Mavericks
Mavericks is Northern California's big wave proving ground—a cold, shark-infested, boulder-strewn reef off Half Moon Bay that produces some of North America's most dangerous surf. The wave breaks over a submerged rock field, creating an unpredictable playing surface that has claimed lives. When winter storms send massive NW swells down the coast, Mavericks holds waves in the 40-60 foot range. The competition here has become one of big wave surfing's most prestigious events. Paddle-in purists still consider it the ultimate test.
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Location & Conditions
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Spot Details
Swell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (290°)
- Direction range
- 270° - 315°
- Size range
- 7.6m - 18.3m
- Ideal size
- 15.0m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 18s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
3/10
👥 Summer Break (Jun 15 – Aug 25) — expect extra crowds
Access: Paddle/jet ski
Getting There
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