1. Koshigoe Beach (Kamakura, Kanagawa)
Perfect for cultural sight-seeing and a day by the beach
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 90 minutes by train
Offering a less-crowded alternative to the nearby beaches, Koshigoe has a laidback vibe that makes it ideal for a peaceful day by the sea. Popular among surfers, its calmer waves and freely available life jackets for children also make it a family-friendly choice. After a swim, stroll to the nearby fishing port where you can snag freshly caught seafood from local vendors. The real draw of the beach, however, is its proximity to Kamakura’s cultural treasures. Attractions like the Great Buddha at Kōtoku-in and Hase-dera Temple are just a short bus ride away.
2. Zushi Beach (Zushi, Kanagawa)
Ideal if you want family-friendly water sports
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 60-90 minutes by train
Known for its calm, shallow waters, Zushi Beach is a safe and welcoming spot for families, casual swimmers, and those wanting to escape the busier nearby beaches. Paddleboarding and windsurfing are popular activities here, with several local schools offering lessons for beginners. Seasonal beach houses provide food, drinks, and equipment rentals during summer. Just inland, upscale cafés and relaxed restaurants offer a perfect place to unwind after a day on the water. On clear days, stunning views of Enoshima Island and Mount Fuji complete the coastal experience.
3. Katase Higashihama Beach (Fujisawa, Kanagawa)
Best for beginner and young surfers
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 75 minutes by train
Katase Higashihama Beach, located on the eastern edge of Enoshima, is a favorite among beginner and younger surfers thanks to its safe, shallow waves. With several local surf schools offering lessons, it’s an ideal spot to learn how to surf or hone your skills. Seasonal beach houses provide board rentals, food, and drinks – everything you need for a full day by the sea. Just a short stroll away, Enoshima Island offers a historic shrine, sea caves, and a lighthouse with panoramic views, perfectly combining surf with exploration.
4. Southern Beach Chigasaki (Chigasaki, Kanagawa)
Go here for a taste of Japan’s surf culture
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 60-90 minutes by train
Southern Beach Chigasaki, widely regarded as Japan’s surfing birthplace, draws both beginners and seasoned surfers with its consistent waves and vibrant surf culture. The shoreline is lined with stylish beach bars, surf shops, and casual eateries. Each summer, the town comes alive with the Hamaori Festival, which celebrates its fishing heritage, and the Southern Beach Chigasaki Fireworks Festival, where music, food stalls, and fireworks illuminate the night.
5. Onjuku Beach (Isumi, Chiba)
A go-to for surfers craving a more tranquil experience
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 2 hours by train
With its wide, sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Onjuku offers a quieter alternative for experienced surfers. Lifeguards patrol during summer, ensuring safety, but the beach remains laidback and uncrowded. A unique feature is its historical connection to Mexico, symbolized by statues of two camel riders standing proudly on the shore. Curious visitors can learn more about this story at the Onjuku Museum of History and Folklore. Beyond the sand and surf, the town offers charming cafes and seafood restaurants, perfect for unwinding after a day on the water.
6. Isshiki Beach (Hayama, Kanagawa)
Top spot for relaxation and a great seafood meal
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 90 minutes by train and bus
Isshiki Beach, located in the quiet town of Hayama, is a hidden gem along the Shonan coastline. Treasured for its tranquil, pristine waters, it offers excellent conditions for snorkelling and paddleboarding, with Mount Fuji visible in the distance on clear days. Just a short walk away from the shore is Isshiki Fish Plaza, a lively stretch of seafood shops and restaurants where freshly caught eel, horse mackerel, sea bream, clams, and other local catches are served up affordably.
7. Ubara Beach (Katsuura, Chiba)
For adventurers who want to hike, swim, and snorkel
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 2 hours by train
Ubara Beach offers the perfect blend of rugged adventure and serene solitude. This secluded stretch along Chiba’s coastline boasts crystal-clear waters, making it a favourite among snorkelling enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore tide pools teeming with starfish, crabs, and sea anemones along the shore. The beach’s smaller size creates an intimate atmosphere, ideal for those seeking to escape the crowds. The area is also famed for Ubara Utopia, a 5-kilometer hiking trail that winds dramatically along the cliffs, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
8. Atami Sun Beach (Atami, Shizuoka)
A haven for both beach and onsen relaxation
- Distance from Tokyo: Approx. 50 minutes by bullet train
Once a classic honeymoon destination, Atami Sun Beach offers a rare combination – gentle waves for swimming, palm-lined promenades for evening strolls, and easy access to some of Japan’s most historic hot springs. The town is home to elegant ryokans featuring ocean-view baths. Guests can soak in mineral-rich waters, famous for their healing properties, after a hard day of play on the beach. Complementing the natural attractions are cultural highlights like the MOA Museum of Art and panoramic views from Atami Castle, both easily reached from the beach.
