Surfnerd Logo

Rockaway

Loading forecast...

Want AI predictions?

Log your session so our AI can make predictions on the surf conditions. This means personalized surf reports and much more.

Ideal surf conditions at Rockaway

Swell window
SW, WSW, W, WNW, NW
Swell size
3ft - 10ft
Swell breaks over
Sand, Rock
Wave types
Beach
Wave directions
Right, Left
Wind window
E, ESE, SE
Best tides at
Low, Low to Mid, Mid
Skill Level
Intermediate, Expert
Seasons
Autumn, Winter, Spring
Board types
Shortboard, Gun

Rockaway surf guide

Rockaway is a rocky little cove that’s the first accessible surf spot after Sharp Park. It’s located at the south end of the beach and features a decent right break into a deep channel along the point. The beach can handle some big swells, making it a spot worth checking out, especially during the autumn and winter months from October to March. Access is easy with a quick turn off the freeway at Rockaway Ave, and there’s parking right at the end.

The main break at Rockaway usually catches NW, W, and SW swells ranging from about 1 meter (3ft) to 3 meters (10ft). On the bigger days, it can get pretty crowded, though most of the time it’s on the quieter side. While there’s a right that breaks more prominently, there’s also a left at the south end when the conditions are right. However, you'll want to be careful with the heavy rip currents, especially at low tide, as it can make getting in a bit tricky. Bottom surfaces are a mix of sand and rock, so watch your step. This spot is more suited for intermediate and expert surfers, so keep that in mind if you're planning to catch some waves.

When the conditions are on, the vibe can get a little intense with local surfers keeping an eye on the lineup. Make sure you're aware of the big swell potential and the risks involved; it can be gnarly out there. The ideal wind direction is from the east to southeast, and it can handle various board types, but shortboards and guns are recommended for those bigger days. Overall, keep it fun but pay attention to the waves and currents.

Written by Joris de Ruiter

Joris is a dad, husband, surfer, software developer, yogi and swimmer. He combines his passion for surfing and technology to help others catch more and better waves.

Surf reports nearby Rockaway

Montara State Beach surf forecastThe Patch surf forecastStinson Beach surf forecastFort Cronkhite/Rodeo Beach surf forecastPomponio State Beach surf forecastMavericks surf forecastFrancis Beach/Half Moon Bay State Beach surf forecastPedro Point surf forecastDeadmans surf forecastLindamar (Pacifica) surf forecastSan Gregorio State Beach surf forecastPrinceton Breakwater surf forecastOcean Beach surf forecastFort Point surf forecastPescadero State Beach surf forecastKelly's Cove surf forecastSharp Park surf forecastBolinas Jetty surf forecastRockaway Beach surf forecastFort Cronkite/Rodeo Beach surf forecastNorth Ocean Beach surf forecastBolinas surf forecastTunitas Creek surf forecastFort Point surf forecastPrinceton Jetty surf forecastPescadero surf forecastSouth Ocean Beach surf forecastHalf Moon Bay surf forecastRockaway surf forecastMaverick's surf forecast