Shirahama Coast, one of Izu's most transparent and spectacular ocean spots
Shirahama Beach (Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture), with one of the Izu Peninsula's clearest seas and white sandy beaches, is a spectacular spot recommended for ocean photography. The gradation of the sea from emerald green to cobalt blue is especially beautiful in the morning on a clear day. If you go down to the beach and shoot from a low vantage point at the edge of the waves, you can capture the movement of the waves in the foreground. The transparency of the ocean stands out when the light is forward, the spray of the waves sparkles when the light is backlit, and the soft light tints the surface of the water in the evening, changing its expression. The beauty of the sea can be fully appreciated at this location.
Key points for photography
To maximize the color of the clear ocean at the Shirahama Coast, I aimed for a sunny morning and captured the surface of the ocean with forward light to emphasize the gradation that changes from emerald green to cobalt blue, while also creating a sense of scale by composing the curve of the coastline from a high vantage point or overlook. The shutter speed can be increased to create the dynamism of the waves splashing in the foreground, or decreased to depict the smooth expression of the water, while the PL filter suppresses reflections to enhance the transparency of the ocean. The other is to take a telephoto shot to cut out cliffs and rocky areas.
Best viewing and photography timing
Best Season
year-round
Recommended times
Morning, noon, and evening
Access & Basic Information (Check Before Shooting)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Shirahama, Shimoda City, Shizuoka Prefecture |
| subject | sea |
| Admission fee | None |
| Admission Time | None |
| Parking lot | Yes |
| Restroom | None |
