Spot Check: Rocky Point

Oahu's North Shore is world-renowned for its world-class waves, crystal-clear waters, and sometimes spectacular, dangerous conditions. While iconic spots like Pipeline , Sunset , and Waimea garner all the spotlight, especially during major competitions, Rocky Point remains a local gem beloved for the consistency and quality of its waves. Located along this legendary coastline, Rocky Point, or simply Rockys, is a unique spot that is as challenging as it is rewarding. No contests are held here, yet Rockys has appeared in countless surf videos, earning its place among the most respected and iconic surf destinations in the world.

While many flock to the North Shore during the fall and winter months in search of big, monster swells , Rocky Point offers a more accessible but equally technical alternative for experienced surfers. When the swell settles around shoulder height to a little higher, Rocky Point becomes a surfing smorgasbord: tubes, air sections, and everything in between.

Generally, any swell from a northerly or even west-northwest direction can generate good waves. But the ideal conditions remain a northwesterly swell of 3 to 5 feet, with light easterly winds. The playing field at Rocky Point is quite large. And even though it's called a "point," it's not a classic point break. Several waves can form on the same day. Starting to the right of the peak is Rocky Rights , which can offer a tube or break quickly on the reef, much like a true point break.

Heading left is Rocky Lefts , with a similar section at the start, before easing into deeper water to reform further on into an air section, which some consider a wave in its own right, called Ronnie Bowls , in homage to local legend Ronnie Burns . Sometimes groms or air chasers will ignore the main peak altogether to focus solely on Ronnie Bowls . Further down Rocky Rights , there are more left/right peaks, meaning that even when the spot seems crowded, there are often plenty of waves to be had.

When conditions are perfect, the Rocky Point lineup becomes intense and competitive. The spot attracts tour pros, seasoned locals, tourists, and surfers of all skill levels, creating an atmosphere that's as chaotic as it is dangerous. It's not uncommon to see seasoned pros chasing the perfect shot, overwhelmed beginners, or young locals honing their skills.

Already demanding with its shallow reef and unpredictable currents, the wave becomes even more intimidating with the spot's well-established hierarchy. You'll find legends like Michael Ho or Mason Ho , but also world stars like Kelly Slater . As with most local spots, respect for the locals is essential to integrate well into the line-up. Newcomers sometimes have to step aside, regardless of their priority on the wave. And add to that a powerful current and moving peaks that complicate positioning and make the return to the peak even more physical.

To ride Rocky Point , experts often favor a classic thruster . The highly technical nature of the wave requires high-performance equipment, even if you see everything there: bodyboards, longboards, and even a few alaia boards. We recommend the HRT model with a swallow tail for small days, and the Flux model with a squash tail for bigger swells. All boards are available on our website.

If this is your first time at Rocky Point , our advice: take your time, respect your limits, and as they say in Hawaii, “if in doubt, don't paddle out.” Rockys is a spot as formidable as it is rewarding, aimed primarily at experienced surfers. A place where surfing skills, respect, and perseverance are essential. And when the winter swells reach a “fun size,” it’s clearly the place to be .