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Maui Big Wave SurfingThe waves are highest in the winter, with waves going between ten and sixty feet high. About twelve times a year, Pacific storms and the Maui’s north shore underwater topography combine to create monster waves called Jaws at an obscure location down a dirt road close to the towns of Pa'ia and Haiku at the beginning of the road to Hana.
Maui Big Wave Surfing at Jaws
The surfers monitor the wave size for the several times a year when waves are highest. This type of surfing is not for vacationers like us, or even for experienced surfers.
So for us, watching big wave surfers at Jaws is a spectator sport. But just because we just watch this, doesn't mean it is not exciting.
Directions to JawsJaws is 1.5 miles east of Pauwela Point. Between mile markers 13 and 14 on the road to Hana (Highway 36), turn left at Hahana Road. Once this paved road ends, you are on a private dirt road owned by Maui Land and Pineapple. If it's dry enough you may be able to drive, otherwise you hike for over a mile until you get to the oceanside cliffs.As you might guess from the directions above, going to Jaws is not as simple as driving up to a parking lot. There is no driving or parking infrastructure to support spectators - you could end up walking from the Hana Highway to the coast.
Surf Conditions at JawsUnless the surf is at least 15 feet high, there will not be the big wave surfing at Jaws that you expect. Check the Maui North Shore surf conditions for today before making this trip. On the image, check for the North Shore wave conditions close to Ho'okipa Beach.Combine Breakfast or Lunch with JawsIf you get hungry for breakfast or lunch, you might want to drop by Charley's in the town of Pa'ia, or the Pauwela Cafe in Haiku.Maui Big Wave Surfing Video at JawsThis Maui big wave surfing video of big wave surfing at Jaws on the north Maui shore shows why this is a spectator sport for all but a few special surfers.Click on the PLAY button in the image below to view the video.
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