Maui Big Wave Surfing at JawsMaui big wave surfing, considered to be the best in the world, is based on the north shore of Maui at a spot appropriately called Jaws.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.
View some books about Jaws and Maui surfing spots in the Hawaii Surfing category on my Maui Vacation Store page.
Driving Directions to Jaws
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. So 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. Still thinking you will drive to see the big waves? The short video at the bottom of this page gives you a good perspective of the private dirt road you may be driving on to reach Jaws.
Jaws Maps
To help you get oriented to the Jaws location and to Maui in general, I recommend Frankos Maui maps with their unique descriptions and tips written right on the map.
Click here to visit the Hawaii Mail Order site where you can view or purchase ($6) a Franko Maui map in advance of your vacation. Surf Conditions at Jaws
Big wave surfers monitor the wave size for the several times a year when waves are highest.
Unless 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. This type of surfing is not for vacationers like us, or even for experienced surfers. Watching big wave surfers at Jaws is a spectator sport. And at Jaws, just watching is exciting.
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 Videos at JawsThis first Maui big wave surfing video is just how to get to Jaws.Click on the PLAY button in the image below to view the video.
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