Aoshima Island Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
East
Wind
W or SW
Surf Height
Head-well overhead
Tide
Incoming tide is best.
Aoshima Island Surf Guide
Just to the south of Miyazaki City is a small green island attached to the mainland by a causeway. This is Aoshima-jima, where a traditional Shinto temple has stood for more than 1,000 years. There is nothing on the island except the temple and associated buildings, and it is a very pleasant and peaceful place, even for non-Japanese with no connections to the Shinto religion.The island is a raised dome of the typical washboard sedimentary rock of this area, and on significant typhoon swells, a good left breaks off the island. The wave is long and workable, and the unique surroundings produce a very Japanese surfing experience.
Ability Level
Intermediate
Intermediate
Local Vibe
Doable
Definitely a few vibes for outsiders mostly intended for Japanese from other regions of Japan. Foreigners should be polite, defer to locals, and never drop in.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Lots of tourists around, as Aoshima is a major Miyazaki attraction. Weekends and holiday periods when there is swell can get crowded, not many surfers on weekdays.
Spot Rating
Fun
Can get good with the right swell.
Shoulder Burn
Medium
Long wave and some current to deal with.
Water Quality
Clean
Depends on rains.
Hazards
Crowds when it is good.
Bring Your
Shortboard
Access
From the mainland, walk thru the souvenir vendors, across the causeway, and under the torii gate.
Bottom
Washboard rock reef.
Best Season
Typhoon season, July to November.
Do you have local knowledge about Aoshima Island?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]