Black Rock (Socials)
Black Rock (locally known as Socials) is Rarotonga's most popular surf break, located in front of the Nikao Social Centre on the northwest coast. A reef break offering both lefts and rights, it catches North Pacific swells during the November-March season. More accessible than the south coast passes, it's the go-to break for the local surf community.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Direction range
- 310° - 50°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.92×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Offshore range
- 160° - 240°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
27°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Shore access from Nikao Social Centre. 3km from airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Black Rock (Socials)?
Black Rock (Socials) works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Black Rock (Socials)?
Offshore wind at Black Rock (Socials) blows from the SSW (200°). Anything in the 160° to 240° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Black Rock (Socials)?
Black Rock (Socials) wants NNW swell (310° to 50°) between 0.6m and 2.5m, with a period of 12s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Black Rock (Socials)?
The main season at Black Rock (Socials) is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr-Oct. Nov-Mar for N swells from North Pacific storms. Year-round potential.
How do I get to Black Rock (Socials)?
Fly into RAR, then allow about 5 minutes by road. Shore access from Nikao Social Centre. 3km from airport.
What kind of wave is Black Rock (Socials)?
Black Rock (Socials) is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr-Oct
Nov-Mar for N swells from North Pacific storms. Year-round potential.