While the North Shore of Oahu gets all the attention, when it comes to sizable waves, Makaha, on the west side of the island, is the OG big wave surf spot.
That’s where pioneers of the sport pushed the limits, explored what’s possible in terms of riding bigger waves, and accordingly, it’s often considered the birthplace of big-wave surfing. Not to mention, the Hawaiian word Makaha translates to “fierce.”
So, during the recent swell and storm that swept through Hawaii, canceling surf competitions due to the dangerous, wild and wooly conditions, some surfers looked elsewhere for waves – elsewhere to Makaha.
Speaking to that history, and documenting the surfing that went down on Thursday, February 15th as the swell was filling in, YouTube channel Oahu Surf Films wrote:
“For over 10 years I’ve listened to and read about the fabled Big Wave Chargers of Mākaha Beach. From the days of Woody Brown, George Downing and Buzzy Trent circa 1953 to the 1967 Mākaha international Surfing Championships featuring Joey Cabell, Kula (Martha) Sunn, Reno Abellira, Bob Moore, Pati Young to name a few! Fast forward to Thursday February 15th! I was finally privileged enough to witness a roaring Makaha as the incoming NW swell peaking around noon – 2pm along the leeward coast. Sit back relax turn up and volume and enjoy.”
Related: Video: Huge Waves Cancel Surf Contests in Hawaii
The waves are not small, that’s for sure; but “triple overhead” might be a bit of a stretch. Maybe “XL” Makaha would’ve been more accurate. But still, cool to see this legendary, revolutionary big-wave proving grounds still being surfed and celebrated today.
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