Sunset Beach Ishigaki
A picturesque white sand beach on Ishigaki Island, offering clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and breathtaking sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for swimming and water sports
Sunset Beach Ishigaki
Best Time
Ideal for swimming and water sports
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque white sand beach on Ishigaki Island, offering clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and breathtaking sunset views.
"Beautiful, quiet, and not crowded, this beach offers a private experience for a fee."
🚗 Bring Your Own Gear
To save on rental costs, consider bringing your own umbrella, chairs, and snorkeling equipment.
💰 Cash is King
Many places on Ishigaki, including some amenities here, may prefer or only accept cash.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sand Beach
Sunset Beach
Enjoy a picturesque stretch of white sand with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and swimming.
Vibrant Sunsets
Sunset Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the tranquil ocean.
Snorkeling Opportunities
Sunset Beach
Explore the shallow, safe waters within the net and discover a variety of small fish.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Fees
Transportation is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Bring Your Own Gear
To save on rental costs, consider bringing your own umbrella, chairs, and snorkeling equipment.
💰 Cash is King
Many places on Ishigaki, including some amenities here, may prefer or only accept cash.
⏰ Plan for Sunset
The beach is named for a reason! Aim to stay for the sunset for a truly magical experience. 
🚰 Be Prepared for Fees
Factor in parking, shower, and toilet fees when budgeting for your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Bring Your Own Gear
To save on rental costs, consider bringing your own umbrella, chairs, and snorkeling equipment.
💰 Cash is King
Many places on Ishigaki, including some amenities here, may prefer or only accept cash.
⏰ Plan for Sunset
The beach is named for a reason! Aim to stay for the sunset for a truly magical experience.
🚰 Be Prepared for Fees
Factor in parking, shower, and toilet fees when budgeting for your visit.
🐒 Monkey Sightings
While not directly at the beach, keep an eye out for the island's cheeky monkeys in surrounding areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sunset Beach Ishigaki is praised for its beautiful, clean white sand and clear waters, offering a tranquil and less crowded experience, especially ideal for enjoying stunning sunsets. However, visitors should be aware of the various fees for parking, amenities, and rentals, which can make it a pricier option compared to other beaches.
"As many reviews have mentioned, parking at this beach is not free—so if you’re looking for a free beach, this isn’t the one. This is a privately operated beach managed by locals, almost like a swimming pool setup.
Here’s the breakdown of costs:
- ¥500 for parking
- ¥2000 for an umbrella (optional)
- ¥500 for a chair (optional)
- ¥500 for a shower per person (optional)
We opted for the umbrella but skipped the chair. We also didn’t use the showers afterward and just drove straight back to our hotel.
That said, we still chose to visit because the beach is beautiful, quiet, and not crowded. You’re essentially paying extra for some level of privacy, and there’s a lifeguard on duty as well. You can also rent equipment for water activities (though we didn’t).
The beach itself is clean, with very clear water. We snorkeled there and saw plenty of small fish. The water is pretty shallow within the safety net, making it great for snorkeling or swimming.
If you don’t mind spending a little extra for a quieter, less crowded experience, this is definitely a great option!"
Lawrence Chiu
"Ishigaki Sunset Beach is absolutely beautiful, with clear water, gentle waves, and a relaxed vibe that make it a standout spot on the island. The stretch of soft sand is perfect for swimming and enjoying vibrant sunsets—truly a fantastic place for a laid-back afternoon or evening.
The biggest downside is the paid parking, which is 500 yen per vehicle, regardless of how long you stay. If just stopping by for a quick look, the cost may not feel worthwhile compared to other free-viewpoints on Ishigaki. However, if planning to swim, relax, or try water activities, the facilities like showers and changing rooms make the paid parking more justified. And actually beware toilets do cost extra money too
Overall, for those seeking a beautiful beach experience and the chance to catch a stunning sunset, this spot delivers. Just be aware the parking and amenities fee might not suit short, casual visits focused on sightseeing only.
I would rate 3.5 stars"
bee thomas
"Very remote and thus not crowded. It's beautiful, but the prices are steep. Parking 500. Sun umbrella is 2000, and each chair 1500. Showers and toilet 500 per person.
Go here and use your own gear as much a as you have it."
