Hotels in Shimoda

Discover the Hidden Gems of Shimoda: Where Serenity Meets Sea and Spirit

Discover the enchanting coastal gem of Shimoda in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Nestled along the Izu Peninsula, this charming destination boasts stunning beaches, including the pristine Shirahama, ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Explore the fascinating Shimoda Aquarium, where marine wonders come alive, or stroll along Shimoda Bay, framed by picturesque landscapes. Delve into history at the historic temples and monuments that dot the area, or unwind in the serene natural parks. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and coastal allure, Shimoda is a must-visit for those seeking a romantic and off-the-beaten-path escape. For our best hotel rates in Shimoda and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Shimoda

Some of the best places to stay in Shimoda are Kawazu and Shirahama. Kawazu and Shirahama are both excellent choices for travellers in Shimoda. Kawazu offers stunning cherry blossoms and scenic coastal views, while Shirahama is known for its beautiful beaches and hot springs. In terms of accommodation, both areas feature a mix of traditional ryokans and modern hotels, often with ocean views and comfortable guest rooms. For first-time visitors, Shirahama is ideal due to its vibrant beach atmosphere and variety of activities. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Shimoda:

1. KawazuOpens in a new window: Kawazu is a beautiful destination renowned for its stunning beaches and serene hot springs, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. The area is home to Imaihama Beach, perfect for sunbathing, and several onsen, including Inatori Onsen and Atagawa Onsen, offering wellness and relaxation. For a comfortable stay, consider Abba Resorts Izu - ZagyosohOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel featuring a natural hot spring and luxury accommodations, ideal for travellers seeking a high-end experience. Another option is ImaisoOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel with direct beach access and business amenities, complete with onsite hot springs. Lastly, OchiairoOpens in a new window is a 5-star ryokan offering a luxury experience with multiple hot spring options, perfect for those looking to indulge.
2. ShirahamaOpens in a new window: Shirahama is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful coastline and vibrant beach culture. It features attractions like Shirahama Beach and Sotoura Beach, making it a haven for beach lovers. For accommodations, Ryokan TokiichiyuOpens in a new window is a 4-star ryokan that provides a relaxing hot spring experience, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach. Shimoda Tokyu HotelOpens in a new window, another 4-star hotel, offers adventure sports alongside its natural hot springs, catering to those seeking both relaxation and excitement. Finally, The SPA Resort BETTEI RAKUYUOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star hotel that combines luxury with direct beach access and hot spring amenities, ensuring a memorable stay for all guests.

Things to do in Shimoda for first times

Three days in Shimoda offers travellers a delightful escape into stunning coastal landscapes, featuring beautiful beaches, lush mountains, and serene parks. Enjoy activities like boating, sea diving, and hiking, while immersing yourself in vibrant local festivals that celebrate the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Shimoda:

• Day 1: Start your adventure at Yumigahama Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy the stunning ocean views. After soaking up the sun, make your way to Kisami Ohama Beach, a hidden gem that offers a more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful afternoon. Conclude your day at Ryugu Park, where you can explore the beautiful landscapes and take in the scenic vistas of the coastline, making it an ideal spot for sunset photography.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Shirahama Beach, known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant beach culture. After some time in the sun, visit Gyokusen-ji Temple, a serene location where you can immerse yourself in Japanese culture and history. Finally, head to Sotoura Beach, a less crowded stretch of sand where you can unwind, swim, or enjoy beachside snacks while listening to the waves.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Imaihama Beach, an idyllic spot for swimming or sunbathing, followed by a trip to Tadado Beach, where you can explore tide pools and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. End your journey at Kawazu Sakura, famous for its stunning cherry blossoms, especially if you visit in the spring. This picturesque location provides a perfect backdrop for some memorable photos and a peaceful stroll among the blooming trees.

4 tips to find a great Shimoda hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly times to visit Shimoda are in June, September, and October, when hotel prices are significantly reduced. Domestic travellers should aim to book their flights at least two months in advance to secure more affordable rates, while international travellers should book at least three months ahead for the best deals. To fully appreciate the main attractions, it's best to plan for a stay of at least 1-2 days. Notable sites in Shimoda include beautiful beaches and scenic natural parks, offering great value for money for those looking to explore this charming destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Shimoda? Head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you might uncover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, you could find out about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you to compare room rates and secure the best hotel deal. Don't miss out on potential savings for your trip!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Shimoda.
4. Consider your location: When making a reservation on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centres can offer convenience but usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Shimoda

Shimoda experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 48.4°F (9.1°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C). June is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Shimoda, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to frequent rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.