Jaws (Peahi)

Jaws (Peahi) is a world-renowned big-wave reef break on Maui’s north shore, famous for powerful right-hand waves that fire during the winter swell season. The break is exposed, rides on a reef with rocky/“boulder” hazard zones, and is described as extremely demanding for expert-only tow-in and paddle sessions. Even experienced riders should treat it as a high-consequence environment where a clean exit is not guaranteed. Winter timing is key. Sources describe the main window as November through March, with the break switching on when swell arrives from the northwest to north sector (about 315–360 degrees) and producing heavy, hollow, fast-peeling waves. Offshore southwest winds are preferred for surfing because they help create cleaner faces, while trade-wind conditions can lead to wind-affected sessions for some water-sports styles. Safety considerations are central: the rocky “boneyard” area near shore can wash riders onto boulders, and the overall lineup environment includes massive wave impact, extreme hold-downs, sharp reef/rock, and powerful water movement. There are no lifeguards at a tower, and rescue is described as limited, with private safety teams sometimes present during major swells. Access itself is also a major part of risk—arriving requires rugged 4WD roads and good judgment, especially after rain. Facilities are very limited at the spot, and visitors typically plan to bring what they need and manage logistics (limited parking, dirt-track access, and theft risk from vehicles). Kite, windsurf, and wingfoil activity is described as professional-level and linked to high-wind, massive-swell conditions, but all disciplines remain expert-first and highly dependent on safe conditions and proper protocol.