The Complete Guide to Zushi Beach: Access, Beach Houses & SUP Experiences

Zushi Beach (officially Zushi Kaigan Swimming Beach) stretches about 850 meters in a gentle arc and is affectionately known as "The Half-Mile Beach Where the Sun Is Born." Its shallow, calm waters make it a safe and enjoyable destination even for families with small children, and the beach has earned the international Blue Flag certification for four consecutive years (2022–2025).

I was born and raised in Zushi, and I've been watching this ocean my whole life. I still head out to the beach most weekends, and what I love about Zushi Beach is that there's always something new to discover. With well-established schools for SUP, sea kayaking, and windsurfing, it's also known as a hub for marine sports.

This article is written for first-time visitors to Zushi Beach and those curious about marine sports but haven't tried them yet. From how to get here and how beach houses work, to trial lesson info for the three main marine sports and seasonal tips for enjoying the beach, this is your comprehensive guide to everything Zushi Beach has to offer.

3 Reasons Why Zushi Beach Is So Beloved

Zushi Beach's enduring popularity comes down to three main factors: its shallow, calm shoreline; the high environmental quality certified by an international standard; and a marine sports environment you can enjoy year-round.

Shallow waters with gentle waves: The sand is fine-grained with very few pebbles or shells, making it comfortable to walk on. The waves are gentle enough that small children can wade in safely under their parents' watchful eyes. When I used to run a school here, Zushi Beach was always the first place I'd bring kids experiencing the ocean for the first time—precisely because of this gentle, shallow terrain.

Blue Flag certification for 4 consecutive years: The Blue Flag is an international environmental certification awarded to beaches that meet standards across four categories: water quality, safety management, environmental education, and facility services. Over 5,000 locations in more than 50 countries hold this certification, and Zushi Beach became the 6th in Japan to receive it in 2022. It has maintained its certification through 2025, marking four consecutive years.

A marine sports hub: Multiple well-established schools for SUP, windsurfing, and sea kayaking are concentrated here. Some of these schools have over 30 years of history, and they cater to everyone from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. Even outside swimming season, you can enjoy activities year-round with a winter wetsuit—a hallmark feature of Zushi Beach.

Feature	Details
Beach length	Approx. 850m
Ocean characteristics	Shallow, calm waves, fine sand
Blue Flag certification	2022–2025 (4 consecutive years)
Main activities	SUP, windsurfing, sea kayaking, bodyboarding
Facilities for children	Free life jacket rental (approx. 130 jackets), nursing room, diaper-changing station

Access & Basic Information

Zushi Beach is about a 15-minute walk from either JR Zushi Station or Keikyu Zushi-Hayama Station. On summer weekends, driving is strongly discouraged due to heavy traffic and parking lots filling up quickly—we highly recommend taking the train.

By train: From the East Exit of JR Zushi Station (Yokosuka Line), it's about a 15-minute walk heading south along the prefectural road. Another popular route among locals is to exit from the West Exit and walk through the Zushi Ginza Shopping Street. Strolling through the covered arcade, you can pick up snacks from long-established bakeries and cafes along the way—that's my recommended way to start the trip. From the North Exit of Keikyu Zushi-Hayama Station, it's also about a 15-minute walk.

By bus: Buses from Zushi Station cost 200 yen one way. They're convenient when you have lots of luggage or small children, but expect crowding during summer season.

By car: About 3 km from the Zushi IC on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway. There are approximately 150 private parking spaces near the beach, but they fill up early on summer weekends. Public transportation is strongly recommended.

Basic Information

Item	Details
Official name	Zushi Kaigan Swimming Beach (Zushi Beach)
Address	Shinjuku 1-chome, Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Open period	Late June to August 31 (2025 season: June 27–August 31, 66 days)
Swimming hours	9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Lifeguard service	Lifeguards and nurses on duty
Restrooms	3 permanent + 2 temporary
Nursing room & diaper-changing station	Available at the association office
Children's life jackets	Free rental (approx. 130 jackets)
Free showers	At the lifeguard station and east restroom (3:00–4:00 PM)
Official website	Zushi Beach Official Site

The open period and swimming hours may change from year to year. Please check the Zushi Beach official site or the Zushi City official site for the latest information.

