11 of The Biggest Waves in The World
Last Updated on January 7, 2024 by Matt Hapgood
Ocean waves, whether they break gently on the beach or rise majestically far at sea, have been a fascination for humans since time began.
These dynamic forces of nature, formed by the interaction of wind and water, hold the power to shape our world – from carving coastlines to influencing weather patterns. But more than that, they’ve also crafted countless stories, ignited human imagination, and fostered profound respect for nature’s strength and unpredictability.
As surfers the lure of big waves has evolved into a sport in its own right – and these athletes that tackle the huge waves around the World are fearless and seemingly unstoppable in their quest to ride bigger and bigger waves.
In this post, we take a spin around the Globe and list the biggest waves in the World that have actually been ridden!
6. Shipstern Bluff, Tasmania, Australia
9. Maverick’s, California, USA
11. Cortes Bank, California, USA
Factors Influencing Wave Size
A variety of factors contribute to the formation of waves.
Wind strength and duration are primary influencers – a stronger wind blowing for a longer time generates larger waves.
The distance over which the wind blows, known as the fetch, also plays a pivotal role. More significant fetch allows waves to gain size and momentum over the ocean expanse. Unlike tides which do not affect the surf as much as wind, wave formation isn’t only a surface phenomenon.
Underwater topography or bathymetry can shape and transform waves. When swell energy encounters a sudden change in sea depth due to underwater geographical features like reefs, seamounts, or coastal shelves, it can result in dramatic increases in wave height, leading to some of the largest waves observed – Our article about Nazaré, Portugal goes into more detail if you would like to learn more.
Measuring The Biggest Waves In The World
Understanding waves requires us to grasp two key measures: wave height and wave period.
Wave height, the vertical distance from the wave’s crest to its trough, gives us the wave’s size, while the wave period, the time interval between two wave crests passing a fixed point, informs us of the wave’s frequency.
Wave measurement technologies have evolved significantly. Today, we use an array of tools like buoys, radars, and satellite-based remote sensing technologies to capture wave data. These high-tech methods provide scientists and mariners with critical insights into wave behaviors, oceanic conditions, and climatic patterns.
But amongst the big wave surfing community seasoned pro surfers can simply use their eyeballs and their gut, to get an idea of how big or more importantly how heavy a wave is.
Who Holds The Record For The Biggest Wave Surfed?
In an unexpected triumph for the surfing world, Sebastian Steudtner from Germany etched his name into the annals of surfing history on October 29, 2020. Not typically recognized as a nation cultivating elite surfers, Germany’s emergence in the form of Steudtner’s achievement is nothing short of extraordinary.
Despite battling vertigo, a condition that can make even the most mundane tasks challenging, let alone surfing monumental waves, Steudtner courageously looks the proverbial giant in the eye. Facing the equivalent of a nine-story plummet, he holds firm to the distinction of riding the biggest wave ever, as recognized by the Guinness World Records.
This astonishing feat took place on a frosty winter’s day at Nazaré, Portugal, known for its monstrous waves. Here, Steudtner conquered a mammoth wave towering at an astounding 86 feet, setting a benchmark in the world of big wave surfing.
Where is the Biggest Wave Ever Surfed?
Well, you guessed it, Nazare, Portugal is the home of the biggest wave ever surfed, by German Sebastian Steudtner.
The Biggest Waves In The World
Here’s my list of the biggest waves in the World that have been surfed, and ridden successfully!
1. Cloudbreak, Fiji
Cloudbreak, Fiji – A world-class wave located about a mile off Tavarua Island in Fiji, Cloudbreak has seen swells upwards of 50 feet. It’s a coveted spot for professional surfers, and in large swell conditions, it’s one of the most challenging waves in the world, like a freight train thundering down the reef.
2. Jaws, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Jaws, Maui, Hawaii – This surf spot, officially known as Peahi but colloquially referred to as Jaws, is renowned for its humungous winter swells. Fed by storms in the northern Pacific, the waves here can easily reach to 60 feet, providing a challenging playground for expert big-wave surfers.
A big wave spot where tow-in surfing was pioneered by some of the world’s top big wave surfers like Dave Kalama, Laird Hamilton and others. Probably one of the most well-known big wave spots in the surfing community.
Take a minute and watch this clip of Mike Parsons dropping into a monster wave at Jaws from 2003!
3. Teahupo’o, Tahiti
Teahupo’o, Tahiti – Recognized as one of the heaviest waves in the world, Teahupo’o boasts an incredibly thick, hollow wave that often exceeds 25 feet and can reach up to 50 feet during really big swells. These intimidating waves break over a sharp coral reef, adding to their dangerous allure.
The original Code Red swell of 2017 was eclipsed in 2023 with Code Red II. You’ll see why Teahupoo is considered one of the most dangerous big wave spots on the planet.
4. Belharra, France
Belharra, France – What looks like a soft beachie compared to Teahupo’o, Belharra Reef, located off the French Basque Country, comes alive during powerful winter storms. With wave faces reaching up to 60 feet, this deep water break attracts surfers the World over when it comes to life. Not as glamorous as other world-famous big wave surf spots, the locals like it this way – more waves for them!
