The “Star Sand Beach” is one of the most distinctive of Okinawa, Japan’s famously beautiful beaches. This beach is a must-visit location for travelers from all over the world because, as the name implies, it is well-known for the small star-shaped sand particles that are found along its shoreline.
The Star Sand Beach is located on the island of Iriomote, which is part of the Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa. It’s a relatively small beach, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in beauty and uniqueness.
Star sand from a beach on Hatoma Island. Photo: Psammophile
Photo: labormikro
- Timing is everything: The best time to visit the Star Sand Beach is during low tide when the star-shaped sand particles are most visible.
- Plan for a short visit: The beach is relatively small, so you won’t need a lot of time to explore it. However, it’s worth spending some time there to fully appreciate its beauty.
- Bring your snorkeling gear: The crystal-clear waters around the beach are perfect for snorkeling, so be sure to bring your gear if you want to see some of the local marine life.
- Take a guided tour: There are several guided tours available that will take you to the Star Sand Beach and other nearby attractions, so consider booking one to make the most of your visit.
Photo: Okinawa Travel
Star Sand Beach. Photo: adrienneleighm