Rules & Etiquette You Should Know

Zushi Beach maintains a safe and comfortable environment through its own set of strict rules. It's precisely because these rules are enforced that families can relax and enjoy the beach worry-free. If you're visiting for the first time, please review these beforehand.

Main Prohibited Activities on the Beach

Prohibited	Details
Alcohol	Prohibited on the sand all day. Drinking inside beach houses is permitted
BBQ / open flames	Prohibited all day
Audio equipment	Speakers and similar devices prohibited
Exposed tattoos	T-shirt must be worn
Smoking	Prohibited in all areas
Vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles	Entry prohibited
Drones	Prohibited
Fishing in swimming area	Prohibited

Marine Sports Rules

Surfing and SUP are prohibited within the swimming zone during swimming hours (9:00 AM–5:00 PM). Bodyboarding is allowed within the swimming area, but fins are prohibited. Fireworks are permitted until 10:00 PM (in designated areas only).

The alcohol and music bans may seem strict at first, but these rules are what maintain the calm, peaceful atmosphere free from excessive noise and alcohol-related troubles. It makes Zushi Beach an ideal environment for families with children.

Beach House Guide

During the 2025 season, approximately 35–38 beach houses operated along Zushi Beach. All beach houses follow a uniform pricing system, making it easy to know what to expect regardless of which one you choose. Since 2021, reusable cups have been introduced at all beach houses, reflecting their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Prices & Hours

Item	Price / Details
Adults	1,800 yen (includes luggage storage, changing room, rest area)
Children	1,000 yen (includes luggage storage, changing room, rest area)
Operating hours	Until 8:00 PM (until 9:00 PM from August 1–17)

Notable Beach Houses

Happy Go Lucky is one of the most beloved beach houses among locals. They serve quality food including fish & chips and green curry.

Viviana Resort Club has a tropical resort atmosphere with a terrace that can accommodate about 100 guests. It's great for groups and families.

CAFE TUNE features a stylish design inspired by American West Coast food culture, offering carefully crafted food menus.

Local Tips

Weekday mornings tend to be relatively spacious on the sand, so my go-to routine is to secure a deck chair at a beach house and spend the whole morning there. Another great option is to grab takeout and enjoy it on your beach mat on the sand.

Marine Sports Experience Guide

Zushi Beach is a marine sports hub with well-established schools for SUP, windsurfing, and sea kayaking. All schools offer comprehensive beginner programs, so even if you're worried about swimming ability or nervous about trying something new, you'll be in good hands. Life jacket use is mandatory at all schools, ensuring thorough safety measures.

What to bring and equipment: Wetsuits and life jackets are included in the rental at all schools (no extra charge), and all equipment is provided. You just need to bring the basics—a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. As a seasonal guide for wetsuits: spring and fall call for a full suit (approx. 5mm), while summer typically requires a spring suit or rash guard. The ability to show up essentially empty-handed is one of the great things about Zushi's schools.

From my years of teaching at schools here, one thing I can say is that conditions at Zushi Beach change significantly by season. Spring (March–May) has fewer people and stable waves, making it the ideal time for beginners to focus on practice. In summer (July–August), SUP and surfing are prohibited in the swimming zone during swimming hours (9:00 AM–5:00 PM), so school lessons move to early morning or evening. Fall (September–November) sees the crowds thin out, waves settle down again, and the views toward the sunset are spectacular. Winter requires a dry suit or wetsuit, but Mount Fuji is crystal clear on many days—personally, it's actually my favorite time of year.

SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding)

SUP is a water sport where you stand on a board and paddle across the water. Because it can be enjoyed even without waves, it's one of the most beginner-friendly marine sports. Standing up on the board gives you a higher vantage point to take in the Zushi coastline—that's the main reason I always recommend SUP first. On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji right in front of you, and that alone makes the trip worthwhile.

Feather Factory (official site): Trial lessons last about 2 hours (approx. 1.5 hours on the water), priced at 5,500–6,600 yen. Open to ages 13 and up. Lessons run in three sessions—early morning, morning, and afternoon. They also offer a popular service where they provide photos taken during your lesson as a gift. Reservations accepted until 5:00 PM the day before.

Marine Blue (official site): A school with over 30 years of experience, featuring a two-story clubhouse and hot water showers. SUP trial lessons are 5,400–6,600 yen for about 2 hours. Please check the official site for closed days and contact information.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing—catching the wind with a sail while riding a board—is a deeply rewarding sport that changes character with the wind's strength. Zushi Beach benefits from consistent sea breezes on many days, making it an excellent practice environment.

Marine Blue (official site): Offers morning lessons for complete beginners, with an optional afternoon session available (3,300 yen).

Zushi Windsurf School (official site): With approximately 50 years of history, it's one of Japan's premier dedicated windsurfing schools. JWA (Japan Windsurfing Association) certified instructors are on staff. Half-day lessons are 5,500 yen (tax included, regular season), or 7,700 yen during peak season (Golden Week, July–September). Open to 5th graders and up. Please check the official site for closed days and contact information.

Sea Kayaking

Sea kayaking lets you enjoy ocean scenery while paddling close to the water's surface. Available in single and tandem versions, it's perfect for enjoying with a parent and child or friends. Since you glide without getting splashed by waves, it's also suited for those who prefer to stay relatively dry.

Zushi Sea Kayak School (official site): An ACA (American Canoe Association) certified school with over 15 years of experience and more than 10,000 students taught. Half-day courses are 7,200 yen (3,600 yen for elementary school students), and full-day courses are 13,400 yen. Closed on Tuesdays, 13-minute walk from Zushi Station. Please check the official site for contact information.

School Comparison Chart

Sport	School	Trial Price	Duration	Age Requirement	Notes
SUP	Feather Factory	5,500–6,600 yen	Approx. 2 hrs	13+	Equipment included
SUP	Marine Blue	5,400–6,600 yen	Approx. 2 hrs	Check website	Membership system. Check official site for first-time trial info
Windsurfing	Marine Blue	Check website	Half day	Check website	Membership system. Check official site for first-time trial info
Windsurfing	Zushi Windsurf School	From 5,500 yen (regular season, tax incl.)	Half to full day	5th grade+	Peak season (GW, Jul–Sep): from 7,700 yen
Sea kayaking	Zushi Sea Kayak School	From 7,200 yen (half day)	Half to full day	Check website	Elementary students from 3,600 yen

Prices and schedules are subject to change. Please check each school's official website for the latest information.

Seasonal Guide

Zushi Beach isn't just a summer destination. Each season offers its own unique way to enjoy the coast.

Spring (March–May): Best Season for Marine Sports

With fewer visitors and calm waves, spring is the perfect time to start SUP or sea kayaking. The beach is peaceful, and it's a wonderful time to really connect with the ocean. Water temperature is around 16–19°C. Comfortable with a wetsuit.

During Golden Week (late April to early May), a large screen is set up on the beach for the Zushi Beach Film Festival, offering a uniquely Zushi outdoor cinema experience. On May 22, the Zushi Beach Fireworks Festival (the 68th annual event in 2025, with approximately 7,000 fireworks) takes place. Fireworks launched against the backdrop of the sea create an impact you can only experience at the beach.

Summer (June–August): Swimming, Beach Houses & Water Park

This is Zushi Beach's busiest season. Swimming, beach houses, and a water park (inflatable ocean obstacle course) offer plenty of ways to have fun. Water temperature is 22–26°C. You can swim in a rash guard or swimsuit.

