"This hotel was excellent. It was immaculate, quiet, the room was a good size, the bed was very comfortable, and the breakfast was exceptional. The hotel was conveniently located 5 min. Walk from the train station. The staff were so friendly and made our stay very pleasant. We would stay again without question!! Thank you for a wonderful stay."
"This hotel was excellent. It was immaculate, quiet, the room was a good size, the bed was very comfortable, and the breakfast was exceptional. The hotel was conveniently located 5 min. Walk from the train station. The staff were so friendly and made our stay very pleasant. We would stay again without question!! Thank you for a wonderful stay."
"This is a lovely hotel, very welcoming and the rooms were huge with fabulous views. Didn’t try the in house restaurants but there’s lots of nice places locally. It’s about 15 mins walk to the beach which is stunning."
"This is a lovely hotel, very welcoming and the rooms were huge with fabulous views. Didn’t try the in house restaurants but there’s lots of nice places locally. It’s about 15 mins walk to the beach which is stunning."
"Really simple and down to earth place with lovely and kind staff. My favorite parts of the stay was talking to the counter staff and how lovely the view was from the room"
"Really simple and down to earth place with lovely and kind staff. My favorite parts of the stay was talking to the counter staff and how lovely the view was from the room"
"The property is newly-furnished & we stayed at the 1st floor Japanese Tatami room - it was sparkling clean & the only downside of this property is not located at the Shirahama center but within 10 mins of driving. Highly recommended for those who self-drive!"
"The property is newly-furnished & we stayed at the 1st floor Japanese Tatami room - it was sparkling clean & the only downside of this property is not located at the Shirahama center but within 10 mins of driving. Highly recommended for those who self-drive!"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
"It was a beautiful spot and easy to get to places. A lot of space! But the sauna room smelled like mold and there was a lot of black spots on the wood. The room we split in smelled musty. Quite location and parking spot you don’t have to pay for!"
"Nice room which accommodated 5 of us. Very clean and it was convenient to walk to several great restaurants. The host was very easy to communicate with and the check- in was very easy. We would definitely visit again! "
"It didn’t matter that it rained the whole time. the house was more than enjoyable, staff extremely accommodating, and the baths outside were occupied all day. "
"We absolutely loved this property. Its so beautiful. In a quiet neighborhood, with a beautiful onsen like bath. Only downside is bathing at night, because its open air, there was many many critters that came out. "
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Shirahama Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Shirahama. Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's hot springs.
White sand beaches meet ancient hot springs at Adventure World, where you can watch playful pandas before soaking in Nanki-Shirahama Onsen. Take a boat tour to see dramatic coastal formations at Sandanbeki Rock Cliff, then visit Engetsuto Island's famous ring-shaped arch at sunset.
The house is full of history and memories. Well equipped with everything you need for travel. Fully equipped kitchen and washing machine and drier provided. Host couple are super friendly. The location is next to the bus stop. We had a wonderful stay.
The house is full of history and memories. Well equipped with everything you need for travel. Fully equipped kitchen and washing machine and drier provided. Host couple are super friendly. The location is next to the bus stop. We had a wonderful stay.
It is an amazing and unique place. We really enjoyed our two nights stay there and I would definitely recommend XYZ to everyone. Privately served meals were amazing and amount of food… you could easily feed a family of four! Thanks to all staff, you are the best.
It is an amazing and unique place. We really enjoyed our two nights stay there and I would definitely recommend XYZ to everyone. Privately served meals were amazing and amount of food… you could easily feed a family of four! Thanks to all staff, you are the best.
Oksana
Reviewed September 5, 2025Reviewed September 5, 2025
Stayed here two nights before our Kumano Koro hike. We cannot rate this property highly enough.
The hotel suffered from the recent typhoons and some parts of the hotel were being repaired but it didn’t interfere in any way with the amazing view of the beach at the back of the the hotel. We stayed on the top (second) floor and had our own hot tub (onsen) with adjustable temperature which we used during the day and at night. We turned all the lights off, gazed at the stars above (thanks to a...
Stayed here two nights before our Kumano Koro hike. We cannot rate this property highly enough.
