Here is our countdown of the biggest waves in the world. In the world of surfing, big waves are the ultimate test of skill, courage, and respect for the ocean’s raw power. From massive reef breaks to deepwater monsters, these waves attract the best big wave surfers and of course, the most daring spectators. Big wave surfing leads to some of the most spectacular surf contests such as The Eddie Invitational.

While many surf spots close out or become unsurfable on massive swells, a few legendary breaks around the world truly come alive. These unique locations have earned a place in the pantheon of big wave surfing, thanks to their ability to hold and shape waves of extreme size and intensity.

No more waiting, here is our list of the 10 best surf spots to see or surf the biggest waves on the planet

10. Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Located on Playa Zicatela, Puerto Escondido has earned its nickname as the “Mexican Pipeline” for a reason. While it’s a fun beach break on smaller days, when a powerful swell rolls in, this wave becomes one of the heaviest beach breaks in the world.

Expect gigantic A-frames, bone-crushing barrels, and frequent broken boards. Big wave surfers from across the globe wait for the next Pacific XXL swell to charge this beast.

9. Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii

Banzai Pipeline, on the North Shore of Oahu is one of the most iconic and deadly waves in surfing history. While not the tallest, its combination of steep takeoffs and hollow barrels breaking over shallow reef makes it one of the most technical and dangerous waves on Earth.

On a big NW swell, Pipeline can hit 20ft+ and is just meters from the beach, making it an incredible place to watch giant waves break up close.

8. Cortes Bank, California

Located over 100 miles offshore from Southern California, Cortes Bank is one of the most elusive and powerful big wave spots on Earth. This underwater seamount rises from the deep Pacific, allowing massive swells to unload in open water.

With waves sometimes exceeding 60 feet, Cortes Bank is not only remote—it’s one of the biggest surfable waves on the planet.

7. Waimea Bay, Oahu, Hawaii

Waimea Bay is a legendary place in surfing history and remains a core location for big wave surfing. On extra-large swells, this North Shore surf spot lights up when many other spots close out.

The Bay is also home to The Eddie Aikau Invitational, one of the most prestigious big wave events in the world, held only when conditions meet extreme size thresholds of 40 feet and above.

6. The Right, Western Australia

Few waves match the raw power of The Right, a terrifying slab off the coast of Western Australia. With thick, churning barrels and unpredictable steps on the face of the wave, this is one of the most dangerous and visually shocking waves out there.

Strictly a tow-in surf spot, The Right is fast, shallow, and sharky—making it one of the gnarliest big waves on Earth.

5. Shipstern Bluff, Tasmania

Hidden away in the wilds of Tasmania, Shipstern Bluff is known for its freakish “steps” which are mid-wave ledges that launch surfers into freefall during their rides.

On the biggest days, Shipstern delivers chaotic, monstrous slabs that have become infamous in big wave surf footage.

4. Mavericks, California

Situated in Half Moon Bay, Mavericks is one of the most feared and respected big wave surf spots in the world. It’s cold, sharky, and capable of producing waves over 60 feet.

Unlike many big wave locations, Mavericks is a paddle-in spot, demanding precise timing and incredible bravery from surfers as they take off on massive, moving mountains of water.

3. Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Teahupo’o, located on the south-east side of Tahiti, is home to arguably the heaviest and most picturesque wave ever surfed. On big swells, this reef break becomes a tow-in monster, pitching square barrels over razor-sharp coral.

This wave produces some of the most mind-blowing surf photography in existence—thanks to the deep channel just meters from the break.

2. Jaws (Peʻahi), Maui

Also known as Peʻahi, Jaws is the ultimate stage for giant wave surfing in Hawaii. This powerful reef break comes to life on swells of 15 feet and up—but it can hold waves more than 70 feet high.

Despite its size, Jaws can offer clean, rideable faces and deep barrels. Whether paddling in or getting towed, Jaws is where elite surfers go to push the limits.

