Shioya Beach
Shioya is where Japan's surf and ski cultures collide—a rivermouth break near Otaru that lights up with the same Siberian storms that dump legendary powder on Niseko and Hokkaido's ski resorts. The water temperature drops near freezing, requiring 5mm+ wetsuits with hoods, gloves, and boots, but the reward is empty, powerful waves with snow-covered beaches. A small but committed community of surfers brave these conditions, often combining morning surfs with afternoon powder runs.
Shioya Beach surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (300°)
- Direction range
- 270° - 340°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 9s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.4m
Water temp
8°C
Wetsuit
6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Near Sapporo. The same road to Niseko ski resorts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Shioya Beach?
The Shioya Beach profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.4m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Shioya Beach?
The Shioya Beach profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Shioya Beach?
The Shioya Beach scoring profile favors swell from WNW (270° to 340°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3m, and a reference period of 9s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Shioya Beach?
The main season at Shioya Beach is Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Nov, Apr. Winter only. Same storms that bring powder to ski resorts.
How do I get to Shioya Beach?
The spot profile lists CTS as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 40 minutes. Near Sapporo. The same road to Niseko ski resorts.
What kind of wave is Shioya Beach?
Shioya Beach is a beach break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Nov, Apr
Winter only. Same storms that bring powder to ski resorts.