
Shirahama Beach Shimoda
A breathtaking stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Shirahama Beach Shimoda is a picturesque paradise.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm enough to swim, fewer crowds

Shirahama Beach Shimoda
Best Time
Warm enough to swim, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Shirahama Beach Shimoda is a picturesque paradise.
"Shirahama Beach — just wow! White soft sand, crystal clear turquoise water and gorgeous views."

🏖️ Embrace the White Sand
The soft, white sand is a major draw. Rent a sunbed and parasol for a relaxing day by the sea.
🌊 Swim or Surf
Water is warm enough for swimming in early summer, with separate areas for surfers and swimmers.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sands
Shirahama Beach
Experience the incredibly soft, white sand that gives the beach its name, perfect for relaxing and sunbathing.

Crystal Clear Turquoise Waters
Shirahama Beach
Swim, surf, or simply marvel at the stunningly clear, turquoise waters that make this beach a tropical paradise.
Red Torii Gate at Dai Myojin Iwa
Shirahama Shrine
A striking red torii gate stands on a reef facing the sea, a unique and picturesque landmark connected by rope.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Shirahama Beach
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏖️ Embrace the White Sand
The soft, white sand is a major draw. Rent a sunbed and parasol for a relaxing day by the sea.
🌊 Swim or Surf
Water is warm enough for swimming in early summer, with separate areas for surfers and swimmers.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Beach parking lots close at 4 PM. Look for alternative parking options in advance if staying later.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be strong, especially in summer. Don't forget sunscreen and consider renting an umbrella.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏖️ Embrace the White Sand
The soft, white sand is a major draw. Rent a sunbed and parasol for a relaxing day by the sea.
🌊 Swim or Surf
Water is warm enough for swimming in early summer, with separate areas for surfers and swimmers.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Beach parking lots close at 4 PM. Look for alternative parking options in advance if staying later.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be strong, especially in summer. Don't forget sunscreen and consider renting an umbrella.
⛩️ Visit Shirahama Shrine
Don't miss the iconic red torii gate on Dai Myojin Iwa, a unique photo opportunity.
💧 Paid Showers Available
Clean shower facilities are available for a small fee after your beach day.
👍 Tattoo Friendly Beach
Shirahama Beach is known to be tattoo-friendly, so feel free to relax without worry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shirahama Beach Shimoda is widely praised for its stunning white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering a relaxing and beautiful coastal experience. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities, the calm atmosphere, and the unique red torii gate. While it can get crowded in peak summer, visiting during shoulder seasons or early mornings provides a more serene visit.
"Very beautiful white sand beach that was not crowded. You can rent sunbeds and a parasol for the day for a reasonable price. Beach security and a few locals ladies were going around keeping the beach clean. There is a 7/11 just across the street, offering ice cold drinks, snacks and beach necessities. All in all a very relaxing experience."
Stephan Kindler
"Shirahama Beach — just wow!
White soft sand, crystal clear turquoise water and gorgeous views. The beach is well maintained, has everything you need. The atmosphere is calm, especially in the morning. A bit crowded in season, but still one of the best places to relax by the sea in Japan. Highly recommended! 🌊☀️"
RiSa
"Beautiful beach. I guess I like it because I will never ever set my foot there in season! Love walking along the shore in October - November when sand barriers has been set up. Parking is a bit of a drag though."
Herr Doberman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shirahama Beach is accessible by car and bus. From Tokyo, you can take a train to Shimoda Station and then a bus to the beach. If driving, parking is available on the beach, but lots close at 4 PM.
Yes, Shirahama Beach in Wakayama is about 2.5 hours from Osaka, making it a feasible day trip or weekend getaway.
From Tokyo, take the Odoriko limited express train to Shimoda Station, then a local bus. If driving, use Google Maps with 'Wakayama Shirahama Beach' or the phone number 0739-42-3655.
Yes, buses frequently run to Shirahama Beach from Shimoda Station. Be aware that traffic can cause delays, especially during peak season.
Shirahama Beach is located in Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture. You can reach it by train to Shimoda Station and then a bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Shirahama Beach itself. However, amenities like sunbeds, parasols, and showers may incur separate charges.
