The Famous Jaws Surf Break (aka Pe’ahi)
Summary
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.
“Jaws” is certainly the most well known, and also the most geographically specific name for the surf break. The name “Pe’ahi” has become more popular with surfers trying to draw connection with local culture as of late – so it is now common to hear that name used as well. (Pe’ahi is actually the name of the much larger ahupua'a.) If two names weren’t enough, according to Kupuna Leslie Kuloloio, the traditional Hawaiian name for this spot is “Ke Kai ‘o Waitakulu”, which he translates as “The Teary Eye.”
The Bad News
Before you add this to your must-do list for your Maui vacation, here is the bad news: chances are you won’t be able to. Most years there are just a few big-wave events with the perfect conditions for surfing Jaws. So, you’re going to need some luck with timing!
If you are lucky enough to see this in person, you’re sure to appreciate the magnitude of these feats of athleticism. (Check out the You Tube video below for better perspective of how big these waves actually are.)
The Pe’ahi Lookout
The lookout on the Peahi cliffs above the break are the best vantage points outside of a boat or helicopter. As far as driving to the overlook goes, the best route is shown in the Google Map below. This 1.5 mile dirt road currently is graded to a point that cars that aren’t especially low can get in or out when it is dry. That said, it can rain suddenly on the North Shore, and what looks like a sunny beautiful day can be sprinkled with sudden downpours turning the steeper parts of the road to a surface that’s as slick as ice. Depending on what you’re driving, you could get stuck and need assistance. There are a few places you can park off to the side of the road (be sure not to block access roads), so if walking 3 miles round-trip is not an option, you can drive in as far as you feel comfortable given the current conditions, and opt to walk the rest of the way.
Source: mauiguidebook.com
I have been to Jaws many times, and its definitely one of the most thrilling experiences you can have! If you get a chance to come to Maui, Hawaii, i definitely encourage you to check JAWS out. You can easily put "JAWS" on google maps and you will find it without any difficulty. The only thing is that, there would need to a huge swell hitting the Hawaiian Islands. The best thing you can do is go online and check the surf report, if JAWS aka Pe'ahi is showing 30 foot surf then it is definitely worth it to go and check it out as there is always crazy chargers in the water!
Here is also a video of professional surfers charging at the mighty JAWS:
Hope you guys enjoyed reading this post!
Aloha!
Poyraz