![[Summer 2026] 12 Recommended Accommodations within Walking Distance to the Beaches of Ibaraki Hitachinaka and Oarai | Ajigaura, Hiraiso, Oarai Sun Beach|||We have carefully selected accommodations that are within walking distance to the three beaches: Ajigaura, Hiraiso, and Oarai Sun Beach. From ocean-view ryokans to private villas and glamping options, we introduce 12 places where you can walk to the sea in your swimsuit.|||Please check the details of each facility.|||When is the beach season?|||Typically, the beach season runs from mid-July to late August (2025 data: Ajigaura and Hiraiso from July 19 to August 24, Oarai Sun Beach from July 19 to August 17). Please check the official websites of the local tourism associations for the official schedule for 2026.|||Which beach is the most recommended for families with children?|||Hiraiso Beach is the best choice. It is surrounded by a breakwater, making the waves very gentle, and the "Whale Dai-chan" (whale-shaped slide) in the water is very popular among kids. It's perfect for little ones making their debut at the beach.|||What other attractions can be enjoyed besides swimming?|||In the Ajigaura area, you can visit the National Hitachi Seaside Park (where the greenery of Kochia is at its best in summer), in the Hiraiso area, enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at Nakaminato Fish Market, and in the Oarai area, we recommend Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium and Oarai Isosaki Shrine.|||How to access from Tokyo?|||By car, it takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours via the Joban Expressway. By train, take the JR Joban Line Limited Express "Hitachi" from Ueno Station to Katsuta Station (about 70 minutes), then transfer to the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway to reach each beach.|||What times are parking lots crowded?|||On summer weekends, it starts getting crowded around 9 AM. For Ajigaura (about 200 cars) and Hiraiso (about 100 cars), it's recommended to arrive early. Oarai Sun Beach has a large parking lot for about 7,000 cars, so there is relatively more space available.|||Are there accommodations that allow pets?|||Yes. Tsuruya Hotel (Ajigaura, for medium-sized dogs), Hiraiso Garden Villa (Hiraiso, up to two small dogs), Shalom (Hiraiso, for medium-sized dogs), and Sugar Beach Oarai (Oarai, with dedicated tents for dogs and cats) are pet-friendly.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/m0uyuecr/production/4652beba5255c4eda090ee046b24beb189dde5d9-640x427.jpg?rect=0,34,640,360&w=1200&h=675)
In the Hitachinaka and Oarai area of Ibaraki Prefecture, there are three unique beaches, each with its own character. With easy access just about 90 minutes by car from the city center, this area is perfect for a summer getaway!
In this article, we focus on accommodations that are within walking distance to the beach, specifically those located within approximately 1 kilometer of various swimming areas. After checking in, you can leave your car behind and head straight to the sea in your swimsuit. After a day of swimming, you can return to your lodging to enjoy a hot spring or a BBQ—this is the ideal summer getaway we’re excited to present with 12 carefully selected options!
First, let's choose a beach! A comparison of three swimming spots.
The beaches in the Hitachinaka and Oarai area each have their own unique atmosphere. Choose one that suits your travel style!
Ajigaura Beach | A Popular Beach Representing Ibaraki
Known as the "Naples of the East," this beach features a beautiful 1.2 km long curved coastline. It is one of the top two most popular swimming spots in Ibaraki Prefecture, offering shallow waters that are perfect for swimming. Additionally, there are about 13 beach houses available, providing plenty of amenities for visitors.
Just a 5-minute walk from Ajigaura Station on the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway, this location is easily accessible by train. Nearby, you'll find the National Hitachi Seaside Park, shopping malls, and day-use hot springs, offering plenty of leisure activities beyond the beach.
- Location: Ajigaura Town, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Opening Period: Typically from mid-July to late August (In 2025, it will be from July 19 to August 24)
- Parking: Approximately 200 spaces (1,000 yen per day)
- Facilities: About 13 beach houses, showers, and 4 restrooms.
- Access: About a 5-minute drive from Hitachi Seaside Park IC / A 5-minute walk from Ajigaura Station.
