Zoo Surf Guide
Surf spot guide
Ideal Surf Conditions
Swell Direction
E, ESE, SE, SSE.
Wind
N, NNW
Surf Height
knee high to triple overhead plus
Tide
Any
Zoo Surf Guide
Before it was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, The Zoo was Jamaica's Pipeline -- one of the "best waves in the world!" A perfect left dominant "A Frame" complete with barrels going both ways, a solid level cobblestone bottom river mouth with cobalt blue water. Pound for pound it was as close to perfect as a wave can get. It delivered on any swell that could find it's way to the south east coast of the island. Not only would it provide a wave but it would bump it up a couple of feet bigger than anywhere else! It broke from 1' to 20' and it was the same wave no matter the size. The ride was a bit short though and being so perfect it could actually get boring after 20 or 30 years.
Ability Level
Intermediate - Advanced
Intermediate to advanced
Local Vibe
Welcoming
Mellow.
Crowd Factor
Mellow
Low key.
Spot Rating
Perfect
One of the top spots in the island before a hurricane disrupted the reef. Still worth checking as the wave has returned. Best for more advanced to expert surfers'.
Shoulder Burn
Light
Easy overall but can get challenging on hurricane swells.
Water Quality
Clean
Nice Caribbean water.
Hazards
Watch rocks.
Bring Your
Shortboard
Access
Park right there.
Bottom
Cobblestone
Best Season
November-March, August-September
Do you have local knowledge about Zoo?
If you have any insights or information to add to this spot guide, drop us a note at [email protected]