The Ultimate Guide to Surfing Rockies on Oahu’s North Shore
Oahu’s North Shore is renowned for its world-class surf breaks, attracting surfers from all over the globe. While the area is famous for its towering winter waves at spots like Pipeline and Waimea Bay, there’s another hidden gem that offers a unique surfing experience – Rockies.
1. Introduction to Rockies
Rockies is a lesser-known surf break located on Oahu’s North Shore, nestled between the popular breaks of Sunset Beach and Pipeline. It offers a more mellow and forgiving wave, making it an ideal spot for beginners and intermediate surfers.
The wave at Rockies breaks over a shallow reef, creating a long and peeling right-hand wave. The wave is known for its consistency, making it a reliable spot to catch waves throughout the year.
2. Getting to Rockies
To access Rockies, you can park along Kamehameha Highway near Sunset Beach and walk down the beach. Rockies is located just a short paddle away from the shore, so be prepared for a quick paddle out to the lineup.
It’s important to note that the North Shore is known for its powerful and challenging surf conditions, especially during the winter months. If you’re not an experienced surfer, it’s recommended to visit Rockies during the summer when the waves are smaller and more manageable.
3. Ideal Conditions
Rockies is best surfed during the summer months when the North Shore experiences smaller swells. The ideal conditions for surfing Rockies are:
- Swell: 2-4 feet
- Wind: Light and offshore
- Tide: Mid to high tide
These conditions create a fun and playful wave at Rockies, perfect for honing your skills or trying out new maneuvers.
4. Surfing Rockies
When surfing Rockies, it’s important to respect the local surf etiquette and be aware of other surfers in the lineup. Here are a few tips for surfing Rockies:
- Paddle out to the lineup with caution, as the wave breaks over a shallow reef.
- Position yourself on the outside and wait for the sets to come in.
- Take off on the wave with a strong paddle and pop-up.
- Once on the wave, use the face of the wave to generate speed and perform turns.
- Be mindful of the inside section, as it can get shallow and close out quickly.
Remember to always surf within your ability and be respectful of the local surfers and the natural environment.
5. Nearby Attractions
While surfing Rockies is the main attraction on the North Shore, there are plenty of other activities and attractions to explore in the area. Here are a few recommendations:
- Visit Sunset Beach, located just a short walk away from Rockies. It’s a beautiful beach known for its stunning sunsets.
- Explore the Banzai Pipeline, one of the most famous surf breaks in the world. Even if you’re not surfing, watching the pros tackle these massive waves is a sight to behold.
- Take a drive along the Kamehameha Highway and enjoy the scenic views of the coastline.
- Indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many food trucks and restaurants in the area.
- Visit the nearby town of Haleiwa, known for its charming shops, art galleries, and shaved ice stands.
Conclusion
Surfing Rockies on Oahu’s North Shore is a unique and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a more mellow break, Rockies offers something for everyone.
Remember to always check the surf conditions and surf within your ability. Respect the local surf etiquette and enjoy the beauty of Oahu’s North Shore both in and out of the water.
