Tow Surfing: Gear, Essentials, and the Best Breaks to Send It
Tow surfing, also known as tow-in surfing, is the ultimate way to ride some of the world’s biggest, fastest, and most powerful waves. Using a jet ski (PWC) to tow surfers into waves too massive to paddle into, this method revolutionized big-wave surfing, allowing surfers to charge swells once thought unrideable.
If you're looking to take on monster waves and push your limits, here’s everything you need to know—from essential gear to the best tow-surfing destinations on the planet.
How Tow Surfing Works
The Setup
The process begins with a surfer and a jet ski driver (aka the tow partner). The surfer holds onto a tow rope attached to the PWC while the driver accelerates toward an incoming wave. Unlike traditional surfing, where paddling determines takeoff speed, tow surfing provides the necessary velocity to match the wave’s power.
The Drop-In
Once the surfer reaches the optimal entry point on the wave, they release the tow rope, free-falling down the face at high speed. Foot straps on the board help maintain stability as they engage the wave.
The Ride
The goal? Absolute domination of the wave. Whether it’s carving across the face, pulling into a cavernous barrel, or outrunning a wall of liquid destruction, tow surfing is all about precision, control, and pushing limits.
The Pickup
After the ride—or an inevitable wipeout—the jet ski driver swoops in for pickup. In elite tow-surfing sessions, partners switch roles, allowing both to get waves in.
The Risks & the Rewards
Tow surfing is high-stakes. Massive wipeouts, hold-downs, and rogue sets are all part of the game. Safety crews, inflatable vests, and jet ski recovery teams are crucial at many locations to keep surfers from serious injury—or worse. But for those who live for the thrill, few experiences match the feeling of charging a 50-foot+ behemoth at full speed.
Essential Gear for Tow Surfing
The Board
Tow-surf boards are shorter, narrower, and more rigid than traditional big-wave guns. They’re designed for:
Speed – To keep up with fast-moving waves.
Control – Foot straps help surfers stay locked in.
Durability – Reinforced construction handles intense forces.
The Tow Equipment
Safety Gear (Non-Negotiable!)
Inflatable Vest or Life Jacket: Provides extra buoyancy after wipeouts.
Impact Suit: Helps reduce injuries from heavy impacts and underwater pressure.
Helmet: Protects against reef, boards, and other surfers.
Leash & Fins: Essential for board control and stability.
Communication & Emergency Gear
Waterproof Radios: For coordination between tow partners.
Flotation Devices: Backup safety for the PWC.
First Aid Kit: Always have one on the jet ski for emergencies.
Maui - Jaws
Best Tow Surfing Breaks in the World
Jaws (Peʻahi) – Maui, Hawaii
Best Season: Winter (November–March)
Why It's Legendary: One of the fastest, most powerful big waves on Earth. The steep, smooth walls make it a tow-surfing paradise.
Nazaré – Portugal
Best Season: October–March
Why It's Legendary: Home to record-breaking waves, Nazaré’s deep-sea canyon funnels massive Atlantic swells, making it the ultimate big-wave proving ground.
Teahupo'o – Tahiti
Best Season: May–October
Why It's Legendary: One of the heaviest waves in the world, Teahupo’o’s thick lip and shallow reef make it a tow-in beast.
Mavericks – California, USA
Best Season: Winter (December–March)
Why It's Legendary: Cold, powerful, and unpredictable, Mavericks is California’s deadliest wave, demanding expert tow-surfing skills.
Shipstern Bluff – Tasmania, Australia
Best Season: March–October
Why It's Legendary: Famous for its multi-tiered waves, "Shippies" is one of the gnarliest slabs on the planet, requiring expert precision.
Todos Santos – Baja California, Mexico
Best Season: Winter (November–March)
Why It's Legendary: Big, powerful Pacific swells and reliable conditions make this a must-visit for tow surfers.
The Right – Western Australia
Best Season: April–October
Why It's Legendary: A brutal slab wave that breaks over a shallow reef, The Right is notorious for its insane barrels and serious consequences.
Dungeons – South Africa
Best Season: June–September
Why It's Legendary: One of the wildest and most unpredictable big-wave spots, known for deep-water swells and massive walls of water.
Waimea Bay – Oahu, Hawaii
Best Season: November–February
Why It's Legendary: The birthplace of big-wave surfing. While it’s mostly paddle-surfed, Waimea can be a tow-in option when it’s maxed out.
Pico Alto – Peru
Best Season: May–September
Why It's Legendary: One of South America’s most consistent big-wave breaks, perfect for those looking to tow into serious size.
The Thrill & The Responsibility
Partner up. Your tow driver is your lifeline—choose wisely.
Know the risks. The ocean is unpredictable. Always have an exit plan.
Respect the locals. Some breaks have a tight-knit crew—earn your place in the lineup.
