When it comes to Miyako Island, its breathtaking beaches are an absolute must-see.
Renowned for their crystal-clear waters—often said to be even more transparent than those of mainland Okinawa—these shores are known as “Miyako Blue,” a name that captures their stunning blue hues and pristine white sand.
In this article, we’ll introduce six must-visit beaches in Miyako Island, each with its own unique charm and highlights.
#1 Sunayama Beach (砂山ビーチ)
This secluded beach, hidden beyond a sand dune, is known for its iconic arch-shaped rock formation. It boasts crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, making it a popular spot to catch stunning sunsets. To reach the beach from the parking lot, visitors must walk over the dune. While the distance is only about 40 meters, the uneven terrain makes it unsuitable for carrying large or heavy items.
Be aware that the waves here can be rough, increasing the risk of drowning. As this is a public beach with no lifeguards on duty, it’s important to stay close to shore and avoid venturing too far out into the sea.
| Address | 〒906-0000 沖縄県宮古島市平良荷川取 Nikkawa-dōri, Hirara, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | FreeParing 24 Slots |
| Facilities | Restrooms : Free Shower: JPY100 for 4 minutes ( Needed) |
| Fee | Free |
Access：10 Minutes Drive from the City Center（MAP）
#2 Aragusuku-Kaigan (新城海岸）
This beach is a popular snorkeling spot where you can observe vibrant tropical fish and coral reefs up close. With its shallow, calm waters, it’s ideal for beginners and families alike. It’s also well-known for frequent sea turtle sightings, adding to its appeal.
Despite the beach’s popularity, the parking area is relatively small, often resulting in traffic congestion during busy times. However, during peak season, a paid parking lot opens just beyond the free one. If you want to make the most of your time, opting for the paid lot is a smart choice.
| Address | 〒906-0102 沖縄県宮古島市城辺字 新城 Shinjo, Gushiku (Gushiku Shinjō), Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | Free Parking 24 Slots, Paid Parking 20 Slots |
| Facilities | Restrooms: Free Shower: JPY100 for 5 mins (Coins Needed) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
Access：30 Minutes Drive from the City Center（MAP）
#3 Yoshino-Kaigan (吉野海岸)
This is one of Miyako Island’s premier snorkeling spots, home to a rich variety of colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. The exceptionally clear waters create an experience that feels like swimming in a natural aquarium.
The beach has become quite commercialized—in a good way! You can easily rent beach umbrellas, snorkeling gear, and other equipment right on site, making it convenient even for first-time visitors.
| Address | 宮古島市城辺吉野 Yoshino, Gusukube (formerly Gushiku Yoshino), Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | Paid Parking Only (JPY500) |
| Facilities | Restrooms: Free Shower: JPY100 for 5 mins（Coins Needed) |
| Fee | Free |
| Other | Shops / Rental Shops Available at Beach |
Access：30 Minutes Drive from the City Center（MAP）
#4 Imugyā Marine Garden (イムギャーマリンガーデン)
This seaside park makes the most of the island’s natural landscape and features calm, gentle waves—perfect for families with children to enjoy a safe day at the beach. It’s also a great spot for snorkeling or a relaxing coastal stroll, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Just a short walk up the nearby trail, you’ll find scenic viewpoints overlooking intricate coves and enjoy stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding ocean.
| Address | 沖縄県宮古島市城辺友利 Tomori, Gusukube (Gushiku Tomori), Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | Free Parking (22 Slots) |
| Facilities | Restrooms: Free Shower: Paid Only – Coins Needed |
| Fee | Free |
Access：25 Minutes Drive from the City Center（MAP）
#5. Shigira Beach (シギラビーチ)
Located within a resort complex, Shigira Beach features stunningly clear waters and stretches of soft white sand. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and various marine activities, with the chance to encounter sea turtles adding to its appeal.
While parts of the beach are designated as private areas for hotel guests, there’s also a paid parking lot available for outside visitors. This means that even if you’re not staying at Shigira Resort, you can still fully enjoy everything this beautiful beach has to offer.
| Address | 沖縄県宮古島市上野新里 Shinzato, Ueno, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | JPY 1,000 (Free for Shigira Resort guests) |
| Facilities | Restrooms: Free of Charge Sower: Paid Shower Available at Shigira Beach House |
| Entree Fee | JPY 1,100 (Free for Shigira Resort guests) |
| Other | Restaurants and Bars available |
Access：25 Minutes Drive from the City Center （MAP）
#6. Toguchi-no-Hama (Irabu Island) 渡口の浜 （伊良部島）
Located on Irabu Island, this tranquil white sand beach stretches for about 800 meters and offers a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. With fewer tourists than other spots, it gives you a true sense of privacy. The beach is especially famous for its powdery white sand—arguably the finest in all of the Miyako Islands. From the shore, you can enjoy a stunning view of nearby Shimoji Island.
Right next to the parking lot, you’ll find a dining bar called Blue Turtle, where you’re welcome even in your swimsuit. It’s the perfect place to relax and refuel after a day by the sea.
| Address | 宮古島市伊良部字伊良部 Irabu, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | Free Parking (6 Slots) |
| Facilities | Paid Shower Available |
| Fee | Free |
| Other | Cafe: Blue Turtle |
Access：20 Minutes Drive from the City Center （MAP）
#7. Yonaha Maehama beach (与那覇前浜ビーチ)
Located in the southwest of Miyako Island, just south of the Tokyu Resort Hotel, Yonaha Maehama Beach offers breathtaking views of Kurima Bridge and Kurima Island in the distance. This iconic beach is often hailed as one of the most beautiful in the East, stretching approximately 7 kilometers with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear emerald waters.
Despite its fame, we’ve ranked it 7th—and here’s why: it tends to get quite crowded, and the beach has few coral reefs or rocky areas, making it less ideal for snorkeling. Although the waters are shallow near the shore, currents can become surprisingly strong further out, posing a risk of rip currents.
That said, it’s arguably the best beach on the island for a sunset stroll. If you’re feeling a bit worn out from marine activities, this is the perfect spot to unwind and take in the golden glow of the setting sun along one of Japan’s most stunning coastlines.
| Address | 〒906-0305 沖縄県宮古島市下地与那覇 Yonaha, Shimoji, Miyakojima City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan |
| Parking | Free (30 Slots) |
| Facilities | Shower (Paid) |
| Fee | Free |
Access：20 Minutes Drive from the City Center （MAP）
How did that sound to you?
While these beaches may be a bit farther from the main town center, spots like Aragusuku Beach and Shigira Beach on the eastern side of Miyako Island offer a special bonus—you might just have the chance to encounter sea turtles in their natural habitat. These peaceful shores are absolutely worth the visit.
That said, spotting a sea turtle isn’t guaranteed every time you go. If you plan to snorkel, don’t forget to bring your own gear and a life vest. While rentals are available at many beaches, if you plan to snorkel more than once or twice during your trip, investing in your own set might be more convenient and cost-effective.
We hope you enjoy discovering the island’s vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and maybe even a magical moment with a sea turtle in the clear waters of Miyakojima.
Looking at it this way, it’s clear just how dominant Shigira Resort is—with both Shigira Beach and Imugyā Marine Garden located within its expansive grounds. Interestingly, Shigira Resort is operated by a company called Nansei Rakuen Resort, which is part of the Unimat Group—a name more commonly associated with office services and coffee products (like Unimat Coffee).
But here’s something you might not expect: the Unimat Group has actually been involved in resort development on Miyako Island since as far back as 1986. Surprising, right?
It’s a long-standing project that reveals just how deep their roots are in the island’s transformation into a premier travel destination.