Chirihama Nagisa Driveway

Japan's only official beach driving road stretches 8 kilometers along the Noto Peninsula coast, where the sand is packed firm enough by the waves to support regular cars. Driving along the water's edge with the Sea of Japan on one side and dunes on the other is a uniquely exhilarating experience, free of charge and open year-round (conditions permitting, heavy rain or high waves occasionally close it). Pull over to walk the beach, and in summer you'll find food stalls and beach huts along the route. It's best combined with a broader Noto Peninsula road trip.