Onjuku Beach is a surf spot located on the Chiba coast, and it's about an hour from Tokyo by train. It's a popular place, especially in the summer, attracting both locals and visitors looking to catch a wave. With easy access and a laid-back vibe, it's a great spot for surfers who want to enjoy a day at the beach without going too far from the city.
This spot generally works best with south swells, and you can expect fun waves up to head high (around 2.5 meters). The beach breaks here can create peaks both left and right, making it suitable for surfers of various abilities, especially beginners. Onjuku Beach handles swell sizes starting from 2 feet (about 0.6 meters) and can accommodate different tide heights—low, mid, and high. If the wind is coming from the north, that's even better for surf quality. However, be aware that the spot can get crowded during peak times, so it might be worth looking for some quieter alternatives if you want to avoid the masses.
If you're looking to escape the crowds, consider heading to the reefy peaks located to the east of the harbor. Getting there might require a bit more effort, but it can be worth it if you're after a more relaxed session without the hustle and bustle. Just keep in mind that participation from a range of surfcraft and skill levels is common here, so it's a mixed bag on any given day.