Japan, Japan
An A-frame beach break on the coast of Japan.
| Wave height | 3.8 ft (3-5 ft) |
| Swell period | 9 sec |
| Swell direction | 155° |
| Wind | NNE cross/onshore 7.9 kt |
| Tide | mid / optimal |
| Surf score | 79 / 100 |
Shonan is an A-frame beach break on the coast of Kanagawa, Japan. On the right day, the ideal swell window runs from SSE–SSW (150–210°); groundswell with periods around 8–14s gives it the most shape; the wave is comfortably workable up to roughly 6 ft on the face. Best winds are N or NW, with NE or W still rideable. It is relatively forgiving across the tide and can be ridden through most of the cycle. The sweet spot in our data sits between roughly 0.3 m and 1.5 m of tide height. Consistency is moderate - good days come in pulses tied to incoming swells. Expect temperate water that varies seasonally. Expect a busy lineup, particularly during the prime season. Logistically, it is about 60 minutes from HND airport. Confident beginners and intermediates will find rideable shoulders on the smaller, cleaner days. Board-wise, locals lean on funboard or longboard.
The best window is typically Sep–Nov, when swells from SSE–SSW (150–210°) are most consistent.
In our data the spot is workable up to roughly 6 ft on the face on the right swell and wind, beyond which it usually becomes unmanageable or closes out.
It can be friendly on small days, but the lineup is usually competitive and not the best fit for first-timers.