Summertime in Fukuoka is the ideal season to carve out some leisure time and immerse yourself in sun, sand, and surf! Fukuoka City proudly tops the list of 21 major Japanese cities for its high-quality beaches, boasting 11 within a 30 km radius from City Hall. But numbers alone can’t do justice to the picturesque sandy expanses that await you. While some are conveniently located within the city limits, others may require a little more effort to reach.
Fukuoka Now’s comprehensive English language beach guide comes to your aid, offering details about parking, public transport, and much more. It can help you find the ideal beach that suits you, your family, and friends.
As a reminder, a “swimming beach” is officially defined by local ordinances as a beach featuring clean water for recreational activities and swimming, which also meets safety and other requirements. This distinguishes such beaches from others where swimming is simply permitted. Keep this distinction in mind when choosing your beach destination.
Please note: Always follow local regulations at each beach you visit. For instance, determine in advance whether BBQs and fireworks are allowed, as most beaches do prohibit such activities. Remember to continue practicing safety measures such as social distancing, and please refrain from causing disturbances by playing loud music or disrupting the tranquillity of nature and the peace of others.
Beach spots near Fukuoka
• Sawara-ku, Fukuoka (Seaside Momochi)
• Nishi-ku, Fukuoka (Nokonoshima, Nagatare)
• Higashi-ku, Fukuoka (Shikanoshima, Katsuma, Gannosu, Nata, Mitoma)
• Itoshima City, Fukuoka (Keya, Niginohama, Nogita, Futamigaura, Fukae)
• Fukutsu City, Fukuoka (Fukuma, Miyajihama, Tsuyazaki)
• Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka (Shingu)
Sawara-ku, Fukuoka City
Seaside Momochi – シーサイドももち
Located just across the street from Fukuoka Tower, this golden sandy area is a summer hotspot in Fukuoka, with its parks, restaurants, and various recreational facilities close at hand. It’s a bustling hub for sunbathers, rollerbladers, soccer players, beach volleyball enthusiasts, touch rugby teams, couples, and toddlers, all claiming their spot on the beach and the promenade. The best part? It’s just a 15-minute bus ride away from Tenjin!
*However, due to ongoing construction for the World Aquatics Championships 2023 in Fukuoka, the sandy beach, the waterfront, and the embankment in the Jigyohama area near the Dome and Hilton will be temporarily closed to visitors until December 31, 2023.
• Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: 15 min. on foot from Nishijin Subway Station. Nishitetsu buses make frequent stops in front of Fukuoka Tower as well.
▷Momochi Now! Stroll the Boardwalk and Hit the Beach
Momochi Seaside Park (百道浜地区) located on the east side of Marizon and Jigyohama
• Swimming season: 7/8 (Sat.) ~ 9/1 (Fri.) 9:30~17:30
• Parking available: 337 spots (¥300/first 2 hours, after that ¥100/30 min.; ¥1,000/five hours and over, open: 7:00~23:00)
• Basic facilities (cold water shower and toilet: free), outdoor simple changing room
• Rocket fireworks and firecrackers prohibited (hand-held fireworks allowed only on the sandy beach until 22:00)
Nishi-ku, Fukuoka City
Nokonoshima – 能古島
Nestled in the heart of Hakata Bay, this nature-abundant island boasts several beaches. The most expansive beach is part of the Nokonoshima Campground, equipped with all the facilities that a family with children might need, including bungalows for overnight stays. It’s also an appealing spot for couples and friend groups to unwind. This island retreat is conveniently just a ten-minute ferry ride away from Meinohama.
• Nokonoshima, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka
• Access: Take the Nishitetsu bus to the Nokonoshima Ferry Terminal. The ferry crossing takes 10 min.
Nokonoshima Campground Kaisuiyokujo (能古島キャンプ村海水浴場)
• Swimming season: 6/14 (Wed.) ~ 9/30 (Sat.)
• Entry fee (one-day): adult ¥1,500, ES & JHS ¥1,000, 3 y.o.~ ¥500 (incl. cold shower, beach hut, changing room; excl. hot shower and locker)
• Parking available: approx. 30 spaces (¥2,000), parking at Meinohama Ferry: 300 spaces, ¥510/day
• Basic shower facilities (hot water: ¥200/3 min.), toilet, barbecue facilities, locker (big ¥200, small ¥100), changing room
• Fireworks allowed
• Access: Take the Nishitetsu bus to the Nokonoshima Ferry Terminal. The ferry crossing takes 10 min., then take the free shuttle bus from the wharf to the Nokonoshima Campground (5 min.)