The hotel suffered from the recent typhoons and some parts of the hotel were being repaired but it didn’t interfere in any way with the amazing view of the beach at the back of the the hotel. We stayed on the top (second) floor and had our own hot tub (onsen) with adjustable temperature which we used during the day and at night. We turned all the lights off, gazed at the stars above (thanks to a...
Noemi
Reviewed November 16, 2018Reviewed November 16, 2018
Stayed in a traditional Japanese room.
Onsen is great - hot water with no chlorine added (or at least it was not noticeable) compare to other onsens.
Beach is great even sand is imported :). There are not many trash bins on the beach which contribute to a lot of plastic rubbish and cigarette butts left on the beach.
I will definitely come again some day.
Stayed in a traditional Japanese room.
Onsen is great - hot water with no chlorine added (or at least it was not noticeable) compare to other onsens.
Beach is great even sand is imported :). There are not many trash bins on the beach which contribute to a lot of plastic rubbish and cigarette butts left on the beach.
I will definitely come again some day.
Nick
Reviewed September 22, 2016Reviewed September 22, 2016
Stunning Beaches: Shirahama boasts beautiful beaches like Shirarahama Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Relaxing Onsen: Indulge in the local hot springs, offering a rejuvenating experience amidst picturesque coastal views.
Cultural Exploration: Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture through local festivals and visits to historic sites.
Natural History Museum: Discover fascinating exhibits that highlight the region's natural heritage and unique wildlife.
Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodgings, from luxurious hotels to quaint guesthouses, catering to all preferences.
Find great hotels in Shirahama
Explore a range of charming accommodations in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, where you can indulge in hot springs, enjoy beachside relaxation, and tee off at nearby golf courses. From luxurious hotels to cosy guesthouses, there's something for every traveller. Discover the best Shirahama hotels and read reviews to find your ideal stay, ensuring a memorable Japanese getaway filled with unique experiences.
Nanki-Shirahama Marriott Hotel: This 4.5-star hotel offers an elegant retreat for those seeking a luxury experience enriched by Japan's famous hot springs. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the Nanki-Shirahama Marriott features a natural hot spring onsite, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploring. The hotel combines modern business facilities with leisure amenities, making it suitable for both corporate travellers and holidaymakers. Enjoy spacious rooms with stunning views and unwind in style.
Shirahana Key Terrace Seamore Residence: Rated at 3 stars with a guest rating of 8.4, this eco-certified accommodation is a fantastic choice for environmentally conscious travellers. The Shirahama Key Terrace Seamore Residence boasts hot spring facilities that include both indoor and outdoor public onsen, allowing guests to experience the soothing waters in a serene environment. The hotel provides a unique blend of comfort and sustainability, making it a memorable stay for those keen on maintaining an eco-friendly lifestyle.
Shiraraso Grand Hotel: This 4-star hotel, rated at 8.8 by guests, offers a lovely beachside getaway with direct access to the sandy shores of Shirahama. The Shiraraso Grand Hotel features a variety of hot spring amenities, including indoor and outdoor public onsens, ensuring a rejuvenating experience. With its combination of beach leisure and tranquil hot springs, this hotel is well-suited for those looking to unwind by the sea while enjoying the unique thermal waters Japan is renowned for.
Where to stay near Shirahama
Shirahama, a charming resort town in Wakayama Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of culture and relaxation for families and solo travellers alike. Explore the picturesque Shirahama beach, unwind at the local onsen, and immerse yourself in vibrant festivals throughout the year. Nearby attractions provide a taste of traditional Japanese culture, making Shirahama an ideal base for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration. Experience the warmth of this coastal gem and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
Minabe: Located 14.5km from Shirahama, Minabe is a charming city that offers a blend of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant shopping mall centre and local markets, perfect for immersing yourself in the local lifestyle. The area is renowned for its onsen and hot springs, which provide a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. With visitor numbers peaking in February and during the summer months, Minabe is an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a dynamic yet serene vacation.
