Introducing Shani-Shani Beach

Shani-Shani Beach

Located directly in front of Beach Hotel Sunshine Ishigakijima, Shani-Shani Beach takes its name from a word in the local Yaeyama dialect meaning “feeling happy and excited.”

Facing Taketomi Island to the front and offering views of Kohama Island and Iriomote Island to the west, the beach provides a breathtaking panorama of the southern ocean and island scenery, and is especially stunning at sunset.

In response to guests’ requests to make the most of the beautiful sea, we reopened the beach in April 2008 for marine activities, after nearly 20 years.

Guests can enjoy a variety of water sports including rodeo boat rides, tube riding, and wakeboarding using marine jets.

We want to note that Shani-Shani Beach may differ somewhat from the typical beach image many guests may have in mind. If you’re envisioning a wide, endless stretch of sandy beach or wish to relax under a beach umbrella on soft sand, please let our staff know—we would be happy to recommend nearby beaches.

History of Shani-Shani Beach

Until about 20 years ago, this area was home to a natural white sand beach. It was a beloved local spot where sea turtles came ashore to nest, and families would gather to play—just a short distance from the city center. However, over time, coastal protection efforts led to changes in the shoreline, and much of the natural sandy beach was lost.

While only a small portion of the original sand remains, the beach still offers a spectacular setting for island views, wave-watching, sunset viewing, and stargazing.

Our staff work continuously to care for what remains of the natural environment through beach cleanups and removal of debris. The coastal forest nearby is a rich habitat, home to diverse wildlife including the Ryukyu scops owl, the crested serpent eagle (a protected species), egrets, land hermit crabs, and land-based crabs, all coexisting in harmony.
As the sun sets over the horizon, accompanied by the sound of the waves and calls of native wildlife, time seems to slow, and while the night sky fills with stars, it offers a simple yet luxurious moment that remains unchanged even today.