Kyushu Live
Solo Camp on Nokonoshima (Aug. 2022)
https://youtu.be/jI6VAs18d2k
Nokonoshima Island Tour with a Local! (Jun. 2022)
https://www.youtube.com/live/WfdgeLiI384?feature=share
Nagatare – 長垂
Nagatare, with its consistently strong winds, is a favorite among windsurfers and other marine sports enthusiasts. It also serves as a superb jogging spot. The beachside park features a playground, shaded benches, and water taps for visitors. From here, you can enjoy splendid views of Hakata Harbor, Nokonoshima, and Imazu Harbor. Its popularity is further amplified by its easy accessibility; it’s just a brisk 10-minute walk from Imajuku Station.
Nagatare Seaside Park
• 1-22 Imajuku-ekimae, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka
• No parking available
• Toilet at the park nearby
• Private barbecues, fireworks and swimming are prohibited.
• Access: 10 min. on foot to the beach from Imajuku Sta. (JR Chikuhi Line)
• Swimming is prohibited
Higashi-ku, Fukuoka City
Shikanoshima – 志賀島
Shikanoshima, the discovery site of Fukuoka’s national treasure, the “Kin-in” (gold seal), is connected to the mainland via an artificial land bridge. This leads to long, slender sandy beaches on the island’s east side. Visitors can indulge in the white sands, clear waters, and the distant view of Fukuoka Tower and Fukuoka PayPay Dome on the horizon. Less than an hour away from Fukuoka City by car or train, it’s a well-liked destination for beach lovers.
• Shikanoshima, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
• Access by ferry: Take a ferry from Hakata Port to Shikanoshima (approx. 28 min.).
Photograph provided by Fukuoka City.
Shikanoshima Kaisuiyokujo (志賀島海水浴場)
• Swimming season: 7/1 (Sat.) ~ 8/31 (Thu.)
• Free parking available: 100 spaces (only for beach hut users)
• Basic shower facilities (¥500), toilet, beach hut (3 shops, ¥1,400, HS&JHS ¥1,000, 3 y.o. ~ ES ¥600, included shower)
• Access by bus: Take a Nishitetsu bus for Katsuma from JR Saitozaki Sta. and get off at the Shikanoshima Elementary School bus stop (10 min.), then it’s one min. on foot to the beach.
Kyushu Live – Walk around Uminonakamichi & Shikanoshima (Sep. 2021)
https://www.youtube.com/live/xcp-f9T5S08?feature=share
Katsuma / Shirase – 勝馬／白瀬
This enchanting beach, featuring golden sands tucked away from the main road by verdant greenery, retains its clean and pristine charm. Snorkelers and divers will be drawn to the rocky Shirase Beach, the sole diving spot within Fukuoka City. It’s equipped with navigation ropes in the water, guiding visitors to the best underwater views.
• Katsuma, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
• Access by bus: Take a Nishitetsu bus from JR Saitozaki Sta. to Katsuma and get off at the Katsuma-guchi bus stop (30 min.), then it’s 5 min. on foot to the beach.
Katsuma Kaisuiyokujo (勝馬海水浴場)
• Swimming season: 7/6 (Thu.) ~ 8/15 (Tue.)
• Parking available: 300 spaces (incl. Kyukamura Shikanoshima and beach huts. No parking in Shirase)
• Basic shower facilities (beach hut: warm shower, Kyukamura Shikanoshima: ¥200/2 min.), toilet, barbecue facilities, beach huts
• Surfing and fire-related activities not allowed
Gannosu – 雁ノ巣
This beach stands out for its large, golden sand dunes, lending a unique and picturesque aesthetic. Although it lacks certain facilities like showers, its lesser popularity may be a boon for those seeking a serene escape. It’s certainly the ideal spot to detach from the hustle and bustle. If you’re keen on securing your own dinner, this location becomes a popular destination for clam digging in the spring.
Photo from Pontafon
• Gannosu, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
• Paid parking available at Gannnosu Recreation Center (¥300/day)
• Access: 10 min. on foot from JR Gannosu Sta.
