West Beach
In terms of visitor numbers and snorkeling opportunities Nakamoto is unquestionably the top beach on the island. However, there is another beach which is located just a few minutes from the ferry terminal by bicycle which offers superior sand and excellent island views. It is a nesting ground for sea turtles and for this reason its presence isn't advertised. A strict 'no swimming' policy has been put in place, but if you have 30 minutes to spare before your ferry and you fancy a stroll along a lovely stretch of coastline then try to make your way 'nishisunahama' (which roughly translates to 'west beach' in English).
Swimming may be prohibited here but in terms of sand quality this is probably the best beach on the islandSea Turtles
You'll doubtless notice a sign requesting that visitors refrain from interfering with sea turtles or their eggs. The chance of actually seeing a sea turtle is very low, but there are nests of eggs dotted along the beach and it goes without saying that parents should refrain from allowing their children to dig in the sand on this beach which represents an important location in the reproductive lifecycle for many species of sea turtle, some of which are endangered.
Access
The beach may be located within a stone's throw of the ferry terminal but directions aren't marked on the main road, and this has no doubt helped to keep visitor numbers to a minimum. The pictures below should help.
Continue up the road from the ferry terminal and take a right turn down the dirt track which runs down the side of this building
Take a right turn here to access the beach or continue along the path which eventually leads to the Kuroshima visitors' centerMap