Hiraiso Beach | Perfect for Families with Young Children
This family-friendly beach is characterized by its calm waves, surrounded by a levee. A popular attraction is the "Big Whale" slide, which floats on the water and measures 15 meters long and 2.5 meters high, making it a favorite among children. With gentle waves, it's also a great spot for little ones to make their debut in the sea.
In the surrounding area, there are spots for tide pooling and the Nakaminato Fish Market, where you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch after a day at the beach.
- Location: Hiraiso Town, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Opening Period: Typically from mid-July to late August (In 2025, it will be from July 19 to August 24)
- Parking: Approximately 100 spaces (1,000 yen per day)
- Facilities: Beach house, shower, restroom
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Hiraiso Station on the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway.
Oarai Sun Beach | A Vast Beach Selected as One of Japan's Top 100 Swimming Spots
This is a vast beach, approximately 1.3 km long, selected as one of the "Top 100 Beautiful Swimming Beaches" by the Ministry of the Environment. The shallow waters make it safe and enjoyable for families. With a large parking area that accommodates about 7,000 vehicles, it's relatively easy to find a spot even during the peak summer season, which is a great advantage!
The beach is also developed as a universal beach, offering free rental of amphibious wheelchairs, as well as dedicated parking and changing rooms. Its level of accessibility for people with disabilities is among the best in the Kanto region.
- Location: Onukicho, Oarai Town, Higashiibaraki District, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Opening Period: Typically from mid-July to mid-August (In 2025, it will be from July 19 to August 17)
- Parking: Approximately 7,000 spaces (1,000 yen/day)
- Facilities: Shower (room temperature), toilet, changing room.
- Access: About a 15-minute drive from Mito Oarai IC / Temporary bus service from Oarai Station (available only during the operational period).
Comparison Table of Three Beaches
| 阿字ヶ浦 | 平磯 | 大洗サンビーチ | |
|---|---|---|---|
| おすすめ層 | カップル・グループ | 小さな子ども連れ | ファミリー全般 |
| 波の穏やかさ | ふつう | とても穏やか | ふつう |
| 砂浜の広さ | 約1.2km | コンパクト | 約1.3km |
| 海の家 | 約13軒 | あり | あり |
| 駐車場 | 約200台 | 約100台 | 約7,000台 |
| 周辺の見どころ | 海浜公園、温泉 | おさかな市場、磯遊び | アクアワールド、大洗磯前神社 |
Accommodations within walking distance to Ajigaura Beach (5 options)
In the Ajigaura area, you'll find a variety of unique accommodations within walking distance of the beach. It's also close to the national Hitachi Seaside Park, making it a great spot to enjoy leisure activities beyond just swimming in the sea.
1. Oceanfront Inn Hamadakan | An oceanfront accommodation located right in front of the beach.
This accommodation, aptly named, is an oceanfront property facing the sandy beaches of Ajigaura. It's just a short walk to the beach, making it incredibly convenient to head out to the sea right after check-in. Each room features a carefully designed interior, and some even come with baths that offer a view of the ocean. We take pride in our dishes made with fresh seafood caught that morning, and during the summer, you can enjoy seasonal delicacies like rock oysters and clams on your table.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 400 meters (just a short walk)
- Address: 4 Ajigaura Town, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥13,900 and up per person (including one night with two meals).
- Parking: 17 spaces (free)
- For those who: Couples or small groups who want to stay right by the sea.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 2. Tsuruya Hotel | All rooms with ocean views, BBQ and pets welcome!
This hotel, located near Ajigaura Beach, offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from every room. We take pride in our local specialties, featuring fresh seafood dishes, and we also have plans that allow you to enjoy both Hitachi beef and seafood. With BBQ facilities available, you can enjoy a perfect summer day combining beach activities and a BBQ. Small to medium-sized dogs are welcome (around 1,500 yen per pet), making it a great option for a beach getaway with your furry friend. Our spacious 16-tatami mat Japanese-style room is ideal for families and groups.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 400 meters (about a 5-minute walk)
- Address: 2229-20 Ajigaura, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥8,800 and up per person
- Parking: 16 spaces + 20 nearby (free)
- For those who: Want to enjoy a BBQ, groups with pets.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 3. Kiyomiso | A ryokan with hot springs, just a 1-minute walk to the sea, offering seafood cuisine.
