protection?

I'm currently about 10 miles south of Mayaguana Island. Since the Atlantic Ocean waves are coming directly at the islands north shore, one would think the waves would be much smaller behind the island. In reality, while the waves are likely much smaller very close to shore, due to refraction, I'm seeing bigger waves where I am. I've have several come over the side of the boat and flood the cockpit. Fortunately I was inside with the door closed when that happened.
No rest for the weary/wicked as they say ;-)