Sunayama Beach

Sunayama Beach is located on Miyako Island in Okinawa Prefecture, approximately 300 kilometers southwest of Okinawa's main island. This pristine stretch of coastline gained recognition as one of Japan's most photographed beaches due to its distinctive natural rock arch formation and powdery white sand composed of crushed coral and shells.

The beach holds cultural significance for the local Miyako community, who have traditionally used this area for fishing and as a gathering place during seasonal festivals. The name "Sunayama" translates to "sand mountain," referring to the small dunes that form behind the shoreline. The iconic limestone arch, carved by centuries of wave erosion, has become a symbol of Miyako Island and appears frequently in Japanese tourism campaigns.

Visitors can walk through the famous rock arch during low tide, swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and snorkel among tropical fish in the shallow coral reefs. The beach offers excellent sunset viewing opportunities, with the arch perfectly framing the setting sun. Photography enthusiasts particularly value the dramatic contrast between the white sand, blue water, and dark volcanic rock formations along the coastline.

April through October represents peak season with water temperatures reaching 26-29°C, ideal for swimming and water activities. November through March brings cooler weather with temperatures around 20-24°C, better suited for walking and photography. The beach can become crowded during Golden Week in early May and the summer vacation period from July to August.

Access to Sunayama Beach requires flying to Miyako Airport, which connects to major Japanese cities including Tokyo, Osaka, and Naha. From the airport, the beach is approximately 15 minutes by rental car or taxi via Route 243. Limited parking is available near the beach entrance. Public transportation options are minimal, making rental cars the most practical choice for visitors. The beach has no admission fee and remains accessible 24 hours daily, though facilities and parking may have restricted hours during off-season periods.