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Level 10/10

Pipeline (Maxing)

North Shore, USA
😮‍💨Hold-downs🪸Sharp reef👊Localism👥Crowded

Pipeline Maxing (aka "Third Reef Pipeline") is surfing's ultimate proving ground—the legendary outer reef that activates when massive North Pacific swells overwhelm the famous first and second reefs. At this size, the wave becomes a life-threatening monster with hold-downs that test even the world's best. The reef is shallower, the wash-throughs more intense, and the consequences of mistakes severe. This is where legends are made and reputations are destroyed.

Spot Details

Swell Requirements

Optimal direction
NW (305°)
Direction range
295° - 315°
Size range
4m - 8m
Ideal period
18s+

Wind Requirements

Optimal direction
SE (135°)
Offshore range
110° - 160°
Best window
morning

Tide Requirements

Optimal tide
mid
Optimal range
0.4m - 1.2m
Danger below
0.2m

Water temp

25°C

Wetsuit

Boardshorts / Rashguard

Difficulty

10/10

Crowd level

9/10

Access: Watch from the beach; experts only in the water.

Getting There

Airport
HNL
Drive time
60 min

Nearby Buoy

Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.

51101 (NOAA)

Best Season

Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb

The legendary Second Reef Pipeline. Extremely rare and heavy.

Data Quality

expert

Verified by Expert data