Just a one-minute walk to Ajigaura Beach, this accommodation boasts a fantastic location. With its onsen (hot spring) facilities, you can relax and warm up after a fun day at the beach. The inn is known for its seasonal seafood dishes and the owner's homemade cakes, which are a must-try. Additionally, there are private outdoor showers available, making it convenient for beachgoers to rinse off right after swimming. It's also within walking distance from Ajigaura Station, making it easy for those traveling by train.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 500 meters (about a 1-minute walk)
- Address: 20 Ajigaura, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Price Estimate: Please inquire (phone reservation required)
- Parking: 15 spaces (free)
- For those who want to enjoy hot springs and beach activities, as well as train travelers.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 4. Ryokan Goto | "A Lodge to Spend Time with Gentle Waves," Enjoy Seafood Cuisine at Your Leisure
This ryokan, which promotes "a stay with gentle waves," is just a one-minute walk from the beautiful white sandy beach of Ajigaura. What makes it unique is its dining style—you can order your favorite dishes from the menu at your preferred time (last orders at 20:30). Enjoy authentic coastal cuisine at reasonable prices, such as the sashimi platter set for 2,530 yen and the indulgent "Wagamama Gozen" for 3,850 yen. The charm lies in being able to have dinner at your own pace, even if you return late from a day at the beach.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 500 meters (about a 1-minute walk)
- Address: 3240 Ajigaura, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥6,000 and up per person (room only), meals can be ordered separately.
- Parking: 50 to 60 cars (Free)
- For those who want to enjoy flexible meal times and stay at a reasonable price.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 5. Shiosai no Yado Marutoku | A panoramic view of Ajigaura, perfect for motorcycle trips.
This cozy accommodation offers a stunning view of Ajigaura Beach. We take pride in our local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, and you can enjoy seasonal delights like winter's anglerfish hot pot and Hitachi beef. With facilities for 10 motorcycle garages and 20 road bike garages, it's perfect for a trip combining touring and beach activities. Plus, it's conveniently located just a 7-minute walk from Isozaki Station.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 500 meters (about a 7-minute walk)
- Address: 4318 Isozaki-cho, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥7,800 and up per person
- Parking: 40 spaces (free), motorcycle garage for 10 bikes, and road bike garage for 20 bikes.
- For those who: Enjoy traveling by motorcycle or bicycle, and prioritize cost-effectiveness.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル Accommodations within walking distance to Hiraiso Beach (4 options)
The Hiraiso area is close to Nakaminato Fish Market, making it an attractive destination for a combination of beach activities and seafood gourmet experiences. Surrounded by breakwaters, the calm beach is home to a variety of unique accommodations.
6. Hiraiso Garden Villa | A Newly Built Entire House for Rent Just a 1-Minute Walk from the Beach
A newly built vacation rental will be completed in 2024. Its greatest charm is its unbeatable proximity, just a 1-minute walk to Hiraiso Beach. Designed by a dog-loving owner with the concept of a "vacation home where you can enjoy time with your dog," this property features a warm, natural interior with wooden accents and a spacious garden. You can also enjoy BBQs and fireworks for free (advance notice required). It accommodates up to 8 guests, making it perfect for group trips. Small dogs (up to 8 kg) are welcome, with a limit of two.
- Beach: 1-minute walk
- Address: Hiraiso Town, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Price range: ¥38,000 and up per unit (maximum of 8 guests)
- Parking: 3 spaces (free)
- Check-in/Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00
- For those who: Enjoy group travel, are traveling with pets, or want to have a BBQ.
https://www.airbnb.jp/rooms/1515005424508761077 7. Hiraiso-kan | A Long-Established Inn at Hiraiso Beach
This is a long-established inn located in the Hiraiso Beach area. It is renowned for its dishes made with fresh local seafood, and the winter specialty is the anglerfish hot pot. In the summer, it’s just a short walk to the bustling Hiraiso Beach, which attracts many beachgoers.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 700m (about a 10-minute walk)
- Address: 1001 Hiraiso-cho, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥13,000 and up per person
- Parking: 20 spaces
- For those who want to enjoy the cuisine and atmosphere of a traditional inn.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 8. Seaside Haraya | Right in front of Hiraiso Beach, with a direct sales shop available.
