Jaws
Jaws (Pe'ahi) is one of the biggest rideable waves on Earth and the birthplace of tow-in surfing. A deep water reef amplifies massive North Pacific swells, producing walls of water that move at 30mph. The iconic right barrel at XXL size is one of surfing's most awe-inspiring sights.
Jaws surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Direction range
- 320° - 30°
- Size range
- 6.1m - 18.3m
- Ideal size
- 8.9m - 12.5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 20s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 135° - 225°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
Water temp
24°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Bottom
Reef
Max wave face
24m+
Board
Gun / Step-up
Consistency
2/10
Difficulty
10/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Tow-in or paddle from cliff access. 4WD road to overlook.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Jaws?
The Jaws profile does not specify a preferred tide stage. That does not mean tide has no effect: check local conditions alongside swell and wind.
What wind direction is offshore at Jaws?
The Jaws profile uses wind from S (180°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 135° to 225°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Jaws?
The Jaws scoring profile favors swell from NNW (320° to 30°), a swell-height range of 6.1m to 18.3m, and a reference period of 20s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Jaws?
The main season at Jaws is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. Nov-Mar. ~15 rideable days/year. Tow-in and paddle. Iconic right barrel at XXL size.
How do I get to Jaws?
The spot profile lists OGG as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 30 minutes. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $200 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Tow-in or paddle from cliff access. 4WD road to overlook.
What kind of wave is Jaws?
Jaws is a big wave break, a right-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 10/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Nov-Mar. ~15 rideable days/year. Tow-in and paddle. Iconic right barrel at XXL size.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Hookipa
🌬️ Windsurf capital • Multiple reef peaks • Consistent winter waves
Ma'alaea
🚂 World's fastest wave • 300-yard barrel • Handful of times per year
Honokohau Bay
🌊 Honolua's neighbor • Less crowded • Solid right reef
Honolua Bay
🌺 Maui's crown jewel • Quarter-mile rights • When it's on, it's ON
Pine Trees (Kohanaiki)
🌲 Kona's most consistent • Multiple peaks • Local favorite
Banyans
🌴 Big Island's best • Shane Dorian's home • Year-round waves
Plan a trip around Jaws
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