About
Caption: Yuigahama Beach stretching along Kamakura's coast with views toward Sagami Bay. Source: Wikimedia Commons
Yuigahama Beach is a 890-meter wide and 40-meter deep sandy beach forming the heart of Kamakura's 7-kilometer coastline along Sagami Bay. Blue Flag certified for excellent water quality and facilities—among the best in Japan. 🔗
Historical Significance: Sacred ground to Minamoto clan during Kamakura Shogunate (1185-1333), hosting political ceremonies, military training (horseback archery), and religious rituals. By the 1960s-1970s, transformed into birthplace of Japan's modern beach culture. 🔗
Access Information
From Kamakura Station: 15-20 minute walk (1.4 km) from east exit From Yuigahama Station (Enoden Line): 5 minute walk (closest station) From Hase/Wadazuka Stations: Both approximately 5 minute walk
Activities & Features
Swimming: Shallow water, gentle waves, ideal for families. Official season July 1 - August 31 (10:00 AM-5:00 PM with lifeguards and AI rip current detection system)
Water Sports: Surfing zone (west side), stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), bodyboarding, windsurfing. Multiple rental shops along beachfront. 🔗
Seasonal Beach Huts (Umi-no-ie): 16-20 beach huts during summer offering grilled seafood, drinks, shade, changing rooms, equipment rentals. Each hut has unique character from California-style bars to traditional Japanese seafood grills. 🔗
Sunset Viewing: Renowned throughout Shonan region for spectacular sunsets. Western exposure creates dramatic orange and pink skies toward Enoshima island. Autumn/winter offer particularly fine conditions. 🔗
Off-Season (Sept-June): Daytime camping and BBQs permitted, dog walking allowed, surfing without crowds, peaceful beach strolls, relaxed atmosphere. 🔗
Facilities
- Public toilets: 2 permanent + 1 temporary (summer)
- Free public showers: 3 locations
- Lifeguard station (summer): ☎ 0467-25-0025
- Accessibility: Boardwalks, multi-purpose toilets, amphibious wheelchairs (summer)
Practical Tips
Beach Etiquette (July 1 - August 31):
- NO BBQs, camping, or fireworks during operating hours (10 AM-5 PM)
- Cover tattoos when on shore (strictly enforced)
- No alcohol outside beach houses during official hours
Off-Season (Sept-June):
- Daytime camping and BBQs allowed
- Dogs allowed on beach
- More relaxed atmosphere with fewer restrictions
Best Times:
- Summer: Full facilities but very crowded
- Early September: Still warm, thinner crowds
- Autumn/Winter: Quieter beach walks, beautiful sunsets, ideal surfing
- Early morning (6-7 AM): Locals, first surfing wave, tranquil
Nearby Dining:
- Daisy's Cafe: Surf-shack interior, sunset views
- Seedless Bar: California-style with alcohol
- Cafe Sakanoshita: Traditional with pancakes
Important Notes:
- Beach huts operate ONLY July 1 - August 31
- No lifeguards off-season—exercise caution
- Approximately 1 million visitors each summer
- Blue Flag certified for exceptional quality
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/kamakura/yuigahama-beach.md