Nishinoshima’s Beach Escape: Explore Sotohama Beach and Ōyama Beach

Summer is here—it’s time to hit the beach!

With another scorcher of a summer on the way, nothing cools you off like the sea! Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Nishinoshima Island is slightly cooler than other coastal areas of Shimane Prefecture on Honshu, though we are still expecting plenty of hot summer days. A visit to one of our local beaches is the perfect way to refresh yourself while exploring the island.

Join us as we introduce Nishinoshima Town’s two beaches, along with helpful safety and etiquette tips for a fun, comfortable beach day.

• Table of Contents
• Sotohama Beach: The Number One Choice
• Ōyama Beach: The Hidden Gem
• Safety Tips and Beach Etiquette
• Summary
• More on Nishinoshima:

Sotohama Beach: The Number One Choice

Located in the centre of the island, Sotohama Beach is easily accessible from both Beppu Port and Uragō area. It’s a favourite among visitors and families, buzzing with energy and laughter during beach season.

Facilities include warm-water showers, changing rooms, and toilets. The highlight? A floating swimming platform and water slide—fun for kids and adults alike!

During the season, the nearby beach kiosk opens with cold drinks and soft-serve ice cream. About a 5-minute walk away, you’ll also find a shop selling bread and bento lunches.

2025 Season

Open:
July 19 (Sat) – August 17 (Sun)

Beach
staff on duty: Daily, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Facilities

-Foot washing station

-Toilets and changing rooms

-Coin-operated shower stalls

-Temporary parking area

Access

-From Uragō area: about 10 minutes by bus

-From Beppu Port: about 15 minutes by bus

-Nearest bus stop: Sotohama

Ōyama Beach: The Hidden Gem

Just a 20-minute walk from Beppu Port, Ōyama Beach is a cozy, quiet spot perfect for reading a book or just relaxing to the sound of the waves. Peaceful and less crowded, it offers a true escape into nature.

There are no shops or restaurants nearby, so be sure to bring your own snacks and drinks.

2025 Season

Open: August
2 (Sat) – August 17 (Sun)

Beach
staff on duty: Daily, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Facilities

-Toilets and changing rooms

-Coin-operated shower stalls

-Parking area

Access

-From Beppu Port: about 5 minutes by car or 20 minutes on foot

Safety Tips and Beach Etiquette

Stay within the swimming zones

Designated swimming zones are marked by ropes and buoys. Sotohama Beach is next to Funabiki Canal, which sees frequent boat traffic.

**Never swim outside the marked zones—it’s dangerous.

Protect yourself from the sun

The sea breeze can be deceiving—sunburn and heatstroke are real risks.

Wear a hat, sunglasses, and use sunscreen. Drink plenty of water, and take breaks in the shade.

Use rash guards and marine shoes

Great for protecting your skin from sun, rocks, and sharp shells.

Bring 100-yen coins

Showers are coin-operated and accept cash only.

Have a few coins ready for a rinse after your swim.

Take your trash with you

Let’s keep our beaches beautiful.

Leave nothing but footprints and happy memories!

Don’t collect natural materials

Shells, rocks, and driftwood are part of the ecosystem. Please admire them in place.

Camp only at official campgrounds

Camping on the beach is not allowed.

Use designated campgrounds in town if you plan to camp.

Summary

Surrounded by crystal-blue waters, Nishinoshima offers two unforgettable beach experiences: the lively and family-friendly Sotohama Beach, and the peaceful, tucked-away Ōyama Beach.

Treat yourself to a refreshing beach day this summer on Nishinoshima—where nature, relaxation, and fun meet in harmony.

More on Nishinoshima: