Peahi means “beckon” in the Hawaiian language and is the Hawaiian name for this surf break, but it is more commonly known as Jaws and got that name due to the size and ferocity of the swells. There are often times cameras pointing at surfers from both the beach and from helicopters above.

Why are peahi waves so big?

An article by Joel Achenbach on Jaws appeared in the November 1998 issue of National Geographic magazine, both photographed by Patrick McFeeley. The extreme size of the waves is caused by the structure of an underwater ridge which has been studied by scientists.

Who found the Jaws wave?

A break in the surfing haven of Pe’ahi, located off the north shore of Maui, “Jaws” was given its name in 1975 by three surfers – John Roberson, John Lemus and John Potterick – who noticed the swell quickly changed from smaller waves to larger, dangerous ones.

Why does Hawaii have huge waves?

Powerful Pacific storms to the north drive huge swells towards the islands, creating the big waves Hawaii is known for. Waves generated from these storms can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions.

What is Jaws in surfing?

Jaws is the nickname for a surf spot that has become notorious in the surfing world. On the north shore of the Hawaiian island of Maui, just off the Hana Highway lies the break of Pe’ahi. It became known as ‘Jaws’ after it was ridden by some of the best and arguably craziest surfers in the world back in the 90s.

What happened to the 2019 jaws big wave Championships at Peahi?

Maui’s Billy Kemper competes during the World Surf League Jaws Big Wave Championships at Peahi on Dec. 12, 2019. This winter’s event has been canceled. The Maui News / MATTHEW THAYER photo

What is Maui’s biggest surfing break?

Pe’ahi is Maui’s biggest surfing break, and the yearly Billabong XXL Global Big Wave contest has listed Jaws as the winning break more than any other place. When Jaws is going off, the top names in surfing flock here – and mere mortals follow to watch in awe.

How high will the surf be at the 2019 Hawaii surf contest?

The surf contest is running as a huge northwest swell rolls in, and the National Weather Service said it’s higher than previously thought. Surf is expected to reach 25 to 35 feet for north shores, with higher sets for some areas, including Peahi, the surf spot also known as “Jaws.”

Is Pe’ahi a must-see spectacular surfing break?

Pe’ahi is only “must-see spectacular” when the North Shore is having monster surf (look for high surf warnings.) Pe’ahi is Maui’s biggest surfing break, and the yearly Billabong XXL Global Big Wave contest has listed Jaws as the winning break more than any other place.