Big wave surfing is an addictive sport, creating an adrenaline rush in surfers.

In this extreme sport, timing and time are crucial and two very different aspects. A surfer must know the time to paddle hard and stand-up timing. If you wish to surf on the tallest waves, you should be prepared to face all the wave dimensions, get the necessary surfing gear and book a jet ski. Every continent in the world has some of the giant waves that can be surfed, and with the right wind conditions and swell, you can ride some of the monstrous waves mentioned below.

Teahupoo in Tahiti, French Polynesia

Teahupoo has some of the deadliest and heaviest waves in the world. The notorious Tahitian surf break generates a fast-moving, hollow, and super-thick barreling wave that smashes over a sharp and shallow reef. The face of a Teahupoo wave is typically two to three times taller and larger than the back of the wave.

Shipstern Bluff in Tasmania, Australia

The Shipstern Bluff generates one of the most dangerous and scary surf breaks in the world. The mutant waves of Shipstern Bluff generate a wave within a wave owing to the unusual shape of the bottom of the reef. The most fearful big-wave surfing spot in Tasmania can be accessed by either a 2-hour hike, a boat ride, or a 30-kilometre jet ski.

Mavericks in California, USA

If you are seeking gigantic waves in the U.S., head to the Mavericks - a popular surf spot in California. Skilled surfers at Mavs tackle waves as tall as 20 feet. It is very popular among big-wave surfers because it challenges their fear, anxiety, and level of confidence.

Mullaghmore Head in Donegal Bay, Ireland

You will find Ireland's giant wave surf break at Mullaghmore Head - infamously known as Europe’s most lethal and feared spots. With a windy and rainy climate, this shallow, wild reef break can be tamed only on high tides. The gigantic barreling waves smash on a rocky bottom. Mullaghmore is surrounded by strong and lethal currents.

Praia do Norte in Nazaré, Portugal

Nazaré's Praia do Norte is home to numerous Guinness World Records - including the largest tide ever surfed and ridden by a woman surfer. The mammoth tides of Praia do Norte were first ridden by local surfers and some international athletes, one of which includes Mike Stewart, world bodyboarding champion. The infamous giant tides of Praia do Norte are caused by a combination of four variables: rapid depth reduction, swell refraction, a local water channel, and converging tides generated by an underwater canyon.

If you like big-wave surfing, you ought to give these monstrous waves a try!