Rockpile surf guide
Surf: A good distance offshore lies a series of reefy protuberances that catch a NW swell and conduct it back towards Off-The-Wall in the shape of a meaty and often sketchy left. Heavily reliant on sand deposition, Rockpiles is notorious for lava fingers popping up when surfing it small, or when getting a beating paddling out. Therefore it's safer from mid and works in all N swell directions above headhigh and E-SE trades. There are some rights that head over towards Log Cabins, but the risk versus reward balance is all wrong. Crowds are lighter than Pipe, especially at size, but some say the consequences are heavier - be very sure of your ability.
Environment: Limited parking on the Kam Highway and Ke Waena Rd.
Surf: General: Rockpile is located between Log Cabins and Off-The-Wall, right in front of a pile of rocks, hence the name. This spot offers a big, powerful left that is best on the more NW to WNW angled swells, and a right on the more northerly angled swells. During a more northerly angled swell, this spot is a magnet, pulling in more size than any spot around. During big swells, it's not uncommon for Kam Hwy to get washed out at this spot.
Tides: Medium
Size: 2-3X overhead and larger
Wind: Calm or light to moderate E to S.
Swell: NW to NNE
Bottom: Reef with some rocks
Paddling: The bigger it gets, the further out it breaks and the longer the paddle is, also the more water moving around. With that said, Rockpiles needs to be bigger to break properly.
Spot Rating: Can be tricky to catch good, but when it's on, it's a powerful big wave that can barrel.
Access: Easy: Park at car park beside lifeguard tower at Rockpile or along Kam Highway where authorized.
Crowds: Crowd Factor: Usually light
Local Vibe: Humility and respect a must.
Environment: Clean. Beautiful, clear, blue water.
Hazards: Reef, the wave.
Season: Winter