The Surf Window

Niijima

Tokyo, Japan

Reef breakAdvanced

A volcanic island 160km south of Tokyo in the Izu Island chain, Niijima is Tokyo's best-kept surf secret, a remote island with a quality reef break and jet-black volcanic sand beaches that receives unobstructed Pacific swells.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

NW

Offshore

Tide

Mid-rising tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Late October

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (primary)

Bottom

Rock reef

Shape

Hollow, fast right, the volcanic reef creates a powerful takeoff with barrelling sections on quality swells

Length

50–130m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: Volcanic rock reef, powerful wave, and remote island location with limited rescue infrastructure.

Hazards

  • •Volcanic rock reef, sharp and unforgiving
  • •Rough sea crossings on the ferry from Tokyo can be intense in swell
  • •Limited medical facilities on the island
  • •Jellyfish in summer

Local Tips

  • •Take the overnight ferry from Tokyo Bay, the 10-hour crossing is an adventure; book a cabin.
  • •The island also has excellent volcanic hot springs (onsen) and unique milky-white glass sand beaches.

Location

Map showing the location of Niijima in Tokyo, Japan

34.3813, 139.2654