The water park operates in 45-minute sessions (2,000 yen for adults, 1,000 yen for elementary/middle school students; minimum height 110 cm, elementary school age and up), where you can tackle ocean-based obstacles while rocking on the waves.

To avoid crowds, weekday mornings are your best bet. If you arrive early, you'll find plenty of space on the sand and smoother access to beach houses.

Fall (September–November): Sunset SUP & a Tranquil Sea

Once swimming season ends, Zushi Beach quickly returns to its peaceful self. Sunset SUP cruising during this time is truly special. The view of Sagami Bay bathed in sunset colors from atop your board is an experience you simply can't get at any other time of year. Water temperature is 20–23°C. A wetsuit is recommended for comfort.

In autumn, Night Wave (an art event featuring waves and light) is sometimes held (typically October–November, though it may not occur every year—check the Zushi City official site for the latest information).

Winter (December–February): Mount Fuji & Seaside Strolls

In winter, the air is crisp and clear, and Mount Fuji is visible in stunning clarity on many days. Even just walking along the beach feels refreshing. Zushi Beach at 7:00 AM is especially magical—an empty stretch of sand with nothing but the sound of waves. I think of that time as a privilege of living in Zushi. Water temperature is 14–16°C. A 5mm full wetsuit is essential. Marine sports are still possible year-round with a winter wetsuit.

Recommended Nearby Spots

While you're visiting Zushi Beach, take some time to explore the surrounding area too.

Zushi Marina (Riviera Zushi Marina) is about a 15-minute walk from the beach, located in the Kotsubo area. With its palm tree-lined avenues and yacht harbor, it has the feel of an overseas marina resort. It's also popular as a photo spot, and the sight of yachts bathed in evening light offers a completely different atmosphere from Zushi Beach.

Hiroyama Park features an observation deck at about 92 meters elevation with panoramic views of Sagami Bay, Mount Fuji, and Enoshima. About a 10-minute drive from Zushi Beach. Many locals use it as a morning walking route, and the views are especially stunning on clear autumn and winter days.

Nagisabashi Coffee (official site) is a cafe-restaurant with views overlooking Zushi Beach. Stopping by after a SUP session has become my personal ritual—there's nothing quite like a coffee after breathing in the sea breeze.

Zushi Ginza Shopping Street is a covered arcade shopping street on the way from Zushi Station to the beach. Lined with long-established bakeries and cafes, it's perfect for browsing even on rainy days. It's a great spot to pick up drinks and snacks before heading to the beach.

The area around Zushi Beach also offers hiking trails and local cuisine. Be sure to check out the Nature & Hiking and Gourmet & Cafes categories on our site as well.

Summary

Zushi Beach is much more than "just a summer swimming spot." The high environmental quality backed by Blue Flag certification, the beginner-friendly marine sports environment, and the well-maintained rules that keep families feeling safe—all of these come together to create a place you can enjoy from spring through winter, all year long.

A peaceful stretch of sand where kids play in the water while adults relax in deck chairs—that kind of simple, idyllic beach scene is actually rarer than you might think.

Zushi Beach is especially recommended for families who want a safe environment for small children, beginners who've been wanting to try marine sports but haven't taken the plunge on their own, and anyone looking for a calm, relaxing beach experience. It's a place that can meet each of these needs.

If you're interested in marine sports, start by checking out the experience school pages. I still remember the excitement of standing on a SUP board for the very first time. Zushi's ocean always has something new to offer. I hope you'll come visit and see for yourself.

Marine Sports Reservations & Latest Information

• Zushi Beach Official Site
• Feather Factory (SUP)
• Marine Blue (SUP / Windsurfing)
• Zushi Windsurf School
• Zushi Sea Kayak School

The information in this article is based on research as of February 2026. Prices, operating hours, open periods, age requirements, and other details are subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information before your visit.