Surfing, like most action sports, is inherently dangerous. Drowning, marine life, surf boards, and much more all present risks, but the waves themselves are often the most dangerous aspect of the sport. Many of the most dangerous waves are known around the world, but there are some that you might expect or might never have heard of. Surfer Dan Harmon took a look at the deadliest waves in the world, based on statistics.
Many of the deadliest waves have just one or a few deaths recorded, but they’ve hardly been touched due to their danger. Others are much more accessible, making them deadlier simply because more people attempt them. The important thing is that you understand your skills as a surfer and stay away from the waves presented in the video.
Ghost Trees (California)
- Death toll: 1 (Peter Davi drowned in 2007).
- Rarely surfed now.
Nazaré (Portugal)
- Confirmed fatality: 1 (Mario Ferrer in 2023 during tow session).
- Dozens of near-drownings and injuries (Maya Gabeira’s broken ankle and near-drowning).
The Wedge (California)
- Documented death: 1 (Monty Valentin in 2009, thrown into jetty).
- Dozens of paralysis cases and injuries.
Chopu / Teahupo’o (Tahiti)
- Death toll: 1 (Bryce Taria in 2007, cervical vertebrae broken on reef).
- Many injuries (Makua Rothman’s severe lip/reef injury).
Waimea Bay (Hawaii, North Shore)
- At least 1 well-documented big wave fatality (Donnie Solomon in 1995).
- Earlier tragedies (Dickie Cross disappeared in 1943 during a North Shore paddle attempt).
Mavericks (California)
- Multiple fatalities, including high-profile ones: Mark Foo (1994) and Sion Milosky (2011).
Zicatela / Puerto Escondido (Mexico)
- No specific death count given, but serious beatdowns, injuries, and deadly due to hold-downs and energy.
Pipeline (Hawaii, North Shore)
- Significantly higher death toll than others.
- High-profile deaths: Malik Joyeux (2005), Jon Mozo (2005).
- Recent injuries: John John Florence (broken back), Owen Wright (head injury), Koa Rothman, etc.