Kamitonda: Situated 9.7km away from Shirahama, Kamitonda is a delightful city that emphasises wellness and culture. This quaint area attracts families and culture enthusiasts alike, offering a variety of shopping options from local stores to large shopping centres. The onsen and hot springs nearby offer rejuvenating experiences, while the beautiful beach invites relaxation and leisure. With peak visitor numbers in May and the summer months, Kamitonda is a perfect getaway for those keen on wellness and cultural enrichment.
Inami: About 19.3km from Shirahama, Inami is a picturesque city known for its outdoor activities and family-friendly environment. Visitors can explore the local shopping areas and enjoy the scenic beauty of urban parks. Inami's proximity to onsen and hot springs also makes it a great choice for relaxation and rejuvenation. Peak travel times in May and during the summer months make it a lively destination for those seeking cultural experiences amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Things to do in Shirahama
Shopping
In Shirahama, you can explore local shops and markets for unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the Shirahama Shopping Arcade for local crafts and snacks. If you’re up for a drive, head to AEON Mall in nearby Tanabe for a larger selection of brands and goods.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil atmosphere at Shirahama Onsen, where you can soak in natural hot springs while overlooking the ocean. Indulge in soothing massages and traditional Japanese therapies at nearby wellness centres, and enjoy leisurely strolls along Shirahama beach for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Adventure
Explore Adventure World for thrilling rides and animal encounters, promising fun for the family. Head to Shirahama Beach for surfing and sunbathing, or try the scenic coastal walk for stunning views and a touch of nature.
Nightlife
Shirahama boasts a lively nightlife with venues like the Shirahama Onsen area, where you can unwind in hot spring baths under the stars. Enjoy local izakayas serving delicious cuisine, or sip cocktails at beachfront bars, soaking in the stunning ocean views and relaxed atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Find the best attractions in Shirahama
Shirahama in Wakayama Prefecture is perfect for culture-themed, wellness, and family vacations, offering a blend of stunning beaches, relaxing hot springs, and the insightful Natural History Museum. Explore nearby attractions such as Shirahama Shopping Street, Shirahama Kaigan Park, and the beautiful Shirarahama Beach, which promises a fantastic outdoor experience. Whether you're after cultural immersion or simply soaking up the sun, Shirahama has something for everyone.
Shirahama Beach: Experience the laid-back beach vibes at Shirahama Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying seaside activities while soaking in the warm Japanese sun.
Shirahama Onsen: Unwind at Shirahama Onsen, a renowned hot spring resort offering outdoor baths with stunning views. This oasis is perfect for relaxation and wellness, allowing you to immerse yourself in the soothing mineral-rich waters.
Senjojiki: Discover the breathtaking scenery at Senjojiki, a picturesque cape featuring dramatic cliffs and panoramic ocean views. It's a fantastic location for photography and witnessing the rugged beauty of Japan's coastline.
Best time to go to Shirahama
The best time to visit Shirahama is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
45.1°F (7.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
February
46.2°F (7.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
March
51.6°F (10.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
April
58.3°F (14.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
May
65.3°F (18.5°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
June
71.1°F (21.7°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
July
77.7°F (25.4°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
August
80.2°F (26.8°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
September
75.6°F (24.2°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
October
67.1°F (19.5°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
November
58.6°F (14.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
December
49.3°F (9.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Shirahama
Flying into Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture, is convenient with several major airports nearby. Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 85.3km away, with excellent hotel options like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal. Another option is the Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, located 6.4km from KIX. Alternatively, Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is 123.9km away, with luxury hotels such as Swissotel Nankai Osaka, 14.5km from ITM. Kobe Airport (UKB), 107.8km from Shirahama, offers great choices like the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, 8.0km from UKB, providing various transportation services for easy access to the airports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Shirahama?
The best area to stay in Shirahama is along Shirarahama Beach, which offers direct access to the town's most iconic feature.
This area is the heart of Shirahama's visitor experience. It's centred around the crescent-shaped white sand beach, from which the town gets its name. Many accommodations here offer rooms with direct views of the ocean, and the main promenade runs parallel to the beach, dotted with cafes and souvenir shops.