• Swimming is prohibited. (*beware of offshore currents)
Nata – 奈多
This beach, facing east, is renowned as the finest location to witness the sunrise. Even during summer, known as the calm season, the waves can be surprisingly high here. A beach hut on-site enhances the appeal, making it an enjoyable spot for a BBQ.
Photograph provided by Fukuoka City.
• 1218 Nata, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
• Paid parking available: 1,000 spaces (¥300/day)
• Toilet, beach hut, barbecue facilities
• Surfing allowed
• Jet skiing, scuba diving, and fireworks prohibited
• Access: 16 min. on foot from JR Nata Sta.
• Swimming is prohibited. (*beware of offshore currents)
Mitoma – 三苫
This wide sandy beach is so pristine that you can hear the sand squeak underfoot! However, there are no umi no ie (beach huts), so remember to shop before you set off. The beach boasts clear waters and abundant rocks, under which you can find small sea creatures, making it an ideal playground for children. The stretch between Nata and Mitoma is a hit among surfers!
• 6-20 Mitoma, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka
• No parking available
• Surfing allowed (surf shop on site)
• Access by train: Take the subway to Kaizuka Sta., then the Nishitetsu Kaizuka Line to Mitoma Sta. (19 min.). About 8 min. (1 km) on foot to the beach.
• Swimming is prohibited. (*beware of offshore currents)
Itoshima City, Fukuoka
Keya – 芥屋
Keya, one of Japan’s top 100 beaches and the annual host of the outdoor music festival “Sunset Live,” is a delightful and well-protected cove. With its sandy beaches, clear waters, and gentle waves, it’s a dream for beach-goers. It is family-friendly, equipped with public restrooms, umi no ie (beach huts), and parking facilities. You’ll also find a fishing port and several restaurants nearby.
Great news! The outdoor music festival “Sunset Live” is making a return to Keya Beach on September 2 & 3, 2023. For more information about the event, please visit: Sunset Live 2023 Don’t miss out on this much-anticipated musical celebration by the beach!
• Shima-keya, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
• Access by bus: Take the Showa bus for Keya from JR Chikuzen-Maebaru Sta (North exit) to the final stop at Keya (approx. 25 min.), then it’s 5 min. on foot to the beach
Keya kaisuiyokujo (芥屋海水浴場）
• Free parking available: 200 spaces
• Toilet, beach huts (four shops) with barbecue and basic shower facilities
• Private barbecues, fireworks, and marine sports are prohibited. However hand-held fireworks can be used near the beach huts.
Niginohama – 幣の浜海岸
This long, natural, and uncrowded beach is among our favorite getaways near Fukuoka. With its light golden sands and numerous pine trees, it’s not surprising that it ranks among Japan’s top 100 beaches. It’s also a favored spot for surfing, particularly in winter or whenever the waves roll in. The coastal road forms part of the “Sunset Road” route, providing an excellent vantage point to enjoy breathtaking sunsets. As you walk from Nogita towards Keya, you’ll encounter a cove just before Niginohama, home to Natty Dread, a rustic shack serving jerk chicken and hamburgers. Here you can enjoy fantastic food and drinks alongside a secluded swimming beach.
• Shima-keya, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
• Free parking available: 70 spaces (in total / several spots)
• Toilet
• Access by car: drive to Maebaru IC, head in the Shima direction along Prefectural Road 12. Go straight to the Hatsuno intersection and turn left at Nogita intersection. 50 min. from Tenjin.
• Access by bus to Keya: Take the Showa bus heading to Keya and get off at Kamamoto-mae bus stop. Niginohama Beach is 10 min. on foot from there. On the way you’ll walk by Nogita Beach with several shops.
• Access by bus to Nogita: Take the Showa bus to Nogita from JR Chikuzen-Maebaru Sta. and get off at the Nogita bus stop (approx. 30 min.). Then it’s about 2.5 km westward to Niginohama Beach (approx. 70 min. on foot).
