Shimojishima Runway 17 End
Witness planes land against a backdrop of stunning turquoise waters at Shimojishima Runway 17 End, a unique aviation and beach paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Expansive shallow waters
Shimojishima Runway 17 End
Best Time
Expansive shallow waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness planes land against a backdrop of stunning turquoise waters at Shimojishima Runway 17 End, a unique aviation and beach paradise.
"One of the coolest places in Miyakojima where you can see clear, turquoise waters all next to an airport."
Check Flight Schedules
Don't miss the planes! Check flight radar for scheduled arrivals/departures to avoid long waits . :iphone:
Walk for Better Sand
The best powdery sand and clearest water are a short walk from the carpark . :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Runway 17 End
Shimojishima Airport
Witness planes land and take off right next to stunning turquoise waters. A unique aviation and nature blend.
Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
The main beach area
Experience incredibly clear, shallow waters perfect for wading and enjoying the serene beauty of Miyakojima.
Natural Rock Formations
Along the coastline
Unique geological features add to the charm and provide picturesque backdrops for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Accessing the Pristine Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Flight Schedules
Don't miss the planes! Check flight radar for scheduled arrivals/departures to avoid long waits. :iphone:
Walk for Better Sand
The best powdery sand and clearest water are a short walk from the carpark. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Blue
Miyako Blue is real here! Enjoy the stunning shades of turquoise and blue skies.
Aviation Enthusiast's Dream
Perfect spot for plane spotters and photographers alike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Flight Schedules
Don't miss the planes! Check flight radar for scheduled arrivals/departures to avoid long waits. :iphone:
Walk for Better Sand
The best powdery sand and clearest water are a short walk from the carpark. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Blue
Miyako Blue is real here! Enjoy the stunning shades of turquoise and blue skies.
Aviation Enthusiast's Dream
Perfect spot for plane spotters and photographers alike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shimojishima Runway 17 End is celebrated for its breathtaking combination of stunning turquoise waters and the unique spectacle of aircraft landing nearby. Visitors rave about the 'Miyako Blue' sea and the powdery sand found a short walk from the parking. While the natural beauty is consistently praised, some note the importance of checking flight schedules to ensure an active aviation experience.
"17END is a stunning beach spot known for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back vibes. It’s the perfect place to catch view of planes (although we didn’t get to see at that time). The natural rock formations add a unique charm, making it a favorite photo spot for visitors. If you’re looking for a peaceful seaside escape with amazing views, 17END should definitely be on your list."
Stephanie Wong
"Great place to view aircraft landing. Best to check flight radar for scheduled flights as this airport is not busy at all and you could be waiting over an hour to see a takeoff or landing."
Johan
"One of the coolest places in Miyakojima where you can see clear, turquoise waters all next to an airport. Directly next to the carpark, there's a more rugged looking beach. While nice, its actually the next beach that is the nicer one with powdery sand and clearer water. This is about 300m further down which you can easily reach by following the pavement."
Adrian Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shimojishima Runway 17 End is located near Shimojishima Airport. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors rent a car or scooter to explore Miyakojima.
Yes, there is parking available close to the runway end, making it convenient for visitors to access the beach and viewing areas.
While you can see the runway from the airport vicinity, the most scenic part of 17 End beach with the best sand is a short walk (about 300m) further down the pavement from the main parking area.
It's a well-known spot, especially among aviation enthusiasts and photographers. Following signs for Shimojishima Airport and then looking for the runway end viewing area should guide you there.
Renting a car or a scooter is highly recommended for exploring Miyakojima, including reaching Shimojishima Runway 17 End and other attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Shimojishima Runway 17 End is a public beach and viewing area, so there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit.
As a natural beach and public space, it's generally accessible at all times. However, for the best experience and to see planes, visiting during daylight hours and checking flight schedules is advised.
There is no entrance fee for the beach itself. Parking may be free or have a small charge depending on the specific lot.
