The distinctive 'C' monument on the beach is designed so that the two ends form the letter 'C' when viewed from specific angles; the 'C' stands for Chigasaki, Culture, Coast, and Chance.
The beach is the namesake and primary inspiration for the band Southern All Stars, which originated in Chigasaki.
The 'C' monument is locally nicknamed the 'Enmusubi no Chigasaki Southern C,' with a belief that couples who take a photo through the gap will have their love last.
The beach provides a clear, direct sightline to the volcanic island of Izu Oshima on days with low atmospheric haze.
Southern Beach was historically known as 'Nango Beach' until it was rebranded to capitalize on the success of the Southern All Stars.
Southern Beach Chigasaki is a prominent sandy stretch along the Shonan coastline, characterized by its view of the iconic 'C' monument and the offshore Enoshima island. It serves as a regional center for surf culture and summer marine activities. The beach features a wide, crescent-shaped shoreline popular with local swimmers and paddleboarders. It is officially located in Chigasaki, Kanagawa, despite regional administrative confusion with neighboring Hiratsuka. The area is backed by a coastal road and residential zones rather than large-scale commercial boardwalks. It is particularly known for its connection to local pop culture, specifically the band Southern All Stars. Lifeguards are stationed on-site during the peak summer swimming season. The beach environment transitions from a family-friendly swimming spot to a localized surf break depending on the swell. Public facilities including showers and restrooms are integrated into the immediate coastal infrastructure.
Position yourself so that the 'C' monument frames the view of the ocean and Enoshima island in the background.
Check surf reports for the Shonan area before traveling if your primary goal is wave riding.
Visit during the early morning hours to avoid the peak crowds that arrive from Tokyo by midday.
Carry a coin purse for the coin-operated public lockers and outdoor rinse showers located near the sand.
Do not attempt to swim far offshore as the currents can be deceptive; stay within the flagged zones designated by lifeguards.
Lifeguards are only present during the official summer swimming season (typically July through August).
Avoid walking through residential neighborhoods in swimwear; use the designated public changing facilities.
