BEST SURF SPOTS IN JAPAN
There is 129 sites to discover in Japan and 0 guides available
The Top 20 Surf spots in Japan:
Shishikui
Shishikui - Japan
Shishikui features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. This spot is best at low tide and is known as a swell magnet, providing ordinary to fun power. Access is instant, with parking and facilities available.
As a city beachbreak, Shishikui offers a variety of peaks suitable for surfers of all levels, particularly beginners. The laid-back atmosphere and proximity to amenities make it an ideal location for a full day of surfing. During summer, surf schools cater to novices, enhancing the learning experience. While weekdays see few surfers, weekends can become ultra crowded, so timing your visit is key to enjoying the waves.
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Sendai shinko
Sendai Shinko - Sendai
Sendai Shinko features a sandy bottom with right and left breaking waves, primarily formed by a sandbar. This spot is known for its ability to pick up significant swell due to the unique coastal shape, making it a prime location for surfers. Access is convenient, with less than a 5-minute walk from public access points.
The best conditions occur with swell from the southwest and wind from the northwest or west. During weekdays, the crowd is manageable with few surfers, while weekends can see a significant increase in numbers. This spot is ideal for those looking for a reliable surf experience in the Sendai area, offering ordinary power waves suitable for various skill levels.
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Koigaoura
Koigaoura - Japan
Koigaoura features a beach break with waves breaking both to the right and left. The wave power ranges from fun to powerless, making it suitable for various skill levels. Access is instant, with a walk of less than 5 minutes from the nearest parking area, and public access is available.
This surf spot is located at latitude 31.4084 and longitude 131.3428, offering a picturesque setting for surfers. The waves work well at all tides, providing consistent conditions throughout the day. The sandy bottom enhances the overall experience, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned surfers looking for a relaxed session. With its easy access and versatile wave characteristics, Koigaoura is a hidden gem for surf enthusiasts visiting Japan.
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Kudaka Left
Kudaka Left - Kudaka Island
Kudaka Left features a fast left-breaking reef (coral) wave, ideal for experienced surfers. The spot is easily accessible with instant access (less than 5 minutes on foot) and public access available. It primarily works with southeast swell direction.
Located about an hour's ferry ride from Baten Harbour, Kudaka Island offers a unique surf experience away from the crowds. The main surf area is characterized by a long left point break adjacent to a seawall and marina. While it may not boast the consistency of more renowned spots like Ikei, it effectively captures most east swells, providing fun waves when conditions align. Surfers can enjoy the local atmosphere and should consider visiting the nearby 'soba' house for delicious meals post-session, making it a worthwhile destination for a full day of surfing and relaxation.
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Sunset beach
Sunset Beach - Fukui Prefecture, Japan
Sunset Beach features a beach break with both right and left waves, set on a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. This spot is accessible within five minutes on foot and operates well at all tides, making it suitable for surfers of varying skill levels.
Located on the Echizen coast near the scenic Tojinbo cliffs, Sunset Beach offers stunning views of emerald green waters and surrounding landscapes. While it serves as a training ground for competitive surfers, the beach can become crowded on weekends. Despite the beautiful setting, caution is advised due to litter and broken glass. The area boasts two surf shops nearby, providing essential gear and local insights. With warm water temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere, Sunset Beach is a popular choice for both longboarders and shortboarders alike.
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Aoshima Reef
Aoshima Reef - Japan
Aoshima Reef features a left-breaking wave over a rocky reef, providing fun and workable rides during significant typhoon swells. The spot is located on Aoshima-jima, a serene island home to a historic Shinto temple, accessible via a short walk (5-15 minutes) from public access points.
This surf location is renowned for its unique scenery and cultural significance, offering a distinct Japanese surfing experience. While the beachbreak may not be as consistent as other nearby spots, it can deliver enjoyable sessions when conditions align. Crowds, particularly from longboarders, can be expected, especially during peak swells. Despite the variability, Aoshima is a must-visit for surfers seeking to immerse themselves in the local surf culture and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.
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Nagahama
Nagahama - Japan
Nagahama features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom. The waves are generally powerless, making it suitable for beginners and casual surfers. Access is straightforward, with instant access in under 5 minutes, and the spot is publicly accessible.
