10 best beaches in Amami Islands

Tomori Beach stands as the crown jewel of Amami Oshima Island, renowned for being one of the most celebrated and picturesque beaches, as well as for its prime location. Just a stone's throw from the airport - merely 3 km to the north - Tomori Beach is an accessible paradise, reachable within a brief 5-6 minute journey by bus or car. Here, the pristine white sands merge seamlessly with the mesmerizing hues of iridescent blue waters, creating a spectacle of natural beauty that is simply breathtaking.

Rocks stretch along the coastline, and the beach is blanketed with fine, white sand. Local coral reefs shield the beach from perilous currents and serve as a magnificent draw for snorkelers and divers alike.

Kurasaki Beach, like many other beaches on Amami Island, is perfect for snorkeling, as the water along the coast is quite shallow. The sandy and pristine beach is situated approximately 30 minutes from the airport; however, buses are infrequent. A spacious parking lot is available for rented vehicles. For accommodation purposes, a luxurious hotel is located near the beach, and both a diving center and a restaurant operate on its premises. Kurasaki Beach is an idyllic spot for sunbathing, swimming, and strolling along the rocky part of the coastline. The water becomes pleasantly warm as early as March and April, making it an inviting destination for an early spring getaway.

Discover the serene Sakibaru Beach, nestled in the northern reaches of the island, an area untouched by the hustle of bus routes. While public transportation may not venture here, the beach is accessible by rented car or taxi. A slender pathway, branching off from the nearby highway, leads you to this hidden gem where the breathtaking turquoise ocean awaits. The beach's minimalistic charm is preserved by the absence of commercial facilities, save for a modest parking lot, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere for visitors. Sakibaru Beach is an idyllic escape for those seeking solace away from the crowds.

Discover the serene Aze Prince Beach, nestled in the northeast of Tokunoshima Island, a hidden gem in the Amami Islands of Japan. Visitors can effortlessly reach this coastal paradise by taxi from the airport. Aze Prince Beach isn't just about the azure ocean and the pristine sandy shores; it also boasts a convenient parking lot and a welcoming camping site. For your comfort, facilities such as toilets, showers, a kitchen, and additional amenities are conveniently situated adjacent to the camping site, ensuring your beach vacation is as relaxing and enjoyable as possible.

Innojofuta Beach derives its name from the prominent coral reef visible above the water's surface. While not famed for expansive sandy shores or typical beach attractions, this destination enjoys popularity among tourists. The local sights are accessible throughout the year, and the beach, with its iconic mountain backdrop, is conveniently situated near Hetonoko Port - a mere 20-30 minute stroll away. A selection of nearby restaurants enhances the appeal, making the beach a worthwhile visit during an island-wide exploration. For those drawn to scenic natural beauty, neighboring beaches and waterfalls offer additional picturesque opportunities.

Discover the serene beauty of Yakomo Beach, nestled on the southern coast of Okinoerabu Island. Unlike other more commercialized beaches, Yakomo offers a tranquil escape. Visitors can explore the island's charm by renting scooters, a favorite mode of transportation among both locals and tourists. Alternatively, a convenient bus ride from the town of Yakomo whisks you away to the beach in just over five minutes, making access to this coastal haven both easy and swift.

Wanjo Beach, nestled on the northern shores of Okinoerabu Island, is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that remains refreshingly uncrowded. The gentle descent into the crystal-clear waters is smooth, offering a shallow and comfortable entry. The beach itself is blanketed with soft sand, and just a short distance away, vibrant coral reefs beckon for exploration.

Renowned as the most exquisite beach on Yoron Island, Ooganeku Beach is a jewel nestled on the east coast, stretching over 2 kilometers of the island's expanse. A visit to this beach is an essential highlight for any traveler to the island. With its crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, Ooganeku Beach is an idyllic spot for an array of water activities and offers the perfect setting for a refreshing swim.

It's debatable whether Yurigahama can even be classified as a beach, given that its sandy expanse only emerges during the low tides of spring and summer. Merely 1.5 km of water separates Yurigahama from the nearest large beach, Ooganeku. The allure of this location lies in its ephemeral nature; it lacks definitive borders, taking shape anew with each low tide, influenced by the day's weather. This very unpredictability is what makes Yurigahama the most renowned spot on all of Yoron Island.