Overview
Rockaway is a rocky little cove, the first accessible stretch of coast after Sharp Park. The main break is a right that peels off the south end of the beach into a deep channel running along the point, and that channel is what makes it possible to paddle out even on the biggest days, which this place definitely gets. A string of beachbreaks runs between the south and north points, with a big right waiting at the north end. It stays something of a mysto spot that doesn't get surfed much.
When It Works
The bottom is a mix of sand and rock, and it draws swell from southwest to northwest (SW-NW). On west and southwest swells a left also turns on at the south end of the beach, alongside the rights. It's usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, giving you everything from waist-high days up to well overhead. The season runs through autumn, winter, and spring, and overall it rates as a below-average wave.
Wind and Tide
Look for east-southeast (ESE) offshore wind, with a workable window stretching from east to southeast (E-SE). It breaks on low and mid tide, and a rising tide is better. Take care on a big swell and an outgoing tide, when the spot can turn treacherous.
Local Tips
Rockaway suits intermediate and expert surfers riding a shortboard or gun. Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's on, with a very friendly atmosphere in the water.
Access
Getting there is easy: turn off the freeway at Rockaway Ave, with parking at the end. Watch for heavy currents and shorebreak breaking onto rocks, which get gnarly on bigger swells. It's often harder to paddle back in against the rip than it is to get out, so keep that in mind before you commit.
