Kansai Surf Guide — Beginner & Intermediate Spots + Seasonal Tips
Day-trip friendly from Osaka/Kyoto, winter swells on the Japan Sea, and a food-forward finish. Pick your beach, then let us drive you straight to fresh seafood after your session.
Rule of thumb: Summer–Autumn favors the Pacific side (Wakayama/Mie). Winter lights up the Japan Sea (Kyoto/Fukui). Always check swell, wind, and tides before you go.
👶 Beginner-Friendly — Top 5
Kokufu-no-hama (Shima, Mie)
Isonoura (Wakayama)
Hachohama (Kyotango, Kyoto)
Hamazume (Yuhigaura, Kyoto)
Hamanomiya (Wakayama)
💪 Intermediate / Advanced — Top 5
Kazurano (Kyotango, Kyoto)
Nanbae (Wakasa, Fukui)
Shotenkyo (Kyotango, Kyoto)
Takahama (Wakasa, Fukui)
Isonoura (Typhoon Swell Days)
📅 Seasonal Guide — When to Go
Rule of the Coast
Summer–Autumn favors Pacific beaches like Isonoura & Kokufu-no-hama. Winter lights up the Japan Sea (Kyotango/Wakasa). Autumn is prime almost everywhere, with typhoon pulses on the Pacific.
Wetsuit Cheat Sheet
- Jun–Sep: 2/2 or springsuit; some days trunks.
- Oct–Nov: 3/2 or 4/3; booties optional late.
- Dec–Mar: 5/3 + boots/gloves/hood (Japan Sea often icy).
- Apr–May: 3/2 or 4/3; mornings can be chilly.
| Season | Japan Sea (Kyoto/Fukui) | Pacific (Wakayama/Mie) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Quieter, select windows | Kokufu-no-hama / Isonoura practice | Transition winds; pick clean mornings |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Often small / beach season | Isonoura / Hamanomiya best | Surf schools & longboard heaven |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Hachohama / Hamazume come alive | Typhoon pulses for Isonoura | All-around prime time |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Kazurano / Nanbae / Takahama fire | Less consistent | Drysuit season; advanced conditions |
🦪 Surf + Seafood Tour — Hotel Pickup Included
- 🚗 Hotel pickup & drop-off (Kansai area)
- 🏄 Spot selection by swell/wind/tide + safety brief
- 📸 Optional photo/video add-on
- 🦪 Post-surf seafood at a trusted local restaurant (seasonal specials)
- Group size: 1–6 (larger on request)
- Duration: ~6–9h depending on spot & traffic
- Gear: BYO or rental support available
- Dietary notes: pescatarian/halal-friendly options with advance notice
🧭 Safety & Etiquette
Check conditions first
Wind, swell, tides, and local warnings. If in doubt, don’t paddle out.
Respect local rules
Mind swim zones, fishing lines, and lineup priority. A smile and greeting go far.
Right of way
Closest to the peak has priority. Don’t drop in; kick out safely.
Leave no trace
Pack out trash, rinse respectfully, share the stoke.
FAQ
Can total beginners try?
Yes—choose Kokufu-no-hama or Isonoura on small days, consider a lesson, and start in the whitewater.
Best day-trip from Osaka?
Isonoura or Hamanomiya for summer practice; Kyotango (Hachohama/Hamazume) for winter swells if you have time.
Where to avoid crowds?
Try Kazurano or walk down the beach from main peaks. Dawn patrol helps everywhere.
Photoshoot-friendly?
Hachohama/Hamazume (sunset vibes) and Takahama (scenery) are top picks.