The Surf Window

Mavericks

NorCal, USA

Reef breakExpert

A cathedral of cold water fury lurking off the Californian cliffs near Half Moon Bay, Mavericks is one of the world's most legendary big wave breaks, cold, powerful, and utterly unforgiving.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size3-8ft

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (with a dangerous left closeout)

Bottom

Submerged rock reef

Shape

Massive, heaving peak that pitches over a shallow reef, double-up walls and thick lips

Length

50–150m depending on swell direction

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Expert (big wave specialists only)
  • •Why: Cold water (12–14°C), two-wave hold-downs, and a rocky reef at 5m depth make this a life-or-death wave without preparation.

Hazards

  • •Extreme cold, hypothermia risk even in wetsuits
  • •The "Boneyard", a violent left that breaks directly on the rocks
  • •Two-wave hold-downs on big days
  • •Difficult boat access in large surf
  • •Great white shark territory

Local Tips

  • •Tow-in is now restricted on most days, paddle fitness and sled training are non-negotiable.
  • •Study Mavericks swell forecasts obsessively; the wave only performs a handful of times per winter.

Location

Map showing the location of Mavericks in NorCal, USA

37.4919, -122.4992