Abstract: The applicability of ERA5 reanalysis wave data in the Bohai Sea was evaluated from three aspects: wave height, wave period, and wave direction, using wave observation data from five representative stations in the Bohai Sea. The results show that the temporal variation trend of ERA5 wave elements is basically consistent with the observations, however, there are some differences in the magnitude, and the statistical results between different elements at different stations also have some differences. The correlation between ERA5 and observed data is the highest for significant wave height, roughly above 0.9, followed by peak wave period, and the worst for mean wave direction. The correlation between the significant wave height and peak wave period elements at the nearest offshore station is the lowest, and the error between the two elements is also the largest at the nearest offshore station. At stations farther offshore, the overall performance of wave elements is better. Regarding the three representative elements, ERA5 requires some correction in terms of magnitude, especially in terms of wave direction data. ERA5 reanalysis wave product has certain applicability in the Bohai Sea, and it is feasible to analyze the statistical characteristics of waves based on ERA5 products to a certain extent.