Inakahama Beach Nagata
A vital sea turtle nesting ground with striking yellow sand, offering serene beauty and dramatic coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for turtle nesting
Inakahama Beach Nagata
Best Time
Prime time for turtle nesting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital sea turtle nesting ground with striking yellow sand, offering serene beauty and dramatic coastal views.
"A beautiful beach made from yellow sand, where sea turtles gather to lay their eggs."
Respect the Turtles
Observe nesting turtles from a distance; avoid flash photography or loud noises.
Explore the Beach Banks
Walk down to the water's edge for better views of the unique sand and rock formations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Nesting Grounds
Nagata Inakahama Beach
Witness the magic of loggerhead turtles laying eggs on this vital breeding ground.
Unique Yellow Sand Beach
Nagata Inakahama Beach
Experience the striking yellow sand, a result of weathered granite from the mountains.
Scenic Sunset Views
Nagata Inakahama Beach
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, often with the entire beach to yourself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Nesting Season
Getting Around Yakushima
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect the Turtles
Observe nesting turtles from a distance; avoid flash photography or loud noises.
Explore the Beach Banks
Walk down to the water's edge for better views of the unique sand and rock formations.
Pack Snacks & Drinks
No food or drinks available nearby, so bring your own for a longer stay.
Rinse Off Sand
Faucets outside the bathroom are available for rinsing sand off your feet.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect the Turtles
Observe nesting turtles from a distance; avoid flash photography or loud noises.
Explore the Beach Banks
Walk down to the water's edge for better views of the unique sand and rock formations.
Pack Snacks & Drinks
No food or drinks available nearby, so bring your own for a longer stay.
Rinse Off Sand
Faucets outside the bathroom are available for rinsing sand off your feet.
Capture the Sunrise
Early mornings offer tranquil moments and beautiful light for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Inakahama Beach for its unique yellow sand, stunning natural beauty, and its vital role as a sea turtle nesting ground. Many appreciate the tranquility and the opportunity to witness wildlife responsibly. Some note the limited amenities and the need for planning regarding food and transportation.
"Really neat to see the beach where apparently 40% of all North Pacific Loggerhead turtles are born. Gorgeous steep beach banks with picturesque rocks in the water, so make sure to walk out and down rather than just peek from the parking area. 24 turtles laid eggs last night in a fenced off area and you can see their trails along the steep sand slopes (look like skinny sled paths flanked by flipper "prints". Outside the bathroom are two faucets for rinsing off sand form your feet."
Kaoru & Tim Leong
"It's a beach when sea turtles come to spawn at certain times of the year.
Came in early April on an evening to watch the sunset, literally had the whole beach to myself. It's got great views and a fair bit of parking space. No food or drinks nearby though, so do bring those if you're planning to stay for long."
Jacques Lin
"Possibly the main sand beach in Yakushima, beautiful and usually quiet, also used by turtles for nesting."
Mike Ambacher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Miyanoura Port, you can take a bus towards Nagata. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Renting a car offers more flexibility for exploring Yakushima, including Inakahama Beach.
Yes, there is parking available at Inakahama Beach. However, some visitors note that parking spaces can be limited, especially during peak times.
Yes, public buses operate on Yakushima Island and can take you to Inakahama Beach. It's advisable to check the bus schedules in advance as they can be infrequent.
Many travelers recommend renting a car for the best experience, allowing you to easily visit various sites like Inakahama Beach at your own pace.
Inakahama Beach is located on the northern coast of Yakushima. It's a scenic drive from other popular spots like Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, which is about an hour away by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Inakahama Beach is a natural public beach, and there is no entrance fee to visit. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities free of charge.
Inakahama Beach is accessible 24 hours a day, as it is a natural beach. However, the best times to visit for specific experiences like turtle nesting or sunset viewing are during daylight hours or early evening.
No, you do not need to book tickets to see the sea turtles at Inakahama Beach. However, during nesting season (May-July), it's important to observe from a respectful distance and follow any guidelines provided to protect the turtles.
During turtle nesting season (May-July), visitors are asked to be mindful of the turtles and their eggs. Avoid using flash photography and keep noise levels low. Some areas might be fenced off to protect nests.
Swimming is possible at Inakahama Beach, but be aware of currents and conditions. The beach is primarily known for its natural beauty and turtle nesting.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers stunning light for photography. Early mornings can be particularly peaceful and offer unique photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. If you're hoping to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens might be useful, though observing turtles from a distance is key.
The yellow sand itself is a unique subject. The rock formations in the water and the steep beach banks also make for picturesque shots. Don't forget to capture the turtle tracks if you visit during nesting season.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local guidelines for Yakushima National Park before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for the environment and wildlife.
Beyond the landscape, look for the unique yellow sand, the weathered rocks, and if you're lucky, the tracks left by nesting sea turtles. The contrast of the yellow sand against the blue ocean is striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are no immediate food or drink facilities, packing a picnic is a great idea for a family outing. The faucets near the bathroom are handy for rinsing off sandy feet before heading back. The scenic drive to the beach also offers opportunities to point out other natural wonders of Yakushima.
📸 Nature Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive coastline and a telephoto lens if you hope to photograph any distant wildlife. Early mornings are often less crowded, offering a serene atmosphere and soft light. Remember to be mindful of the environment and any protected areas, especially during turtle nesting periods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Sea Turtles of Inakahama
It's vital for visitors to understand the importance of responsible wildlife viewing. During nesting season, it's imperative to maintain a safe distance from the turtles, avoid using flash photography, and keep noise to a minimum. Designated areas may be fenced off to protect nests, and respecting these boundaries is crucial for the survival of future generations of turtles. The trails left by the turtles in the sand are a poignant reminder of this natural spectacle.
Even outside of nesting season, the beach's connection to these magnificent creatures is palpable. The sheer fact that this beach plays such a pivotal role in the loggerhead turtle population makes a visit to Inakahama Beach a truly special and educational experience. It offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature on a profound level.
Geology and Landscape of Inakahama Beach
The beach itself is characterized by steep sand banks and picturesque rock formations scattered in the water. These features add to the dramatic and rugged beauty of the coastline. Visitors are encouraged to walk out and explore these areas rather than just observing from the parking lot, as they offer unique perspectives and photo opportunities. The interplay of sand, rock, and sea creates a dynamic and captivating landscape.
Beyond the immediate beach, the backdrop of volcanic Mt. Furudake (though not directly visible from the beach itself, it's part of the island's volcanic landscape) adds to the sense of being in a place shaped by powerful natural forces. The overall environment is one of raw, untamed beauty, characteristic of Yakushima Island's UNESCO World Heritage status.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit