How Fast Is Ocean Wave (typical)?

Typical ocean waves break at around 15 m/s near shore — though deep-ocean swells move much faster. Waves transport energy, not water; the water itself stays roughly in place, moving in circles as the wave passes through.

Tsunami waves can travel across an entire ocean in less than 24 hours — Pacific tsunami warning systems are designed around this single fact.

• Slightly slower than greyhounds at full sprint
• Waves transport energy, not water