Pipeline Surfer Makai McNamara Hospitalized After Serious Wipeout

HONOLULU, Hawaii — Renowned surfer Makai McNamara is in stable condition at Queens Hospital following a severe head injury sustained during a wipeout at Pipeline on Monday morning. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. when McNamara fell awkwardly while riding a wave, leading to an emergency response from nearby surfers and lifeguards.

Eyewitnesses reported that rescuers faced challenging conditions as they battled the rip current and crashing waves to bring McNamara’s unconscious body to shore. Mike Latronic, who witnessed the rescue, stated, “It was tense moments as the group battled the rip, undertow and crashing waves to get him ashore. He was rushed to Queens Hospital where he is currently in stable condition.”

Makai’s younger brother, Landon McNamara, this year’s Eddie Aikau Big Wave event winner, shared an emotional update on social media. “It was so scary not seeing him come up after falling on that wave. I’m here wishing I did more & got to him faster but I know he was in good hands,” he wrote. He added, “They brought him back to life on the beach. There was life back in his eyes. He spoke words. The last update is he will be kept asleep for the next 72 hours in order to heal the best.”

In a heartfelt post this morning, Makai’s father, Liam McNamara, said, “Aloha everyone. It’s hard to do this but I think that it’s important that I keep you up to date. Makai is doing well. He’s on his way to recovery, he’s getting very good care here at Queens Hospital. Thank you for saving my son.”

Pipeline, a famed surf spot on the North Shore of Oahu, has seen several life-threatening injuries among top surfers in recent years, including Joao Chianca, Kala Grace, Makua Rothman, Billy Kemper, Koa Rothman, Kai Lenny, Nathan Florence, Mason Ho, Joaquin Del Castillo, and Eimeo Czermak (twice).