Mavericks, Winter surf spot in Half Moon Bay, United States.
The waves at Mavericks form over an underwater rock formation, creating swells that reach heights of 60 feet during winter storms.
Sarah Gerhardt made history in 1999 by becoming the first woman to surf at Mavericks, opening new possibilities for female athletes in big wave surfing.
The Mavericks Awards program evaluates surfers and videographers who document their performances at this northern California surfing destination throughout the season.
Access to Mavericks requires a half-mile paddle from Pillar Point Beach, and winter months between November and March offer the most favorable conditions.
The seafloor at Mavericks contains a deep trough on each side of a sloping ramp, creating a wave formation mechanism found nowhere else.
GPS coordinates: 37.48521,-122.46992
Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:19
This collection includes renowned surf spots around the world, located across multiple continents and oceans. From the north coast of Oahu in Hawaii to Australian beaches like Bells Beach and Snapper Rocks, these locations attract surfers from around the world for their consistent waves and favorable conditions. The sites feature diverse characteristics suitable for different skill levels. Banzai Pipeline produces tube-shaped waves over coral reefs, while Supertubes at Jeffreys Bay offers rapid rights over 300 meters. Mavericks in California and Teahupo'o in Tahiti are known for their large waves requiring advanced experience, whereas Rincon Point and Hossegor provide accessible waves with quality sessions. Each destination has its own seasons and geological formations determining surf conditions. Rocky reefs, sandbanks, and coral bottoms create waves with distinct profiles, helping surfers choose their playground based on their skills and preferences.
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