The Rock Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
S, SW
Wind
W-NW
Surf Height
Head high to double overhead.
Tide
Mid-high.
The Rock Surf Guide
The entire lineup from beginning to end is strewn with rocks, big ones. At low tide, especially, you will be dodging boils, burps and weird, sharp sections that love eating fiberglass. The wave itself is extremely fun, though not as good as neighboring Zippers. It is a right reefbreak that can be infected with a few difficult sections to negotiate, and it is also often a little mushy in certain parts. That said, on a strong S swell and a mid-high tide, you won't find anyone complaining out there (imagine a poor man's version of Upper Trestles and you're almost there). The proper takeoff area is pretty small -- right next to the rock -- so crowds become a factor pretty quick, making catching a decent wave infinitely more difficult.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced.
Local Vibe
Doable
Not as intense as Zippers, but still competitive.
Crowd Factor
Moderate
Regularly heavy.
Spot Rating
Fun
Really fun and holds size.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Light
Water Quality
Clean
Clean
Hazards
Shallow and exposed sharp rocks.
Bring Your
Shortboard, Fish
Access
Park at Zippers and walk there, or park near Cabo Surf Hotel and walk there.
Bottom
Rock, reef.
Best Season
April-October.
Do you have local knowledge about The Rock?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]