Maui’s Monster Wave

Near the very start of the Road to Hana, just past the surf town of Paia, lies one of the most jaw-dropping sights in all of Hawaii: Jaws, the legendary big-wave surf break. On the right winter day, waves here tower like moving mountains, and the world’s bravest surfers come to ride them. Here is the story of Jaws and why it is worth knowing about on your Road to Hana adventure.

What Is Jaws?

Jaws, known in Hawaiian as Pe’ahi, is a surf break on Maui’s north shore near the small community of Haiku, not far from where the Road to Hana begins. In winter, powerful North Pacific swells hit an underwater ridge here and rear up into enormous, perfectly shaped waves that can reach 60 feet or more. It earned its name for the way those giant waves seem to open up and swallow everything in their path.

Where Big-Wave Legends Are Made

Jaws is one of the most famous big-wave spots on the planet. It helped pioneer tow-in surfing, where a jet ski whips a surfer into waves moving too fast to paddle into, and today it also hosts incredible paddle-in sessions and big-wave contests. When a major swell arrives, the world’s top surfers fly in from around the globe, and spectators line the cliffs to watch the spectacle.

Jaws (Pe’ahi) Quick Facts

  • A legendary big-wave break near Haiku on Maui’s north shore.
  • Winter swells can build waves of 60 feet or more.
  • Famous for tow-in surfing and big-wave contests.
  • Best viewed from the cliff only when a big swell is running.

Can You Visit Jaws?

You can watch Jaws from a clifftop lookout above the break, but it takes effort and good timing. The spot only comes alive during big winter swells, and the access road is rough, often requiring a four-wheel-drive vehicle, with very limited parking. There are no facilities and the cliffs are dangerous, so visitors should keep well back from the edge. On a calm day, there is nothing to see, so Jaws is a bonus for the lucky and the prepared, not a guaranteed stop.

Focus on the Road to Hana

For most travelers, Jaws is a thrilling piece of Maui lore to appreciate rather than a planned stop, especially since the Road to Hana itself is a full, rewarding day. If you are visiting in winter and a giant swell is forecast, it can be an unforgettable detour. Ask us about our Road to Hana tours, and we will help you make the most of Maui’s spectacular north shore and beyond.