For couples looking for a relaxing escape, staying directly on Shirarahama Beach is ideal. You'll wake up to ocean views, have immediate access to the sand for strolls, and can easily visit nearby attractions like the Engetsu Island viewpoint for sunset or the Sandanbeki Cave. Many hotels in this area also feature their own hot springs, providing a private and tranquil experience.
Families will also find Shirarahama Beach a fantastic base. The shallow waters of the beach are suitable for children, and there are facilities like public showers and changing rooms nearby.
What are the best hotels in Shirahama that travellers recommend?
The Nanki-Shirahama Marriott Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, offers stunning sea and ocean views and is equipped with air conditioning and a fitness centre. Guests consistently praise the excellent and helpful staff and the beautiful location. It is conveniently located near Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower, just 0.8 km away, and Shirahama Onsen, 1.1 km away.
For a more private and intimate experience, the XYZ Private spa and Seaside Resort, rated 9.2, provides air-conditioned rooms with spring water bathtubs and private beach access. Guests frequently highlight the delicious food served here.
Shinnishiki Hotel, with an 8.6 rating, features rooms with air conditioning, spring water bathtubs, and magnificent sea, mountain, and ocean views. It also includes a kitchen and is ideally situated near Shirahama Beach, just 0.2 km away, and Shirahama Energy Land, 0.3 km away. Customers often praise the excellent customer service and great location.
The Hamachidorinoyu Kaisyu, rated 8.8, is a fantastic choice for those seeking a relaxing retreat. It offers spring water bathtubs, sea and ocean views, and air conditioning. This hotel boasts a full-service spa with aromatherapy treatments and massage services, along with both indoor and outdoor public ryokan onsen. It is located 0.4 km from Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower and 0.8 km from Sandanbeki Cave. Guests frequently praise the excellent food.
Another excellent option is the Shiraraso Grand Hotel, with an 8.8 rating. This hotel provides rooms with mountain, beach, and ocean views, and is air-conditioned. It offers direct access to the beach and is very close to Shirahama Beach, 0.4 km away, and Shirahama Energy Land, 0.5 km away. Its location is often highlighted as great by guests.
This impressive hotel boasts a 9.0 rating and offers stunning sea views and ocean views from many of its rooms. Guests consistently highlight the excellent and helpful staff, as well as the beautiful location. The hotel also features a fitness centre with accessible facilities and fitness classes available on-site, with 24-hour access. It is conveniently located near the Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower, just 0.8 km away, and is 1.7 km from Sandanbeki Cave.
The Hotel Kawakyu, with a high rating of 9.2, offers an extensive spa experience including daily onsite spa services, sauna, body treatments, reflexology, body scrubs, facial treatments, and aromatherapy. It is conveniently located 1.4 km from Shirahama Onsen and 0.8 km from Ezurahama Beach Resort.
Kurhouse Shirahama, a hotel, provides a full-service spa available daily with a sauna, hot tub, and massage services. It is situated 0.9 km from Shirahama Onsen and 1.1 km from Sakino-yu Onsen.
The Infinito Hotel & Spa Nanki Shirahama, rated 8.8, features a full-service spa and massage options. For added convenience, it offers scheduled airport shuttle services and free train station pickup. It is located 1.4 km from Shirahama Onsen.
Hamachidorinoyu Kaisyu, a hotel with an 8.8 rating, boasts a full-service spa with daily onsite services, aromatherapy treatments, and massages. Guests can also enjoy beautiful sea and ocean views, along with public outdoor and indoor ryokan onsen (hot spring baths) and spring water bathtubs. It is 0.5 km from Sakino-yu Onsen.
Kisyu Shirahama Onsen Musashi, a hotel with an 8.4 rating, offers a full-service spa, massage services, and private outdoor hot tubs. Many rooms provide ocean and sea views. This hotel is located 0.9 km from Engetsu Island.
What hotels in Shirahama offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Shirahama that offer free breakfast, the XYZ speciale is an excellent choice.
The XYZ speciale, with a superb 9.8 rating, provides complimentary breakfast daily, including an option for convenient to-go breakfast. Guests can also enjoy the hotel's indoor private onsen, outdoor public onsen, and outdoor private onsen, along with spring water bathtubs. It is located approximately 18.2 km from Yoshino-Kumano National Park.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Shirahama?
