Pipe Masters
VIP access and a local’s welcome to the final event on the 2026 tour!
Intermediate – Advanced
December 8th – 20th
O’ahu, Hawaii
Up to 12 surfers
Experience the 2026 Pipe Masters, surfing’s ultimate finale. As the final stop of the WSL Tour, witness the world’s best tackle one of the heaviest barrels on the planet. Led by big wave champion and local legend Jamie Sterling, enjoy VIP event access, explore nearby surf breaks, and immerse yourself in the aloha spirit of the North Shore.
Trip Highlights
VIP access to the Pipe Masters and a local’s welcome to the North Shore. From the welcoming ceremony through to the final wave of the event, each day of the event window you will have a designated team of local guides led by Jamie Sterling, giving you the ultimate access to the event, cultural & surf experiences like no other.
VIP access to Pipe Masters
VIP access at all Pipe Masters heats & finals, including food and drinks on competition days.
Spend time with one of the tour athletes.
Kick back at a private gathering with your group and a special guest from the WSL.
Lead surf guide: Jamie Sterling
O’ahu native and 2011 WSL Big Wave champion Jamie Sterling will find the perfect North Shore breaks for each surfer in our groups.
Surf Guide: Dominic Del Rosario
Surfing with Dom isn’t about just riding waves—it’s about finding your flow with the ocean. Dom grew up in Hawaii, learning the ropes at one of the island’s most localized surf spots and that taught respect, patience, and how to read the waves like second nature.
Surf Guide: Kalani Chapman
Kalani was born and raised on the North Shore of O’ahu and comes from a family with a big wave surfing heritage. His two uncles, Owl and “Chappy “, helped pioneer the sport. Kalani is a Pipeline Masters finalist and has dedicated his life to surfing the world’s most famous wave.
Photographer: Marco Arellano
Surf photographer Marco Arellano will capture memories from the week. Marco lives on the North Shore, and his art captures the raw beauty and power of the ocean.
“I’ve been a bunch of times, but I’ve never really been dialed-in on the North Shore. To me, that was the coolest thing – there’s nobody else offering this kind of experience.”
Why surf O'ahu?
Oʻahu offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, island culture, and world-class adventure, with the North Shore standing as its most iconic coastline. Known for legendary surf, laid-back charm, and breathtaking beaches, the North Shore delivers a rare mix of authentic Hawaiian culture and stunning scenery. From crystal-clear waters and lush mountain backdrops to vibrant local food, welcoming communities, and unforgettable sunsets, it’s a destination that captures the true spirit of Hawaii.
Local Legend
Sitting in the surf with the Zen-like Jamie Sterling, you’ll notice that he gets more shakas and Howzits than the average local. Born and raised on the North Shore, he has been a waterman his entire life. Beginning his big-wave career at age 16, Jamie went on to earn countless accolades, including the 2011 WSL Big Wave World Championship. Having him by your side is a backstage pass to a coastline that many visitors never truly know.
When does the event run?
The 2026 Pipe Masters window will be open from Dec 8th – 20th. Within this window, the WSL will pick optimal dates to run heats, with the event generally running 4-6 competition days.
What is a typical day on the trip?
Each night, we’ll get a heads-up from the WSL if heats will be running the next day. On heat days, Jamie and our crew of guides will lead the group at the event to watch the heats from the VIP area and take in the scene. On off days, we’ll break into smaller groups based on surf skill and interest to find the right breaks for surfers. While the North Shore has heavy waves like Pipeline, there are also lots of spots better suited for us normal folk.
How well do I need to surf?
We’d like to have intermediate – advanced surfers join our layday guided trips as Jamie and his team give you the ultimate local’s access guide to the north shore.
What heats will I be able to watch?
You’ll have VIP access to all event heats & finals.
How many traveler’s will be in the group?
We’ll have a maximum of 12 travelers, whether they are surfers or not.
OK, how much?
The trip costs USD$7,595 per person.
Surfing on Laydays?
Yes, we will be running surf trips on laydays for those that are keen. Bring your boards and Jamie and his team will guide you around the best waves in the region.
Are non-surfers welcome on the trip?
Yes, this event is for all surf fans! On lay-days there are plenty of sights and activities on the North Shore, and non-surfers will have plenty to do!
What about the Welcome Ceremony?
You will be given the rare access to see the welcoming ceremony. Date and time of this will be confirmed once announced.
What’s not included?
Flights, accommodation, and lay-day meals are not included, though we’ll provide snacks and drinks on surf lay days. During both competition days and lay days, we’ll have a designated meeting spot for all guests. Once we know where everyone is staying, we’ll do our best to help coordinate convenient pickup and drop-off for your respective accommodations.
Who is organizing this trip?
This trip is organized by Thermal. Thermal’s community of guides – Jamie Sterling, Dominic Del Rosario, and Kalani Chapman – will ensure travelers feel at home on the North Shore, and Thermal’s traveler support team stands by to ensure travelers have a memorable experience. The World Surf League is providing insider access to the event and helping arrange time with athletes.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made within three months of the event date are non-refundable; however, we will make every effort to resell your spot during this period. If we are successful in reselling it, you will receive a refund minus any applicable transaction fees.
A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due by Sep 7th, 2026.