Wind Days = % of days with 12–35 knot average wind speed (ideal kiting conditions). Based on 4 years of historical weather data.
12%
Avg Wind Days
year-round
7.3kts
Avg Wind
year-round
9°
Avg Temp
feels 7°
4yrs
Data History
analyzed
Spot Overview
🏖️
BaySpot Type
BeginnerSkill Level
E90°Best Wind
Partially sheltered coastline with moderate, varied conditions
About This Spot
Otaru Beach is located on Japan's Hokkaido coast facing south into a protected bay. The spot features a sandy beach with shallow, light-colored water suggesting glacial silt or agricultural runoff from nearby farmland visible in the satellite imagery. The protected bay orientation provides natural wind funneling from the east or west, making side-shore conditions achievable. Water conditions appear flat to very small with minimal swell exposure, typical for bay environments. The murky water indicates lower visibility and unclear bottom composition. This spot is suited for beginner to early intermediate kiters seeking flat-water conditions for progression and trick practice. The shallow bay environment limits wave riding opportunities but provides safe, forgiving conditions for learning. Wind reliability data (12.2%) suggests inconsistent conditions, requiring flexible scheduling. Water temperatures averaging 9.5°C require appropriate thermal protection. Kiters should be cautious of shallow water depth throughout the bay and be aware of farm-related runoff affecting water clarity.
Hazards & Safety
shallow water near shore
murky water visibility
agricultural runoff discoloration
unclear bottom conditions
potential debris from farming operations
Live Wind Forecast
Real-time wind conditions and 10-day forecast powered by ECMWF
Loading wind forecast...
Wind speeds shown in knots (kt). Tap expand for full-screen view. Forecast updates every 6 hours from European weather model.
Water Conditions
Historical ocean data for wetsuit planning & water type
13°C
Avg Water Temp
0.8m
Avg Waves
🌊 Light Swell
Typical Conditions
🥶 6/5mm + Boots/Gloves
Typical Wetsuit
Clean small waves, good for wave riding practice
Wind Characteristics
SEDominant Direction
Very GustyChallenging conditions, advanced only
Best Time to Kite
Wind reliability by time of day (average across all months)
Morning
6am – 12pm
18%wind days
Best
Afternoon
12pm – 6pm
27%wind days
Evening
6pm – 9pm
15%wind days
Monthly Breakdown
Historical averages based on 4 years of data
Month
Wind Days
Avg Wind
Temp
Water
Best Time
Rain
Jan
19%
9kts
-4°feels -10°
5°
PM
~15d
Feb
20%
8kts
-3°feels -9°
4°
PM
~12d
Mar
14%
8kts
1°feels -3°
Monthly Water Conditions
Plan your wetsuit and know what to expect in the water