The Surf Window

Shonan

Kanagawa, Japan

Beach breakBeginner

The surf culture capital of Japan, Shonan (Kamakura/Fujisawa area) is the birthplace of Japanese surfing with a buzzing beach culture, consistent small waves, and the iconic view of Mt Fuji across the bay.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size4-8ft

Wind

NW

Offshore

Tide

Any

LowMidHigh

Season

September–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Gentle to moderate beach break, smaller and more forgiving than the Chiba breaks

Length

20–60m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Beginner
  • •Why: The sheltered Sagami Bay geometry reduces wave size and power, perfect for learning and progression.

Hazards

  • •Very crowded, Shonan is only 1 hour from central Tokyo
  • •Jellyfish in summer
  • •Strong currents near river mouths

Local Tips

  • •On a clear winter morning, the view of snow-capped Mt Fuji from the Shonan coast is one of Japan's most iconic scenes.
  • •Enoshima Island at the western end of Shonan is a beautiful destination, the shrine and cave tunnels are unmissable.

Location

Map showing the location of Shonan in Kanagawa, Japan

35.3069, 139.4877