Uh, what is all this talk about "jaws"?

Question

well, in hawaii, ive heard of a part of the ocean in maui, called "jaws" where waves reach 70-100 ft, ive also heard of competitions of surfing contests that are held in that area,i have heard alot of it since i arraived to hawaii (just left virginia), and i am interested to hear what other people on yahoo questions know about it, if you have any nice info, or if you have surfed waves like that yourself, please post an anwser, i will appreciate it very much

Answer 1

The beach is actually called Pe'ahi.  It's located on the North Shore of Maui.  

Only about eight to twelve times a year, during the months of November through February, will conditions be favorable for the near-legend surf break at Pe'ahi, or "Jaws."  The awe-inspiring fifty-foot plus faces are factored by an ideal marriage of swell direction, wind and tide. What brings this break such uniquely large waves is the existence of lava ridge located just thirty feet below the surface of the water. Traveling at approximately 120 feet deep, the ocean's swell abruptly "trips" over the lava ridge, enlarges, and creates the massive waves that bring swarms of spectators to the overlooking cliffs, rumbling the ground beneath their feet, and inspiring the few and the fearless to confront it's powerful nature.

Because of the size and speed of this wave, you really have to be towed into it by a jet ski.  

The first 3 links are pictures of "Jaws."

The 4th link is to a website that has info on Jaws and tow in surfing.

The 5th link is a picture of tow-in surfing at Jaws.

Answer 2

jaws- some of the largest waves in the world home of all the big wave competitions since u live there i would go and watch one it takes surfers years to just earn the courage to get out there because jaws is known for eating ppl and a wipe out on a 70 plus foot wave could cost u ur life hence the name

Answer 3

If you're in Hawaii, why are you talking to us!? ;)

Seriously, your best source of information is the locals and  go SEE it for yourself when it's going off. Jaws is a truly amazing experience that nothing - no book, movie, or online reading, can even begin to prepare you for.

As for people who can surf waves like that (tow-in surfing), there aren't many. You aren't likely to find them here. This is my favorite interview with Laird who knows Jaws better than anyone:

http://surfermag.com/features/onlineexcl...

Answer 4

STAY AWAY..LOCALS WILL KICK YOU KOOK ***!

Answer 5

Jaws is a break located on the North Shore of Maui in a place called Peʻahi:

Tow-in surf site, windsurf site, Peʻahi, Maui. Also known as Jaws. Lit., beckon.

watch the action here: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=...