Big Wave Surfing’s Gauntlet: Seven of the World’s Most Dangerous Waves
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The pursuit of the ultimate ride has led surfers to confront some of the most formidable and perilous waves on Earth. As german surfer Sebastian Steudtner recently redefined the limits of big wave surfing with a record-breaking 93.73-foot wave at Nazaré in 2024, the risks faced by these athletes are once again in the spotlight.
These aren’t the gentle swells of a beachside paradise. These are mountains of water, capable of inflicting catastrophic injury or even death. While advancements in safety equipment and rescue techniques have mitigated some dangers, the inherent power of these waves demands respect - and often, a willingness to accept extreme risk. For a dedicated, if niche, community of surfers, the challenge is irresistible. For onlookers, the spectacle is breathtaking, but shadowed by the ever-present potential for tragedy. This is a look at seven of the world’s most dangerous waves, where the line between triumph and disaster is razor thin.
Nazaré – Portugal
Nazaré,Portugal,has rapidly become synonymous with big wave surfing,largely due to its unique underwater canyon that amplifies swell into monstrous peaks. In 2024, Sebastian Steudtner set the record for the biggest wave ever surfed there: 93.73 feet, surpassing his previous record of 86.4 feet set in 2020 at the same location. The sheer size and power of Nazaré require surfers to be towed into the waves by jet skis, and even then, the risk of a devastating wipeout is immense. Tragically,the only recorded death at Nazaré occurred in 2023 when Brazilian surfer Marcio Freire died while tow-in surfing.
Jaws (Peʻahi) – Hawaii
Located off the coast of Maui, Hawaii, Jaws is renowned for its incredibly thick, powerful waves that break over a shallow reef. despite its notoriety, no surfer has ever died at Jaws, but dozens have suffered major injuries. In 2015, Australian big wave rider Mark Mathews separated his shoulder in a brutal wipeout, and South African surfer Matt Bromley experienced one of his worst wipeouts on a 50-foot day. The logistical challenges of rescue and the sheer intensity of the wave make Jaws a proving ground for only the most experienced big wave surfers.
Teahupoʻo – Tahiti, French Polynesia
Teahupoʻo is infamous for its incredibly heavy, hollow waves that break over a sharp, shallow reef. The wave is known for its “barrel” – a perfectly formed tube - but entering and exiting this barrel requires precise timing and skill. The reef poses a significant threat, and even minor mistakes can result in serious injury. Teahupoʻo is scheduled to host surfing events in the 2024 Summer Olympics, raising concerns about surfer safety.
Mavericks – California, USA
Mavericks, located off the coast of Half Moon Bay, California, is a legendary big wave spot known for its powerful, unpredictable waves. The wave breaks over a rocky bottom,adding to the danger. while there have been no fatalities at Mavericks, numerous surfers have sustained serious injuries, including broken bones and concussions.
Shipstern Bluff – Tasmania, Australia
Shipstern Bluff is a remote and challenging wave located on the northwest coast of Tasmania, Australia. The wave is known for its “step” - a secondary peak that forms after the initial break – which creates a especially dangerous and unpredictable riding experience. The remote location and challenging conditions make rescue operations difficult.
Cortes Bank – California, USA
Cortes Bank is a submerged seamount located approximately 100 miles off the coast of California. It produces some of the largest waves in the world, but its remote location and the unpredictable nature of the swell make it a particularly dangerous spot. Surfers must be towed into the waves, and the long paddle back to the surface after a wipeout can be exhausting and perilous.
Dungeons - South Africa
Dungeons, located off the coast of Hout Bay, South Africa, is known for its massive, clean waves that break over a deep-water reef. The wave is often ridden by experienced big wave surfers,but the strong currents and unpredictable conditions make it a challenging and dangerous spot.
