and anyone wanting postcard-perfect coastlines. The island features upscale resorts like Shigira Resort and Miyakojima Tokyu Hotel & Resorts, offering luxurious beachfront stays with pools, spas, and direct ocean access.
Best For: Honeymoons, scenic beaches, snorkelling, and luxury stays
Nearby Attractions: Drive across Irabu and Kurima bridges for panoramic views, and visit Cape Higashi-Hennazaki for sunrise
Nearest Airport: Miyako Airport (MMY) or Shimojishima Airport (SHI)
How to Get There: Fly directly from Tokyo or Naha to either airport (about 3 hours from Tokyo).
Miyako’s Best Beach in Japan
Yonaha Maehama Beach stretches for over 7 kilometres, making it one of Japan’s longest and most breathtaking beaches. An ultra-romantic setting, the beach’s shallow, calm waters are ideal for gentle swims or relaxing sunset walks, with nearby luxury resorts and guesthouses for easy beach access.
Hayama, Kanagawa
Hayama is one of the most accessible beach destinations from Tokyo (just over an hour by train) and offers a mix of coastal scenery, surf culture, and upscale summer homes. It’s less crowded than nearby Kamakura or Enoshima, and attracts visitors looking for a slower-paced beach day without sacrificing convenience. The town also has strong ties to Japanese art and culture; it’s home to the Hayama Imperial Villa and a branch of the Museum of Modern Art.
Best For: Short trips from Tokyo, quiet beaches, couples and solo Japan trips
Nearby Attractions: Explore the Museum of Modern Art Hayama, stroll the peaceful Morito Shrine by the sea, or visit Zushi Marina for sailing
Nearest Airport: Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT)
How to Get There: Take the JR Yokosuka Line or JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line from Tokyo directly to Kamakura Station.
Hayama’s Best Beach in Japan
Isshiki Beach is a Tokyo local favourite spot where beach huts open along the shore throughout summer, serving drinks, snacks, and cold kakigori (shaved ice). The beach is family-friendly and great for swimming, especially in the early morning when it’s still quiet.
Kourijima, Okinawa
Kourijima is a small coral island off the northwest coast of Okinawa’s main island, connected by the striking Kouri Bridge. Being a tiny island off the coast of a tropical island, Kourijima is remote, peaceful, and wonderfully quiet. It’s a great spot for a day trip or a peaceful overnight stay if you’re looking to experience a more rural side of Okinawa.
Best For: Secluded small island vibes, couples, and photographers
Nearby Attractions: Visit the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, or take a walk through the peaceful Bise Fukugi Tree Road
Nearest Airport: Naha Airport (OKA)
How to Get There: From Naha Airport, rent a car and drive north on the Okinawa Expressway (about 2 hours total). Cross the Kouri Bridge to reach the island—no ferry needed.
Kourijima’s Best Beach in Japan
Kouri Beach stretches along both sides of the Kouri Bridge and is made up of fine, shell‑based white sand and shallow, emerald‑green water that’s exceptionally clear. Visitors can snorkel just off the shore to spot colourful coral and fish or relax in the shallow water without venturing too far.
FAQs
Are there beaches in Japan?
Totally! You have your pick of the best beaches in Japan, from tropical Okinawa in the south to scenic spots on the main islands. Whether you want untouched sand, rocky coves, or surfing waves, there’s a beach for you.
When is summer in Japan?
Summer runs from June through August, but it can start feeling hot and humid as early as May. July and August are the hottest months, with lots of festivals and beach days.
Check out our Japan summer itinerary
How hot does it get in Japan?
In summer, temps usually hit around 30–35°C (85 to 95°F), especially in cities and southern islands like Okinawa. It can feel pretty humid, so pack light and stay hydrated!
Is Okinawa a Good Beach Destination?
Definitely! Okinawa is Japan’s tropical paradise—think turquoise waters, coral reefs, and sandy beaches. Plus, it’s got tons of resorts, great snorkelling spots, and a unique island vibe.
Is it safe to swim in the sea in Japan?
Yes, swimming is generally safe! Just watch out for jellyfish during summer and always pay attention to local warnings or flags on the beach. You’ll find that most beaches have lifeguards and good safety measures.
