9 Best Beaches on Awaji Island with Stunning Ocean Views

1) Iwaya Beach

Just a 5-minute drive from Awaji IC, the northernmost beach on Awaji Island boasts stunning views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. An easy hour-long trip from Osaka and only 30 minutes from Sannomiya, this beach is perfect for families with children looking for a fun day at the sea.

Imagine swimming with the iconic bridge as your backdrop. In addition to the beach, you can explore nearby attractions like Iwaya Hot Springs and Rest Stop Awaji (Michi-no-Eki Awaji) for a full day of swimming, shopping, dining, and relaxation.

Parking: 50 cars (free/temporary parking)

2) Ura Kenmin Sun Beach (Higashiura)

Just a 5-minute drive from Higashiura IC, this beach is easily accessible for both drivers and non-drivers, being only steps away from the Higashiura Bus Terminal. Direct bus lines from JR Sannomiya Station or Maiko Station make the journey convenient.

Highly-known for its pristine water quality, this beach is celebrated as one of Japan's top 88 best beaches. With well-equipped facilities like lockers and showers, families with children can enjoy a comfortable and delightful day by the bay.

Parking: 500 yen (one day)

Shower: 200 yen (per person)

From Sea to Farm: Visit Haru San San After Relaxing at Ura Kenmin Sun Beach

Enjoy delightful culinary experiences at Haru San San, just a 13-minute drive up Route 460 from Ura Kenmin Sun Beach. Sample some of the finest produce on the island, freshly picked from surrounding cultivated fields, often just minutes before reaching your plate.

Guests of all ages will find something to savor on the diverse menu, which features specialties like a special kids' plate, "vegetable beef curry", and the unique "field tiramisu" served in a shovel-shaped bowl.

The restaurant's appeal goes beyond its delicious dishes. Enjoy picturesque views of expansive fields blending with the thatched roof, an eco-friendly building designed using sustainable materials by renowned architect Shigeru Ban.

Haru San San

656-1726 1510-4 Tokiwa Nojima, Awaji City, Hyogo Prefecture

Haru Sansan is a farm restaurant where you can enjoy freshly picked vegetables grown on the restaurant's own farm and ingredients lovingly c...

3) Taganohama Beach

Taganohama Beach, just a 15-minute drive from Tsuna Ichinomiya IC, is an ideal spot for family fun. Strategically designed beach blocks tame the waves of the Seto Sea, creating a tranquil environment perfect for children to play. Along its 1.5 km stretch, Awaji's second-largest beach offers free changing rooms and showers for convenience.

Well-equipped shops along the shore provide rental parasols and playground equipment, ensuring everyone has a memorable time on the beach.

Changing rooms: Free of charge

Showers: Free

Parking: 250 cars (500 yen/day, free during off-season)

Top Recommendations After Having Fun at Taganohama Beach: Nojima School

Located just a 23-minute drive north of the beach on Prefectural Route 31, the unique complex of Nojima Scuola offers stunning ocean views.

On the first floor, you'll discover "Cafe Scuola", celebrating its delightful dishes featuring fresh Awaji Island vegetables, and "Nojima Bakery", a local favorite renowned for its freshly baked bread.

The complex also features a diverse range of establishments, including a fresh market, a cozy café, an authentic Italian restaurant, and a charming BBQ terrace.

Step outside to "Nojima Zoo", where adorable fluffy animals, such as alpacas, eagerly await to bring joy to visitors.

Nojima Scuola

843 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721

Nojima Scuola, formerly known as Nojima Elementary School, has undergone a remarkable transformation as part of Awaji Island’s regional revi...

4) Keino-matsubara Beach (Minami Awaji)

Located just a short 7-minute drive from Seitan-Mihara IC, Keino-matsubara Beach is highly recommended for visitors to Minami Awaji or those planning an overnight stay on Awaji Island.

As the largest sea on Awaji Island, its natural beauty has earned prestigious designations such as one of the "100 best beaches in Japan", "100 best bathing beaches (special selection)", and "100 best sunsets in Japan".

