Painuhama Artificial Beach is on Ishigaki Island, one of Okinawa Prefecture’s outlying islands.
The name is read “Painuhama.” Locals call it simply Painuhama Beach.
Clear water and clean sand define this beach.
It had not yet opened when I was on Ishigaki Island, so I could not walk onto the beach itself, though I did reach the parking lot nearby.
It sits in the town area of Ishigaki Island, which makes it easy for visitors to reach.
*For full details on Painuhama Artificial Beach, please see the official website.
Ratings for Painuhama Artificial Beach
*Ratings are the subjective assessment of the Okinawa Bookmark editor, compared with other beaches in Okinawa Prefecture.
Painuhama Artificial Beach at a Glance
| Swimming season | July 11 – August 31, 2023 9:00 – 19:00 |
| Opening hours | July 11 – August 31, 2023 9:00 – 19:00 |
| Admission | Free |
| Safety net | Yes |
| Lifeguard | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Lockers | Yes |
| Equipment rental | Yes |
| Activities | No |
| Shop | Yes |
| Restrooms | Yes |
| Official website | Painuhama Artificial Beach official website |
From what I could find, the beach opens only for a limited season.
For full details, please see the Painuhama Artificial Beach official website.
What Makes It Worth Visiting
Clear Water
It may be an artificial beach, but the water is genuinely clear.
The entrance was still closed when I visited.
I took photos from the rise in Painuhama Green Park, and a little of the sand was visible.
Restrooms and Showers Available
Restrooms and showers are in place, along with lockers.
The Shore Beside Painuhama Green Park
The clarity of the water along this shore is remarkable.
It really was beautiful.
There is a covered pavilion as well, so you can sit in the shade and cool off.
The Southern Gate Bridge
The Southern Gate Bridge seen from Painuhama Green Park is a fine sight too.
Points to Note
There is a sign on site setting out the rules.
Check the image above, follow the rules, and enjoy your time here.
Access and Parking
| Access | About 20 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport |
| Address | Painuhama, Ishigaki City, Okinawa |
| Parking | Yes (free) |
| Restrooms | Yes |
Painuhama Artificial Beach has a free parking lot.
See the Google Map below for details.
Around Painuhama Artificial Beach
Activities on Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island has a great deal to do.
Marine activities in particular are plentiful — snorkeling, diving, SUP, kayaking, and more.
If any of that appeals, take a look on Viator or GetYourGuide.
ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort
The ANA InterContinental Ishigaki Resort is a handsome resort hotel.
Some rooms have ocean views, and with a pool and tennis courts on site it suits anyone who wants a resort stay on Ishigaki.
Rental Cars on Ishigaki Island
A rental car is by far the best way to get around Ishigaki Island.
Scenic spots such as Kabira Bay and Yonehara Beach are spread across the island, so having a car lets you explore at your own pace. Bus services on Ishigaki Island are infrequent, and a car makes a real difference to how much you can fit in.
Cars fill up quickly in the peak season, so we recommend booking early once your travel dates are set. One important note for overseas visitors: to drive in Japan you must obtain an International Driving Permit (Geneva Convention) in your home country before you depart, and remember that traffic in Japan drives on the left.
Summary
This guide has covered Painuhama Artificial Beach.
Painuhama Artificial Beach opens only for a limited season, so it is worth checking the official website before you go.
When you visit Ishigaki Island, be sure to make time for Painuhama Artificial Beach.
Thank you for reading to the end.
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