Beaches
Sado has two types of coastline: rocky and sandy. The rocky coasts, such as Senkaku Bay, make for dramatic photo spots and boat rides, but it is the sandy beaches of Sado, which are plentiful, that provide a natural and safe place for swimming or idling an afternoon away in the sun.
One of these sandy beaches is Futatsugame, named for the island just offshore that resembles “two turtles.” The beach consists of a sandbar that connects Sado to Futatsugame Island, and is spacious enough to relax and enjoy the summer weather by the clear water. Futatsugame is on the northern tip of Sado, so both the sunrise and sunset are visible from the beach. It is also possible to walk along the coast to Onogame, a nearby island about 3 kilometers away, that looks much like Futatsugame.
For beach-goers who prefer a little more space, Sobama Beach is the longest on Sado Island at 4 kilometers. The white sand and clear water create ideal swimming conditions in summer, while surfers can enjoy strong waves in the autumn and winter. Both Futatsugame and Sobama Beach are open for camping during the summer months.