1. Nazaré, Portugal

There’s no debate, Nazaré is where you’ll find the biggest waves in the world.

In 2020, Sebastian Steudtner surfed a record-breaking wave here, estimated at over 86 feet. Fueled by an underwater canyon that funnels Atlantic swells into the cliffs of Praia do Norte, Nazaré regularly produces monster waves unlike anywhere else.

Every winter, the global surfing community watches in awe as surfers get towed into the most massive waves ever recorded.

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Summary

Maui is one of the best surfing destinations in the world. With consistent swell exposure from all directions, beginner-friendly waves, and some of the most powerful breaks on Earth, surfing in Maui has something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing barrels at Honolua Bay or learning to pop up in Lahaina, Maui delivers a memorable surf trip filled with Aloha spirit and tropical beauty.

Unlike the bustling surf scene on Oahu, Maui offers a more laid-back vibe with fewer crowds, but still enough nightlife, restaurants, and community to keep things interesting. It’s the perfect balance between the energy of Oahu and the solitude of Kauai or Big Island.

Best Time to Surf Maui

The best time to surf Maui, Hawaii depends on what kind of conditions you are looking for. November to March is the big surfing season on Maui as heavy north swells are consistently push towards the islands. There are also some nice and mellow south swells to be found on the south side of Maui during this season.

April to October will offer decent south swells and almost nonexistent northern swells. This season will also be drier and warmer.

Where to stay on Maui

On the north shore, the historic town of Pa’ia is an awesome place to stay giving you access to beautiful beaches and it also happens to be the departure point of Road to Hana. This town is charming, quiet and has several nice cafés and restaurants.

The Pa’ia Inn is a great hotel in the heart of Pa’ia with awesome rooms and reviews.

On the west side, the island is more developed and you can find a lot of great higher end resorts as well as smaller vacation rentals. Kaanapali is sort of midway between Honolua Bay and Lahaina and has some great places to stay like the Whalers Resort.

It is also possible to visit Maui on a tight budget. There are a few campsites which are much cheaper than hotels or vacation rentals. Make sure to acquire the right permits as free camping not allowed on the island.

Surf spots on Maui

Honolua bay

Honolua Bay is Maui’s gem when it comes to surfing. It is a long and perfect wave breaking from the point and peeling right into the bay producing some amazing barrel opportunities on good days. Crowds are definitely a factor here so make sure to have the right surfing etiquette and respect the locals.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : N
• Optimal wind direction : SE

Ho’okipa

Located on Maui’s north shore, Ho’okipa is known as the world’s best kite surfing and wind surfing spot with its insanely consistent crosswinds. However, regular surfers can also have a blast at Ho’okipa when the wind fades a bit or by going to the point which is quite sheltered. Ho’okipa is just a short drive away from Pa’ia on the way to Road to Hana.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef and sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : N
• Optimal wind direction : S

Pe’ahi (Jaws)

Pe’ahi doesn’t need any presentation being one of the world’s most known big wave surfing spot. For most people, watching is gonna be the best option on a large north swell. Simply park at the end of Pea’hi road and walk to the top of the cliff which will give you the best view of the spot.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Experts and big wave surfers only
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : SE

Lahaina

Located on the southwest end of Maui, Lahaina is a nice little trendy surf town with a few nice longboard spots. It is also an ideal, if no the best place for people to learn how to surf on Maui.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Getting there

Fly into Kahului airport from any of the Hawaiian island or the mainland. Flights from Asia will transit in Honolulu. There is an airport in Kapalua for domestic Hawaiian flights only.

Safety/things to know

• Waves in Hawaii can be very big and mean with swells coming from nowhere and doubling in size in a matter of minutes, especially in winter. Be very careful. If in doubt, don’t go out.
• Respecting the locals is important wherever you go but even more so in Hawaii. Make sure you have a good surfing etiquette.

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