Reel Talk: Moana Jones Wong

We always knew she existed. A woman who would channel all the Hawaiian icons who paved the way for her — Rochelle Ballard and Keala Kennelly — and apply it to a Pipeline approach so far and away ahead of the pack that it just makes sense.

Moana Jones Wong is a 23-year-old from the North Shore of Oahu and has put in the time and is having her moment at Pipeline. After winning the Billabong Pro Pipeline last year, she’s a hands down favorite to do it again and it seems like elevates her approach with every single swell that hits the North Shore.

It was only 2 weeks ago in which she rode what is considered the best wave ever ridden by a female at Pipeline and each winter she continues to outdo herself. With an earnest and charming personality, Moana is doing all the things to become the ruler of the pack at Pipeline — a place most human beings will never come close to. And she’s doing it with style and dedication and has earned the respect of the most seasoned Pipe legends.

We caught up with her when she was out in California last year and talked all about Pipeline. And just what it takes to get Kelly Slater to bring you a bottle of tequila.—Travis

Watch Reel Talk Moana Jones Wong below and then check out her “Best One Ever” Interview (also below), where she takes us through that wave that changed the game.