Zushi is a small, relaxed seaside town on the western side of the Miura Peninsula, tucked between Kamakura and Hayama, with a crescent of sandy beach facing Sagami Bay. It has long been a retreat for Tokyo families, and in summer the beach fills with swimmers, windsurfers and stand-up paddlers. Out of season, it is quiet, with dog walkers and joggers on the sand and fishing boats pulled up at the end of the bay.
For a swim, Zushi Beach is one of the most sheltered on this coast, with gentle waves and shallow water, and during the official swimming season in July and August, lifeguards are on duty and beach huts sell food and drinks. Outside that season, swimming is at your own risk. The water is coolest in early summer and warmest in late August and September.
On clear days, especially in winter and early spring, Mount Fuji rises across the bay, and the sunset view from the beach, with the mountain silhouetted against the sky and the sea glowing, is one of the most famous on the Shonan coast. Next door, Hayama is home to an imperial villa, and its coast is lined with rocky coves and small beaches.
As a start, Zushi gives easy access to the coast road around the Miura Peninsula and to Kamakura, with its temples and shrines. Traffic can be heavy, especially on summer weekends, and parking near the beach is limited. Fuel and food are available in Zushi and the surrounding towns. Go early to enjoy the beach in peace.