This accommodation is located right in front of Hiraiso Beach. It features a dining area where fresh seafood dishes are available for both guests and non-guests (11:00 AM - 7:30 PM, closed on Tuesdays). During the summer, we set up our directly operated "Haraya Shop" at the beach house, offering treats like shaved ice and yakisoba. Enjoy a day of fun at the tranquil beach with the big whale statue, and easily return to your lodging afterward—it's the perfect location!
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 700 meters (about an 8-minute walk)
- Address: 1033 Hiraiso-cho, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥7,260 and up per person.
- Parking: 30 spaces (free)
- For those who: Families with children, and those who want to enjoy seafood dishes.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 9. Shalom (Coast Inn Shalom) | All rooms with ocean views, pets welcome
This is a sister hotel of Tsuruya Hotel, located along Hiraiso Coast. One of its main attractions is the ocean view from all rooms, offering a stunning panorama of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel takes pride in its fresh seafood cuisine, with a wide variety of dining options including seafood plans and Hitachi beef seafood plans. Medium-sized dogs are welcome (large dogs require prior consultation), making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy the beach with their pets. Please note that there is an additional fee of 2,000 yen during the summer season.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 1.0 km (about a 12-minute walk)
- Address: 1245 Hiraiso-cho, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Price range: From ¥7,700 per person (room only), and from ¥13,000 with two meals included.
- Parking: 15 spaces (free, large vehicles allowed)
- Check-in/Check-out: 15:00 / 10:00
- For those who: Prioritize ocean views and are traveling with pets.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル Accommodations within walking distance to Oarai Sun Beach (3 options)
The area around Oarai Sun Beach offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from hot spring ryokans to luxury villas and glamping options. It's also conveniently located near Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium and Oarai Isosaki Shrine, making it perfect for a fun-filled 1-night, 2-day getaway!
10. Oarai Onsen Resort Oarai Matsumoto | Relax and rejuvenate from the fatigue of the sea with our natural hot springs.
This ryokan, located near Oarai Sun Beach, boasts natural hot springs and is renowned for its delicious cuisine. Guests rave about the dishes made with seasonal ingredients. One of the highlights is the opportunity to unwind in the natural hot springs after a fun day at the beach. It's just a 3-minute drive from Oarai Station, making it easily accessible, and offers a budget-friendly option for a comfortable stay.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 800 meters (about a 10-minute walk)
- Address: 64-83 Onuki, Oarai Town, Higashi Ibaraki District, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥7,370 and up per person.
- Parking: 20 spaces (free)
- For those who want to enjoy hot springs and sea bathing, and for those who prioritize cost performance.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 11. Sunrise Villa Oarai | Luxury Villa with Pool & Sauna
Welcome to our private villa hotel, featuring three beautifully designed buildings surrounded by Balinese interiors. Each villa offers stunning ocean views and is equipped with a beautifully illuminated garden pool and an authentic Finnish HARVIA sauna. Enjoy a delightful Balinese-style floating breakfast served right above the pool. We also provide BBQ facilities with a gas grill, making it perfect for summer activities like swimming in the sea, relaxing by the pool, enjoying BBQs, and unwinding in the sauna. You can even rent out the entire property for up to 18 guests!
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 900 meters (about a 12-minute walk)
- Address: 256-327 Onukacho, Oarai Town, Higashi Ibaraki District, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥29,420 and up per person (maximum capacity of 6 people per unit)
- Parking: 30 spaces (free)
- For those who: Want a luxurious getaway for a special occasion or are looking for private group rentals.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル 12. Sugar Beach Oarai | All-Inclusive Glamping Just Seconds from the Sea
Introducing the glamping facility that boasts "0 seconds to the sea," the closest to the ocean in the Kanto region, set to open in spring 2024! Each dome tent (6 meters in diameter) offers an ocean view, and if you choose a tent with a beach gate, you can access the sea directly from your room. Enjoy an all-inclusive experience with free drinks (including beer and sour cocktails) and complimentary snacks. Dinner features a delicious BBQ made with locally sourced ingredients from Ibaraki Prefecture, along with Aqua Pazza. There are also pet-friendly tents available, where your furry friends can roam freely within the fenced area.
