Shirahama Beach (白浜) is a popular white sand beach located in Shimoda City, in the Shizuoka Prefecture of Japan. The beach is known for its crystal-clear water, picturesque landscape, and natural hot springs found along the shoreline. It consists of three distinct beaches: Shirahama Ohama Beach, a spacious and shallow beach perfect for swimming and marine sports; Shirahama Chuo Beach, a smaller beach popular with families; and Shirahama Ita-do Beach, a rocky beach ideal for tide pooling and fishing.
The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and greenery, creating a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors. In the summer months, the beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding. Visitors can enjoy the ocean view while soaking in the “Shirahama Rotenburo,” a natural hot spring located right on the beach.
Many restaurants, cafes, and shops near the beach offer local cuisine and souvenirs. Shimoda City is also known for its historical significance as one of the first ports in Japan to open to foreign trade in the mid-19th century. Visitors can explore the Perry Road, a historic street lined with traditional buildings, or visit the Shimoda Aquarium to learn more about the marine life in the area.
Getting there
By Train and Bus
Take a train to Izukyu-Shimoda Station
- About 2 hours 50 minutes from Tokyo Station by Odoriko or Izu Craile limited express trains
From Izukyu-Shimoda Station, take a bus to Shirahama Beach
- Board a bus bound for Itado-isshiki
- Get off at the Shirahama Kaigan (Shirahama Beach) bus stop
- Journey time is about 10 minutes, fare is 400 yen one-way
- Buses run approximately once per hour
By Car
- Located along National Route 135, about 5km east of Izukyu-Shimoda Station
Shirahama Beach is the most famous and popular 800-meter stretch of sand on the Izu Peninsula. It can get crowded during summer, so early arrival is recommended.