Surf long volcanic beaches, soak in oceanside hot springs, and settle into the laid-back rhythm of Niijima, where clear water and open horizons create a refreshing escape from Tokyo. This small island offers a blend of adventure and calm that makes every visit feel both energizing and deeply restorative.
There is a moment when you step off the ferry at Niijima and feel the shift from mainland pace to island calm. The air smells of salt and koga stone, and bicycles glide past surfboards stacked against the harbour wall. Waves roll along the east coast in long ribbons, forming clean beach breaks backed by white volcanic cliffs. Surfers travel here for the consistency of the Pacific swell, but the real charm is the balance of water, landscape, food, and community that shapes daily life. Niijima offers that quiet intersection between adventure and simplicity where surfing becomes woven into everything else you do.
This guide brings together the essential details for planning a surf-focused trip, from wave patterns and surf schools to accommodations, dining, and day-to-day island life.
Whether you are paddling into your first small wave or exploring heavier autumn peaks, Niijima provides the space and atmosphere to grow your connection with the ocean.
Overview of Niijima Island
Niijima is part of Tokyo’s Izu archipelago, located about 160 kilometres south of the city. Despite being within Tokyo Prefecture, the island feels far away from the mainland, with long beaches, cliffs sculpted from white koga stone, and a small community centred around Honson village.
The geography makes it ideal for surfing. The East Coast opens directly into the Pacific, receiving swells year-round. The west side offers sheltered viewpoints, onsen baths, and calmer water. With its mild climate and compact size, Niijima is an easy island to explore on foot, by bicycle, or by local bus.
Geography and climate
The island spans roughly eleven kilometres from north to south and covers about 23.9 square kilometres. Mount Miyatsuka rises to 432 metres and anchors the island’s skyline. The volcanic landscape shapes both the waves and the scenery, with smooth sandy bottoms and bright cliffs that glow at sunset.
Niijima has an oceanic climate with warm summers, cool winters, and steady wind patterns. Air temperatures range from around 10°C in winter to roughly 28°C in summer. Water temperatures range from about 15°C in winter to 26°C at the height of summer, so wetsuit choices vary throughout the year.
The best surf spots on Niijima
Surfing on Niijima revolves around a collection of beaches and peaks that offer different wave styles and difficulty levels. The most famous stretch is Habushiura Beach, though several nearby areas provide quieter options for beginners or relaxed longboard sessions.
The table below offers a clear comparison of Niijima’s main surf areas:
| Surf Spot | Wave Style | Ideal Season | Skill Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Habushiura Beach | Long, open beach break | Spring–Autumn | Intermediate–Advanced | Iconic East Coast surf zone with consistent swell |
| Shiromama Cliffs (North End) | Faster peaks with defined sections | Autumn–Winter | Advanced | Scenic area with powerful waves on larger swells |
| Mamashita Beach (West Side) | Softer, mellow beach break | Summer–Early Autumn | Beginner–Intermediate | Smaller waves and calmer conditions |
| Honson-Maehama Area | Occasional light surf | Summer | Beginner | Good for practice on gentle days |
These beaches provide entry points for all surfers, whether you want forgiving summer rollers or more focused autumn lines.
Ideal seasons for surfing
Niijima’s exposure to the Pacific brings wave activity year-round, but each season offers its own character. Water temperatures, wind direction, and swell size all shift across the months, influencing where and when to paddle out.
Seasonal surf conditions
| Season | Wave Size | Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Large | Strong swells, cool air, powerful waves | Advanced surfers |
| Spring (Mar–May) | Medium | More consistent surf, balanced winds | Intermediates |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Small | Gentle waves, warm water | Beginners and longboarders |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Medium–Large | Clean, well-formed waves | All levels, depending on the spot |
Autumn is often the favourite season thanks to warm water and reliable swell, but summer remains the most welcoming for newer surfers.
Surf schools and rental options
Surf schools on Niijima support riders at every level, from beginners taking their first lesson to experienced surfers looking to refine their approach. Instructors understand how quickly conditions shift on the island, so their guidance helps you choose the right spot, the right board, and the safest time to paddle out. Renting gear locally also saves the trouble of travelling with a heavy board bag, especially if you arrive by ferry.
Kye Surf Shop
Kye Surf Shop, located in Niijima village, offers surfboard rentals, wetsuits, and lessons throughout the main surf season. The shop is widely recommended by travellers for its friendly staff and reliable gear. Instructors provide practical advice about local breaks, daily conditions, and how to choose a board that fits the swell. It is one of the easiest places to start your surf days on the island.
Surf Station Habushi
Located near Habushiura Beach, Surf Station Habushi offers lodging, board rentals, and basic surf support. Travellers can rent shortboards, longboards, and bodyboards, and the on-site team often shares helpful information about tides, wind changes, and where to paddle out safely. Being close to the water makes it a convenient option for early-morning sessions or surfers who prefer staying near the main break.
