Documentary20213 seasonsTV-14★ 7.6

100 Foot Wave

The decade-long odyssey of surfing pioneer Garrett McNamara, who, after visiting Nazaré, Portugal in hopes of conquering a 100-foot wave, pushed the sport to ever-greater heights and alongside locals helped transform the small fishing village into the world’s preeminent big-wave surfing destination.

Created by Chris Smith

Where to watch

Stream
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HBO Max

Provider data via JustWatch.

Episodes

  1. 1

    Chapter I - Sea Monsters

    Jul 18, 202161 min

    Following a massive win at a competition at Maui's world-famous Jaws surf break in 2003, professional surfer Garrett McNamara comes out of retirement to pursue his lifelong dream of riding a 100-foot wave. In 2010, Garrett and his wife Nicole invite fellow big wave surfers to Nazare, Portugal, where the monstrous, untapped waves just might help McNamara achieve the impossible.

  2. 2

    Chapter II - We're Not Surfers

    Jul 25, 202154 min

    In 2011, just as the largest swell of the season approaches, the McNamaras and their team reconvene in Nazare, where they kick preparations into high gear to prepare for their upcoming attempt at making history. Then, despite some unexpected hurdles, Garrett catches a wave that forever changes him, the small seaside town, and the legacy of the sport.

  3. 3

    Chapter III - Mavericks

    Aug 1, 202154 min

    A few days after his historic ride, Garrett is visited by his mother, whose presence prompts an exploration into his highly unconventional and turbulent childhood. In 2013, a group of Brazilians arrive in Nazare, but their failure to heed Garrett's safety advice results in a near-fatal accident. In 2017, Garrett's appearance at a big wave competition takes a devastating turn.

  4. 4

    Chapter IV - Dancing with God

    Aug 8, 202156 min

    In 2017, prominent surfers flock to Nazare for its largest swell to date — and while one pro sets a new world record, Andrew Cotton suffers a devastating wipeout. In 2019, after rallying through a back-to-back concussion and broken foot, Garrett struggles with determining whether he's mentally ready to get back in the water.

  5. 5

    Chapter V - The Circus

    Aug 15, 202155 min

    As the world's top surfers arrive in Nazaré for the WSL’s Tow Surfing Challenge, Garrett grows concerned over proposed safety measures.​

  6. 6

    Chapter VI - More Than Just a Wipeout

    Aug 22, 202151 min

    After the WSL competition abruptly ends, the athletes reflect on their beloved, unpredictable sport. Later, Garrett attempts to surf again.

Cast

  • GM

    Garrett McNamara

    Self

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