• You can also rent bicycles at Thalia Coffee Roasters located in front of the Nogita bus stop. (Limited number bicycles available between 10:00~17:30, regular bicycles: ¥800/2h, ¥1,200/1 day, electric bicycle ¥1,000/2h, ¥1,500/1 day, tandem bicycle ¥1,500/2h, ¥2,500/1 day)
Nogita – 野北海岸
This cluster of coves, featuring sandy beaches and crystal-clear water, has been gaining popularity due to the nearby cafes and restaurants. Establishments like Hinode, which serves healthy tacos, Current, a full-scale restaurant and bakery, and the recent addition of the Rex Burger truck, add to the beach’s allure. While the beach is a favored surfing point, it also offers calm and shallow waters during low tide, making it ideal for families. However, be mindful that parking tends to fill up quickly on weekends, leading to potentially crowded conditions and wait times. If you prefer tranquility, you might want to avoid these peak times.
• Shima-nogita, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
• Access by bus: Take the Showa bus for Nogita from JR Chikuzen-Maebaru Sta. and get off at Nogita (approx. 25 min.), then it’s 10 min. on foot to the beach.
• Private pay parking available along the coastal prefectural road.
Futamigaura – 桜井二見ヶ浦海岸
This beach offers excellent waves and the most diverse selection of cafes in Itoshima, including the iconic Sunset Cafe. There are now too many cafes to mention. The area has seen explosive growth in recent years. Futamigaura is renowned for Meoto-iwa, the “husband-and-wife” rock shrine standing 150 meters off the shore. Recognized as one of Japan’s top 100 sunset spots, it’s worth planning to stay here until dusk! Are you an experienced surfer? The waves at this location are a favorite amongst advanced practitioners. However, be aware that weekend traffic in the area can be very heavy. Bypass the congestion by opting to travel by bicycle – or only fo on weekdays or off season.
• Shima-sakurai, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
• Free parking available: 47 spaces (¥300/1h, 24h)
• Toilet
• Access by bus: Take the Showa bus from JR Kyudai Gakken Toshi Sta. to the Futamigaura (Meoto iwa mae) bus stop (approx. 30 min.), then walk to the beach.
• Due to strong currents, swimming is prohibited.
Fukae – 深江
This beach features a long, wide, and shallow expanse with clean water and white sand. It’s particularly popular among families and is safe for young children. Between May and October, visitors can try their hand at seine fishing to catch the season’s bounty. To reserve this activity, please contact the Fukae Kanko Hotel at 092-3250-1238. Click here for more details.)
• 2129-5 Nijo-fukae, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
• Access: From JR Chikuzen-Fukae, 12 min. on foot
Fukae Kaisuiyokujo (深江海水浴場)
• Free parking available: 20 spaces (8:00~17:00, Jul. ~ Aug. until 19:00)
• Basic shower facilities, toilet, beach huts (six shops) with barbecue facilities
• Private barbecues, fireworks, and marine sports are prohibited. However hand-held fireworks can be used near the beach huts.
Fukutsu City, Fukuoka
Long, windswept beach immensely popular with surfers. There are many beach cafes in the area, lots of events throughout the summer, and you can usually count on excellent sunsets. Good for a leisurely drive! From nearby Miyajidake Shrine, there is a path going straight down to the beach known as the “Road of Light” at sunset. Best viewed from the top of the stairs of the shrine. This phenomenon can be viewed on Miyajihama, a 3-km-long sandy beach that stretches between Tsuyazaki and Fukuma, when the shallow water at low tide reflects the sky like a mirror. You can see the Fukutsu Sea Mirror when the following conditions are met.
▷ Fukuoka Now Report – Visit Fukutsu Sea Mirror for Spectacular Scenery
Fukuma – 福間
It is one of the leading meccas for marine sports in Fukuoka. The wind and waves are stable all year round, and windsurfing in particular is well known for its ease of use. The coastal street is lined with marine sports stores, cafes, and restaurants, where you can enjoy a meal on the terrace on a sunny day while feeling the sea breeze.
• 4-10 Nishi-fukuma, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka
• Access by bus: Take a Nishitetsu bus from JR Fukuma Sta. and get off Fukuma Kaigan, then it’s 1 min. on foot from the Fukuma Kyoku-mae bus stop.
Fukuma Kaigan (福間海岸)
• Swimming season: 7/4 (Tue.) ~ mid-Aug.
• Parking available: 153 vehicles (free, Fukuma Fishing Port Seaside Park parking lot)
• Basic shower facilities: ¥500~ (available at marin sports stores)
* Local authorities ask people to refrain from using BBQ and fireworks. The Fukutsu coast is a precious place where sea turtles visit from June to October to lay eggs. We would like to refrain from any activities that interfere with the ecosystem of sea turtles.
Miyajihama – 宮地浜
The beach is located about 15 minutes straight from the approach to Miyajidake Shrine towards the sea. The beach is located right next to Fukuma Beach, and the waves are not high and the sea is shallow, so you can enjoy a relaxing time.
• 4-5 Miyajihama, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka
• Access by bus: Take a Nishitetsu bus from JR Fukuma Sta. and get off Miyajihama 2cho-me (3 min.), then it’s 15 min. on foot to Miyajihama Beach
Miyajihama Kaisuiyokujo (宮地浜海水浴場)
• Swimming season: 7/3 (Mon.) ~ mid-Aug.
• Parking available: approx 170 vehicles (parking fee will be charged during the summer vacation period.)
• Basic shower facilities: ¥300, toilet
* Local authorities ask people to refrain from using BBQ and fireworks. The Fukutsu coast is a precious place where sea turtles visit from June to October to lay eggs. We would like to refrain from any activities that interfere with the ecosystem of sea turtles.
Tsuyazaki – 津屋崎
Wide, long beach also popular with families, and it has facilities including umi no ie (beach huts) and showers. The waters here are beautifully clear! Want to stay overnight? There is a minshuku (Japanese-style bed and breakfast) in the area.
• 1-37 Tsuyazaki, Fukutsu City, Fukuoka
• Access by bus: Take a Nishitetsu bus from JR Fukuma Sta. and get off at the Tsuyazakihama bus stop (12 min.), then it’s three min. on foot from there.
Tsuyazaki Kaisuiyokujo (津屋崎海水浴場)
• Swimming season: 7/6 (Thu.) ~ mid-Aug.
• Parking available: only four beach huts
• Shower: only for beach house users
* Local authorities ask people to refrain from using BBQ and fireworks. The Fukutsu coast is a precious place where sea turtles visit from June to October to lay eggs. We would like to refrain from any activities that interfere with the ecosystem of sea turtles.
Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka
Shingu – 新宮
This vast, lengthy, and flat beach is suitable for swimming, but it’s particularly cherished for beach walks. A 2 km stretch of green pine forest flanks the beach, with a path known as the “Parasol’s Edge” running along the edge of the forest. This beach is a favorite among families as well.
• 1640-1 Shimonofu, Shingu-machi, Kasuya, Fukuoka
• Access: 5 min. on foot northeast from Nishitetsu Shingu Sta. Public transportation recommended.
Shingu Kaisuiyokujo (新宮海水浴場)
• Swimming season: 7/7 (Fri.) ~ 8/27 (Sun.)
• Free parking available (during beach season only): 160 spaces
• Basic shower facilities (hot water ¥500, cold water ¥300), toilet (during beach season only), changing room (¥100), beach hut (¥1,500), barbecue facilities
• Surfing is allowed outside the swimming area
• Late night fireworks (22:00 ~ sunrise) are prohibited
Hit the Beach – But!
1. Keep it clean: The cardinal rule to follow is “leave nothing on the beach but your footprints”. That means no bottles, cans, or cigarette butts. Burying waste in the sand is a no-go! Always bring a bag as trash cans might not be available, especially at more secluded beaches. Let’s set a good example and help maintain the beauty of Fukuoka’s beaches.
2. Fires & BBQs: Unless there are BBQ pits set up by local authorities, fires and BBQs are officially prohibited. DON’T BBQ ON BEACHES – it’s not allowed!
3. Party responsibly: While enjoying yourself, remember that this is Japan, not Ibiza. Topless sunbathing is not widely accepted here. Feel free to express your own culture but remember to respect others’ too.
4. Play it safe: Most beaches here do not have lifeguards, so always swim with a buddy. Be aware of tides, undertows, sharp shellfish, and beware of jellyfish, which typically appear from mid-August. Also, don’t forget to protect yourself from the scorching Kyushu sun and sudden lightning storms – both of which can quickly spoil a beach day.
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NOTE: The information presented in this document was collected and summarized by the Fukuoka Now team. While we strive for accuracy, there may be some errors or details that have since changed. If you spot any inaccuracies or updates, we’d appreciate it if you could let us know. This report was initially written in July 2017.
