The Surf Window

Namerikawa

Toyama, Japan

Beach breakIntermediate

On Toyama Bay's north coast, Namerikawa is famous for the Hotaru-ika (firefly squid) that illuminate the bay in spring, and when Sea of Japan swells arrive, the beach delivers consistent winter surf within view of the Northern Alps rising dramatically behind the bay.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1.5–2.5m at 10–14s

Wind

SE

Light to S under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Nov–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Multiple peaks along the bay

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: Consistent Sea of Japan winter swell with cold water

Hazards

  • •Cold water, 5–12°C
  • •Sea of Japan winter storms
  • •Very flat in summer

Local Tips

  • •The Hotaru-ika (firefly squid) fishing season March–May creates an extraordinary bioluminescent display in the bay
  • •The panoramic view of the Tateyama alpine range (3,000m peaks) from the beach is extraordinary on clear days
  • •Toyama's seafood (buri yellowtail, white shrimp) is world-class, eat extremely well here

Location

Map showing the location of Namerikawa in Toyama, Japan

36.7643, 137.3414