Kokufu beach
East of hamada, is possibly the best surf spot in shimane. locals are friendly. the surf is variable, better in winter, but extremely cold. in summer the water is warm, but the sea may be flat. a good place to be during typhoon season in late summer/autumn.
Iwami Seaside Park
+81 0855-28-2231 is close to aquas and has nice beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. there are cabins and campsites for rent. beware of strong currents on rough days, though. you can also watch kite surfers at the weekend.
Festivals
(http://www.city.hamada.sh...) february - izumo taisha iwami-bunshi setsubun festival ; march - tadaji hatsuuma festival; april - hamakko spring festival and the daimyo parade; july - kokubu kinsai festival; august - hamakko summer festival, fireworks, and nagahama hassakuhana festival; occtober - nagahama tenjinreitai festival; november - hamada bb onabe festival and iwami kagura festival.