Ohama - surf spot statistics

Best Surf Season (May - September)

Summer and early autumn deliver the most consistent quality surf at Ohama. As the Pacific High strengthens and tropical moisture streams northward, a steady diet of east to southeast swell fills the SE-facing beach. Offshore winds from the west and northwest occur more frequently during this period, particularly when low-pressure systems track north of Japan, creating classic glassy morning sessions. Average wave heights sit in the 1.3–1.4m range with periods averaging 7.5–9.0 seconds, offering fun, rippable waves. The percentage of ideal surf days peaks in August at 29%, making this the prime window for a surf trip.

Fair Surf Season (April & October)

These shoulder months see a transition in the swell climate. April brings a shift from winter's westerly dominance to more easterly energy, with optimal swell directions climbing to 42% of the total. Winds remain variable, but the ideal surfing percentage holds at a respectable 21%. October sees a similar mix; though the average swell height remains 1.6m, the period drops slightly and ideal wind occurs only 17% of the time. Nonetheless, when a typhoon passes well south or a front moves through, you can score clean, long-period waves from the east.

Low Surf Season (November - March)

Winter months are dominated by large, powerful swells from the west – not an ideal direction for this SE-facing beach. While offshore winds from the west and northwest are common (especially December to January), the swell energy is largely wasted on the wrong exposure. Combined with shorter periods averaging 6.9–7.7 seconds, the surf is often messy and inconsistent from the good angles. The percentage of truly good days drops to 17–20%, making this the least reliable time of year for quality waves at Ohama.

December: Winter's Onslaught

December brings winter back in full force, with the average swell height reaching 1.8m – tied for the highest of the year. However, the period dips to 7.2s, and the dominant swell direction is west (29.9%), which is far from optimal. Optimal east swell directions (E through SSE) total only 14.9%. The wind story is mixed: offshore winds from the west and northwest are very common (total 51.5%), but they are often strong (W wind >30kph 25.2% of the time). The ideal surf percentage is 22%, buoyed by occasional east pulses that sneak through the prevailing westerly flow. On the rare day when a short-period east swell coincides with a light northwesterly breeze, Ohama can offer punchy, fun waves – but patience is key.