Keino-matsubara Beach offers a variety of amenities and activities for a memorable experience. Nearby campgrounds provide rental options for beach tents, beachside cars, and barbecue equipment, allowing visitors to enjoy delightful beachside barbecues. Don't miss the mesmerizing fireworks displays held annually at the end of June for an enhanced experience.

Shower (hot water): 300 yen/3 minutes (also used as changing rooms)

Parking lot: 700 cars (700 yen/day)

5) Ohama Beach (Sumoto City)

Located just a 14-minute drive east from the Sumoto IC, Ohama Beach is recommended for children on Awaji Island. With its shallow waters extending 750m from north to south, it is the top choice among families.

The picturesque landscape of white sand and green pine trees is truly mesmerizing. Moreover, the water's clarity is exceptional, meeting the highest rank (AA) set by the Ministry of the Environment.

During the summer season, Awaji Island welcomes the debut of "Frolic Sea Adventure Park" by Wibit Peakz. Featuring over 27 thrilling water attractions such as trampolines, slides, jumps, and swings, your days on the island will be filled with boundless joy and excitement.

6) Ama Kaigan Beach (Minami Awaji)

A hidden gem located just a 30-minute drive from Seitan-Mihara IC on the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway. This trendy destination, renowned for its open and tropical ambiance, attracts both young people and families alike.

Enjoy a perfect blend of style and relaxation at this popular beach, where a vibrant tropical atmosphere creates the backdrop for an unforgettable day of fun in the sun.

Shower (cold water): 100 yen (changing rooms free of charge)

Parking: 150 cars (free)

7) Osaki Beach

Osaki Beach offers a rejuvenating retreat with its refreshing sea breeze from the Harima-nada Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenades and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of the surroundings. The beach provides convenient facilities, including complimentary showers and changing rooms, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day by the sea.

Changing rooms: Free of charge

Showers (cold water): Free

Coin lockers: Free

Parking: 40 cars (free temporary parking)

8) Hokudan Murozu Beach

Hokudan Murozu Beach is a beloved destination on Awaji Island, cherished for its silky, fine-grained sandy beach and shallow waters, making it perfect for visitors of all ages. Renowned for its stunning sunsets, it has earned a place among the top 100 sunset views in Japan.

Shower (cold water): 210 yen (elementary school students and older)

Coin lockers: 200 yen

Changing rooms: Free

Parking: 30 cars (free)

Recommended cafe after play at Hokudan Murozu Beach: miele

For a savory delight, savor their scrumptious pizzas topped with an abundance of Awaji Island onions and shirasu (whitebait). At Miele, you'll discover the perfect blend of style, stunning sea views, and distinctive flavors, making it a must-visit spot during your Awaji Island journey.

Located just a 15-minute drive from Hokudan Murozu Beach, Miele Café welcomes you with its pure white building, a reminiscent of an overseas resort. Indulge in original drinks featuring honey from Awaji Island, adding a delightful sweetness to your experience.

miele

785-9 Nojimahikinoura, Awaji City, Hyogo Pref. 656-1721

miele, meaning “honey” in Italian, is known for its cuisine and sweets made with fresh, local ingredients and honey produced on Awaji Island...

9) Shintoshi Beach

The beach provides breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and boasts a range of well-equipped facilities to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. Take in the panoramic beauty as you savor the convenience of amenities readily available.

Shower (cold water): 100 yen per use (changing rooms are free)

Coin lockers: 100 yen

Parking: 125 cars (free)

Closing

Experience the perfect blend of thrilling outdoor attractions and safe, enjoyable swimming on Awaji Island. Rejuvenate your senses with warm sands, refreshing waters, and stunning views. Featuring tranquil waves and family-friendly beaches, it's an ideal destination for families with young children. Plan your trip to Awaji Island and make this summer truly unforgettable!

If you are interested in more information about Awaji Island, please visit the website below!

Awaji Island West Coast Website