10 best beaches in Sakishima islands

Sunayama Beach, a breathtaking destination nestled in the northern reaches of Miyako Island, stands as the most frequented beach on the island. Its name, translating to "Sand Mountain," hints at the small climb required to access its pristine shores. Situated within Okinawa Prefecture, the beach lies merely 5 km from Miyako Airport and 4 km from Hirara, making it an accessible paradise. To fully embrace the beauty of this secluded haven, shrouded by a lush emerald grove, it is recommended to rent a car.

Yonaha Maehama Beach is a breathtakingly picturesque destination situated on the southwest edge of Miyako Island. The striking contrast of the blindingly white sand against the emerald, transparent waters gives the landscape a truly heavenly ambiance. Stretching over 7 kilometers and frequented by only a small number of visitors, this beach offers a serene escape that feels like a hidden slice of paradise in Japan. Accessible exclusively by taxi or rented car, it promises an exclusive and tranquil experience for those seeking solace away from the bustling tourist spots.

Yoshino Beach, also known as Yoshino Kaigan, stands out as a premier snorkeling destination on Miyako Island, nestled on its eastern coast, approximately 20 km from Hirara. The beach boasts stunning coral reefs teeming with vibrant tropical fish and turtles, captivating those eager to delve into the wonders of the underwater realm.

Aragusuku Beach, nestled on the eastern edge of Miyako Island, beckons nature enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat. This idyllic destination is perfect for family getaways, offering a serene alternative to the island's busier shores. With its pristine white sands and shallow, crystal-clear emerald waters, Aragusuku provides a picturesque setting for a peaceful vacation. The beach sees its peak visitor numbers in the summer, yet it retains an atmosphere of undisturbed serenity.

Fusaki Beach, a stunning expanse of sand stretching approximately 1 km, graces the western edge of Ishigaki Island, beckoning ecotourists and nature enthusiasts alike. Situated a mere 10 minutes from the heart of Ishigaki, this beach lies within the bounds of a namesake resort hotel, yet remains open to all visitors. A brief, half-hour car journey from the island's airport will deliver you to this serene destination.

Yonehara Beach, nestled in the serene Kabira Bay on the eastern side of Ishigaki Island, beckons travelers with its tranquil ambiance, breathtaking scenery, and exceptional snorkeling prospects. However, visitors should remember to pack their own gear, as the beach lacks rental facilities and infrastructure. To reach this secluded paradise, one can take a bus from the heart of Yonehara town, arriving at the bay in approximately 40 minutes.

Sukuji Beach stands as one of the most breathtaking sandy stretches on Ishigaki Island. Nestled close to the renowned Kabira Bay, it is a mere 15-minute journey from this idyllic spot and approximately an hour's drive from the island's airport. As one of the most accessible beaches on Ishigaki, Sukuji can become quite lively with visitors during the peak season, offering a vibrant atmosphere for beachgoers.

Discover the enchanting Tsukigahama, also known as Moon Beach, a sprawling sandy haven on the western shores of Iriomote Island. Its name is derived from the striking crescent shape that captivates visitors. However, the allure extends beyond its shape. Adorned with powder-fine golden sand, the beach offers a unique auditory experience; the sands emit a distinctive sound akin to a cry as you stroll along its expanse, earning it the moniker "Crying Sand Beach."

Ida no Hama, a hidden gem nestled on the outskirts of Funauki at the southwest tip of Iriomote Island, offers a serene and secluded retreat. Accessible solely by water, this pristine beach is served by a ferry that embarks on 4 to 5 daily voyages from Shirahama to the village. The beach's isolation has preserved its natural beauty and the allure of its landscapes, making it a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility away from the bustling world. With its rarity of visitors, Ida no Hama remains an unspoiled paradise for beach vacationers in the Sakishima Islands of Japan.

Hoshizuna Beach, a hidden gem nestled on the northern fringe of Iriomote, offers a slice of paradise between the quaint coastal villages of Nakano and Sumiyoshi. The most convenient access to this serene haven is from Uehara Port. Despite its well-deserved popularity, Hoshizuna Beach retains an air of tranquility, rarely feeling overcrowded.