Rockaway Beach is a peaky reef and beachbreak set-up that breaks over a mix of boulders and sand, throwing both lefts and rights. The peak favors rights, and in large swells you'll find big righthanders at either end of the beach. Keep in mind that the current in the cove can get extreme when the swell is up.
When It Works
The break takes swell from a wide window running south through north (S-N), but it lines up best on a northwest (NW) swell, which is when the rights really come to life. It works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 1.2 m / 4 ft, so it needs a bit of size to get going without maxing out. Consistency is moderate, so it won't be firing every day, but it delivers when the swell direction and size come together.
Wind and Tide
Look for a southeast (SE) offshore wind to clean up the faces. Tide-wise, low tide is the call here, and a rising tide is generally the better window.
Local Tips
Expect a moderately busy lineup when it's working, and it can get crowded on the better days.
Access
There's a car park on hand with free parking.
