Umui no Hama is a stretch of sand in Inamine, Nago City, in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island.
It normally lies underwater and appears for just a few hours when the tide goes out a long way, which is why it is called the “phantom beach”.
“Umui” means “thoughts” or “feelings” in the Okinawan language.
Kouri Island lies straight ahead, and the shallow sea shines turquoise.
Walking on the white sand, it feels as if you are standing on top of the sea.
Our Rating of Umui no Hama
Basic Information on Umui no Hama
| Swimming season | None in particular *Not a swimming beach |
| Hours | None in particular *Appears only around low tide |
| Admission | Free |
| Safety net | None |
| Lifeguards | None |
| Showers | None |
| Lockers | None |
| Swim gear rental | None |
| Activities | None *Paid photo plans available |
| Shop | None |
| Restrooms | None *Use the restrooms at Makiya Sports Ground |
| Official website | https://umui-no-hama.com/ |
Umui no Hama is not a managed swimming beach, so there are no lifeguards or safety nets.
The sand only appears around low tide, so always check the tide before you go.
Please take great care with safety when you go in the water.
Highlights
A “phantom beach” that appears only at low tide
Umui no Hama normally lies underwater.
Around low tide, when the water recedes a long way, a white sandbar rises from beneath the surface.
It stays visible for about 2-4 hours, and on days with only a small tide it may not appear at all.
Only those who time it right get to see it, which is why it is called the “phantom beach”.
A superb view of Kouri Island
Kouri Island stretches out directly in front of the beach.
The shallow sea shines turquoise, in beautiful contrast with the white sand.
You can take photos that make it look as if you are standing in the middle of the sea, and it became a big hit on social media.
Popular for commemorative photos
It is also popular for wedding photos and family portraits.
Visiting is free, but paid photo plans are also available.
Please check the official website regarding drone photography.
*Source: https://umui-no-hama.com/
A short drive from Kouri Island and Kyoda IC
It is about 10 minutes by car from Kouri Island and about 15 minutes from Kyoda IC.
It is also about 30 minutes from Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, making it easy to stop by while touring the north.
Things to Note
Umui no Hama is a natural sandbar, so take care not to damage coral or marine life.
Please take all your rubbish home and be considerate of the nearby village.
Your feet will get wet, so we recommend clothes you don’t mind getting wet and sandals.
When the tide comes back in, the sand returns to the sea. Always check when you need to head back and leave with plenty of time to spare.
Access & Parking
| Access | About 15 minutes by car from Kyoda IC |
| Address | Inamine, Nago City, Okinawa |
| Parking | Available (free) |
| Restrooms | None |
Umui no Hama has its own parking lot managed by UMUI Seaside Terrace.
If it is full, please use the parking lot at Makiya Sports Ground; it is about a 5-minute walk along the seaside path.
See the Google Map below for details.
[UMUI Seaside Terrace parking]
[Makiya Sports Ground parking]
Around Umui no Hama
Kouri Island
Kouri Island, which you see straight ahead from Umui no Hama, is about 10 minutes away by car.
With the Kouri Bridge, the Heart Rock and many other sights, it is a must on any trip to northern Okinawa.
Activities in Nago City
Nago City offers all kinds of marine activities.
You can book snorkeling, SUP, canoeing and more.
If you are interested, why not check out the activities on Viator or GetYourGuide?
A Rental Car Is the Way to Go in Okinawa
A rental car is by far the best way to explore Okinawa’s main island.
Sights such as Shuri Castle in Naha, the beautiful beaches of the north and American Village in Chatan are spread across the island, so with a car you can explore freely at your own pace. Buses are infrequent and often late, so having a rental car makes a big difference to how much you get out of your trip.
Bookings fill up quickly in peak season, so we recommend reserving early once your travel dates are set.
Summary
In this article, we introduced Umui no Hama.
Umui no Hama is a “phantom beach” in Inamine, Nago City, that appears only around low tide.
Kouri Island lies straight ahead, and the contrast between the white sand and the turquoise sea is stunning.
It appears for about 2-4 hours and may not appear at all on days with a small tide, so always check the tide before you go.
There are no facilities such as restrooms or shops, so come well prepared.
When you visit Nago City, be sure to stop by Umui no Hama!
Thank you for reading to the end.
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