5. Mullagmore Head, Ireland
Mullaghmore Head, Ireland – Off the coast of County Sligo, Mullaghmore Head presents some of Europe’s most formidable waves. Influenced by Atlantic storms, waves here can exceed 40 feet, offering extreme conditions coveted by experienced surfers.
Likened to Teahupo’o, it’s a very heavy, freezing cold, formidable spot, not for the faint of heart.
6. Shipstern Bluff, Tasmania, Australia
Shipstern Bluff, Tasmania – Named after its resemblance to the stern of a ship, Shippies offers some of the most chaotic and unpredictable waves on the planet, often reaching 30 feet. Its unique step midway through the wave’s face adds a layer of complexity and risk.
It’s a surf spot located right at the ass end of Australia on the Island of Tasmania – cold, sharky with rocks and cliffs ready to smash you and your equipment to pieces if you make a wrong move. Sounds fun right? Let’s goooooo!
7. The Right, Australia
The Right, Australia – Western Australia’s The Right generates some of the thickest, heaviest waves on the planet. With the right (pun intended) swell direction and wind conditions, waves can tower over 40 feet, making it a spot for thrill-seeking big-wave surfers. The waves here look almost computer generated – like a wall of water.
Don’t worry about sharks because you will spend most of the time on the jet ski, riding a wave, or underwater getting smashed if you fall.
8. Dungeons, South Africa
Dungeons, South Africa – Located off Hout Bay near Cape Town, Dungeons is known for its monstrous waves, often reaching 60-70 feet, thanks to intense winter storms. It’s South Africa’s premier big wave spot and a regular host for international surfing competitions.
9. Maverick’s, California, USA
Maverick’s, California – Just outside of Half Moon Bay, Northern California, Maverick’s is one of the OG surf spots known for it’s giant waves. A spot where winter swells smash into the bay offering up thick, heavy double-up waves.
Maverick’s unpredictable and powerful waves are a result of a unique underwater rock formation. If you don’t know the story of Mavericks and how it came into the public eye, check the history and this amazing movie Riding Giants.
The Riding Giants
Director: Stacy Peralta
Genre: Documentary / Adventure
Duration: 1h 41min
10. Nazaré, Portugal
Nazaré, Portugal – A combination of the Nazaré Canyon’s underwater topography and the Atlantic Ocean’s might result in massive surfable waves. The home of the largest wave ever surfed, and regularly producing waves over 80 feet high, it’s a spot that has shattered numerous big wave surfing records. The biggest wave ever surfed is actually at a beach called Praia do Norte, just around the headland from the town of Nazare.
Guinness World Record holder Sebastian Steudtner has ridden the biggest waves at nazaré on the West coast of Portugal. Yet to ride a 100-foot wave, I feel this record will be broken as soon as a giant swell comes along at one of the best-known spots on the planet.
11. Cortes Bank, California, USA
Cortes Bank, California – Far off the coast of Southern California, Cortes Bank is an underwater mountain range that can generate massive waves reaching over 60 feet. Its unique location and topography make it one of the most mysterious big wave surf spots. Miles off the coast in the Pacific Ocean this tow-in wave has only been ridden by a handful of surfers, its location keeping the crowds at bay.
The Dangers Of Giant Waves
The awe-inspiring grandeur of giant waves belies their inherent danger. For maritime activities, huge waves can pose serious hazards, causing vessels to capsize or lose cargo.
For surfers, these mighty waves bring the risk of severe injuries or even death. Wipeouts at these heights can result in drowning, collisions with hard surfaces, or being held underwater for extended periods by wave power.
Large waves also have detrimental impacts on coastal ecosystems and communities. They cause beach erosion, damage structures, and can disrupt marine habitats, sometimes with long-lasting effects.
The Beauty And Awe Of Huge Waves
Notwithstanding their danger, big waves hold an undeniable fascination. They provide an unmatched arena for extreme surfers and stunning vistas for photographers and spectators alike. Surfing competitions like those at Maverick’s, Jaws, or Nazaré attract athletes and enthusiasts worldwide, highlighting human courage and skill against nature’s power.
Waves also hold significant cultural and spiritual value. Many societies view the sea and its waves as symbols of life’s ebb and flow, reflecting themes of resilience, change, and the enduring power of nature.
Final Thoughts
The largest waves in the world are true spectacles of nature’s power and beauty. They not only incite awe and fascination but also remind us of our responsibility to respect and protect the marine world. As we continue to witness and interact with these oceanic marvels, let’s carry with us an appreciation for the ocean’s might and a commitment to its health and preservation. Famous waves – did I miss one?
Bonus: Another Big Wave You Didn’t Know About
Lituya Bay, Alaska – Lituya Bay holds the record for the tallest wave ever recorded. Triggered by a massive landslide resulting from an earthquake in 1958, the wave surged to a staggering 1,720 feet.
This megatsunami, unlike regular wind-generated waves, showcased the terrifying power of geological events.
