Can I swim at Sukuji Beach?

Yes, swimming is permitted. The beach has generally calm conditions suitable for families, unlike Kabira Bay where swimming is prohibited.

Is there equipment rental at Sukuji Beach?

No. Bring your own snorkeling gear, food, water, and sun protection. Commercial facilities are not available.

When should I visit for the best snorkeling?

Low tide is optimal for reef exploration, as shallow flats extend meters from shore, making coral and fish easily visible without deep swimming.

How does Sukuji Beach compare to Kabira Bay?

Sukuji Beach allows swimming and is less commercialized, while Kabira Bay is famous for scenic views but prohibits swimming. Sukuji is located 3 kilometers from Kabira Bay.

What marine life can I see while snorkeling?

The beach is within Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park and features coral reefs with tropical fish and marine invertebrates visible in the shallow reef flats extending from shore.

Sukuji Beach, Okinawa

4.3 (671)BeachNatural FeatureEstablishment

Last updated Mar 10, 2026

Sukuji Beach is located on the northern coast of Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture, situated within the Kabira district, an area renowned for its exceptional coastal scenery. The beach stretches approximately 800 meters along a protected bay, characterized by white coral sand and remarkably clear turquoise waters. Unlike the more famous Kabira Bay nearby, which prohibits swimming due to strong currents and pearl cultivation activities, Sukuji Beach serves as one of the primary swimming beaches in the Kabira area.

The beach's natural significance lies in its well-preserved coral reef ecosystem and its position within the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. The surrounding waters support diverse marine life, making it a notable location for observing Okinawa's subtropical coastal environment. The area's relative seclusion has helped maintain its natural character, though it remains accessible to visitors seeking a less commercialized beach experience compared to Ishigaki's southern coastal areas.

Visitor experiences at Sukuji Beach center on swimming, snorkeling, and reef observation during low tide. The shallow reef flats extend several dozen meters from shore, allowing close-up viewing of coral formations, tropical fish, and marine invertebrates without requiring extensive swimming skills.

The beach lacks the extensive facilities found at more developed tourist beaches, with minimal shade from natural vegetation and limited commercial infrastructure. The calm conditions during most of the year make it suitable for families, though monitoring tide schedules and weather conditions is essential for safe reef exploration.

Sukuji Beach is located approximately 15 kilometers northwest of Ishigaki city center and 3 kilometers from Kabira Bay. Access requires private transportation, as public bus services to this specific beach are limited or non-existent. Rental cars or scooters are the standard means of reaching the site, with a small parking area available near the beach entrance. The drive from central Ishigaki takes roughly 25-30 minutes via Route 79 and local roads. There is no admission fee to access the beach.

Traveler reviews

The beach was only a short drive from another main attraction. There were plenty of parking lots along the road. There was a small building without much service available. Rubbish were found everywhere which might be due to the rain and wave before the day of visit. Nearly nobody swam or enjoy sunbathing there.

Joseph Chow

Jul 12, 2026

Very peaceful and clean beach. I went there after a storm had passed so I think the water could have been clearer. There are plenty of parking spaces, showers, toilets, and some shade in the woods. And most importantly, it’s free to access! The beach was also not very busy so it is a good option to have a relaxing swim

The beach has a parking area, nice wooden facilities for children, free toilets and coin-operated showers. The beach is a long strip with relatively little width for sitting under the trees or sitting in the beach staff area. At the entrance it is stated when the tide will start and when it will set, we sat there until sunset and it was stunning. Compared to the beaches in Ishigaki the water was not as clear as in the pictures

Came here early morning with family to see the sunrise only to realize this beach is much better to see the sunset, lol. Crystal clear beaches, it is very cold to take a dip in. There are signs to be careful of box jellyfish, though it was off-season when we came so no signs of them. There are a lot of crows so be careful to properly watch your belongings. There are changing, toilet, and shower areas though the shower cost 100 yen to use. There are seating areas back near the eating area. There are also vending machines to get drinks though with limited selection and payment through coins only. It's best to come here early to avoid large crowds and to walk your dog. I would definitely come here again!

Quit clean gorgeous beach. After the disappointment of Kabira bay this beach was such a nice surprise. Off season so no food stalls. However it being a Japanese beach there were vending machines and public toilets. Shallow crystal clear waters and white sand. Highly recommended.

Sukuji Beach, Okinawa

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