Best Beaches in Kobe

Jun 20, 2021

Best Beaches in Kobe

Now summer has arrived, many of us will fancy a getaway for a day or two to the beach. Japan’s most famous beaches are in its western parts, but Kobe residents don’t have to travel if they want a bit of sun, sea, and sand – there are many great spots on their doorstep worth checking out.

Suma Beach

Suma Beach is Kobe’s most famous beach. Situated in the west of the city, it’s the first of several beaches dotted along the coastline heading west towards the Seto Inland Sea. It’s very picturesque, with the 1.5 km of pale sand contrasting nicely with the surrounding greenery. It’s also quite a relaxing space if you avoid the peak summer season when it attracts the tourist crowds. The beach is within Suma Seaside Park, so there is plenty to do beyond just going for a swim. The beach itself has a few bars, ice-cream vendors, palm trees, and diving platforms. There is a safe swimming zone away from the boats and jet skis that lifeguards monitor, and the waves are mild.

If you prefer the busy season and want to check out the nightlife, you can find some cool late-night bars and restaurants. Some even pitch tents and camp next to the ocean in the warmest months. The beach is easy to get to as it’s just a short walk from Suma station, which is less than 10 minutes from the center of Kobe.

Address: Suma Seaside Park, 1 Chome, Wakamiyacho, Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture 654-0049

Taganohama Beach

This is something of a hidden paradise on Awaji Island — small but pretty quiet all year round. In the summer months, sunbathers are more likely to opt for Suma beach on the mainland or Sumoto beach on the other side of Awaji Island. Taganohama beach is a beautiful spot for a swim, stroll, or relaxing snooze beneath the sun. White sand, clear water, hot springs, and a few beach houses. To reach, take a bus from Sannomiya station or drive/cycle across the wonderful Akashi Kaikyo suspension bridge.

Address: 2476-3 Taga, Awaji, Hyogo Prefecture 656-1521

Azur Maiko Beach

This beach forms part of Azur Maiko Park west of Kobe and is situated close to Akashi Kaikyo bridge. It doesn’t get as congested as Suma Beach, but it is not as secluded as Taganohama. It’s 800 meters of white sand and spectacular clear blue water (azur is blue in French) awarded for its swimming quality. The beach is great for surfing or a romantic sunset stroll. There are BBQ facilities, spots for picnics and fishing, plus there is nearby shopping. It’s about a 7-minute walk from Maiko station on the Kobe and San-yo train lines.

Website: https://www.kobe-park.or.jp.e.abn.hp.transer.com/azur/info.html

Koshien Beach

This beach, close to Kobe, is in the Hyogo Prefecture town of Nishinomiya. It’s the ideal spot for kids and a fun family day out as the beach has a park with a 33-meter slide. Activity enthusiasts will also love the opportunities for surfing and the wealth of sports facilities at the park. You will find Koshien beach on an artificial island about a 30-minute walk from Koshien station.

Address: 1 Chome-19 Hamakoshien, Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture 663-8154

Okurakaigan Beach

This beach is on the border between Kobe and neighboring Akashi, located next to Asagiri station. The sand quality is variable – parts of the beach are quite gravel-like, but the beach is popular for social gatherings due to the dedicated BBQ area that includes equipment you can rent. You need to supply your own food. But what better way to enjoy a hot dog or burger than surrounded by the sound of the ocean with views of Awaji Island in the distance? Also, note that lifeguards are on hand during peak season when swimming is permitted.

Address: Okurakaigandori 1-2, Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture, 673-0879

Corpse Reviver [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons