WWS

Japan - Main land · Japan

Maehama Beach, Japan

13.8kts

NNE · Wind season

Maehama delivers flat water and NNE wind 219 days a year—a progression machine with one catch: respect the reef and tidal flow.

BeginnerIntermediateFreerideFoil
13.8kts
Average wind
219
Windy days / year
08:00–11:00
Peak wind hours
NNE
Primary direction

Location

Nearest airports
Airport - Tokyo Narita
Coordinates
24.7348, 125.2629
Open full map

Monthly wind profile (peak window)

17
Jan
17
Feb
17
Mar
16
Apr
15
May
16
Jun
18
Jul
15
Aug
17
Sep
17
Oct
17
Nov
17
Dec

Jan

68%

rideable

17.3 kts

Feb

68%

rideable

16.5 kts

Mar

73%

rideable

17 kts

Apr

62%

rideable

15.7 kts

May

60%

rideable

14.7 kts

Jun

67%

rideable

16 kts

Jul

60%

rideable

18.1 kts

Aug

21%

rideable

14.9 kts

Sep

37%

rideable

16.9 kts

Oct

60%

rideable

17 kts

Nov

77%

rideable

17.1 kts

Dec

69%

rideable

16.5 kts

Best wind directions

  • NNE
  • NE
  • N
  • S
  • SSW

Water conditions

  • Ocean
  • Flat Water

Best months

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Hazards

  • Strong currents and tidal flows common in Okinawan waters; monitor conditions carefully
  • Shallow reef areas and marine life including sea urchins; wear reef shoes and watch depth
  • Occasional tropical storms and sudden weather changes during typhoon season
  • Limited visibility of underwater obstacles in flat water conditions

What that means for you

  • Reef booties recommended at low tide
  • Strong current — walk back upwind, don't body-drag down
  • Mind your fins and lines in standing-depth water

Amenities

  • Local beach facilities and nearby accommodation options in Okinawa
  • Rental shops and schools available in the broader Okinawa region
  • Restaurants and convenience stores near popular beach areas
  • Emergency services and medical facilities accessible from main beach

Local tips

Maehama is in Okinawa's subtropical climate with warm water and frequent wind days—excellent for progression. Check local forecasts for typhoon season (May-November) and always verify current conditions before heading out.

Launch & beach

Flat water makes this ideal for beginners and tricks. NNE-NE winds provide most consistent conditions; launch from sandy areas when available and watch for tidal changes affecting water depth and launch zones.

Local etiquette

Respect local beach users and share space with swimmers and other water sports. Follow local regulations and inform authorities if required for water sports activity in this area.

What to wear

3-5mm wetsuit year-round for water temperature (18-27°C depending on season). Light spring suit adequate during warmer months (May-October); consider booties for reef protection.

What to pack

Kite sizes

  • 14–17 mlight wind, under 14 kn
  • 11–14 mtypical sessions, 14–22 kn

Boards

  • Twintip — universal, bring one
  • Hydrofoil — light-wind spot, rideable from ~10 kn

What to wear (by climate)

In the water
2 mm shorty or a rashguard.
On land
Light layers plus a windbreaker for the evening.

Derived from the spot's latitude (subtropical zone) and current season.

Right of way & manners

  1. 1Rider entering the water has right of way over riders coming in.
  2. 2Upwind rider gives way — keep your kite high when passing downwind riders low.
  3. 3Starboard tack (right hand forward) has priority when crossing.
  4. 4Overtaking rider keeps clear of the slower rider's line.
  5. 5Wave riding: the rider on the wave owns it — don't drop in.

Spot guide

The Experience

Maehama is a workhorse. Flat water, consistent wind, warm subtropical climate. You dial mechanics, practice tricks, improve. The reef and currents aren't scenery—they're active hazards every session.

Wind & Conditions

Nov–May is the window. NNE/NE winds average 13.8 knots—enough for 17m light days, 12m when it pumps. 219 windy days per year is legitimately rare. Typhoon season (May–Nov) brings sudden wind shifts and visibility drops. Check forecasts. Not optional.

Water & Hazards

Flat water is perfect for freestyle. It's also why you can't see the reef below. Tidal flows and currents are constant; check tide charts before launching. Shallow reef zones mean depth changes rapidly. Wear reef shoes and know your launch zone before you enter the water. The reef is fragile—stay off it, ride around it.

Who It's For

Beginners serious about progression. Intermediates chasing tricks without chop. Anyone willing to plan launches and respect conditions. Not for casual 10 AM sessions. Okinawa has rental shops and schools; Maehama rewards preparation.

What You Get

Consistent wind, flat water, year-round warmth. The trade: environmental awareness and rigid launch discipline. Tidal flows demand respect.