Surfing in China

Best waves in China: October–April (waves 1.1–1.3 m, water 22–29°C, shorty). 1 surfing spot in China. The colours show each month: the stronger, the better for surfing.

Updated November 2026 · weather data 2022–2026

In short

  • Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: May–June, September–October (waves 0.9–1.1 m, water 28–29°C, no wetsuit).
  • Top picks: Riyue Bay.
  • For beginners: Riyue Bay.

Wave height: average daily maximum.

Month by month in China

MonthWavesWaterWetsuitAir
JanuaryJan1.3 m22°Cshorty23°C
FebruaryFeb1.2 m23°Cshorty24°C
MarchMar1.2 m24°Cshorty26°C
AprilApr1.2 m26°Cno wetsuit28°C
MayMay1 m28°Cno wetsuit30°C
JuneJun0.9 m28°Cno wetsuit31°C
JulyJul0.9 m27°Cno wetsuit31°C
AugustAug0.9 m27°Cno wetsuit31°C
SeptemberSep1 m29°Cno wetsuit30°C
OctoberOct1.1 m29°Cno wetsuit28°C
NovemberNov1.1 m26°Cno wetsuit26°C
DecemberDec1.2 m24°Cshorty23°C

Best months highlighted. Air: average daytime high.

Questions

When is the best time for surfing in China?

Best waves in China: October–April (waves 1.1–1.3 m, water 22–29°C, shorty). Smaller waves and the warmest water, good for beginners: May–June, September–October (waves 0.9–1.1 m, water 28–29°C, no wetsuit).

What wetsuit do I need in China?

It depends on the month: about 29°C water in September (no wetsuit) and about 22°C in January (shorty).

Is China good for beginners?

Yes, these spots suit beginners: Riyue Bay.

Which airport is closest?

Qionghai Bo'ao Airport (BAR), 62 km from Riyue Bay.

Other countries for surfing

All sports in China