Fabien Götz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sunset Beach Ishigaki is best accessed by car. If you don't have a rental, consider checking with your hotel about recommended tours that include transportation or inquire about local bus routes, though they may be less frequent.
Yes, Ishigaki Island can be challenging to navigate without a rental car. Public transportation exists, but it's advisable to plan your routes meticulously or opt for tours.
Sunset Beach is located on the northern side of Ishigaki Island, approximately a 20-minute drive from the airport.
While Sunset Beach itself has fees, there are other free viewpoints on Ishigaki Island for quick looks if you're on a tight budget.
Some tours depart from near the Kabira Bay area and include boat trips, which might pass by or stop near Sunset Beach. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Sunset Beach is a privately operated beach and requires a fee for parking (¥500). Optional rentals for umbrellas and chairs, as well as shower and toilet access, incur additional charges.
Parking is ¥500. Optional umbrella rental is ¥2000, chairs are ¥500 each, and showers/toilets are ¥500 per person.
While swimming is a primary activity, the beach has associated fees for parking and amenities. The water within the safety net is generally shallow and good for swimming.
Advance booking is generally not required for general beach access, but popular activities like snorkeling tours or boat trips might benefit from prior reservation, especially during peak season.
Specific operating hours can vary, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check locally or with your accommodation for the most current information.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling in the clear, shallow waters, and water sports. The beach is also ideal for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful scenery and sunsets.
Compared to some other beaches, Sunset Beach is often described as less crowded, offering a more private and tranquil experience due to its remote location and operational fees.
Yes, the shallow waters within the safety net make it suitable for families with children. The presence of a lifeguard also adds to the safety.
While not guaranteed at the beach itself, boat tours departing from areas like Kabira Bay often offer opportunities to see wild sea turtles.
The water is known for being very clear and calm, especially within the designated swimming area, making it excellent for both swimming and snorkeling.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour before sunset offers stunning light for capturing the beach and ocean. The vibrant colors of the sunset itself are a major photographic draw.
Expect beautiful shots of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, palm trees, and of course, dramatic sunsets.
The tranquil atmosphere, gentle waves, and the possibility of seeing boats against the sunset backdrop create unique photographic moments.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
Other popular spots include Kabira Bay, Tamatorizaki Observatory, and various other beaches known for their scenic beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours for fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed compositions. The tranquil atmosphere also lends itself well to capturing serene beach scenes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ishigaki Island Without a Car
For those committed to using public transport, researching bus routes and timetables in advance is crucial. Websites like the Ishigaki Official Tourism site can be invaluable resources. Consider focusing your itinerary on areas accessible by bus, such as certain popular beaches or viewpoints. While it might limit spontaneity, it allows for a more immersive experience of the island's rhythm.
Alternatively, exploring by bicycle can be an option for shorter distances or for the more adventurous. However, for covering significant ground or reaching more remote locations like Sunset Beach, a rental car remains the most convenient option. Weighing the costs and benefits of each transportation method will help tailor your Ishigaki adventure.
The Value of Paid Amenities at Sunset Beach
The additional fees for showers (¥500 per person) and toilets (also with a fee) further enhance the visitor experience by ensuring cleanliness and availability. For travelers who prioritize comfort, convenience, and a tranquil atmosphere, these expenses can be well worth it. The presence of a lifeguard also adds a layer of security, particularly for families.
Ultimately, the decision to visit Sunset Beach hinges on your priorities. If you're looking for a beautiful, well-maintained beach with amenities and a peaceful ambiance, and you don't mind the associated costs, it's an excellent choice. However, if your primary goal is a free beach experience, other options on Ishigaki might be more suitable.
Capturing the Magic of Ishigaki Sunsets
+2Beyond the sunset itself, the beach offers a variety of photographic subjects. The pristine white sand, the gentle turquoise waves, and the silhouette of distant boats against the vibrant sky all contribute to stunning compositions. Consider experimenting with different angles and focal lengths to capture the vastness of the ocean and the intimacy of the beach.
+1For those looking for unique shots, the reflections on the wet sand after a wave recedes, or the silhouettes of palm trees against the colorful sky, can add depth and interest to your photos. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone fully charged, and perhaps a tripod for sharper images during the lower light conditions of sunset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit