Overview
Chocolatera sits at the tip of the Salinas peninsula, a wild and exposed spot beside a popular tourist viewpoint. A right-hander bends around the point, with some unpredictable lefts on offer too. It breaks over uneven reef and stays rocky, windy and rippy, so it is often blown out and rarely worth the effort. Sea lions are a common sight in the water.
When It Works
The point picks up swell from south to north (S-N), and it comes into its best form on a northwest (NW) swell. It works from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3 m / 10 ft, and it is moderately consistent, so there are worthwhile windows when everything lines up.
Wind and Tide
Look for a northeast (NE) offshore wind to clean it up. It can work across low, mid and high tide, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
This is an experts-only wave, given the exposure, current and rocky reef. Expect a fairly quiet lineup when it breaks.
Access
You reach the spot through the military base, and parking is restricted.