This surf spot thrives under north winds and south swell, providing consistent conditions for a relaxed surfing experience. The plain beachbreak offers a welcoming environment for surfers of all skill levels, making it an ideal location for practice and enjoyment. With its easy access and gentle waves, Nagahama is perfect for those looking to unwind while catching some waves.
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Nagai
Nagai - Japan
Nagai features a right-breaking reef wave with a rocky bottom, ideal for experienced surfers. The spot can handle significant swells, cranking up when overhead, and is best surfed at low and mid tide. Access is straightforward, with instant entry to the water after a short walk.
Formerly a US Navy Housing area, Nagai is a hidden gem that outperforms nearby Shonan points during typhoon swells. The wave can be ridden at 1.2 meters (4 feet) but truly shines when conditions reach overhead heights. With minimal crowds during the week and weekends, surfers can enjoy a more secluded experience. To reach the spot, take Route 134 south, turn right at the Nagai Navy Housing road, and walk south for about a minute to enter the water.
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Osaki
Osaki - Zushi City
Osaki features a powerful point break with hollow and fast waves, breaking both right and left over a sharp coral reef. The spot is accessible within a five-minute walk from Zushi Marina, where parking is available for a fee. It works well at all tides, particularly during typhoon swells.
The atmosphere at Osaki can be intense, especially for non-locals, but generally, foreigners face fewer issues. The best surfing conditions arise with a northwest swell and west to southwest winds. While the spot can hold any size swell, it is known for producing stand-up tubes when conditions align. Be cautious of localism, urchins, and sharp rocks. Weekdays see fewer surfers, while weekends can get crowded, making it essential to respect the local etiquette and rules.
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Oshima
Oshima - Fukui, Japan
Oshima features a left point break over a boulder bottom, renowned for its quality waves that only break a few times a year during significant swells. The spot is easily accessible, located just a short walk from the bridge to the island.
Situated near Tojinbo, Oshima is considered one of the best surf spots in the area, attracting a mix of local surfers and visitors. It works well at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements enhancing the wave quality. While weekdays see few surfers, weekends can become crowded, so be prepared for local competition. Always respect the local surf etiquette to ensure a positive experience.
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Jogashima
Jogashima - Japan
Jogashima features a sandbar wave that breaks both right and left over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. Access requires a good walk of 15-30 minutes, but public access is available. The spot is generally uncrowded during the week and on weekends, making it an appealing choice for surfers seeking solitude.
This surf spot is located at latitude 35.1299 and longitude 139.6199, offering a unique experience with its scenic surroundings. While the waves can be enjoyable, surfers should remain cautious of rips, undertow, and rocky areas. The combination of wave direction and sandy bottom makes it suitable for various skill levels, but awareness of the conditions is essential for a safe session. Overall, Jogashima is a hidden gem for those willing to make the trek.
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Shichirigahama
Shichirigahama - Shonan Area, Japan
Shichirigahama features a reef break with both right and left waves, characterized by a bottom of coral and sharp rocks mixed with sand. The spot is best during mid to high tide with rising tide conditions, and it works well when the swell is at least 1.5 meters. Wind from the north, east, or northeast is preferable.
This surf spot is particularly favorable during typhoon swells, providing decent rides when other nearby locations are closed out. While it can get crowded, especially at waist-high waves, the crowd thins significantly at shoulder height and above. The water quality is often less than ideal, but winter sessions can be enjoyable. Access is straightforward, with instant access from the beach and parking options nearby. Be mindful of rips and rocks, and consider dawn patrol to avoid onshore winds that can disrupt conditions.
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Fukushimaku
Fukushimaku - Japan
Fukushimaku features a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. The spot is accessible via a short walk of 5 to 15 minutes and is open to the public. The waves are generally considered powerless, making it suitable for beginners and longboarders.
This surf spot thrives under north winds and south swells, providing consistent conditions for a relaxed surfing experience. The picturesque setting and gentle waves make it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy a laid-back session. With its easy access and forgiving surf, Fukushimaku is perfect for surfers of all skill levels seeking a tranquil day on the water.
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Uchiumi - Curren's point
Uchiumi - Curren's Point - Japan
Uchiumi, also known as Curren's Point, features powerful right-hand reef breaks over a sharp coral and rocky bottom. This spot works at all tides and is best with swells from the north, east, or northeast, while west winds are ideal. The wave can be extremely challenging, with the potential for serious wipeouts.