Shirahama Beach is generally accessible throughout the day. However, parking lots have specific closing times, typically around 4 PM.
Booking in advance is generally not required for beach access. However, if you plan to stay at a specific hotel or rent equipment, it's advisable to check availability.
While generally relaxed, it's always good to be mindful of local regulations. The beach is known to be tattoo-friendly.
A 7/11 convenience store is located across the street from the beach, offering drinks, snacks, and beach essentials.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can relax on the white sand, swim in the clear waters, surf (in designated areas), and explore the nearby Shirahama Shrine with its iconic red torii gate.
The beach can get crowded during the peak summer season (July-August). Visiting in the shoulder seasons or early mornings offers a more peaceful experience.
The water is warm enough for swimming in early June, though not as warm as Okinawa. It's generally comfortable for most visitors during the warmer months.
Yes, there are shower facilities available for a fee, as well as restrooms.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the soft sand, clear waters, and the calm atmosphere, especially in the mornings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are dining options available in Shimoda town, and a 7/11 convenience store is conveniently located across the street from the beach for snacks and drinks.
While there might not be full-service restaurants directly on the sand, the proximity to Shimoda town and the convenience store offers good options.
Shimoda offers a variety of Japanese cuisine. Many hotels in the area, like Hotel Sea Shell, also provide dining experiences with ocean views.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, making it a great spot for a picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself.
Some hotels and establishments in the vicinity offer ocean views, providing a pleasant dining or cafe experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the white sand and turquoise waters, the red torii gate at Dai Myojin Iwa, and the scenic views from hotels like Shimoda Prince Hotel.
Early mornings offer a serene atmosphere and soft light, ideal for capturing the beach's beauty without crowds. Sunrises over the sea are also spectacular.
While not explicitly stated, drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules before flying. Some reels feature drone shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Yes, the red torii gate on Dai Myojin Iwa is a popular and accessible photo spot. Be mindful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Nearby amenities like the 7/11 convenience store provide easy access to snacks and drinks, which are always a hit with kids. The beach is also known for being tattoo-friendly, ensuring a comfortable environment for everyone. Consider staying at hotels like the Shimoda Tokyu Hotel, which is noted for family stays.
🏄 Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
If you're planning a surf trip, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when the crowds are thinner, allowing for more space on the water. The beach's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for any water sport adventure.
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
Many creators highlight the beach's aesthetic appeal, with drone footage showcasing its beauty from above. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for the most dramatic lighting. Hotels like Hotel Sea Shell and Shimoda Prince Hotel offer rooms with spectacular ocean views, perfect for capturing sunrise and coastal scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Shirahama Beach: More Than Just Sand
Adjacent to the beach is the Shirahama Shrine, which boasts a unique and iconic landmark: a red torii gate situated on a large reef known as 'Dai Myojin Iwa'. This striking structure, connected by a rope to another reef, offers a picturesque contrast against the blue sea and is a must-see for photographers and cultural explorers alike. The combination of natural beauty and cultural landmarks makes Shirahama Beach a multifaceted destination.
For those seeking accommodation, various hotels cater to different needs. Hotel Sea Shell offers ocean-view rooms with stunning vistas of Shirahama Beach, while Shimoda Prince Hotel is also noted for its seaside location and sunrise views. For a more budget-friendly or communal experience, guesthouses like All you need provide a base for exploring the Izu Peninsula.
Getting to and Around Shimoda
For those driving, parking is available directly on the beach, which is a significant convenience. However, it's crucial to note that these parking lots typically close at 4 PM, so planning your arrival and departure times is essential. While buses are frequent, they can sometimes be subject to delays due to traffic, particularly during the busy summer months. This means that while public transport is viable, allowing for some buffer time is advisable for a stress-free journey.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit