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

Oahu is nothing less than the world’s most famous surfing destination. Home of the sport of surfing itself. Filled with stories and legends, a surf trip to Oahu has a lot to offer on every aspect.

The surf on Oahu already has a very solid reputation. Anybody who is the tiniest bit into surfing has to at least watch a northwesterly winter swell roll onto the north shore. Picture perfect Pipeline spiting out one of many professional surfers who decide to spend winter down there to try to tame the monster and practice their tube riding skills.

Although Oahu has one of the deadliest wave on Earth, it is also pretty friendly for beginners who want to get into the sport. That’s the good thing about islands. You can have 20 feet waves on one side of the island and 3 feet waves on the other side.

Oahu is the birthplace of modern surfing and one of the most iconic surf destinations on the planet. From the legendary barrels of Pipeline to the mellow Waikiki rollers where Duke Kahanamoku learned to surf, this Hawaiian island is packed with history, surf culture, and world-class waves.

Whether you’re chasing big winter swells on the North Shore or learning to surf under the sun in Waikiki, Oahu has something for everyone, from beginner to pro.

When to Surf in Oahu

The best time to surf in Oahu depends on what kind of waves you’re after:

• November to March (Winter): This is peak surf season on Oahu’s North Shore. Massive northwest swells power iconic waves like Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach. It’s a dream season for experienced surfers.

• April to October (Summer): The south shore comes to life with consistent south swells. Waikiki and Ala Moana offer clean, mellow waves which are ideal for beginners and longboarders.

No matter the season, there’s always somewhere to surf in Oahu thanks to its 360-degree exposure to different swell directions.

Where to stay in Oahu

In winter, the North Shore is the best place to stay and surf on Oahu. From Haleiwa to Sunset Beach there will be several hotels and home rentals as well as many surf spots.

During the summer months, Waikiki is a very popular place to stay and surf on Oahu. Waves are good through summer and you will find many restaurants, bars and activities around this area.

Honolulu is the only way in. You can fly from any major Hawaiian island or from the mainland. To get around, hiring a car is definitely the best option even if the bus system is pretty cheap and reliable.

Safety/things to know

Hawaii doesn’t have a reputation for no reason. The waves can be very big and mean with swells coming from nowhere and doubling in size in a matter of minutes. Be very careful. If in doubt, don’t go out.

Surf spots in Oahu

Pipeline/backdoor

Pipeline is possibly the world’s most famous wave attracting surfers and tourists from all around the globe. In winter, North-westerly swells hit the shallow tabletop reef in dramatic fashion creating a perfect barreling A-frame. The left is Pipeline while the right is called Backdoor. Crowds get very heavy so if you don’t know exactly what you are doing, stay on the beach, watch the pros and paddle out at another of the 50+ surf spots on the North Shore.

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

Waikiki

There are A LOT of surf spots in Waikiki…Canoes, Ala Moana, Queens and Kaisers just to name a few. It is the most convenient place on the island to learn how to surf with many surf schools and board rentals. There is also a lot of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife opportunities.

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

Makaha

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Waimea Bay

Waimea Bay is a legendary big wave surf spot as well as a fun shore break. This spot works through most of winter and on small days, you might be lucky and be able to surf the river!

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

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