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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Hourly Forecast, Tide & Strike Windows
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Strike Score Breakdown
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- WNW (290°)
- Direction range
- 270° - 315°
- Size range
- 7.6m - 18.3m
- Ideal size
- 12.9m
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Mavericks?
Mavericks works best on a low to mid tide. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Mavericks?
Offshore wind at Mavericks blows from the E (90°). Anything in the 45° to 135° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Mavericks?
Mavericks wants WNW swell (270° to 315°) between 7.6m and 18.3m, with a period of 18s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Mavericks?
The main season at Mavericks is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Oct, Apr. Few days in good winter
How do I get to Mavericks?
Fly into SFO, then allow about 45 minutes by road. Paddle/jet ski
What kind of wave is Mavericks?
Mavericks is a big wave break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Oct, Apr
Few days in good winter
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