Surfing the Banzai Pipeline, North Shore of O’ahu

The waves at the Banzai Pipeline break in shallow water just above a sharp reef, forming hollow waves that surfers can thread.<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

The fast-moving rip currents, huge waves and sharp reef make the Pipe one dangerous place. "If in doubt, don't go out".<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

Just paddling out to the lineup tests your courage.<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

The average wave at the Banzai Pipeline is 9 feet, but get bigger.<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

Wipeouts were intense, but luckily few and far between which was a testament to the surfers out there.<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

Dropping In<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

They say there's no such thing as an atheist in the impact zone.<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

I didn't see too many ladies out that day, but the ones that tested the waters held their own<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

Almost as many bodyboards as surfboards, and an occasional bodysurfer.<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

The largest waves on the North Shore cause the ground to shake.<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

Everybody was Kung-Fu Fighting<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

Proper Cutback<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

Serious Air<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

Hand Drag<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

360 Degree Roll<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

Hot Dogging<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

There were a few surfers just down from the main group paddling into something a lot bigger.<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson

No Fear<br> Photograph by Graham Johnson

The best surfer is the one having the most fun.<br>Photograph by Graham Johnson