Gear rental prices
Below is an example of typical rental costs on Niijima:
| Equipment | Price per Day | Price per Week |
|---|---|---|
| Surfboard | ¥3,000 | ¥18,000 |
| Wetsuit | ¥1,500 | ¥9,000 |
| Leash / Fins | ¥500 | ¥3,000 |
Wetsuit thickness depends on the season: full suits are recommended in winter, and short suits or rashguards in summer.
Travel and accommodation
Accommodation on Niijima comes with variety and charm. Many guesthouses are locally run, offering friendly hosts, relaxed communal spaces, and easy access to beaches. Staying close to Honson village puts you near restaurants, shops, the ferry terminal, and rental services. Accommodations near Habushiura or Honson-Maehama offer a beachfront atmosphere and quick access to early-morning surf.
| Accommodation | Location | Price Range | Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guest House YoSoBe | Honson village | Mid-range | Modern, clean, relaxed | Near the port with shared social spaces |
| Guesthouse IKETA | Central Honson | Budget–Mid | Simple, friendly | Easy access to beaches and restaurants |
| Etcetera Guesthouse | Honson-Maehama | Budget–Mid | Beachfront, casual | Ideal for surf trips with immediate sand access |
These guesthouses provide a good balance between comfort and proximity, making them ideal bases for surfers who want to catch the morning glass or return easily after long sessions. Staying in Honson also makes it simple to rent bicycles, visit local eateries, and walk to attractions like the glass art centre or an evening onsen. Meanwhile, Honson-Maehama places you steps from the sand, which is perfect for travellers who want to move between resting, surfing, and soaking up beachside scenery without needing transportation.
Whether you prefer quiet evenings by the water, shared conversations with other travellers, or a central location close to village life, Niijima’s accommodation options make it easy to settle into the island’s relaxed rhythm.
Local surf culture
Niijima’s surf community is open and welcoming. Surfers gather at the beaches, surf shops, and island eateries, sharing stories and passing along tips about wave conditions. Respect plays a central role, and visitors are encouraged to follow local etiquette to keep the lineups safe and friendly.
Etiquette essentials
- Give priority to the surfer nearest the peak
- Avoid taking off on another person’s wave
- Keep ample space in crowded areas
- Watch conditions before paddling out
Observing these basic practices helps maintain the relaxed environment for which Niijima is known.
Dining and local flavours: A taste of the island
The rhythm of life on Niijima is dictated by the sea, and nowhere is this more evident than on your plate. The island's cuisine is a celebration of the ocean, built on the day's catch and served with the unpretentious warmth of a small community. Dining here is less about fancy restaurants and more about authentic, soul-satisfying meals that refuel you after a day in the waves.
The heart of the village: Izakaya and local eateries
At the core of Niijima's food scene are its local pubs and small restaurants, where fishermen, surfers, and travellers cross paths.
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Yakitori Daisan: This is the island's beloved izakaya (Japanese gastropub). The atmosphere is warm and lively, filled with the sizzle of the grill and the chatter of locals. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a cold local beer or a cup of shochu, accompanied by perfectly grilled skewers (yakitori), ultra-fresh sashimi, and hearty home-style dishes. Don't miss their ashiyaki if available—a local style of grilled fish.
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Other local favourites: Wander through Honson and you'll find other gems, from small soba (buckwheat noodle) shops serving simple, satisfying bowls to family-run restaurants offering kaisen-don (a bowl of rice topped with an assortment of fresh local sashimi). The key is to be adventurous and follow the crowd.
Niijima's signature catch
The waters around the Izu Islands are rich with marine life. Be sure to try:
- Local tuna and yellowtail: Often served as sashimi or tataki (seared and lightly seasoned).
- Island squid: Incredibly fresh and tender, it might be served as ika somen (squid sliced into thin noodle-like strands).
- Shimazushi: This is a local style of "island sushi," typically made with fish preserved in vinegar, a tradition from the days before refrigeration. It offers a unique, tangy taste of history.
Sweet treats and local produce
- Kuro-zato: Look for sweets made with this local, dark, unrefined sugar. It has a rich, molasses-like flavour and is used in traditional confections and cookies, making for a perfect edible souvenir.
- Local citrus: Depending on the season, you might find varieties of small, fragrant island citrus like shikuwasa or kabosu, used to brighten up dishes and drinks.
A final word on surfing Niijima
Niijima brings together the joy of surfing with the ease of island living. The waves shift with the seasons, offering something for every skill level. Autumn swells bring well-formed peaks, summer days offer gentle rollers, and spring mornings deliver a balanced rhythm that suits many travellers. The island’s surf shops, guesthouses, and hot springs provide comfort and connection between sessions, helping visitors settle into the island’s calm flow.
A trip to Niijima is a chance to surf, explore, and slow down in a landscape shaped by volcanic cliffs and the open Pacific. With verified accommodations, reliable surf rentals, and welcoming local culture, planning becomes simple. Pack light, arrive ready for changing conditions, and enjoy the clear, spacious waves of this remarkable island just beyond Tokyo’s horizon.
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