Capturing The Most Beautiful Waves In The World
Maui, Hawaiʻi
“Peʻahi Portal” from the Ocean Therapy series
Every winter, if we’re lucky, we’re blessed to witness the humbling magnitude of extreme surf on the northern shores of Hawaiʻi. Here on Maui, I’m incredibly fortunate to have the chance to revisit Peʻahi (also known as Jaws) and capture the powerful, fleeting beauty of Hawaiʻi’s biggest waves.
This past November I ventured out to Jaws for the largest swell of the season, with seas rising up to 50+ feet. For the first time, I jumped off a chartered boat and onto the back of a jet ski, which enabled me to get closer to these waves than ever before. I couldn’t help but marvel at the pristine waters of this wild place dancing and roaring in the morning light.
“Naga” – New to the Ocean Therapy series
“Arc of Passion” – New to the Ocean Therapy series
A few hours later, the trade winds howled as the heaviest sets of the day stormed through. I climbed to the top deck of the boat, bracing myself against the relentless swells. Gripping my Nikon Z9, I fired rapid shots of local surfers towing into one monstrous wave after another — and was thrilled to capture Steve Roberson setting the world record for the tallest wave ever surfed by a 15-year-old. This staggering image has been nominated for this year’s International Big Wave Award:
What makes Peʻahi (Jaws) the best place for big wave surfing?
During this time of year, powerful storms spawn off the coast of Japan and spin across the north Pacific basin toward Alaska. Violent winds surge across the open seas and send organized swells directly toward the islands. In special areas of the Hawaiian coast, the underwater landscape hosts a unique bathymetry, allowing for XXL waves to reach heights of up to 70+ feet (20+ meters) before the crest of the wave peaks and crashes. Pe’ahi (also known as Jaws) is home to perhaps the most perfect underwater landscape for big wave surfing, located right here in Maui’s waters. I believe these are some of the most beautiful waves in the world, and with the help of private chartered helicopters and boats, I’ve been fortunate to approach these forces of nature and document their fleeting beauty.
The Mechanics of Peʻahi
Watch This Video From Surfline To Learn More!
ENLIVEN YOUR SPACE
Transform your home, office, or business with beautiful wave art from the Ocean Therapy collection