Sawada-no-Hama Beach | Giant Tsunami Boulders and Sunsets on Irabu Island (Miyako)

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2026年06月19日

Sawada-no-Hama is a shallow beach spreading across the north-west of Irabu Island, a scenic site chosen in 1996 as one of the Top 100 Beaches of Japan. The greatest highlight is the countless giant boulders scattered across the shallow sea. These are said to have been carried here by the Great Meiwa Tsunami of 1771, creating a mysterious, distinctive landscape seen nowhere else. It is also famous as a sunset spot; at sundown the silhouettes of the boulders float against the madder-red sky and sea, and a breathtaking view spreads out. At low tide the water draws far back, and the appeal of being able to walk and explore around the boulders and out toward the offshore is another draw. Parking, toilets and showers are in place, so it is easy to drop by. However, the water is shallow with few coral or fish, so it is a spot for enjoying the scenery rather than snorkelling. As a representative photography spot of Irabu Island, it is a place to visit in the evening.

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Map & Access

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Basic Information

Location (Island)Irabu Island
AddressSawada 1725, Irabu, Miyakojima City, Okinawa
Hours / Opening time24 hours (always open)
ClosedNone (always open)
FeeFree
ParkingAvailable, free
Contacthttps://miyako-island.net/beach_and_spot/beach_spot_006/

Visiting tips & what to bring

It is not recognised as a designated bathing beach, and swimming is at your own responsibility. During spring-tide ebbs and flows the tide rises and falls very quickly, and currents can form offshore, so be mindful of time when walking out toward the offshore. As you walk over rocks and sand, marine shoes or non-slip footwear give peace of mind. There is little shade, so prepare a hat and drinks. Toilets and showers are provided.

For families with small children

With its wide sandy beach and shallow sea, during low-tide hours even families with small children can safely enjoy playing in the water and observing the rocks. Parking, toilets and showers are available, and it is a relatively pushchair-friendly environment. However, at spring tide the tidal flow is fast, so be careful not to take your eyes off children. There is little shade, so do not forget heat-protection measures in summer.

FAQ

Q.Can you swim at Sawada-no-Hama? Can you snorkel?

A.It is not recognised as a bathing beach and swimming is at your own responsibility. It is very shallow with little coral or fish, so it is a spot for enjoying the scenery and sunset rather than snorkelling.

Q.What is the most recommended time to visit?

A.As it is a famous sunset spot, from about an hour before sundown is best. The daytime impression is weak, so visiting in the evening as it turns madder-red lets you enjoy the spectacular view of the boulder silhouettes and the sunset.

Q.Are there parking, toilets and showers?

A.There is free parking, and toilets and showers are also provided. With the facilities in place, it is a beach you can easily drop by.

Q.How long does it take from Miyako Airport?

A.About 30 to 45 minutes by car from Miyako Airport across the Irabu Ohashi Bridge. Public transport is limited, so visiting by hire car is recommended.

Q.What can you do at low tide? Any notes on what to bring?

A.When the tide draws far back, you can walk and explore around the boulders and out toward the offshore, enjoying the spread of sand. As you walk over rocks, marine shoes or non-slip footwear give peace of mind.