An earthquake may cause a tsunami (A).
A tidal bore (B) is a turbulent, abrupt, wall-like wave that is caused by a flood tide.
Storm surge (C) is associated with a hurricane.
Spilling waves (D) are caused by wind waves or dissipating swell and are most likely found in high water conditions--high tide, high sand bar, deep bottom. Dumping waves are much riskier to surf than spilling waves. A dumping wave pitches forward, while a spilling waves crumbles at the top. Source: http://seakayaker.tripod.com/surf.htm
