Hokkaido - surf spot statistics

Hokkaido’s surf conditions are heavily influenced by seasonal wind patterns and swell consistency. The best months for surfing are generally from August to October, when ground swell percentages peak (13% in August and September, 12% in October) and wind conditions are relatively better (12-14% good wind days). These months also offer the most consistent swell presence, with "no swell" days dropping to 41-42%, and mean swell sizes hovering around 0.7m—modest but surfable for experienced riders. Early spring (March-April) shows a slight uptick in ground swell (8-9%) and manageable wind conditions (9-11% favorable), though wind interference remains high (89-91% bad wind days). Winter months (November-February) are challenging, with low ground swell (4-7%), frequent poor winds (93-94%), and a high percentage of no-swell days (44-56%). Summer brings mixed results—July and August see improving ground swell, but June is inconsistent. Overall, late summer and early autumn provide the most reliable conditions, while winter is largely unfavorable due to onshore winds and weak swell. Surfers should prioritize August-September for the best balance of swell and wind.

October in this Hokkaido surf spot offers fairly small but rideable conditions, with an average swell height of 0.7m and a decent period of 8.2s, indicating relatively clean, organized waves. The primary swell direction is from the south, with the highest frequency of waves (1-1.5m range) coming from SSE and SE, making it the most consistent for surfers. However, larger waves (1.5m+) are rare, with only a small percentage exceeding 2m. Winds are often a limiting factor, as ideal offshore or light wind conditions occur just 10% of the time. The dominant wind directions are from the west and northwest, frequently blowing in the 10-30kph range, which can create choppy or cross-shore conditions. While the spot isn’t known for big swells in October, it can still provide fun, smaller sessions when winds cooperate, particularly with southerly swells aligning properly. Advanced surfers might find occasional clean peaks, but expect mostly knee-to-chest-high waves with variable wind impacts.