Big Waves: Maverick's & Hawaii's Epic Sessions
Just over a year ago, Maverick's delivered a day that became etched in big wave lore. On December 23, 2025, the Northern California lineup turned into a monster, with waves so massive that even seasoned chargers felt the thrill of the unknown. Surf photographer Luca Padua was there, and he perfectly captured the vibe: 'The unknown around this swell was felt by everybody. We have no idea how big it's going to be. Is it going to be safe? Is it going to be ridable? But we all had the same level of curiosity.' As reported by The Inertia, this became one of Maverick's biggest days ever—so intense that Padua and Evan Paterakis turned the footage into a film to do it justice. For surf photographers, it was a golden hour of opportunity, with backlit barrels and aerial shots that'll make your heart race.
Now, fast-forward to the present: Hawaii's North Shore is bracing for another swell showdown. The islands are under a high surf warning as a new storm system barrels in, bringing dangerously large waves to north and west-facing shores. This isn't just any forecast—it's a call to action for surfers and photographers alike. The shifting winds and storm-driven swells could create clean, powerful faces perfect for those iconic water shots. As the Honolulu Star-Advertiser noted, these conditions remind us why Hawaii remains a global surf mecca, where every swell writes a new chapter.
Whether you're reminiscing about Maverick' historic charge or prepping for Hawaii's next big set, these moments highlight the raw beauty of our sport. For photographers, it's about timing, patience, and being ready for the ocean's unpredictable dance. For surfers, it's the push-pull between respect and adrenaline. Grab your boards, charge your cameras, and stay tuned—because the waves aren't waiting.