For a top pet-friendly hotel in Shirahama, the Grampus Resort Shirahama is an excellent recommendation.
This resort is especially accommodating for pets, offering food and water bowls and a dedicated dog exercise area. The property specifically states that dogs are permitted and outlines a cleaning fee for pets. It is conveniently located near several attractions, with Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower just 0.6 km away and Sandanbeki Cave only 0.5 km distant.
The Kisyu Shirahama Onsen Musashi, with a rating of 8.4, offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy wonderful ocean and sea views, and the hotel provides a free area shuttle for convenience. It is located just 0.5 km from Shirahama Beach and 0.9 km from Engetsu Island.
Another excellent option is the XYZ Private spa and Seaside Resort, highly rated at 9.2. This hotel provides free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, and free toiletries. Guests can appreciate the sea and ocean views.
The Shirahama Key Terrace Seamore Residence, also rated 8.4, features free WiFi, complimentary self-parking, and free toiletries. This hotel offers on-site hot springs, including both indoor and outdoor public ryokan onsen facilities, for a relaxing stay. It is situated 0.9 km from Shirahama Beach and 1.7 km from Engetsu Island.
What are the most romantic hotels in Shirahama for couples?
The Nanki-Shirahama Marriott Hotel, with a 9.0 rating, offers stunning sea and ocean views and complimentary parking. Guests frequently praise the excellent and helpful staff, as well as the beautiful location. It is conveniently located near Shirahama Onsen, just 1.1 km away, and Sakino-yu Onsen, only 0.8 km distant.
Alternatively, XYZ speciale, rated 9.8, provides a great experience with private indoor and outdoor ryokan onsen facilities and spring water bathtubs. This hotel also offers complimentary breakfast, including a to-go option, making for a relaxing start to your day.
What are the best hotels in Shirahama near Yoshino-Kumano National Park?
The XYZ Private spa and Seaside Resort, with a 9.2 rating, offers lovely sea and ocean views and complimentary WiFi. Guests have consistently praised the delicious food available at the resort.
Another excellent option is the XYZ speciale, which boasts an impressive 9.8 rating. This hotel provides complimentary breakfast, including a convenient to-go option, and features both indoor private and outdoor public onsens, as well as a spring water bathtub for a relaxing experience.
What hotels are near Shirahama (SHM-Nanki - Shirahama)?
The Marina Hotel Kaiku is conveniently located just 1.5 km from Shirahama (SHM-Nanki - Shirahama). It offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking. Guests can enjoy a spring water bathtub and a public indoor ryokan onsen. Additionally, it is very close to the Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower, only 1.3 km away.
Another excellent choice is the Infinito Hotel & Spa Nanki Shirahama, which has a very good rating of 8.8. This hotel is located 2.0 km from the airport and provides a free scheduled airport shuttle and free train station pickup, adding to its convenience. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor hot and mineral springs, including a public outdoor ryokan onsen. It is also close to the Shirahama Undersea Observation Tower, at a distance of 0.7 km.
When is the best time to go to Shirahama?
The best time to visit Shirahama is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months, when the weather is most pleasant for sightseeing and enjoying the outdoors.
Spring offers mild temperatures, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring Shirahama's natural beauty, such as the Sandanbeki Cliff and Senjojiki. The cherry blossoms usually bloom in late March to early April, adding a lovely touch to the scenery. Couples often find this period particularly romantic for strolls along Shirarahama Beach or visits to the local onsen.
Autumn also provides comfortable weather, with temperatures similar to spring, usually between 15°C and 25°C. The humidity is lower, and there's less chance of heavy rain compared to the summer months. This season is excellent for enjoying the scenic coastal walks and exploring the town's attractions without the peak summer crowds. Families might appreciate the cooler temperatures for visiting Adventure World, as it's more comfortable for spending a full day outdoors.
While summer (July and August) is popular for beach activities, it can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, and it's also typhoon season.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Shirahama.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Shirahama with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Shirahama hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Shirahama?
Prices for hotels in Shirahama often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$85 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.