Pro Surfer Makai McNamara Rescued After Near-Fatal Wipeout in Hawaii

PUPUKEA, Hawaii — Professional surfer Makai McNamara is currently in a medically induced coma following a serious accident at the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu‘s North Shore on February 23, 2025. The incident occurred when McNamara wiped out on a massive wave and struck his head on the reef, rendering him unconscious.

Makai McNamara’s friend and fellow pro-surfer Eli Olson, who witnessed the events unfold, described the incident as a “freak accident.” McNamara, known for his exceptional surf skills, became submerged underwater for nearly two minutes before Olson and a team of lifeguards reached him.

“I just wanted to keep his head above water so he didn’t take in more water,” Olson recounted. He performed rescue breaths and chest compressions while waiting for help. “We were getting hit by waves out there, getting recycled in the surf, but we managed to bring him to safety and started CPR again,” Olson said.

Responding lifeguards and emergency personnel swiftly carried out advanced life support measures, including the use of an automated external defibrillator, which ultimately helped McNamara regain a pulse. He was transported to a local hospital, where medical staff placed him in an induced coma for 72 hours to facilitate healing.

A day after the incident, McNamara’s father, Liam, provided an update on his son’s condition. “It’s been 24 hours since the incident, and he’s on his road to recovery,” Liam said in a video update. “He feels your energy and love, and we appreciate all the support. We need continued prayers. Makai is a strong young man, and he’s going to get through this.”

McNamara is well-regarded in the surfing community, having competed in high-profile events such as the World Surf League Big Wave Tour and the Quicksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau invite-only event. Olson emphasized the gravity of the situation, expressing hope for McNamara’s recovery. “All that matters is Makai makes a full recovery and is able to share waves with us again soon,” he said.

The waves at Banzai Pipeline are notoriously dangerous, often rising over nine feet and occasionally reaching heights of 20 feet. According to a 2018 report by WorldSurfLeague.com, the area’s hazardous features, such as shallow reefs, pose significant risks to surfers.

As the community rallies around McNamara, there has been a call for respect regarding the sharing of footage from the rescue due to its distressing impact on the family. His brother, Landon, expressed gratitude toward those who assisted, stating he was relieved that help arrived promptly.