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Beaches and ponds #9 in Zushi, Kanagawa

Morito Coast

4.4 · 928 reviews
Relaxed and scenic with a local community focus.
Morito Coast, Horiuchi, Hayama, Miura District, Kanagawa 240-0112, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The beach provides a direct view of the Enoshima Sea Candle lighthouse across the bay.

2

Morito Daimyojin Shrine, located on the coast, is dedicated to the deity of safe sea voyages and prosperous business.

3

The island visible just offshore from the shrine is called Nazushima, a small rock formation significant in local maritime lore.

4

Due to its orientation, the beach is often shielded from harsh winds, making it a preferred spot for beginners in water sports.

5

The beach is the namesake for the Morito River, which flows into the bay at the northern boundary of the sands.

Overview

Morito Coast is the longest beach in Hayama, extending roughly 500 meters along Sagami Bay. It is uniquely positioned to provide clear views of Enoshima Island and Mount Fuji on the horizon. The coastline is characterized by a mix of sandy stretches and rocky outcrops near the southern end. Shallow waters make the area suitable for swimming during the summer season. The beach serves as a gateway to the nearby Morito Daimyojin Shrine, which sits on a small promontory at the northern edge. It remains a popular location for local marine sports, including windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. The sunsets here are recognized for their visibility of the sun setting directly behind Mount Fuji under specific weather conditions. Public amenities include seasonal beach houses known as 'umi-no-ie' that operate directly on the sand.

Photo spot

The red torii gate of the Morito Daimyojin Shrine at sunset with Mount Fuji in the background.

Insider tips

Bring water shoes to navigate the rocky sections near the shrine area comfortably.

Check local tide tables as the beach significantly narrows during high tide.

Visit on a weekday to avoid the heavy weekend congestion caused by visitors from Tokyo and Yokohama.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to swim or paddleboard during 'red flag' days when strong currents or high wind warnings are posted by local authorities.

Good to know

Beach houses are seasonal and operate only during the mid-summer months.

Etiquette

Avoid playing loud music on the beach; ensure all trash is removed as there are limited public disposal bins.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late autumn and winter afternoons for the clearest visibility of Mount Fuji and sunset photography.
Address
Morito Coast, Horiuchi, Hayama, Miura District, Kanagawa 240-0112, Japan
35.275, 139.571
Get directions
Details
Water QualityConsistently rated as suitable for swimming by Kanagawa Prefecture monitoring
TerrainFine sand with scattered rocky tide pools at the southern end

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late autumn and winter afternoons for the clearest visibility of Mount Fuji and sunset photography..

The red torii gate of the Morito Daimyojin Shrine at sunset with Mount Fuji in the background.

Close by you'll find Zushi Beach, Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Modern Art Hayama, Kotoku-in.