Hirizo beach ヒリゾ浜
A little taste of paradise
Imagine a beach nestled at the foot of steep cliffs, only accessible by sea and whose crystal clear waters are home to multicolored tropical fish. Did you dream of it? The Izu Peninsula has done it!
Beautiful nature
At the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, between the city of Nagaki and Cape Irozaki, Hirizo Beach is located in an exceptional natural environment: in the heart of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and the Izu Peninsula Geopark , labeled Global Geopark by UNESCO in April 2018 . So don't be surprised when you arrive on site to discover a beach with a unique geographical location and unspoiled nature.
This rocky beach is a small enclave on the coast, hemmed in on either side by rugged cliffs and Suruga Bay. With unquestionably the most beautiful sea in the area, it enjoys growing popularity and attracts young couples, families and diving enthusiasts from all over Kanto.
Crystal clear water
The most emblematic element of Hirizo beach is the incomparable transparency of the water. The low turbidity of the area results from the landlocked location of the beach. The high seas current rushes at high speed through this maze of rock piles and prevents residues and suspended sediments from stagnating. This crystal clear water offers extraordinary visibility on the seabed at a depth of more than 7 meters ; which makes it a privileged place for diving.
See also: Where to dive in Japan?
Shallow areas are good for snorkelling . But if you move a little away from the shore, the depth can reach 21 meters; making snorkeling quite practicable and enjoyable. At the tip of the peninsula, the seaside is influenced by the kuroshio or "black current", a powerful and hot maritime current. It brings in its wake to the beach of Hirizo many seasonal migratory fish . You can also observe magnificent specimens of turtles, anemones and corals in these waters.
Practical advice
The boat shuttles connecting from the Hirizo pier to the beach operate only during the summer period (early July to late September). These then officiate every day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (4 p.m. in September). Eight boats serve the beach continuously (departures every 5 minutes). It will cost you to make the round trip: 1,500 yen (€11.50) for an adult and 500 yen (€4) for a child. Once your transport ticket has been paid for, it is valid all day and allows you to take the boat as many times as you wish.
But why would you want to make several round trips during the day? There is a very simple reason for this: the beach of Hirizo is free of any construction . You will find neither amenities (toilets or showers), nor a place where you can eat, nor any drink vending machine. We warned you; this beach is truly located in a splendid and particularly preserved natural environment. It will therefore be necessary to organize yourself somewhat before going there, especially if you are going there with children.
For lunch, plan your picnic if you do not want to take the boat back to the port for lunch. Also, the restaurants next to the pier are often crowded. If you arrive by car at the pier, there is parking nearby (1,000 yen for the day, or €7.50). Finally, be aware that it is forbidden to collect shellfish or to fish without paying a fishing fee.
Address, timetable & access
Address
Phone
+81(0)558-65-0829Timetable
Take the Tokai bus from Shimoda station and get off at the Nakagi stop (50 minutes) then walk to the port (5 minutes).Price
For the boat: adult 1,500 yen (€11.50), children 500 yen (€4)Access
Boat from July to the end of September between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (until 4:00 p.m. in September)Website
http://www.town.minamiizu.shizuoka.jp/docs/2013031201177/