Lexus Pipe Pro 2025 in Hawaii

Lexus Pipe Pro (formerly known as Billabong Pro Pipeline and Billabong Pipe Masters) takes place at Banzai Pipeline in Oahu, Hawaii. The competition attracts top surfers and athletes from the World Surf League, which compete in walk-on trials. The Lexus Pipe Pro prize pool reaches over $500,000, with the winner taking around $80,000. The competition serves as a grand opening of the surfing season, being the first stop on the World Surf League Championship Tour.

Competitors

Held at one of the most challenging surf spots, the event gathers expert surfers from all around the world, showcasing thrilling performances and incredible talent. The total number of competitors differs every year, but generally is around 50-65 individuals. The World Surf League (WSL) and 32 surfers from walk-on trials. Some of the winners from the previous years include Caitlin Simmers, Barron Mamiya, Jack Robinson, Kelly Slater, Moana Jones Wong, and numerous other surfers who rightfully gained victory in the competition.

Banzai Pipeline

A pipeline is considered to be the most dangerous wave for surfers. With shallow reefs and significant swells, Banzai Pipeline has witnessed many surfers getting injured and suffering cuts from sharp coral edges. However, since the wave breaks close to shore, it makes it a spectacular site for a surfing competition, attracting thousands to Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea and making the North Shore of Oahu a surfer's paradise.

Best Places to Watch the Competition

At Banzai Pipeline, the waves usually break to the left, meaning the wave’s peak collapses in that direction, which is ideal for left-breaking rides. However, surfers also ride the right side, which is called ‘Backdoor.’ The best spots to watch depend on the waves. If Pipeline’s left break is more prevalent, head a bit up the beach to the northeast. If Backdoor’s right break is better, move slightly down the beach to the southwest.

Schedule

Lexus Pipe Pro was previously held in December and closed out the World Surf League Championship Tour. However, since 2021, the event opened the tour and is instead held in late January and early February. Daily competitions usually begin as early as 7:30 am and can span until 5-6 pm.

History of the Competition

Lexus Pipe Pro has a rich and illustrious past, which dates back to 1971. That is why you surely don't want to miss it. Besides being the finale of the World Surf League Championship Tour, the competition served as the final stop on the legendary Triple Crown of Surfing, held at the North Shore of Oahu. In 2022, the Pipeline welcomed women surfers for the first time, a significant, positive shift for the event as it had previously only featured a male lineup.