Peahi (Jaws)

Surf Guide

Where the Hana Highway bends away from the ragged sea cliffs of Maui's north central coast, and begins winding south and east through patches of sugar cane fields on its way to Hana, sleeps the surf spot that needs no introduction. First surfed by tow-in pioneers Laird Hamilton, Buzzy Kerbox and Darrick Doerner, Pe'ahi, or Jaws, has become a tow and paddle mecca for big wave surfers the world over. A deep-water wave, Jaws only breaks in the biggest winter swells. If you're a visiting surfer in Maui when such a swell hits, it's worth the trip out to bluffs overlooking Pe'ahi for one heck of a show.

Ability Level

Advanced

BegIntAdv

Expert big-wave surfers only, even they need to exercise extreme caution.

Local Vibe

Welcoming

WelcomingIntimidating

Survival mode and looking after each other. Humility and respect a must.

Crowd Factor

Moderate

MellowHeavy

The big-wave crowd at Jaws is increasingly getting heavy.

Spot Rating

Perfect

PoorPerfect

One of the best big-wave spots in the world.

Shoulder Burn

Medium

LightExhausting

Long paddle if not picked up by a jet ski or boat. Paddling into these waves is challenging, especially if the trades are breezy.

Water Quality

Clean

CleanDirty

Pristine.

Ideal Surf Conditions

Swell Direction

NW to N

Wind

Calm or offshore from the ESE clocking S to SW during passing fronts.

Surf Height

4X overhead and larger

Tide

All tides