Ride with the bad boys at Honshu. Head to the east coast of Japan's main island to Cape Omaezaki. Situated between picturesque Mount Fuji and Nagoya City, Cape Omaezaki is Japan's summer surfing paradise. Wedged between Suruga Bay and the Omaezaki-Enshunada Prefectural Park, the wave-shaped peninsula juts into the Pacific and funnels the wind, making conditions—like 50-knot winds and five- to seven-foot waves—ideal for watersports.

Not ready for a pounding? Many nearby sites also offer tamer spots—though half the adventure in this popular area is finding a spot. When you've dried off for the day, head to the lighthouse located at the southernmost point of the cape, which serves up panoramic views of Suruga Bay and sunset brilliants enough to knock your kimono off.

Rentals are generally unavailable. Bring your own waveboard and check with local surf shops for sailboard rentals.