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Rockaway Beach

Left and right37.6098, -122.4974

Overview

Quality
Normal
Crowd
Few surfers
Experience
Intermediate
Bottom
Sand and rocks

About this Spot

Rockaway Beach is a surf spot located in Bay Area, California. The spot provides both left and right waves. It’s a beach break with a mix of sand and rocks on the bottom. Rockaway Beach is suitable for intermediate surfers and offers regular waves that are less than 50m long. The spot works best on low and medium tides. Typically, there are few surfers in the water. Nearby surf spots include Linda Mar, Pedro Point, Sharp Park, Gray Whale Cove, and Montara. The spot features three main waves: a left at the south end, a peak in the middle, and a right at the north corner. The waves at Rockaway Beach can be powerful, with thick lips and a lot of size. It’s important to note that this spot can be dangerous due to rips, undertow, rocks, pollution, and the presence of sharks. The spot is known for its cold water and strong currents. Rockaway Beach is not suitable for beginners, especially when the waves are big. Experienced surfers should be aware of the potential hazards and always check the conditions before paddling out. It’s crucial to respect the locals and follow proper surf etiquette. The spot is accessible from Highway 1, with parking available at the end of Rockaway Beach Avenue. Check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. Rockaway Beach is part of Pacifica, California, approximately 7 miles south of San Francisco. The area has historical significance, with limestone quarrying dating back to the 18th century. The beach offers scenic views and is considered one of the cleanest in the San Francisco Bay Area. However, erosion has decreased its size over the years. The coastal bluffs near the beach are steep, and the surrounding area features California coastal prairie and northern coastal scrub vegetation. When planning your surf session, be sure to check the surf forecast and report for Rockaway Beach. A surf map and webcam can provide additional information about current conditions at this challenging but rewarding surf spot.

Optimal Conditions

Best Tide
Low, Medium
Best Size
Good from 1.2 meters
Wave Length
< 50m
Frequency
Regular (40 between and 150)

Location

Coordinates

37.609783° N, -122.497383° W

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