- Distance to the beach: Approximately 1.0 km (about a 12-minute walk)
- Address: 256-164 Onukacho, Oarai Town, Higashi Ibaraki District, Ibaraki Prefecture
- Estimated price: ¥15,600 and up per person (4 people per tent)
- Parking: 33 spaces (free)
- Check-in/Check-out: 15:00 - 21:00 / 7:00 - 10:00
- For those who: Want to experience glamping, have pets, and enjoy drinking.
画像提供: 楽天トラベル Recommended Quick Guide by Type
| こんな旅なら | おすすめの宿 | エリア |
|---|---|---|
| とにかくビーチの目の前！ | お宿 浜田館、ひらいそガーデンヴィラ | 阿字ヶ浦、平磯 |
| 海水浴＋温泉 | きよみ荘、リゾート大洗まつもと | 阿字ヶ浦、大洗 |
| 子連れファミリー | シーサイド原屋（平磯）、ひらいそガーデンヴィラ | 平磯 |
| ペットと一緒 | つるやホテル、ひらいそガーデンヴィラ、シャローム、Sugar Beach | 各エリア |
| BBQ・グランピング | つるやホテル、ひらいそガーデンヴィラ、サンライズヴィラ、Sugar Beach | 各エリア |
| コスパ重視 | 旅館ごとう（¥6,000〜）、シーサイド原屋（¥7,260〜）、リゾート大洗まつもと（¥7,370〜） | 各エリア |
| 贅沢・記念日 | サンライズヴィラ大洗 | 大洗 |
| バイク・自転車旅 | 潮騒の宿 丸徳 | 阿字ヶ浦 |
Tips and Important Points for Reservations
During the summer vacation season, especially on weekends from late July to mid-August, popular accommodations tend to fill up quickly. Since there are only a limited number of places within walking distance to the beach, it's a good idea to make your reservations by the end of June for peace of mind.
In the Ajigaura and Hiraiso area, many accommodations are small-scale facilities and may not be listed on popular travel sites like Rakuten Travel or Jalan. We recommend considering direct reservations through official websites or by phone.
FAQ
Q. When is the opening period for the beach?
Typically, the beach season runs from mid-July to late August. For 2025, the dates are as follows: Ajigaura and Hiraiso beaches will be open from July 19 to August 24, while Oarai Sun Beach will be open from July 19 to August 17. Please check the official websites of the local tourism associations for the official schedule for 2026 and the latest updates.
Q. Which of the three beaches is the most recommended for families with children?
Welcome to Hiraiso Beach! Surrounded by breakwaters, the waves here are very gentle, making it a perfect spot for families. The "Big Whale" slide, shaped like a whale, is a huge hit with the kids. It's an ideal place for little ones to make their debut at the beach!
Q. What are some other enjoyable spots besides the beach?
The Ajigaura area is home to the National Hitachi Seaside Park, where the vibrant green leaves of the kochia are at their best in summer. In the Hiraiso area, you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at the Nakaminato Fish Market. Meanwhile, the Oarai area offers great attractions like the Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium and the Oarai Isosaki Shrine.
Q. How can I access Hitachinaka City from Tokyo?
If you're traveling by car, it takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours via the Joban Expressway. If you prefer to take the train, you can catch the JR Joban Line Limited Express "Hitachi" from Ueno Station to Katsuta Station, which takes about 70 minutes. From there, you can transfer to the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway to reach the various beaches.
Q. What are the busy times for parking?
On summer weekends, crowds start to gather around 9 AM. It's recommended to arrive early at Ajigaura (about 200 parking spaces) and Hiraiso (about 100 parking spaces). However, Oarai Sun Beach has a large parking lot with approximately 7,000 spaces, so there's generally more room available there.
Q. Are there accommodations that allow pets?
Yes! The following accommodations are pet-friendly: Tsuruyahotel (Ajigaura, for medium-sized dogs), Hiraiso Garden Villa (Hiraiso, for up to two small dogs), Shalom (Hiraiso, for medium-sized dogs), and Sugar Beach Oarai (Oarai, with dedicated tents for dogs and cats).