Zoo surf guide

The Zoo is a surf spot in Jamaica that has a lot of history. It was once known as Jamaica's Pipeline in the ‘80s, drawing surfers from all over to experience its perfect left reef break. Hurricane Ivan in 2004 changed everything, damaging the reef and leaving the spot struggling to retain its former glory. Nowadays, Zoo has started breaking again, but the quality isn’t quite what it used to be. The vibe here is pretty mellow, making it a great place for surfers looking to enjoy a laid-back session. Access is straightforward—just park right there and you're ready to go.

The wave at Zoo can handle swells from about 0.6 meters (2 feet) all the way up to 6 meters (20 feet). The optimal swell direction is Southeast, but it also works with swells coming from the East and South. The waves break over a mix of boulders and sand, creating both lefts and rights. This spot can cater to intermediate and more advanced surfers, and the paddling is generally easy unless there's a hurricane swell. It's best surfed during any tide—low, mid, or high—with the wind from the North being ideal. The rides may be shorter now compared to its heyday, but it still offers fun waves worth checking out.

The local vibe at Zoo is pretty chill with a low crowd factor, so you won't be fighting for waves most of the time. The environment features nice Caribbean water, but do keep an eye out for rocks as you surf. The best time to hit this spot is from November to March, and again in August to September, making it a solid pick for spring, autumn, and winter surfing. If you’re into shortboarding, this is a place that can provide some enjoyable rides.