11 Largest Waves Ever Surfed

Surfing massive waves is a feat that requires skill, bravery, and the perfect conditions. Some of the largest waves ever surfed have left their mark in history. Below is a detailed list of surfers who have conquered the ocean’s giants, capturing the essence of adventure on the water. Each wave has a unique story, forever etching the rider’s name in surfing history.

Nazaré, Portugal – 86 feet (Rodrigo Koxa, 2017)

Rodrigo Koxa surfed an 86-foot wave in Nazaré, Portugal, in 2017. This record-breaking ride earned him global recognition as it surpassed previous records. Koxa had spent years honing his craft, waiting for the right conditions. When he finally caught this giant, he demonstrated exceptional control and fearlessness. Nazaré’s notorious big waves are created by the unique underwater geography, making it a favorite spot for thrill-seeking surfers. Koxa’s ride not only broke records but also inspired many in the surfing world.

Nazaré, Portugal – 80 feet (Garrett McNamara, 2011)

Garrett McNamara rode an 80-foot wave in Nazaré, Portugal, in 2011. This historic event put Nazaré on the map as a premier big wave surfing location. McNamara, already known for his big wave prowess, expertly handled the giant wave. The conditions at Nazaré were ideal that day, with the underwater canyon contributing to the wave’s immense size. His ride was a defining moment in the sport, showing that surfers could tackle waves of this magnitude. This ride helped spark the big wave movement at Nazaré.

Jaws, Hawaii – 73.5 feet (Kai Lenny, 2020)

Kai Lenny surfed a 73.5-foot wave at Jaws, Hawaii, in 2020. Jaws is famous for producing some of the biggest and heaviest waves in the world. Lenny’s ride showed not just his skill but his ability to adapt to different waves. The wave’s size and power were immense, yet Lenny maintained control and speed throughout the ride. Jaws, with its deep water swells, creates waves that rise dramatically before crashing down. Lenny’s performance was a testament to his dedication and expertise in big wave surfing.

Nazaré, Portugal – 73 feet (Andrew Cotton, 2017)

Andrew Cotton surfed a 73-foot wave at Nazaré, Portugal, in 2017. Cotton had been chasing big waves for years, and this was one of his most significant accomplishments. Nazaré’s powerful swells were at their peak when Cotton caught this massive wave. As the wave surged, Cotton demonstrated incredible balance and control. Nazaré’s underwater canyon played a critical role in creating this massive swell. Cotton’s ride solidified his reputation as one of the leading figures in big wave surfing.

Jaws, Hawaii – 71.5 feet (Ian Walsh, 2017)

Ian Walsh rode a 71.5-foot wave at Jaws, Hawaii, in 2017. Known for its powerful, barreling waves, Jaws was in full force that day. Walsh paddled into the wave with confidence and took a steep drop. The wave was massive, but Walsh expertly navigated through it, showing incredible timing and skill. Jaws, located on the north shore of Maui, is famous for delivering some of the largest waves in the world. Walsh’s ride was hailed as one of the finest displays of big wave surfing that year.

Nazaré, Portugal – 66 feet (Maya Gabeira, 2020)

Maya Gabeira rode a 73.5 foot wave in Nazaré, Portugal, in 2020. This ride set a world record for the largest wave ever surfed by a woman. Gabeira had been chasing big waves for years, and this ride was the culmination of her efforts. Nazaré’s waves can be unpredictable, but she maintained control and poise. The wave’s immense size was amplified by the underwater canyon, which Gabeira used to her advantage. Her accomplishment broke barriers and pushed the limits for women in big wave surfing.

Nazaré, Portugal – 70 feet (Justine Dupont, 2020)

Justine Dupont surfed a massive 70-foot wave in Nazaré, Portugal, in 2020. Known for its towering swells, Nazaré is a favorite spot for big wave surfers. Dupont’s ride on this giant wave showcased her incredible strength and technique. The wave, created by Nazaré’s underwater canyon, roared to life that day. Dupont carved through the face of the wave, maintaining perfect control. Her ride was a defining moment for female big wave surfers. It highlighted her skill in a sport dominated by powerful waves.

Jaws, Hawaii – 67 feet (Billy Kemper, 2016)

Billy Kemper surfed a 67-foot wave at Jaws, Hawaii, in 2016. Jaws, located on the north shore of Maui, is famous for its massive, powerful waves. Kemper, a seasoned big wave surfer, expertly navigated the enormous swell. The wave was fast and powerful, yet Kemper remained in control throughout the ride. Jaws’ deep-water breaks can make waves rise suddenly, but Kemper showed immense skill. His ride was praised as one of the finest that year, earning him respect in the big wave community.

Jaws, Hawaii – 65 feet (Shane Dorian, 2016)

Shane Dorian surfed a towering 65-foot wave at Jaws, Hawaii, in 2016. Jaws is known for its ferocious waves, and this particular swell was no different. Dorian, a veteran in the sport, took on the wave with precision and experience. The wave was fast, steep, and powerful, but Dorian handled it with ease. Jaws’ reputation for delivering some of the world’s biggest waves was in full effect that day. Dorian’s ride remains one of the standout moments of the year.

Mavericks, California – 60 feet (Grant “Twiggy” Baker, 2014)

Grant “Twiggy” Baker surfed a 60-foot wave at Mavericks, California, in 2014. Mavericks is known for its cold, powerful waves that challenge even the most skilled surfers. Baker’s ride on the 60-foot giant solidified his reputation as one of the top big wave surfers. The wave’s sheer power and speed made it difficult to navigate, but Baker handled it flawlessly. Mavericks’ unique conditions, created by an underwater rock formation, produce waves of this size. Baker’s ride was celebrated as one of the best performances of the year.

Nazaré, Portugal – 59 feet (Carlos Burle, 2013)

Carlos Burle surfed a 59-foot wave in Nazaré, Portugal, in 2013. This wave was part of a monumental day for big wave surfing at Nazaré. Burle, an experienced big wave surfer, took on the massive swell with precision. The wave’s immense size was boosted by Nazaré’s famous underwater canyon. Burle’s ride was particularly impressive due to the speed and size of the wave. His performance that day further established Nazaré as one of the premier big wave locations in the world.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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