Jocko's surf guide
Surf: Jocko's (named after '60s switchfoot tuberider, Jock Sutherland) is a sucky, Pipe-esque affair when a W-NW swell unfurls over coral heads and a gruesome, lava rock strewn reef. Both the take-off peaks are steep and rapid, leading to mist exhaling tubes or wailing speed walls to another inside bowl section before the safety of the deep channel. Bonus right off outside suck leads to a rocky minefield. Handles plenty of size until the channel closes out to Chun's and the really strong out-going rip makes getting back to the beach an effort.
Environment: Often crowded, but more chance of scoring a memorable pit to yourself than up the coast.
Surf: General: Named after North Shore legend Jock Sutherland, Jocko's is a worthy left reef pointbreak, offering up a relatively easy takeoff compared to its higher profile North Shore counterparts and long rides. But don't be fooled into complacency -- when a big WNW-NW swell fills in, Jocko's transforms into a proper, heavy left barrel. Also, at this size, the current here is notoriously vicious -- so it pays to watch Jocko's for a few sets before paddling out in order to establish where the channel and takeoff zone are. As with Chun's, Jocko's is a favorite of surfers looking to avoid the mobs just up Kam Highway, meaning that the overall vibe in the water is a little less intense.
Tides: Medium
Size: Overhead-2X overhead-plus
Wind: Calm or light to moderate E to S.
Swell: WNW to NW
Bottom: Reef
Paddling: When big, the current here is notoriously vicious.
Spot Rating: On a big WNW-NW swell, Jocko's transforms into a proper, heavy left barrel.
Access: Easy: Jocko's is visible from Kam Highway. Just park along the road where authorized.
Crowds: Crowd Factor: Never empty, but there are relatively few chargers when it's pumping
Local Vibe: Humility and respect appreciated.
Environment: Intermittent run-off during period of heavy rain.
Hazards: Reef, rocks on the inside, strong currents, and a guaranteed clean-up set or six on the biggest days.
Season: Winter