Kobe's most accessible urban beach with calm waters and views of the Akashi strait; free entry.
Suma Beach is the most popular coastal getaway in Kobe, an 800-metre fine-sand beach in the Suma-ku district, west of the city, reachable by train from Sannomiya in just 20 minutes. Its waters of the Akashi strait are calm and clear thanks to the natural protection of Awaji Island, and from the shore you can see the imposing Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the world. In summer (July and August) the area fills with parasols, food stalls and the fireworks of Suma's Hanabi Festival. Access to the beach is free; renting a parasol and loungers costs around 800 ¥. The Suma Aquarium (Suma Aqualife Park), a stone's throw from the beach, is one of the best aquariums in Kansai with dolphins and sea lions (separate admission ~1.000 ¥ for adults). It is reached on the JR Kobe Line to Suma or Suma-Kaihinkoen station. Ideal for a half-day at the beach before heading up to Arima Onsen in the afternoon.
