In a nutshell, every year the biggest wave surfed in the world has been at Pe’ahi, in a place other than crashing waves, cheers, and helicopters. The access road can be 4WD.
Disclaimer on the rating: Pe’ahi is only “must-see spectacular” when the North Shore is having monster surf (look for high surf warnings.).
Data pertaining to the current directions can be found below the map. There are no facilities available at the coordinates 20.942202,-156.300688. The GPS coordinates correspond to Highway Hana, also known as Highway 14 and number 13, between marker mile. Additional information can be obtained from the key.
The annual Big Wave Awards, known as Jaws, takes place in Maui’s Pe’ahi, attracting surfers from all over the world to witness the awe-inspiring performance of mere mortals riding the top names in the surfing industry.
What is Tow-in Surfing?
Surfers have now begun to tackle this previously paddle-in only break with the help of tow-ins. To safely navigate these massive waves, surfers are skillfully towed in via Jet Ski, ensuring their arrival in one piece.
Read more.
“The Teary Eye” is rendered as “Ke Kai ‘o Waitakulu”, which is the customary Hawaiian designation for this location, as stated by Kupuna Leslie Kuloloio, if two names were not sufficient. Presently, it is commonplace to hear that appellation employed too, hence the name “Pe’ahi” has gained prominence among surfers attempting to establish a link with the local culture recently – the most regionally precise name for the surf break and also the most famous is “Jaws”.
Here is the bad news: before you add this to your must-do list for your Maui vacation, the chances are that you won’t be able to experience the few big-wave events that require perfect surfing conditions. Most years, there are only a few of these events, and you need some luck with timing.
If you’re lucky enough to see this person in person, make sure to check out the video below to better appreciate the magnitude of these feats of athleticism. These waves are actually quite big.