Half Moon Bay, California, United States
Mavericks Surf Guide
Mavericks is Northern California’s legendary big-wave reef, producing cold, enormous, and dangerous waves off Half Moon Bay when North Pacific storms deliver deep-water groundswell.
Best conditions
Best swell directionWNW (300°)
Offshore windESE (120°)
Swell exposureDirectional (headland shelter)
Break typeReef break
Best seasonWinter (November to March)
Skill levelExpert / big-wave only
Direction and exposure values come from SwellChaser’s calibrated forecast model. Always check a live forecast and local conditions before you paddle out.
About Mavericks
A deep-water reef focuses long-period NW to WNW groundswell into towering peaks that can exceed 15 metres. Cold water, strong currents, and shallow rocks make it one of the most serious big-wave spots in the world.
It is a paddle and tow big-wave venue for experienced crews only, and comes to life in the depths of winter.