Written by Jane Pipkin
Shirahama’s prime attraction, Shirarahama Beach (nope, not a typo) spans 620 meters and is the sister beach of Waikiki Beach in Hawaii. With its white quartz sand and bright blue water, it’s the perfect place to swim, sunbathe, and soak up the sun.
This beach is not only popular for its tropical atmosphere but also for having one of the earliest swimming seasons in Japan — from May until mid-September.
It’s easy to spend a whole day at the beach as it has all the practical facilities you could need. These include toilets, changing rooms, sunbeds, and a few eating spots and food trucks.
In the area, there’s also the open-air bath Shirasuna — which allows you to soak in an onsen and enjoy views of the ocean. Note that unlike most other onsen, you wear bathing suits in this one.
Make sure to stay until sunset. Why not sip on a cocktail at Suntide Cafe & Bar, located on the beach, while doing so?
How to get there
The beach is a 15-minute bus ride from Shirahama Station on the 12 Shirahama Tanabe Line bus. It costs ¥240 and you’ll need to get off at the Shirarahama Beach bus stop.
If you’re coming directly from the airport, you’ll want to take the 102 Loop Bus (towards Sandanbeki) and, again, get off at Shirarahama Beach. This journey costs ¥390.
