Roca Puta surf guide
Surf: Extremely dangerous big-wave right hander. Take-off is dangerously close to the rocks with a critical first section. Difficult entry and exit. Begins to close out at around 18-20 foot. Experienced big-wave riders only. Needs a very large, clean swell to work, peak winter months only. Not ridden many times a year.
Environment: Rarely many people, but a tight line-up. Locals will not tolerate inexperienced surfers. Situated on the east side of beach of Orrua. Limited parking overlooking the break, which is normally packed when the wave is on. No beach facilities here. Moderately polluted. Hazards include very strong rips, nasty rocks and the power of the waves themselves.
Surf: General: Roca Puta is a serious, heavyweight proposition. Waves break on the rocky end of the headland and roll down the side of the rock lined sea wall. On smaller swells, boulders pepper the lineup but at head high there is just enough depth to allow the waves to spin through for up to 200 yards.Roca Puta truly comes alive when big swells kick in. On swells over ten feet it is a serious proposition. Its form, shape and length of ride attract the top surfers from across the Basque region, while crowds line the road to take in the serious action.
Tides: Low to mid
Size: Chest high-double overhead+
Wind: S
Swell: NW, N
Bottom: Rocky boulders
Paddling: Can be a workout when it's pumping...and you're trying to get under a cleanup set.
Spot Rating: Produces waves that attract the best surfers (and spectators) in the region.
Access: Well-timed paddle off the rocks
Crowds: Crowd Factor: Large local crew
Local Vibe: Mostly tolerant. Humility and respect appreciated.
Environment: Not bad, can get a bit dirty after a rain
Hazards: Rocks.
Season: September-November