Why are these waves so fascinating?
Man has always dreamed of defying the power of the ocean. But some waves are more than just walls of water: they’re veritable sea monsters, capable of crushing a surfer in seconds. These legendary spots are a source of both thrills and respect.
They’re not just big. They’re fast, they’re hollow, they’re unpredictable, and they’re often located in hostile environments: sharp coral reefs, volcanic reefs, icy waters or total isolation. It’s this mix of danger and beauty that attracts big wave riders from all over the world.
The 5 most impressive waves in the world
Jaws – Hawaii
Here, it’s all in the name of the Hawaiian spot: Jaws. This spot, largely popularized by the legendary Laird Hamilton, now sees many surfers taking on its fearsome waves. Jaws is, and always will be, a benchmark for big-game surfing.- Special feature: the wave is so massive that it is often surfed in tow-in (towed by a jet-ski).
- Why dangerous? The take-off is vertical, the water is deep but the current is formidable.
- Atmosphere: every winter, the spot becomes an arena where only the greatest surfers dare to confront the ocean.
Mavericks – California
We couldn’t talk about the most dangerous waves in the world without mentioning the mythical Mavericks wave in California! Mavericks is noted for its power and brutality, its unpredictability, its cold, unwelcoming water, its rocks and its occasional shark…- Specificity: icy waves reaching 15 to 18 meters, generated by Pacific winter storms.
- Dangers: rocky bottom, water at 10°C, treacherous currents, presence of sharks.
- History: Mavericks has made its mark on the history of wholesale surfing, but also its tragedies, such as the death of surfer Mark Foo in 1994.
Nazaré – Portugal
Nazaré is quite simply THE spot where the world record for the highest wave ever surfed was set. Located on the Portuguese coast, not far from Lisbon, this is one impressive spot!- Dangers: enormous power, extreme speed, violent currents.
- Ideal season: November to February, when Atlantic storms send their energy towards the Portuguese coast.
Belharra – France
A wave located over a kilometer from the Basque coast, this spot only reveals itself at high swells! This mythical wave is rarely seen, but keep your eyes peeled when the Belharra monster decides to rise!
- Features: a massive straight line that can exceed 15 metres in length, rising off the coast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz.
- The fact that it only operates for a few days a year makes it a myth.
- Dangers: power, offshore area difficult to access, requiring heavy logistics.
Teahupoo – Tahiti
Teahupoo is without doubt the most dangerous spot on the list! Don’t be fooled by appearances! Its turquoise water will give you a hard time if you make a mistake! Here, the wave breaks on a flowering reef! Teahupoo literally means “wall of heads” or “valley of the dead”.
- Characteristics: thick, hollow wave that crashes directly onto a coral reef almost flush with the water.
- Risks: a wipe-out can result in serious injury or worse.
- Celebrity: an emblematic spot for professional competitions, it hosted the surf spots for the 2024 Olympic Games.
Bonus: Mullaghmore – Ireland
Perched on the Mullaghmore peninsula in County Sligo (north-west Ireland), Mullaghmore Head is considered one of Europe’s most fearsome big-wave spots. Exposed to Atlantic winter swells, it can deliver massive 15-18-meter waves, comparable to those at Nazaré or Mavericks. Discover other surf spots in Ireland.
- Features: powerful reef break, left and right. Massive North Atlantic swells, often accompanied by strong winds and freezing water (8-12°C in winter).
- Risks: extremely fast and massive waves, reserved for big wave riders. Very strong currents and changing weather conditions in a matter of minutes. Exposed rocky bottom: falls = high risk of serious injury.
- Celebrity: Considered one of Europe’s most dangerous waves.
How do big-game surfers prepare?
Taking on Nazaré, Jaws or Teahupoo is not something you can improvise. These waves require intense physical and mental preparation. Big wave riders train in apnea to withstand long immersions after a fall, follow rigorous cardio and muscle-building programs, and surround themselves with safety teams (jet-skis, divers).
In terms of equipment, inflatable life jackets have become essential for getting back to the surface quickly. Boards are longer and stronger, able to withstand speed and impact. But above and beyond technique, you need extraordinary experience and a mind of steel.
In conclusion...
The world’s biggest waves are not only spectacular natural phenomena, they also represent the ultimate challenge for surfers. Nazaré, Jaws, Teahupoo, Mavericks and Belharra are all places where adrenalin, danger and legend come together. These spots are a reminder that the ocean remains in control, and that every ride is both a feat and a lesson in humility.
To discover other more accessible destinations and plan your next surf trip, check out our guides to surfing in Morocco, surfing in France and surfing in Madeira.
FAQ - The world's biggest waves
What's the biggest wave you've ever surfed?
The current record is held by Sebastian Steudtner with a 26.2 m wave in Nazaré in 2020. Read more about Sebastian Steudtner’s feat here.
What's the most dangerous wave?
Teahupoo, in Tahiti, is often considered the most perilous, due to its coral reef at the water’s edge.
When are the biggest waves in Nazaré?
November to February, during North Atlantic storms.
Can you surf these waves as an amateur?
No. These waves are reserved exclusively for professional big-wave riders.
Are there giant waves in Europe?
Yes, Nazaré in Portugal is the best known, but Belharra in the French Basque Country is also a mythical wave.