Sunayama beach
Sunayama is a picturesque beach located in the north of Miyako Island, and is also the most visited beach on the island. Its name translates to "Sand Mountain" because you'll need to overcome such a mountain on your way there. It's located in Okinawa prefecture, about 5 km away from Miyako Airport and 4 km away from Hirara. It's advised to rent a car to reach this place, hidden behind a thick emerald grove.
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Beach description
Sunayama's coast is covered in grainy white sand and surrounded by transparent turquoise water which makes it an ideal place for snorkeling and watching fish. Flippers and snorkeling masks can be rented during high season (April to October). But do be careful, as high waves and fast currents are possible.
The coast is only 70 m long, but the breathtaking landscapes with large boulders make it one of the most attractive beaches on the island. The main feature of local landscapes is the coastal coral arch rock - a natural centuries old masterpiece. This is the main sight of the beach, the place depicted on all the Miyako guidebooks and the main background for romantic photo shoots. You can also hide from the heat here. The beach is usually crowded, and if you want to take some great photos without any disturbance, it's recommended to come early.
When is the best time to go?
If in the north of Japan, in Hokkaido, the weather in January-February is quite wintery, in the southern islands the temperature rarely drops below 20 degrees even in the cold season. In summer, the rainy season comes in Japan, when the humidity becomes almost one hundred percent, and the thermometer is at 30 to 40 degrees. Therefore, the best time to travel to Japan – is late spring or early autumn.