Hamasho Niijima

Hamasho Niijima, in Honmura on Niijima, is a homey minshuku (a family-run Japanese guesthouse) whose great appeal is its seaside location right in front of Maehama Beach.

What stands out most is how close the sea is. Maehama Beach, with its shallow water and gentle waves, spreads out immediately in front of the guesthouse. The sand is only steps away, which makes it ideal for a child's first swim in the ocean. You can play in the water for a while, come back to rest, then head out again - an easy rhythm with children. Being close enough to go back and forth between the sea and your room in your swimsuit is reassuring above all else when you have little ones.

The guest rooms are Japanese-style tatami rooms, so you can lay a small child down on the tatami or sleep side by side as a family with room to spread out. As a homey minshuku, it is an easy place to relax even on a first island trip.

The service is attentive as well, with a shuttle bus and wake-up calls. It is about 5 minutes by car from Kurone Port, and there is free parking for 3 cars.

Niijima offers plenty beyond the sea. Yunohama Open-Air Onsen, a free open-air onsen you enter in your swimsuit, looks out over the ocean and is a good way to warm up after a day in the water. Other spots families can enjoy are dotted around the island, including the Moyai statues that originated on Niijima and the Niijima Glass Art Center, where you can try glass art made with koga stone.

As this is a homey, family-run minshuku, please confirm the room facilities, the meals and what can be arranged for babies directly with the guesthouse when you book.