Named after Tom Curren's legendary ride in 1993, this surf spot thrives during typhoon swells, attracting experienced surfers. The take-off can be heavy, leading to big barrels and fast walls, but conditions can vary, making it sectiony at times. Despite its low consistency, the peak can become crowded when the waves are overhead. Surfers should be cautious of the strong currents and the hazardous reef, making this location suitable only for seasoned pros. Access is straightforward, with parking available near the Mobile oil tanks along the Nichinan coast.
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Nagatazaki
Nagatazaki - Japan
Nagatazaki features a powerful left point break over a sharp coral reef. This spot is best surfed during a big southeast typhoon, with waves often reaching overhead height. Access requires a short walk of 5-15 minutes, and the location is publicly accessible.
This expert-only surf spot is not for the faint-hearted, as it only breaks a few times each year. When conditions align, it attracts experienced surfers seeking a challenge. The area can become crowded, so having the right skills and ocean knowledge is essential. With the right swell from the south or southeast and favorable north winds, Nagatazaki can deliver exceptional sessions for those ready to paddle hard for the best waves.
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Inamuragasaki
Inamuragasaki - Japan
Inamuragasaki features a left-hand reef break with a bottom composed of coral and sharp rocks, offering fun waves under optimal conditions. This spot is accessible via Route 134, with instant access requiring less than 5 minutes of walking. It works well at all tides, particularly during typhoon swells.
Located near Tokyo, Inamuragasaki is renowned for its localized crowd, especially on mid-size swells, which can deter newcomers. However, during larger swells, the crowd thins out, allowing for better wave opportunities. The atmosphere can be intense, with paddleboarders and locals often dominating the lineup. Despite the competitive vibe, professional surfers occasionally visit, adding to the spot's allure. Inamuragasaki is considered one of Japan's most famous surf locations, attracting both local and visiting surfers seeking quality waves.
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Odutsu
Odutsu - Japan
This spot features a beach break with both right and left waves, breaking over a sandy bottom. The waves are generally powerless, making it suitable for all skill levels. Access is instant, requiring less than 5 minutes of walking, and the spot is publicly accessible.
Odutsu is located at latitude 31.5541 and longitude 131.3816, offering a relaxed surfing environment. The gentle waves make it ideal for beginners looking to practice their skills or for more experienced surfers seeking a mellow session. The scenic surroundings enhance the experience, providing a perfect backdrop for a day of surfing. Whether you're catching your first wave or enjoying a laid-back ride, Odutsu caters to all surfers.
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Nakayama - Center
Nakayama - Center
Nakayama features a powerful beach break with both right and left waves, set on a sandy bottom. The spot is easily accessible, with instant access in under 5 minutes and public access available. It typically remains empty during the week and weekends, making it an ideal location for surfers seeking solitude.
This long, sandy beach is divided into three main breaks: Minato, Center, and Takeyano. The Center break is particularly favorable during incoming tides, offering decent waves for surfers of all levels, including beginners. With minimal crowd pressure, surfers can enjoy ample space to practice and hone their skills. The optimal conditions arise with winds from the west and swells from the southeast, east, and northeast, ensuring a consistent surf experience.
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Nadahama
Nadahama - Japan
Nadahama features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom and ordinary power. The spot is easily accessible, with instant access in under 5 minutes, and public access is available.
This surf spot is ideal for surfers looking for a casual session, especially when the swell comes from the south and the wind is from the north. The waves are consistent, making it suitable for various skill levels. With its picturesque setting and reliable conditions, Nadahama is a great choice for both locals and visitors seeking a fun day on the water.
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Oura
Oura (The Harbour Left) - Japan
Oura features powerful and fun left-hand waves breaking over a rocky reef bottom. The spot is accessible via a short walk (5-15 minutes) and is known for its hollow sections, making it easier than nearby Chokusen. Optimal conditions occur with northeast or east swells and north to northwest winds.
Located in front of the harbour, Oura serves as a reliable alternative when other spots are messy. The waves typically present as sliceable walls, but can also become hollow at times. While weekdays offer a chance for fewer surfers, weekends can see significant crowds. Surfers should be prepared to share the waves, especially during peak times, but the quality of the surf makes it a worthwhile destination for those seeking a fun ride.
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