The Zoo
The Zoo is Bull Bay's heavy left—a fast, tubular wave that breaks over shallow coral when solid swells hit Jamaica's south coast. Named for the wild conditions it produces, this wave can handle serious size and delivers serious consequences. Advanced surfers only.
The Zoo surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSE (157°)
- Direction range
- 120° - 195°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.2m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Offshore range
- 295° - 25°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.2m
Water temp
27°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Bull Bay area. Heavy left near Copa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at The Zoo?
The The Zoo profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at The Zoo?
The The Zoo profile uses wind from NNW (340°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 295° to 25°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at The Zoo?
The The Zoo scoring profile favors swell from SSE (120° to 195°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf The Zoo?
The main season at The Zoo is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Sep, Oct. Needs solid swell. Mellowest best when on.
How do I get to The Zoo?
The spot profile lists KIN as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes. Bull Bay area. Heavy left near Copa.
What kind of wave is The Zoo?
The Zoo is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Sep, Oct
Needs solid swell. Mellowest best when on.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Bull Bay - Copa
🇯🇲 Jamaica's OG wave • Hollow reef wedges • Birthplace of JA surfing
Lighthouse
🏙️ Kingston's city surf • Consistent reef • Reef shark neighbors
Makka
🇯🇲 Jamaica's best barrel • Heavy reef right • Local crew respected
Boston Bay
🇯🇲 Jamaica's surf hub • Jerk chicken capital • All levels welcome
Long Bay - Outback
🌴 Beyond Boston Bay • Hollow tubes • Less crowded power
Plan a trip around The Zoo
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.