No, you cannot access the active runway for safety reasons. The viewing area is adjacent to the runway.
Visitors should respect the natural environment and any posted signs. It's important to stay within designated viewing areas for safety.
🎫 ✈️ Aviation & Scenery
You can see various commercial aircraft, including planes from airlines like Skymark Airlines,
It's best to check the flight schedule for Shimojishima Airport (SHI) using flight tracking apps or websites. The airport is not as busy as major hubs, so planning is key.
The water is famous for its incredible clarity and vibrant 'Miyako Blue' color, creating a stunning contrast with the runway and sky.
Absolutely! It's a dream location for photographers, offering unique shots of aircraft against the backdrop of the beautiful ocean and sky.
Yes, the shallow, clear waters are inviting for swimming and wading, especially during low tide.
🎫 🏖️ Beach Experience
The sand closer to the parking area is more rugged, but if you walk a bit further down the pavement, you'll find powdery soft sand.
Basic facilities might be available near the parking areas, but it's advisable to check locally or come prepared. It's primarily a natural beach.
Crowds can vary. It's generally less crowded than major tourist spots, but can attract more visitors when flights are scheduled or during peak seasons.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and water. If you're keen on plane spotting, bring your camera and binoculars!
The shallow, calm waters during low tide can be great for children to play in, but adult supervision is always recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the best sandy beach is a short walk from the main parking, the journey is manageable and rewards you with a more picturesque spot. Pack some snacks and drinks, as dining options directly at the runway end are scarce. The combination of a beautiful beach and the thrill of aviation makes this a memorable outing for the whole family.
✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts & Plane Spotters
landing and taking off so close to the viewing area is unparalleled. The key to a successful visit is meticulous planning: consult flight radar for Shimojishima Airport (SHI) to time your visit perfectly.Beyond just seeing planes, the unique setting provides incredible photographic potential. The contrast between the powerful machines and the serene tropical environment offers a distinct visual narrative. Many enthusiasts also appreciate the history of Shimojishima Airport, a former military base, adding another layer of interest to their visit.
📸 Photographers
+1 Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the scene and telephoto lenses for impactful shots of the aircraft. Visiting during the golden hours can yield stunning, atmospheric images.Don't overlook the natural beauty of the area itself. The unique rock formations and the clear, shallow waters offer fantastic opportunities for landscape and seascape photography, especially during low tide when the textures of the sand and water are most pronounced.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Runway 17 End: Aviation Meets Paradise
descending towards Shimojishima Airport, with the stunning 'Miyako Blue' ocean as a backdrop. This juxtaposition creates a surreal and captivating experience, making it a must-visit for plane spotters and photographers alike.+1 The airport itself is a former US military base, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the modern-day spectacle.The natural beauty of the area is equally impressive. The waters surrounding the runway are renowned for their exceptional clarity and vibrant turquoise hues, often referred to as 'Miyako Blue.' During low tide, vast shallow areas are exposed, creating a picturesque foreground for aircraft landings and offering a safe and beautiful environment for wading and enjoying the scenery.
To truly appreciate Shimojishima Runway 17 End, timing and a little exploration are key. While the beach directly adjacent to the parking lot is pleasant, many visitors recommend walking a short distance further down the pavement to discover an even more pristine stretch of powdery white sand and clearer waters.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
+1 To get the best angles, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – when the light is soft and dramatic, enhancing the colors of the sky and sea.For those interested in plane spotting, it's essential to have your camera ready and to consult flight schedules for Shimojishima Airport (SHI) beforehand.
Beyond the aircraft, the natural beauty of the area itself is highly photogenic. The unique rock formations and the mesmerizing 'Miyako Blue' waters offer ample opportunities for landscape photography.
Remember to protect your gear from sand and saltwater, especially if you plan to get close to the water's edge. Visiting during low tide can reveal interesting textures in the sand and create reflections that add depth to your photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit