Shonan is one of the best destinations near Tokyo, known for beautiful beaches, ocean views, relaxed atmosphere, and scenic coastal towns.
Located along the coast of Kanagawa Prefecture, the Shonan area includes popular seaside destinations such as Kamakura, Enoshima, Zushi, Hayama, and Chigasaki.
Compared to busier city destinations, Shonan offers a slower and more relaxing summer experience that’s perfect for beach trips, sunset walks, and weekend getaways.
In this guide, I’ll introduce the best beaches in Shonan, including family-friendly beaches, relaxing coastal spots, and nearby cafés to visit during your trip.
Why Visit Shonan Beaches?
Shonan is a popular summer getaway because it offers:
- Easy access from Tokyo
- Beautiful beaches and ocean views
- Relaxed coastal atmosphere
- Surf culture and seaside cafés
- Great sunset spots
The area is especially popular from July to September.
Yuigahama Beach – Kamakura City
Yuigahama Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Shonan and is especially popular during summer.
The beach has a lively atmosphere with beach houses, seasonal events, and easy access from Kamakura sightseeing areas. Families, couples, and groups of friends all visit Yuigahama during the warmer months.
👉 Best for: Summer beach atmosphere, families, sightseeing
Nearby Spot for kids : Kamakura Seaside Park – Yuigahama Area
There is a park just across the street from the beach. You can play here if your kids don’t like walking/playing on sand.
KikiNearby Cafe: Matsubara An
Matsubara an is a restaurant where you can have soba noodle. They have Arare-age that is a small tempura.
Family-Friendly Restaurant : Zaimokuza Cafe 75th
If you are with kid(s), Zaimokuza Cafe 75th is a good place to go. You’ll have a beautiful ocean view. There is a tatami seating area where you can let your baby laying/clawing.
My son was 2 years old when we had lunch here, he ate the kids plate.
Walking for 15 minutes or so from Yuigahama beach.
Restaurant & Cafe: Pacific DRIVE-IN
It’s far to walk though, it’s only 5-10 minutes from Yuigahama beach by car. Pacific DRIVE-IN is a popular ocean-view café near the beach known for relaxed Hawaiian-inspired atmosphere and beautiful seaside scenery.
Kamakura Guide
Want to get to know more of Kamakura? >> Kamakura Blog Posts
Zushi Beach – Zushi City
Zushi Beach is known for its calmer and more relaxed atmosphere compared to busier beaches near Tokyo.
The beach is especially popular with families and visitors looking for a quieter seaside experience. Sunset views here are particularly beautiful during summer evenings.
👉 Best for: Relaxing beach time, sunset walks, families
Sunset in Zushi
Sunset is one of the best times to visit Zushi Beach, when the coastline becomes quieter and the sky turns beautiful shades of orange and pink.
Nearby Restaurant : Nagisabashi Coffee
Nagisa bashi Coffee is a good place to have a break. There are terrace seats, also you can sit comfortably inside too.
KikiShonan Zushi Guide
Isshiki Beach – Hayama Area
Isshiki Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in Hayama and is surrounded by peaceful coastal scenery.
Compared to larger beaches, Isshiki feels quieter and more local, making it ideal for relaxing summer days away from crowded tourist areas.
👉 Best for: Quiet beach atmosphere, relaxing trips, local vibe
Sunset in Hayama
Sunset is one of the best times to visit Zushi Beach, when the coastline becomes quieter and the sky turns beautiful shades of orange and pink.
Nearby Restaurant : UNDER THE PALMO
View this post on Instagram
UNDER THE PALMO is a stylish seaside café with open-air seating and relaxing coastal atmosphere near Hayama.
Shonan Hayama Guide
Southern Beach Chigasaki – Chigasaki city
Southern Beach Chigasaki is a wide beach known for classic Shonan surf culture and relaxed local atmosphere.
The beach is especially popular for sunset views, casual beach walks, and summer events.
👉 Best for: Shonan beach culture, sunsets, casual summer trips
Sunset in Southern Beach
Southern Beach Chigasaki is especially popular around sunset, when many visitors gather to enjoy the relaxed Shonan atmosphere.
Nearby Cafe: Southern Beach Cafe
View this post on Instagram
Only 10 minutes to the beach, a perfect location to chill with the beautiful ocean view!
Kugenuma Beach – Fujisawa City
Kugenuma Beach is one of the best-known surfing beaches in the Shonan area.
The beach has a laid-back atmosphere and attracts surfers and beach lovers throughout summer.
👉 Best for: Surf culture, beach walks, summer atmosphere
Nearby Cafe: Windera Cafe
There are some counter seats where you can enjoy the ocean view. There are lots of plans hanging at the cafe, that’s relaxing and pretty.
Nearby Spot: Enoshima Aquarium
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Not only for kids, also adult can enjoy a lot here at Enoshima Aquarium. There are dolphins, penguins, and jelly fish, etc.
Shonan Fujisawa Guide
Want to get to know more of Fujisawa? >> Fujisawa Blog Posts
Inamuragasaki Best Sunset in Shonan
Tips for Visiting Shonan in Summer
- Beaches can become crowded during weekends and holidays
- Trains are often easier than driving during peak summer season
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water because summers are hot and humid
- Sunset is one of the best times to enjoy the Shonan coastline
Where to Stay in Shonan
Planning an overnight beach getaway?
👉 Check relaxing hotels in Kamakura, Hayama, and Zushi here →
✨ Final Thoughts
Shonan is one of the best places near Tokyo to enjoy summer beaches, ocean views, and relaxing coastal atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for lively beaches, quiet seaside spots, or scenic sunset views, Shonan offers a perfect summer escape from the city.
